Frequently asked questions
Below you'll find answers to many of the most frequently asked questions by students who contact the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services. We've also provided links to where you can find additional information on this site, students.ubc.ca, and the UBC Calendar.
Last updated June 9, 2025
Course Basics
What is the difference between a course and a section?
A course is a unit of study covering a particular topic or group of topics, whereas a section is an individual instance of a course that is scheduled for set dates, days, and times. Each course has a subject (e.g., COMM_V) and a course number (e.g., 290). Many courses have multiple sections that are offered at different times. Each section has a corresponding section number (e.g., 101, 102, 103, etc.).
What do the abbreviations LEC, DIS, LAB, etc. mean?
These abbreviations refer to the format of a section’s meeting activity. Descriptions of common course formats can be found on the Introduction to UBC classes webpage: students.ubc.ca/new-to-ubc/introduction-ubc-classes
What are prerequisites?
A prerequisite is a requirement (typically a course or list of courses) that must be successfully completed prior to taking a specific course. All pre-requisites are enforced. For example, COMM_V 293 is a prerequisite to COMM_V 294 so it must be completed prior to taking COMM_V 294.
What are corequisites?
A corequisite is a requirement (typically a course or list of courses) that must either be taken concurrently (at the same time) or have been successfully completed prior to taking a specific course. All corequisites are enforced. When registering for courses that require a corequisite, remember to also register for the corequisite for the same term, if not already completed.
What is the difference between reserved and unreserved seats in a course?
Unreserved seats in a course section are open to any students who are eligible to take the course (i.e., they satisfy all restrictions—if any—that are set at the course level). Reserved seats in a course section are open only to those students who satisfy an additional set of restrictions (e.g., enrolment in a particular year level, program, etc.). For example, the majority of seats in sections of COMM_V 353 are restricted to students in the Accounting option, but some sections may also include a limited number of general seats for Year 3 BCom students in other options.
What is transfer credit?
Transfer credit is a recognition of course work completed at another institution which is equivalent or comparable to UBC course credit. In many cases, you can use the credit you have earned at a previous institution to fulfill your BCom requirements. Read more about transfer credit at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/registration/transfer-credits
If your high school studies included Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or British-patterned education (A-Levels), you may be eligible to receive transfer credit. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#firstyeartransfercredit
Note that at least 50% of your program (i.e., 61 credits in BCOM; 64 credits in BUCS) must be completed while enrolled at UBC Sauder. See Requirements to Receive a Degree or Diploma in the UBC Calendar.
Transfer credit is awarded at the university level rather than for a particular program. It’s possible that not all of the transfer credit you received can be applied toward the BCom program. If you have questions about how your transfer credit may apply to your degree requirements, please contact the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services.
Note that credit minima may differ for other considerations, such as eligibility to receive and retain scholarships, to live in UBC residence, or to apply for a post-graduation work permit. Carefully review any conditions relevant to your personal circumstances to ensure your continued eligibility. Learn more: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#courseload.
Where can I see my transfer credit and how do I use it toward my degree?
A summary of your transfer credit can be viewed through your Workday Student profile under Academics > Transfer Credit. Your transfer credit will also be reflected on your Academic History showing TR instead of a grade. Eligible transfer credit will apply towards your degree requirements automatically. Please ensure to request the offering institution sends your official transcript directly to UBC.
Transfer credits can also be viewed on your Academic Progress Report (APR), viewable in Workday. Please note that staff in the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services will be making manual adjustments to your APR after you are admitted to the program.
The APR has limitations and must be used in combination with our Course Planning Worksheets and Elective Checklist for accurate degree planning. To learn more about APR, please visit: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/apr.
I have transfer credit from high school. Can I use these credits toward my degree?
If your high school studies included Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or British-patterned education (A-Levels), you may be eligible to receive transfer credit that you can use toward your degree requirements. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#firstyeartransfercredit
When registering for courses, you may choose to take a reduced course load (that means fewer than 30 credits) or you may choose to register for additional non-Commerce electives. The choice is yours. Please review the information on the registering for courses page carefully, including the impacts of a reduced course load.
Note that credit minima may differ for other considerations, such as eligibility to receive and retain scholarships, to live in UBC residence, or to apply for a post-graduation work permit. Carefully review any conditions relevant to your personal circumstances to ensure your continued eligibility. Learn more: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#courseload
I have high school transfer credit for a required course. What if I take an equivalent course at UBC? Can I use both?
