North West College
North Battleford, Canada
North West College
North Battleford, Canada
Founded
1975
Institution Type
Public Regional College
Total Students
~2,600
Campuses
2 Main + 21 Learning Centres
Discover North West College: Saskatchewan's Gateway to Rural Post-Secondary Education
Discover North West College: Saskatchewan's Gateway to Rural Post-Secondary Education
North West College (NWC) is one of six regional colleges in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, founded in 1975. Serving a vast geographic region of over 44,000 square kilometres in northwest Saskatchewan, the college delivers training and services to facilitate the growth of the communities it serves, including 20 First Nations communities.
The college operates two primary campuses in North Battleford and Meadow Lake, along with 21 additional learning centres throughout the region. Through partnerships with institutions such as the University of Saskatchewan, the University of Regina, and Saskatchewan Polytechnic, NWC delivers a wide variety of career, vocational, and academic programming.
NWC is recognized for its welcoming environment, small class sizes, modern facilities, and strong community partnerships. The college is an approved Designated Learning Institution (DLI) for international students and offers programs that are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Key Milestones
- 1975: North West College was founded as a regional college to serve northwest Saskatchewan communities.
- 2013: Expansion of programming partnerships with the University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina.
- 2024: Launched the Forest-to-Fork microcredential and upgraded the Cenovus Energy Simulation Learning Centre for healthcare training.
- 2026: Partnered with the University of Regina to deliver the full Bachelor of Education program locally at NWC.
Academic Programs and Areas of Study at North West College
Academic Programs and Areas of Study at North West College
North West College offers a diverse range of programs spanning trades, health sciences, business, education, and academic upgrading. Through brokering partnerships with leading Saskatchewan institutions, students can pursue certificates, diplomas, and even undergraduate degrees close to home.
Health and Human Services
Programs in healthcare prepare students for in-demand careers through hands-on training in state-of-the-art simulation labs, including the Cenovus Energy Simulation Learning Centre with life-like mannequins and real medical equipment.
- Practical Nursing Diploma
- Psychiatric Nursing Diploma
- Continuing Care Assistant Certificate
Skilled Trades and Industrial Training
Trades programs provide hands-on, industry-relevant training that prepares graduates for careers in Saskatchewan's growing construction, transportation, and industrial sectors.
- Carpentry Certificate
- Welding Certificate
- Plumbing and Pipefitting Certificate
Business and Office Administration
Business programs are accredited by Saskatchewan Polytechnic and can be transferred toward a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Saskatchewan and most universities in Canada.
- Business Certificate
- Business Management Diploma
- Office Administration Certificate
University Studies and Education
Students can take first-year university classes in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina, with pathways to complete full bachelor's and master's degrees locally.
- Bachelor of Education (with University of Regina)
- First-Year University Transfer Courses
- Edwards School of Business Direct-Entry Stream
Early Childhood and Community Services
Programs in early childhood education and community services equip students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support families and communities across rural and Indigenous settings.
- Early Childhood Education Diploma
- Essential Skills for the Workplace
- Workplace Readiness Certificate
Academic Upgrading and Language Training
Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English as an Additional Language programs help learners build foundational skills for further study or direct entry into the workforce.
- Adult Basic Education (Level 3 and 4)
- GED Training and Testing
- English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Admission Requirements for North West College
Admission Requirements for North West College
Certificate and Diploma Programs
- EducationCompletion of high school or equivalent (Grade 12)
- Age RequirementApplicants must be 18 years or older at the start of the program
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0 overall (no band below 5.5) or equivalent
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from last attended academic institution (translated if not in English)
- Credential AssessmentIQAS or WES credential evaluation for international applicants
University Transfer and Degree Programs
- EducationCompletion of high school with specific prerequisite courses depending on program
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent (varies by partner university program)
- TranscriptsOfficial academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Study PermitValid Canadian study permit required for international students
- Application FeeContact the college directly for current application fee amounts
The primary intake for most programs. Apply early as popular programs fill quickly.
A second intake available for select programs. Check the NWC website for eligible programs.
Some programs may offer a spring or summer start. Confirm availability with the admissions office.
Certain programs such as Adult Basic Education accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at North West College
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at North West College
North West College offers affordable tuition in Saskatchewan's regional college system. Fees vary by program and residency status. International students should budget for tuition, fees, housing, and living expenses when planning their studies.
| Fee Category | Domestic Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (per year, approx.) | Contact college for current rates | CAD 19,000 - CAD 30,000 |
| Student Fees | Included in tuition package | Included in tuition package |
| Housing (monthly, on-campus) | CAD 450 - CAD 975 | CAD 450 - CAD 975 |
| Books and Supplies | Varies by program | Varies by program |
| Total | Contact college for current totals | Approx. CAD 24,000 - CAD 35,000 per year (all-in estimate) |
Completion Scholarship
Merit-based completion scholarships are awarded to full-time students who have successfully completed a North West College post-secondary program for the first time. No application is required; all eligible students are automatically considered.
