What if you could save money, gain work experience, and still earn a full Canadian bachelor’s degree—without initially starting at a university? That’s exactly what this blog is about. Through a flexible transfer option known as the 2+2 pathway, international students can start at ILAC International College—a proud sister company of UniApplyNow—and graduate with a Canadian bachelor’s degree from a respected institution like Vancouver Community College or Olds College.
In this guide, we’ll break down how it works, what programs are available, and why this pathway could be the smartest way to study in Canada.
What Is a 2+2 Transfer Pathway?
If you’re planning to study in Canada but want to save money, the 2+2 transfer pathway is a great option. It’s a flexible study option where students complete the first 2 years at ILAC International College, then transfer to a Canadian university or college to finish the final 2 years of their bachelor’s degree.
That’s where the name “2+2” comes from—2-year diploma program at one institution (like a career or community college) followed by 2 years at a public university or college to complete your degree.
And the best part? You’ll still graduate with a full bachelor’s degree from the Canadian university or college you transfer to.
This means you’ll earn a full degree, gain real work experience, and pay less in tuition. During the first half, you’ll study and work part-time in Canada. In the second half, you’ll continue your degree at Vancouver Community College (VCC) or Olds College, depending on your career goals.
It’s a cost-effective route to a Canadian degree, with real-world experience, academic support, and a seamless transition to university-level study.
How the ILAC 2+2 Transfer Works
The ILAC 2+2 transfer pathway offers international students a flexible and affordable way to earn a Canadian bachelor’s degree, with work experience along the way.
Year 1 – Study + Part-Time Work
- Work part-time in Canada (up to 24 hours per week)
Year 2 – Paid Co-op Placement
- Complete a paid Co-op in a Canadian business environment
- Gain valuable real-world experience while earning money
Transfer to Year 3
- After completing your diploma, transfer directly into Year 3 of a bachelor’s degree at:
- Vancouver Community College – Vancouver, British Columbia
- Olds College – Olds, Alberta
Years 3 & 4 – Degree Completion + Work
- Continue your studies to finish your degree
- Still eligible to work part-time during the school year
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- This pathway is PGWP eligible
- Apply for a work permit and start your career
This model lets you study, work, and build your future in Canada, all through one seamless pathway.
Option 1: Transfer to Vancouver Community College (VCC)
If you want to study in one of Canada’s most exciting cities, Vancouver Community College (VCC) is a fantastic next step. Located in downtown Vancouver, this school offers a Bachelor of Hospitality Management, a great degree for students who enjoy working with people and leading in the service industry.
Through ILAC’s 2+2 transfer pathway, you’ll start your journey at ILAC IC or TC, where you complete the first two years of your diploma. After that, you can transfer directly into year 3 at VCC to complete your bachelor’s degree.
Even better—you won’t need to take a language test if you graduate from ILAC. This makes the transfer process faster, easier, and more affordable.
ILAC students can begin in one of these programs:
- Business Administration
- Sales & Marketing
- Canadian Accounting Fundamentals
- Business + Canadian Accounting Dual Diploma
Note: The estimated $39,756 covers tuition for years 3 and 4 at VCC.
To view current tuition fees for ILAC International College programs (years 1 and 2), visit the official ILAC IC fees page.
Option 2: Transfer to Olds College (Agribusiness Focus)
If you’re interested in food, farming, or sustainable business, Olds College in Alberta is a wonderful option. After two years at ILAC, you can transfer directly into the Bachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness.
Located in Olds, Alberta, the college offers hands-on learning in one of Canada’s most important industries—agriculture. This sector supports millions of jobs and continues to grow.
Before transferring, students complete one of the following ILAC programs:
- Business Administration Diploma (2 years)
- Business + Canadian Accounting Dual Diploma (2.5 years)
- Sales & Marketing Diploma (2 years)
To enter Year 3 at Olds College, students must meet one of the English requirements: Duolingo 110 or PW 3.2.
In Year 4, you’ll complete a field project and co-op, gaining full-time paid work and industry experience.
Note: The estimated $36,500 reflects tuition for years 3 and 4 at Olds College.
To see tuition fees for ILAC International College programs (years 1 and 2), please visit the official ILAC IC fees page.
🌱 Curious about Olds College and its programs? Read more here.
Why This Pathway Is a Smart Investment
International students can save thousands on tuition by starting at ILAC International College and transferring later. They also gain real work experience in Canada before graduating through part-time jobs and co-op placements.
Here’s why many students choose this option:
- Save money: Lower tuition during the first two years at ILAC
- Work while you study: Build experience through co-op and part-time jobs
- Get a recognized degree: Finish with a bachelor’s from VCC or Olds College
- Study and work in Canada: The bachelor’s degree programs at VCC and Olds College are PGWP-eligible, allowing graduates to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to three years and gain valuable Canadian work experience.
- Full support: ILAC guides you throughout your transfer process
Choosing the ILAC transfer pathway is a smart and affordable way to earn a Canadian bachelor’s degree.
How to Apply & Start Your Journey
Ready to take the next step? Apply today through UniApplyNow, a trusted university admission platform with over 30 years of experience helping international students succeed.
Since ILAC International College is a sister company of UniApplyNow, your application process is fast, direct, and fully connected from start to finish. No delays, no confusion—just a seamless path toward your Canadian education.
ILAC also offers flexible intakes year-round, so you can begin your studies when the time is right for you. And if you ever need help, our expert advisors are just a click away.
🎓 Your Canadian bachelor’s degree starts here. Apply now on UniApplyNow and take the first step toward turning your study goals into reality.
Want to read more? Top 10 Things to Do Before Starting University in Canada.