You cannot use credit for both courses. For example, MATH_V 100, MATH_V 110, and MATH_V 180 are equivalent courses. If you have transfer credit for MATH_V 100 and retake either MATH_V 100 or take an equivalent course such as MATH_V 180 at UBC, MATH_V 100 credit can no longer be used.
What does ‘NC’ mean if it’s part of the course number in transfer credit that I’ve received?
'NC’, such as in COMM_V 1NC, indicates that the credits are not for credit in Commerce. Any not-for-credit COMM_V credit you receive cannot be used to fulfill your BCom requirements unless noted on your Academic Progress Report in the form of an override.
What is an exemption (EX)?
An exemption is the waiving of a prerequisite or a required course. An exemption is typically granted together with a general credit, which covers the required course in the degree requirements. For example, if a student is granted an exemption from COMM_V 293 (0) and COMM_V 2nd (3), the COMM_V 2nd (3) credit covers the COMM_V 293 (3) requirement.
Registration
How do I register for courses?
You will receive additional registration information specific to your year level in the BCom program approximately 1-2 weeks prior to your registration appointment for the winter session. This information will also be available at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration
Review the deadlines to make changes to your registration at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/registration/course-change-dates
How many credits do I need to be registered in?
Many students take a full course load of 30/31 credits during the winter session. If you’re thinking about reducing your course load, be mindful of commitments and considerations that require you to be registered in a minimum number of credits to maintain your eligibility (e.g., loans, scholarships, housing, study permit, etc.). Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#courseload
I'm a transfer student who is new to UBC Sauder. How do I figure out which courses to take?
Start by reviewing your program requirements at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/program-requirements/general-program-requirements
Next, review your transfer credit and compare it to your program requirements. A summary of the transfer credit you have been awarded can be viewed on Workday Student > Academics > Transfer Credit. Eligible transfer credit will apply toward your degree requirements automatically.
You can use a maximum of 60 credits of eligible coursework—completed at other institutions or within another program at UBC prior to your admission to the UBC Sauder School of Business—toward your BCom degree requirements. At least 50% of your program (i.e., 61 credits in BCOM, 64 credits in BUCS) must be completed while enrolled at UBC Sauder. See Requirements to Receive a Degree or Diploma in the UBC Calendar.
Transfer credit is awarded at the university level rather than for a particular program. It’s possible that not all of the transfer credit you received can be applied toward the BCom program. If you have questions about how your transfer credit may apply to your degree requirements, please contact the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services.
You will receive additional registration information specific to your year level in the BCom program approximately 1-2 weeks prior to your registration open date for the winter session. This information will also be available at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration
When are the course schedules available for the summer and winter sessions?
Course schedules for the following summer and winter sessions are typically published in Workday in mid-January and early May, respectively. See tutorial: Viewing the course schedule
When is registration?
The registration open period for the following summer and winter sessions is typically in mid-March and mid-June through to mid-July, respectively. Registration date ranges for both sessions are listed by year level at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/registration/registration-dates
A course I want to take is full. Can I ask the instructor if I can join? Can I be added to a waitlist?
If you’re unable to register in a required Commerce course that cannot be delayed to a subsequent term, you can request registration assistance through the form found at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/regi-assist
Commerce instructors cannot register you in their courses. All students will be referred to the Office of Student Academic Services and asked to submit a request for registration assistance if they meet at least one of the valid criteria for a request. If you do not meet any of the valid criteria, we recommend that you continue to monitor enrolment so that you can register yourself in any seats that become available.
For courses other than Commerce, consult the Faculty offering the course you wish to take to learn the correct procedure to request registration.
If a course section that is full has a waitlist enabled, you’ll be able to register for the waitlist if it has available seats and you meet all restrictions for the course.
There is a reserved seat available in a course for which I’ve been trying to register. Why can’t I register for that seat?
If you’re unable to register, you may not meet all of the restrictions for the course or for that particular seat. First, check that you meet any eligibility requirements at the course level. Next, confirm that you have completed any required prerequisites and that you have completed or are concurrently registered in any required corequisites. Lastly, look at the specific seat requirements listed under Available Reserved Seats for that particular section. If you still have questions about your eligibility, please contact the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services.
What can I do if I'm a Year 4 student and am unable to register for a course that I need to graduate?
Needing a course to meet graduation requirements is a valid reason to request registration assistance: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/regi-assist
While we will try to accommodate your preferred section and course, it may be necessary to add you to an alternate section or course that will fulfill the same degree requirement if your requested section/course is full. Note that completion of a second option or a concentration is optional; these courses are electives that are not eligible for registration assistance.
