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Our Story

Our Story 

History of the UBC Vantage One Program

Established in 2014, the Vantage One program offers eligible students the opportunity to complete their first-year undergraduate degree courses while developing their academic English skills. At its launch, Vantage One offered a full 11-month first year program in Arts and Science, and in 2015 introduced Engineering and Management. In 2025-26, Vantage College will offer programs in Vantage One Arts, Vantage One Science and Vantage One Engineering.

The UBC Vantage One program was designed to facilitate the need for academically strong international students whose English language proficiency does not yet meet the requirements for direct admission into UBC. Since its origin, 3013 students have enrolled in the Vantage One program and, with it, began their academic journey at UBC. 

Global impact

Over the past 10 years, the Vantage One program has included international students from 50 different countries worldwide. All Vantage One students are multilingual, with some speaking four languages. This cultural and linguistic diversity contributes to UBC’s already flourishing international community and supports UBC’s Global Engagement Strategy. In order to support this strategy, UBC Vantage College offers multiple awards and scholarships for students from around the world.

Our Instructors

Vantage One program instructors hold appointments in the UBC Faculties of Arts, Science, and Applied Science, or directly at UBC Vantage College. They include many Killam Teaching Prize winners and bring extensive scholarly and teaching experience. Many of our faculty have international teaching experience, and speak other languages in addition to English. 

What makes UBC Vantage One unique?

Download our Annual Report

Full first-year credits — Complete first-year courses and progress into second year of UBC undergraduate degree

Develop Academic English — Enhance academic English language skills alongside course content 

Excellent facilities — Access to UBC clubs, events, and top facilities on campus

Global classroom — Learn in a close-knit community of students from all over the world

Strong support network — Receive support from over 40 dedicated UBC faculty and staff at Vantage College, along with access to one-on-one academic advising and tutoring

 

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Begin your application to Vantage One by reading our Admissions Requirements

 

 

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