College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare

Program overview

College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare is a diploma program in general studies at Selkirk College - Castlegar, a public institution in Castlegar, British Columbia, Canada, founded in 1966.

First-year tuition is listed at 13,671 CAD and the application fee at 100 CAD.

Applications to Selkirk College - Castlegar typically receive a decision in 8 days and 23 hours, based on recent applications.

Cost of the first year

Plan for about 37,219 CAD for the first year before travel, insurance and visa fees. Plan for first-year tuition, living costs at the level IRCC sets, and travel. Tuition varies widely between universities, colleges and provinces. IRCC revises the living-cost figure from time to time, so confirm the current amount on the official study permit page.

Figures are as listed in October 2026. Schools revise tuition every year, so confirm the current amount with the school before you pay a deposit.

How the tuition compares in Canada

Our directory lists 436 diploma programs in general studies at 116 schools in Canada. Their median first-year tuition is 16,372 CAD, and the middle half cost between 14,588 CAD and 20,460 CAD.

At 13,671 CAD, College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare is 16% below the median, in the most affordable quarter. The full range runs from 8,700 CAD to 67,850 CAD.

• All general studies courses in Canada

Lower-cost diploma options in general studies

If budget matters, these diploma programs in general studies have some of the lowest listed first-year tuition in Canada.

Entry requirements and documents

Selkirk College - Castlegar sets the exact entry requirements for College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare. For a diploma, applicants usually need the following.

Most institutions accept IELTS Academic, TOEFL, PTE Academic or similar tests. Each institution sets its own minimum scores, so read the programme page rather than relying on a general figure.

• Your most recent academic transcripts and certificates.
• A statement of purpose.
• References, and a CV where work experience is relevant.
• A valid passport.
• English test results, unless the school waives them.

Student visa: Study permit

Students from India need a Study permit to study in Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) decides the application.

Canada admits international students to designated learning institutions (DLIs) on a study permit. The admission, the funds and the permit application all have to line up, and several rules have changed in recent years, so check each step against IRCC before you pay anything.

• Shortlist programmes at a designated learning institution and check that the programme itself is eligible for the outcome you want (for example a post-graduation work permit).
• Apply and receive a letter of acceptance. Check on IRCC whether you also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter.
• Prepare proof of funds, identity documents, a study plan or letter of explanation, and any language test results the institution or IRCC asks for.
• Complete the study permit application online and give biometrics when asked. A medical exam may be required.

• Study in Canada: full visa guide
• IRCC: Study permit
• EduCanada: study in Canada

After you graduate

Graduates of eligible programmes at eligible institutions may apply for a post-graduation work permit. Eligibility depends on the institution, programme and field of study, and the rules have been changing, so check the current IRCC conditions before choosing a course on that basis.

How to apply with Study Spectra

• Send us your marksheets, English test result (or test plan) and budget.
• We check your profile against College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare and suggest alternatives if it is a stretch.
• We prepare your statement of purpose and documents, and submit the application.
• When the offer arrives, we help with the deposit, funds evidence and the student visa file.

Questions students ask

How much is the tuition for College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare?

First-year tuition is listed at 13,671 CAD. Living costs are extra; Selkirk College - Castlegar estimates 23,448 CAD a year. Confirm the current fee with the school.

What is the application fee?

The application fee is 100 CAD. It is paid once per application and is not refunded after the school receives the application.

When is the next intake?

The school has not listed an intake date for this program. Ask us for the current intakes.

Is College Diploma - Early Learning and Childcare a degree?

It is listed as a diploma. Check with the school what qualification it awards and whether it leads to further study or work rights.

Which visa do I need to study in Canada?

You need a Study permit, decided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Apply after you accept an offer and can show the required funds.

Can Study Spectra help me apply?

Yes. We check your profile, prepare your documents and submit your application to Selkirk College - Castlegar, then help with the visa. The first call is free.

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