My study permit is delayed. What should I do?
If your study permit is delayed, then you must first review the information regarding academic concessions on your course outlines. Students who cannot join the course in-person should drop their courses no later than the add or drop a course without a W deadline to avoid any financial and/or academic penalties.
If you need degree planning, please contact the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services or schedule an appointment with an Academic Advisor. Students are responsible for making changes to their registration in a timely manner on Workday Student. Learn more about the impact of taking a reduced course load at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration
International students should also refer to the International Student Guide at students.ubc.ca/international-student-guide/international-immigration-health-insurance-faq#travel-canada-start-term for more information.
Can I increase the number of credits I’m allowed to register for?
Balancing a full course load is challenging, so a credit increase is not usually recommended, particularly if you work or have other responsibilities. If you are approved for a credit increase (3-6 credits max), you will not be eligible for academic concession for any issues related to your increased workload.
- In Workday, the credits for two-term, six credit courses are not evenly split across academic periods, but instead apply to the term in which the course begins. In this instance, you can request an increase to your Term 1 limit to offset the imbalance – your Term 2 credit limit will be reduced accordingly.
- Credit increases to take an increased course load are only permitted after all students have had a chance to register.
- Year 1 students are not eligible for credit limit increases.
The credit limit increase request form is available for students to request rebalancing of credit limits to allow for registration in two-term, six credit courses.
Requests for credit limit increases to take additional courses will be reviewed starting August 1 once all students have had an opportunity to register.
When is the deadline to add a course or drop a course once it has started?
There are two types of withdrawal deadlines. The first deadline is the last day to withdraw without a W (withdrawal) standing on your academic transcript. This deadline is also the last day to add the course in that particular term. The second deadline is the last day to withdraw with a W standing. If you drop a course before the first withdrawal deadline, you will be eligible for a full refund of tuition for the course. If you drop a course between the first and second withdrawal deadlines, you will receive a partial or no refund of tuition depending on when you drop the course. Learn more:
Can I be added to a course after the deadline to register?
No, you must register for all of your courses before the deadline to withdraw without a W standing. While UBC provides the flexibility for you to register for most courses up to two weeks after their start date, you must accept certain responsibilities when joining a course that is already underway. Some things to consider before registering:
- It's your responsibility to learn any material that has already been taught. This will involve self-study. While your instructor may be available during office hours to answer questions, they will not have time to re-teach all of the material that has already been discussed before you started attending the course. The onus is on you to catch up.
- Many courses at UBC Sauder require active participation in class. You must complete all previously assigned readings and coursework at your earliest opportunity so that you are fully prepared to contribute to class discussions and engage in group work.
- Some instructors discourage late registration in their courses if group work or assignments are required during the first two weeks. Talk to your instructor as soon as you join the class. They may recommend that you take their course at a later date so that you can attend classes from the start of term.
I dropped a course after the deadline and have a W for it? What does this mean?
A W standing on your transcript indicates that you withdrew from a course. Course withdrawals are not included in calculating your sessional, cumulative, or graduating averages. Remember though that you will not receive a full refund of your tuition past the first withdrawal deadline. Be mindful that a W may impact your eligibility for particular resources that have minimum credit requirements: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#late-course-withdrawal
I’m planning to take some time off from my studies. What do I need to do?
Be sure to drop your courses on Workday Student before the first withdrawal deadline to receive a full refund of any tuition paid and avoid withdrawal standings on your academic record. Be mindful of the impact that a break in your studies will have on your eligibility for scholarships, loans, study permit, etc.:
- mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration/#courseload
- students.ubc.ca/enrolment/courses/course-load-guide
- students.ubc.ca/enrolment/courses/taking-break-courses
- students.ubc.ca/international-student-guide/immigration/taking-time-away-school-international
Be aware that if you take a break from your studies for longer than 12 months, you must reapply to the BCom program to resume your studies. The application for re-admission must be submitted through Workday Student by January 15 prior to the resumption of your studies the following September.
You must complete your BCom degree requirements within six years of your original admission to the UBC Sauder School of Business. If you plan to take the winter session off (Terms 1 & 2) or you are graduating past the six years, we recommend you discuss your plan with an Academic Advisor in the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services.
Can I request permission to take courses at other universities?
