Fees & Financial Aid

What It Costs

 

Tuition	CAD $ 11,850
Accommodation & Food	CAD $ 9,150
Total	CAD $ 21,000

 

That’s about $210 per day.

 

Your course fees include three meals a day and a place to sleep every night. We also cover all fees for transportation, camping, park access and ferries while on COLT trips. You will probably want to budget extra money for a few meals out, occasional celebratory drinks and for personal expenses that inevitably come up.

Other costs vary. Factor in buying at least some equipment and clothing – see the equipment list. The cost will vary depending on how much you already own. Shopping for used gear, either online or at a used sporting goods store, can save significant money. Then you need to get yourself to Strathcona Park Lodge and then home at the end of the course.

Also please note there is an additional cost for obtaining specific certifications. For example, in order to be registered as a kayak guide/instructor you must first become a member of the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC ($60 annually) and for canoeing, in BC the provincial organization is the Recreational Canoeing Association of BC ($ 65 annually) and to work country-wide, you’ll need to become a member of the federal association Paddle Canada ($90 annually).

For certain white water courses (i.e. the two day white water rescue technician course) some students may prefer a long sleeve wet suit instead of the farmer john/jane style – in this case COLT can offer rentals.

We issue tax receipts for tuition costs.

Financial Assistance

COLT is an accredited post-secondary school and most Canadian students qualify for student loans and even some government training funds and bursaries. Talk to a Loans Officer at your school, or find out more at the BC Student Aid website.

Funds are granted for the tuition portion of the cost of the program. The amount of money a student gets depends on their individual situation.

Hilary Stewart Bursary

If you identify as First Nation or have a strong interest in First Nations studies you may qualify for the Hilary Stewart Bursary. The bursary was made possible by a longtime friend of Strathcona Park Lodge, Hilary Stewart, who was a keen student and researcher of First Nation culture in BC. Make a note of your interest on the COLT application form and we’ll follow up. This bursary can support a student with up to $1000 for the semester.

Medical Insurance

All students should have adequate coverage for the possibility of a medical emergency. Canadian students should ensure their medical premiums are paid before attending COLT. Foreign students should purchase insurance through an insurance broker before they leave their home country.