New student checklist

Whether you study in the Comox Valley, Campbell River, Port Alberni, Port Hardy (Mix̱alakwila), or online, this checklist will help you feel prepared and confident.

We can’t wait to meet you

If you’re starting your studies or training soon, don’t forget to visit our virtual Orientation page and join us for an in-person event at a campus near you.

Go to Orientation page

Before classes start

You’ve accepted a seat in your program and paid your tuition deposit. Now what?

Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA). You’ll need MFA to log in to NIC services and resources when you’re not on campus. Download the Microsoft Authenticator mobile app from Google Play or Apple Store.

Log into myNIC. Check your student portal for email, class updates and resources. Can’t log in? Reset your password.

Review dates and deadlines. Bookmark the academic schedule. Set reminders in your calendar or planner so you don't miss an important deadline.

Register for your courses. The timetable is available in April. Then, course registration begins in May. Use Student Planner in myNIC to map out your course schedule. Now that you’re a student, you can also meet with an educational advisor to develop a custom learning plan.

Find a place to live and study. You can apply for student housing if you’re studying in the Comox Valley. You can also choose off-campus housing or shared accommodation. Make sure your space at home is set up for studying.

Apply for childcare. Whether it’s on-campus childcare or in community, get on the list as soon as possible.

Plan your finances. Write down your monthly expenses and make a budget. Apply for a loan through StudentAidBC and student awards through the NIC Foundation. Need support? Book a financial aid advising appointment through myNIC.

Buy your textbooks and supplies. See what’s required for your courses. You can buy textbooks and course materials in person at the Campus Store or online. You can also find used textbooks for sale by former students.

Plan your commute. Figure out bus routes, parking or how long it takes to bike to campus.

Get comfortable on campus

Pick up your NIC student ID from student services. You'll need it for campus services, discounts and printing.

Connect to NIC’s Wi-Fi network. Look for NIC-WIFI or Eduroam in your device’s Wi-Fi settings. Log in with your student email address and password.

Find your way around. Explore your campus or online resources so you know where everything is before the first day.

Know your support services. You can get help with peer tutoring, math and writing. There’s also wellness supports and resources for Indigenous students, plus more.

Join something fun! Student events, recreational activities and outdoor adventures can make college even better. If you’re studying at the Comox Valley campus, you can purchase a CVRD rec pass for half-price!

Set up a routine. Get a planner, use your phone calendar, or find another way to stay on top of deadlines.

Get familiar with Brightspace. Look for course outlines, readings and assignment details. Log in on a regular basis to stay up to date on your coursework.

Check your schedule. Make sure to know when and where your classes are.

First weeks of class

Attend Orientation. It’s a great way to meet people and get the inside scoop on college life.

Get to know your student union. The North Island Students’ Union (NISU) facilitates student services, resources and advocacy. Here are just a few resources courtesy of NISU:

Free handbook and student planner.
Campus and community food resources.
Deals app for student discounts across B.C.
Discord server to connect with like-minded students.
Thursday yoga at the Comox Valley campus.

Learn about the extended health and dental plan. NISU offers a group plan. You'll get thousands of dollars in coverage for prescriptions, vision care, dental treatment and more. It costs less than $24 a month, with an annual fee of $285 for one year. If you take six or more credits in September or January, you'll enroll automatically.

Scope out study spots. The library or student lounge, a nearby coffee shop — find where you focus best.

Think about your career and work experience. Many programs offer co-ops, internships and hands-on learning. Watch for opportunities to get real-world experience that boosts your resume.

Explore your backyard. Living on Vancouver Island means hiking, beaches and epic views—get outside and enjoy it.

Tips for success

College is more than textbooks. It’s about learning real skills, building connections and discovering what’s next. Take it one step at a time, stay curious and make this experience your own.

Take care of yourself. Sleep, eat nourishing food and don’t forget to move your body.

Ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s counselling support or academic guidance, we're with you along the way.

Make connections. Talk to classmates, join a study group or try a new activity—you’ll appreciate having a solid network.

Balance work and play. Keep up with your studies but also take time to enjoy your college experience.

Set small goals each term. Focus on progress, not perfection. Whether it’s acing an assignment or staying organized, celebrate your wins.

Get support

Quick links

Bookmark these links on your phone or in your favourite web browser:

GET IN TOUCH

Student Life
studentlife@nic.bc.ca

We're excited you're here