With the exception of exchange programs administered by UBC Go Global, the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services will not normally allow you to take courses at other universities to fulfill degree requirements (also referred to as a Letter of Permission). If you have extraordinary, extenuating circumstances that you think necessitate completion of a course(s) outside of UBC, please read our eligibility requirements and apply here.
Can I retake a course to get a better grade?
If you’ve successfully completed a Commerce course, you cannot repeat it for additional credit or to improve your grade. This includes courses listed on the Science Exclusion List. Course rules set by the Faculty offering the course will apply.
Students are only allowed to repeat a failed course once. If you need to attempt a required course for a third and final time, you must submit an appeal to the Office of Student Academic Services.
Degree requirements
What courses do I need to take?
Review your degree requirements at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-and-enrolment/program-requirements and use the BCom Course Planning Worksheets to track your progress.
You will receive registration information specific to your year level approximately 1-2 weeks prior to your registration appointment for the winter session. This information will also be available at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/registration
Can I take longer than four years to complete my degree?
Yes, you can take up to six years from the time that you start your studies in the BCom program at UBC Sauder to complete your BCom degree.
Is there a deadline by which I need to complete all of my degree requirements?
Yes, you can take up to six years from the time that you start your studies in the BCom program at UBC Sauder to complete your BCom degree. Please contact an Academic Advisor in the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services if you have valid reasons to request an extension.
How can I check that I have completed my degree requirements?
Review your degree requirements at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-and-enrolment/program-requirements and use the BCom Course Planning Worksheets to track your progress.
Do I need to apply to graduate?
Yes, in order to graduate you must complete the graduation application on Workday Student. Learn more at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/graduation/applying-graduate
Can I apply to switch my degree program?
Yes. To apply to switch degree programs for the next winter session, review the information at at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/registration/change-degree-program-or-campus
If I finish all of my degree requirements in the fall term of the winter session, or in the summer session, when can I graduate?
If you finish all of your degree requirements by the end of Term 1 of the winter session (December) and apply for graduation (students.ubc.ca/enrolment/graduation/applying-graduate), your degree will be conferred in May.
If you finish all of your degree requirements in Term 1 or Term 2 of the summer session (including academic concessions in the form of an SD) and apply for graduation (students.ubc.ca/enrolment/graduation/applying-graduate), your degree will be conferred in November.
If you require documentation that confirms your completion of the program before your degree has been conferred for an employer or visa/work permit application, you can request a letter from the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/letters
Electives
What’s an elective and how many do I need to take?
Electives are general course requirements taken in addition to the specific core courses that all BCom students complete. The total number of elective credits you must complete will depend on which year level you entered the program (as a direct entry student in Year 1 or as a transfer student in Year 2 or Year 3) and which option you choose to complete.
While you are not required to complete specific courses to fulfill elective requirements, a minimum number of your electives must be non-Commerce and at the 300 or 400-level.
The Academic Progress Report in Workday Student may not accurately track your progress towards completing all of your elective requirements (e.g., three credits from both humanities and science/social science). After reviewing your elective requirements at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/elective-requirements we recommend tracking your elective requirements by using the BCom Elective Checklist available for download on that page.
How do I choose which electives to take?
Take some time to research the different subject areas and topics that are available to study at UBC. What you choose is up to you. Consider taking courses to:
- explore other areas of interest
- complement your choice of option or intended career path
- develop expertise in a specific subject area
Keep in mind that you may need to complete 100/200-level prerequisites to take 300/400-level courses in some subjects so plan accordingly. Before you register for electives, check that those courses are not listed as “not-for-credit in the BCom program” in the tables found at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/elective-requirements
Note that if you started Year 1 in 2022W or later, your non-Commerce electives must include at least 3 credits in the humanities, and at least 3 credits in science or social science. Language courses are not eligible for the humanities requirement, but literature courses are.
Can any non-Commerce course count toward electives?
Not necessarily. Before you register for electives, check that those courses are not listed as “not-for-credit in the BCom program” in the tables found at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/elective-requirements
Applicable 300/400-level electives can satisfy 100/200-level elective requirements, however, 100/200-level electives cannot substitute for 300/400-level electives (exceptions: FREN_V 222 and 223 are considered 300-level courses).
Commerce courses (COMM_V, COHR_V, COEC_V, COMR_V, MGMT_O) cannot substitute for non-Commerce elective requirements.
Can I take more lower-level electives (100 & 200-level) and use them to substitute for the upper-level electives (300 & 400-level)?
No. You are required to complete the minimum number of 300 & 400-level electives as outlined at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/elective-requirements to fulfill degree requirements for graduation.