- Type: Merit-Based
- Eligibility: Full-time students (60% course load) completing a program for the first time
- Application: Automatic consideration; no application form required
Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship
Funded through a partnership between the Saskatchewan government, the corporate sector, and community-based partners, this scholarship supports students based on academic achievement, financial need, or a combination of both.
- Type: Need and Merit-Based
- Funding Source: Government of Saskatchewan matched with institutional and community funds
- Criteria: Academic accomplishment, financial need, or a combination of both
Campus and Facilities at North West College
Campus and Facilities at North West College
North West College operates two main campuses in North Battleford and Meadow Lake, along with over 21 learning centres across the region. Both campuses feature modern learning environments, recently renovated lecture theatres, and specialized training facilities designed for hands-on education.
The main campus and head office is a busy hub for university courses, technical training, academic upgrading, and student services, bordering the beautiful Centennial Park.
A state-of-the-art educational facility with a distinctive glass entrance, offering university and trades training along with new student residences.
A recently upgraded, state-of-the-art simulation lab featuring 10 bed stations, life-like mannequins, and real medical equipment for healthcare training.
Housing and Student Services
On-Campus Housing
North West College provides accessible and affordable housing options on campus with various unit sizes including 1, 2, 3, and 4-bedroom apartments, each with locks for privacy and security.
- 1 to 4-bedroom apartment units available
- Monthly rent ranges from CAD 450 to CAD 975
- New student residences available at Meadow Lake campus
Student Support Services
The college offers comprehensive support services including career counselling, scholarships, daycare, and academic advising to help students succeed in their studies and career goals.
- Free career counselling with extended evening hours
- Resume workshops and workplace readiness training
- On-campus daycare services for student parents
Student Life at North West College
Student Life at North West College
Student life at North West College is enriched by a close-knit community atmosphere, cultural events, and a range of extracurricular activities. With small class sizes where instructors know each student by name, NWC provides a personalized and supportive learning experience.
North Battleford, Saskatchewan: Your College City
North Battleford, Saskatchewan: Your College City
Life in North Battleford
North Battleford is a city in west-central Saskatchewan with approximately 15,000 residents. Located along the historic Yellowhead Highway, it serves as a commercial and cultural hub for the surrounding region. The city offers an affordable cost of living, friendly community atmosphere, and access to stunning natural landscapes.
Western Development Museum
One of four branches in Saskatchewan, this museum showcases the agricultural history of the prairies with a pioneer village and historic grain elevator.
Allen Sapp Gallery
Housed in a historic 1916 Carnegie Library, this is the only public art gallery in Canada dedicated entirely to the work of an Indigenous artist, the renowned Cree painter Allen Sapp.
InnovationPlex
A state-of-the-art recreation complex featuring the Battlefords CO-OP Aquatic Centre, Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts, Northland Power Curling Centre, and NationsWEST Field House.
Battlefords Provincial Park
Just 40 kilometres north of the city on Jackfish Lake, the park offers camping, fishing, boating, water sports, swimming, and an 18-hole golf course.
Career Outcomes and Graduate Success
Career Outcomes and Graduate Success
Key Industries and Employers in the Region
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
North West College is an approved DLI (DLI# O265527598312) for international students in Saskatchewan and with the Government of Canada. Programs are PGWP-eligible as per IRCC regulations.
The college provides specialized support to help international students adjust to life in Canada, including orientation sessions, cultural adjustment support, academic advising, and career services.
International students must obtain a valid Canadian study permit before arriving. The college works with SaskColleges to support the application process. Be cautious of third-party scams offering tuition discounts.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
North West College Recognition and Standing
North West College Recognition and Standing
As a regional college focused on community-based education, North West College is not typically included in global university ranking systems. Its strength lies in its role as a provincially accredited institution delivering accessible, high-quality education across northwest Saskatchewan. The college was honoured with the North West Best of the Best Award for Best Post-Secondary Institution/College in 2024.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Training | Provincial Recognition | State-of-the-art simulation lab with Cenovus Energy partnership |
| Indigenous Education | Community Impact | 50-60% Indigenous participation rate across programs |
| Trades and Vocational Training | Industry Alignment | Strong employer partnerships across 300+ regional businesses |
| Community Award | North West Best of the Best | Best Post-Secondary Institution/College 2024 |
Features
To inspire individuals and communities to achieve brighter futures.\nTo provide lifelong learning opportunities as a means of enhancing the economic, cultural, and social wellbeing of the individuals and communities we serve.\nExcellence, Integrity, Responsive, Innovation

Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.

Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - June
Location
10702 Diefenbaker Dr, North Battleford, SK S9A 2Y2, Canada
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