​The uStart program provides an opportunity for high-achieving high school students from the Greater Victoria School District (SD61) to enroll in selected courses at the University of Victoria (UVic) for dual credit during their grade 12 year. As a uStart participant, you will:

• Explore a university environment while completing high school  
• Experience post-secondary education with your tuition paid by SD61
• Receive elective credits towards your high school diploma and university credit from UVic 

• Get a head start on your post-secondary studies

CLICK HERE FOR COURSES
​Eligibility
​Participation in uStart is open to students who are:
In their Grade 12 year at a secondary school in SD61
Canadian citizens or permanent residents (International students can access UVic through the Accelerated Entry program - fees apply)

Getting started
Applications are submitted during the Grade 11 school year, enabling students to plan how they will fit courses at UVic into their Grade 12 studies. 
Review the program guide to see if uStart is the right fit for you and your educational goals. You’ll need to think about your future post-secondary plans, what class you’d like to study at UVic and if you’ll have room with your high school timetable and busy schedule.
If you’re thinking about applying, you should speak with your high school counsellor or principal as early as possible about your interest in the program. Together you can decide if participation is a good option for you. Your high school counsellor or principal can help you prepare your application package.

Tuition and program fees
Your uStart tuition will be paid by SD61. However, you are responsible for paying student fees and other costs related to your studies, such as textbooks and lab supplies.

​Selection decisions
April - applications are sent in
May - decisions are sent by email.  
May / June - uStart students select courses (with help from high school counsellors)
End of June - Official admission letters are mailed to uStart participants.
Fall / winter - Participants attend classes at UVic ​.

​DOT - Doors Open to Technology - This one day event will highlight the career opportu-nities available in the growing technology sector. Students from grade 9-12 who attend the event will leave with new information, inspiration and experiences that help to shape their future career paths. It is on February 5th from 9:00am to 3:00pm and applications are due in to Mrs. Giesbrecht by January 29th. Interested students can pick up an application in the Career Centre.

​Aviation Springboard 2019 - Viking Air and the Greater Victoria School District are hav-ing an exploration day on Friday, February 15th (pro d day) from 9:00am-1:30pm. Stu-dents will explore the world of aviation at Viking Air through interactive and hands-on activities. Interested students who would like to apply or have questions are asked to see Mrs. Giesbrecht in the Career Centre. Please hand your completed application form in by February 6th to Mrs. Giesbrecht.

Oak Bay can send four girls (grades 9 - 12) to take part in a trades and technology day at Camosun College Interurban Campus on Wednesday February 20th from 9:30am to 2:15pm. The attached poster includes all the details. If you are interested please pick up an application from Mrs. Giesbrecht in the Career Centre. All applications are due in to Mrs. Giesbrecht by February 8th.