Can I take more upper-level electives (300 & 400-level) and use them to substitute for the lower-level electives (100 & 200-level)?
Yes. You take upper-level electives in place of lower-level electives.
I am not interested in taking non-COMM electives and I want to take more COMM courses as my electives. Can I substitute non-COMM electives with COMM courses?
No. You need to complete the minimum number of non-COMM electives as outlined on mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/elective-requirements to fulfill degree requirements for graduation.
What courses do I need to be promoted?
'Year Level' is referred to as 'Class Standing' in Workday Student. Your Class Standing will be automatically updated on Workday once you have fulfilled all requirements for promotion. Review promotion requirements for each Class Standing at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-and-enrolment/exams-and-grades/academic-standing
Do I need to complete all of my elective requirements for my year to be promoted?
While electives are allotted at each year level within the four-year program requirements, this is just a guide to help students plan their courses if they intend to take a full course load each winter session and finish within four years. Promotion to the next year level does not require completion of a minimum number of electives, however, any electives you have completed will count toward your total credits completed.
What is most important is that you satisfy your total elective requirements—including the minimum non-Commerce and 300/400-level requirements particular to your option and entry year—before you graduate. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/elective-requirements
Programs of study (i.e., options/specializations, minors, concentrations)
What is a program of study?
In Workday Student, your primary program of study will be the Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com). Once you declare your option (specialization) in Year 3, it will be a combination of your degree program (B.Com) and your option (e.g., B.Com, Option in Business Technology Management).
Additional programs of study such as Co-op will be listed in Workday as bundled programs. Second options, minors, and concentrations are also bundled programs, but they won’t be added to your academic record until immediately prior to graduation (with the exception of by-application programs).
View your program of study in Workday in the Overview tab found under Academics.
How do I choose an option?
Start your research at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/options/choosing-your-option
There you’ll find a summary of each option that includes sample jobs, required skills, and recommended resources to learn more about specific industries. You can also watch testimonials from students in each option.
But don’t stop there. Attend information sessions and business club events, and talk to senior students about how they chose their option. Keep in mind that just because you choose a particular option now, it doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to pursue employment in other areas of business throughout your career.
Still have questions? Book an appointment with a career coach at the Business Career Centre: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/bcc
How do I declare my major?
As a student in the BCom program, your major is Commerce. You will be able to select your option (i.e., specialization) once you attain a Year 3 class standing. Note that the Accounting and Finance options require that you achieve minimum grades in specific courses to self-declare them. Learn more about option declaration at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/option-declaration
If you're enrolled in the Combined Major in Business and Computer Science (BUCS), you do not select an option. If you’ve been admitted to the Global Supply Chain and Logistics Management option, our office will add you to it.
Can I complete a double major or a minor?
There aren’t any double majors or similar programs available to UBC BCom students other than the Combined Major in Business and Computer Science. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/bucs
It is possible to complete a second specialization (i.e., a double option). Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/options/double-options
BCom students can complete a minor in a non-Commerce subject area by completing the minor course requirements as specified by the department/faculty that administers those courses. Most minors require completion of 30 credits of coursework, of which at least 18 credits are at the 300/400-level. The courses taken for a minor count toward elective requirements in the BCom degree. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/minors-and-concentrations/minor-arts-or-science.
Can I change my option after I choose it?
You may be able to switch options if you have not yet completed the majority of your first option requirements—switching your option is not a backdoor to completing a double option—and the option you would like to switch to has space. Keep in mind that the Accounting and Finance options require minimum grades in specific courses. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/option-declaration
What’s the difference between an option and a specialization? An option and a concentration?
The terms option and specialization are synonymous. An option (i.e., specialization) is a required component within your BCom degree consisting of 12-18 credits of coursework within a specific area of business. A concentration is an optional set of related courses beyond your core degree and option requirements. Courses taken for a concentration count toward elective requirements. Learn more about options and concentrations:
- mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/options
- mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-and-enrolment/minors-and-concentrations
How can I complete a double option?
You may only be officially registered in one option. If you're planning to complete a second option, it's up to you to register yourself in any requirements for that option. You'll only be eligible to register in seats that are reserved for students in other options, if any are available. Often these limited seats are taken by Year 4 students who register before Year 3 students. Therefore, if you’re attempting to complete a second option you may need to extend your studies to successfully register in and complete all required courses.
Students cannot complete a second option in Finance or General Business Management. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/options/double-options
Can I double count courses between concentrations, options, and minors?
