Applications for 2024/2025 uStart Program will be available in February 2024. 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
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 uStart website www.uvic.ca/undergraduate/admissions/categories/ustart/index.php#ipn-how-to-apply 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 please speak with your Career Coordinator Ms. Giesbrecht about your interest in the program. Together you can decide if participation is a good option for you.
Tuition and program fees Your uStart tuition will be paid by SD61. However, you are responsible for paying a non-refundable $20.00 application fee, student fees and other costs related to your studies, such as textbooks and lab supplies. Note: There are student fees for UVic Students’ Society (UVSS), UVic Athletics & Recreation, UVSS renovation fee and a U-PASS (bus pass)* *Students who already have valid BC Transit bus passes may opt out of the U-PASS program. See the uStart website for estimated fees. Selection decisions April 5, 2024 – applications are due into Ms. Giesbrecht Mid-May – applicants are notified by email. May / June – uStart students select courses (with help from Ms. Giesbrecht) End of June – Official admission letters are mailed to uStart participants. Fall / winter – Participants attend classes at UVic. For more information drop by the Career Centre and discuss your options with Ms. Giesbrecht