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Newcomer Canadians

Empowering Newcomer Canadians on their Education Journey

Join Our Community

We’re proud to welcome newcomer Canadians into our vibrant student body. Our goal is to support your transition—through your English development, academic growth, and connection to Manitoba communities. As a permanent resident or new citizen, you're recognized just like any Canadian (domestic) student—no international fees, and access to domestic student funding.

If you are an international student (temporary resident of Canada), please visit our international webpage.

Why Choose Assiniboine?

  • You pay domestic tuition and are eligible for Canadian student loans and grants. You don't face international fees.
  • We have a diverse student population of more than 3,200 full-time students across campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, and Winnipeg and other sites across the province.
  • You can choose from over 75 diploma, certificate, and advanced post-graduate diplomas in areas such as Agriculture and Environment, Business, Food Services, Trades, and Technology.
  • Learn by doing – You will get hands-on experience in labs, kitchens, workshops, greenhouses, and more. This helps you build real skills for your future job.
  • Our small class sizes help you build real connections with instructors who know your name, care about your success and bring real world experience to the classroom.
  • Our campuses are easy to navigate, so you can quickly find your classes, make new friends, and access the support services that are here to help you every step of the way.

Admission Requirements at a Glance

Most programs require a complete Grade 12 diploma or equivalent. Many programs also have specific subject requirements. For applicants who were educated outside of Canada, we will review your high school or post-secondary education transcripts from your home country as part of your submitted application. Be sure to include English translations (if applicable).

For programs that list Math 40s/40G as a requirement, the admissions team will look for a Mathematics course from your Grade 12 (or higher) year.

For programs that list English 40s/40G as a requirement, the admissions team will look for a Language Arts type course on your transcripts from your 12th year of study or higher.

Please see our international admission requirements chart to see which credential from your home country we accept.

English Language Proficiency

English is the language of instruction and official communication at Assiniboine. Some countries are on our test-exempt list. If your country of origin is not on this list, you are expected to meet English language proficiency (ELP).

Each program has its own ELP requirements. To learn more about accepted tests and scores, please see the ELP chart (PDF).

English Language Training

Assiniboine offers two different English language programs.

  1. English for Academic Purposes (EAP): This is an intensive multi-level English course that runs online in May of each year.

    Students need to have a minimum IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent) to start this program.

    More information can be found on our EAP webpage.

  2. English as a Second Language (ESL): This program is only open to permanent residents of Canada and is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This means it is free for the students.

    To enter this program, you will need to get an Canadian Language Placement Assessment (CLBPA) done at Westman Immigrant Services (WIS) or Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC) in Winnipeg. We offer Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels 5-8.

    More information on our program is available on the ESL webpage.

Funding Your Future at Assiniboine

At Assiniboine, we offer many ways to help you pay for your education. Each year, students can apply for scholarships and bursaries. These are money awards that you don’t have to pay back. You can get them for doing well in school, helping in your community, or if you need financial help.

There are also government student aid programs, which include student loans and grants. Loans must be paid back later, but grants are free money for school.

Find more information on financial aid and award opportunities. You can join a free online session to learn how to apply for any of these options. We’re here to make things easier and support you every step of the way.

Supporting Your Success from Day One

At Assiniboine College, we’re committed to helping every student feel confident and supported as they begin their journey. Whether you're new to post-secondary education or new to Canada, our dedicated support services — including academic advising, career guidance, and personal support — are here to help you thrive inside and outside the classroom. You're not just starting college — you're joining a community that cares.