Double counting is an allowance to use one course to fulfill two requirements but there are limits to the number of credits that can be double counted. Some concentrations, options, and minors share common courses among their requirements. For example, COMM_V 414 Data Visualization and Business Analytics can be taken to fulfill requirements for the Global Supply Chain and Logistics Management, Marketing, or Operations and Logistics option, as well as the Business Analytics concentration.
If the courses you take for a concentration overlap with the courses you take for an option or minor, you can double count a maximum of 3 credits of coursework in your degree toward both the concentration and one of either one option or one minor.
Courses cannot be double counted between options. For example, if you are pursuing a double option in Marketing and Operations and Logistics, COMM_V 414 can be taken to fulfill requirements for one of the two options, but not both.
Double counting a course does not reduce the number of courses you are required to take. You must still complete the total degree credits required for your program to complete your degree.
How do I declare my double option, concentration, or minor for graduation?
Once the graduation application deadline has passed, the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services will send instructions to all applicants for how to affirm their expected completion of a second option, minor, or concentration, if applicable. At the time of graduation, completion of a second option, minor, or concentration will be noted on your transcript.
Academic support
I'm struggling to understand some of the material in a course. Where can I get help?
First, know that you’re not alone. More likely than not, there are other students in your class who also find it difficult. Don’t wait to seek help. A few places to start:
- Consult your course syllabus for study resources.
- Talk to your instructor or TA during office hours to review challenging content and ask about additional resources.
- Sign up for academic support programming at the Canaccord Learning Commons and/or the Chapman Learning Commons: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/clc
- Visit the Learning and Studying Resources: mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/learning-and-studying-resources
- Sign up for AMS Tutoring: ams.ubc.ca/student-services/tutoring
- Sign up for a review session offered by the Commerce Mentorship Program: ubccmp.ca
- Search the web for other learning materials—you may find some concepts easier to understand if they are presented in a different format.
Remember to take care of yourself too. Make use of the health and wellness supports that are available to you: students.ubc.ca/health
Where can I learn more about academic integrity and properly citing sources in my work?
Academic integrity means you conduct your work and studies honestly and in accordance with UBC’s standards. Make sure to review the information and supports available at academicintegrity.ubc.ca. Take the time to carefully review the UBC Sauder BCom Statement of Professionalism and Code of Conduct at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/statement-of-professionalism-and-code-conduct
When citing your work, be sure to follow the correct format as outlined by your instructor. Learn more about citation at:
Health and wellness
Where can I access resources to support my wellbeing?
Visit students.ubc.ca/health for a list of mental, physical, and emotional health services available for UBC students. Use the tool at the top of the page to filter options based on your location and the level of support you need.
Academic concession
What can I do if an illness or another personal challenge/conflict is impacting my ability to attend classes and complete coursework?
At UBC, we care about your wellbeing and are committed to supporting you in your academic pursuits. We recognize that sometimes unanticipated events or circumstances can affect your ability to complete your academic responsibilities.
You may be eligible to submit a petition for an academic concession if you meet the certain eligibility criteria, and in some circumstances, provide supporting documentation. An academic concession is a form of support that allows for deferment of marked work so that you can complete a course's requirements. Review the criteria for academic concession at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-concession
How do I submit a petition for academic concession?
Review instructions for how to submit your petition for academic concession at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-concession
You are expected to submit your petition within 48 hours of the missed coursework, exam, or deadline. Supporting documentation and/or a discussion with an academic advisor may be required before a concession is granted. You must be in good standing (regular attendance, completed all coursework and midterm exams) in your course to be eligible for academic concession.
I am a non-BCom student. How do I submit my petition for academic concession?
You should follow the academic concession process as outlined by your home faculty advising office. Each faculty has its own process for in-term concessions and it is important for you to follow those guidelines in order for the petition to be approved. The UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services (OSAS) will assist you if your home faculty advising office asks you to connect with your instructor regarding your petition, and your instructor then asks you to contact OSAS. We anticipate that many COMM_V, COHR_V, COMR_V, and COEC_V instructors will follow this process. If this is what you have been asked to do, then you should review the information in mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-concession and can fill out the academic concession petition form for BCom students. Please disregard the note that says the form is only for BCom students and submit the form for an in-term petitions. We will confirm with both you and the instructor that the information we receive is correct. Note that this process only applies to in-term petitions. You must connect with your home faculty advising office for academic concession for final exams. OSAS will NOT process academic concessions for final exams for non-BCom students.
Exams
When will the exam schedule be published?
The exam schedules for the winter session will be published on Workday in mid-October and mid-February for Term 1 and Term 2, respectively. During the summer session, the exam schedule will typically be published three weeks prior to the final exam period in each term.
Do not make travel arrangements or personal commitments until the exam schedule has been published or you have confirmed your final exam date with your instructor. Resulting conflicts will not merit academic concession.
What is an exam hardship?
An exam hardship is when you have three final exams scheduled within a 24-hour period. If the third exam falls on the 25th hour, it is not considered a hardship. For example, if the first exam is on Monday at 8:30am, the second exam is at 3:30pm, and the third exam is on Tuesday at 8:30am, there is no official hardship because the third exam starts just after the 24-hour period expires.
If you face an exam hardship, you will be given an alternative exam date for the second exam. Contact the instructor of your second exam no later than one month prior to the scheduled exam date for courses in the winter session and no later than two weeks prior to the scheduled exam date for courses in the summer session. If the exam is for a Commerce course, your instructor may redirect you to the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services to report the hardship.
What do I need to know about writing exams at UBC?
All of your Commerce exams will start with an Integrity Pledge. Academic integrity will be enforced in ALL exams. By writing a UBC exam you are agreeing to adhere to the University’s standards for academic honesty. It is your responsibility to review and abide by the rules described in the following sources:
- Student Declaration,
- Academic Integrity.
- Academic Honesty and Standards,
- Student Conduct During Examinations, and
- any special rules for conduct as set out by the examiner.
Suspected instances of academic misconduct will be thoroughly investigated and are subject to disciplinary measures.
Please ensure that you have your digital or physical UBCcard to prove your identity, including when writing your final exams. Note that instructors have the right to deny a final exam to students who are unable to provide the required identification.
Can I retake an exam that I've already written?
No. If you start an exam, the grade earned will stand regardless of whether or not you're able to attend the entire duration of the exam or to complete it. You will not be permitted to rewrite the exam at a later date.
If you are unwell or have other extenuating circumstances that will prevent you from writing an exam as scheduled, please review the academic concession policy at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-concession
What do I do if I miss my exam?
If you have extenuating circumstances that cause you to miss an exam, consult your course syllabus for any instructions provided by your instructor, AND self-report your absence to the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services (OSAS). Note that you are expected to report your absence to OSAS by submitting an online academic concession petition form at your earliest convenience, but within 48 hours of the missed exam.
Regardless of whether the exam you miss is for a Commerce or non-Commerce course (e.g., MATH_V, ECON_V), all BCom students are expected to complete the UBC Sauder academic concession petition form found at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-concession
Please note that submitting the form does not mean that your petition for a concession will be granted. You must be in good standing (regular attendance, completed all coursework and midterm exams) in your course to be eligible for an academic concession.
If you start an exam, the grade earned will stand regardless of whether or not you're able to attend the entire duration of the exam or to complete it. You will not be permitted to rewrite the exam at a later date.
What do I do if I experienced technical issues during an online exam that prevented me from completing it?
If you experience unresolvable technical issues during an online exam that prevent you from completing it, please follow the instructions provided by your instructor. As soon as possible, email a detailed summary of your experience during the exam to bcomquestions@sauder.ubc.ca. Include the nature of the technical issues you encountered, when they happened, and what steps you took to attempt to resolve them. If you were in contact with any form of technical support per the instructions provided by your professor, include this in your summary as well. Each situation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, however, there are no guarantees that any form of academic concession will be granted.
I’ve been granted Deferred Standing (SD). When will my deferred exam be scheduled?
If you’ve been granted a Deferred Standing (SD) for a missed final exam, you’ll normally be expected to write the exam during the official deferred exam period set by Enrolment Services unless otherwise indicated by your instructor. While some instructors may be able to offer you an earlier opportunity to take a deferred exam, they are under no obligation to do so.
The deferred exam period is in late July for courses taken during the previous winter session (September to April) and in November or courses taken during the previous summer session (May to August). Exam dates and times will be scheduled by Enrolment Services (not the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services).
Note that some course instructors set alternate exam dates that differ from the official deferred exam period (for example, MATH_V deferred exams must be written with the next offering of the course—refer to Exceptions on the Standing Deferred and Supplemental exams page of the Student Services website). We strongly recommend to contact your instructor immediately after missing your exam to find out if an earlier exam sitting will be offered and how to register for it.
Learn more about deferred standing at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-concession
Grades
When will my grades be available after I have completed a course?
Your final official grades will be released on Workday Student. There may be a delay in posting your final grade if your final exam for the course was held late in the exam period.
Are there minimum grade requirements in courses?
Most of your courses require a minimum grade of 50% to successfully complete them. There are a few notable exceptions. You must achieve a 60% in both ENGL_V 112/WRDS_V 150B (or equivalent course) and COMM_V 396 to satisfy these BCom degree requirements. If you started Year 1 in 2022W or later, you must achieve a 60% in both COMM_V 196 and COMM_V 396 to satisfy these BCom degree requirements.
How will my academic performance for the year be evaluated?
Each year during the month of May, the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services reviews your academic progress and calculates your winter session average based on all courses taken from September to April. Your overall average must be of at least 60% to be eligible to continue in the BCom program.
The sessional average is a weighted average, taking course credit values into consideration, and does include any failing grades. If you participate in a study abroad and exchange program during the 2025 winter session or prior, grades earned on exchange will be included in the calculation. Courses taken during the summer session (May to August) are not included in the winter session average.
If I am asked to discontinue from the program because of my academic performance, can I appeal the decision?
If you did not achieve the minimum 60% winter session average required to continue in the BCom program, you may request that your circumstances be evaluated on their own merits by submitting a letter of appeal to the UBC Sauder Office of Student Academic Services. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/exams-and-grades/failed-year
What is the Dean’s List (formerly Dean's Honour Roll)?
The Dean's List is a recognition on your academic transcript in a given winter session (Terms 1 & 2) that you achieved a minimum 80% average for that session while enrolled in a full course load. Review eligibility criteria at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-and-enrolment/exams-and-grades/academic-honours
How do I know if I am eligible for a Degree with Honours when I graduate?
Review the eligibility criteria for a Degree with Honours at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/academic-honours
What is Credit/D/Fail grading?
The Credit/D/Fail grading policy allows you to take eligible elective courses for a Credit, D, or Fail standing instead of a percentage grade on your academic transcript. Learn more at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/exams-and-grades/grades/#creditdfail
Tuition, fees, scholarships, awards, and funding
Is tuition reduced for online courses?
UBC tuition rates are the same regardless of the mode of delivery.
When is tuition due? What payment options are available?
Tuition is due at the start of each term. Check here for current deadlines: students.ubc.ca/enrolment/dates-deadlines
There are many ways to pay your tuition. Learn more at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/finances/paying-tuition
What happens if I don't pay my tuition by the deadline?
If you have outstanding fees that haven’t been paid by the payment due date, you may be placed on financial hold. Learn more about the consequences of a financial hold at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/finances/paying-tuition/late-payment-fees
Who can I talk to about my tuition, fees, or student loans?
Your Enrolment Services Advisor (ESA) is your best resource for any questions regarding financially-related matters at UBC. All undergraduate students have a dedicated ESA assigned to them. Your Enrolment Services Advisor's contact information is available on Workday Student: Academics (under Your Top Apps) > Support tab > Important Contacts Support Network. View tutorial: Finding your Enrolment Services Advisor’s contact information
Am I eligible for scholarships and awards? Do I need to apply?
A list of award types, eligibility requirements, and application details (if applicable) can be found at students.ubc.ca/enrolment/finances/awards-scholarships-bursaries
For awards that are specifically available to BCom students, see mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/courses-money-and-enrolment/scholarships-funding
Additional opportunities
Where can I learn more about the Co-op Program?
Learn more about the Co-op Program at mybcom.sauder.ubc.ca/co-op
Where can I learn more about the Exchange Program?
Start your research into exchange and study abroad programs at:
Where can I learn more about the Portfolio Management Foundation Program?
Learn more about the PMF program at sauder.ubc.ca/pmf
Can I take more courses after I graduate?
After you graduate from the BCom program you can apply to take eligible UBC courses as an unclassified student. Because there is excess demand for Commerce courses from students who are still completing their BCom degree requirements, we are not able to accommodate registration requests from unclassified students for most Commerce courses. Learn more about non-degree studies: students.ubc.ca/enrolment/courses/non-degree-studies/non-degree-studies-unclassified
Can't find the answer to your question? Try the BCom website search bar!
The myBCom website has a lot of useful information about registration, promotion requirements, course planning, and more. Did you know that you can search the website using keywords? Try entering your keywords to see if you can find the answers to your questions online.