- Level
- 2-Year UG Diploma
- CIP code
- 51.1801
- Duration
- 2 Years
- Open intakes
-
Off-shoreSep 2026, Jan 2027
- Field
- Health and Medical Sciences
- Institution
- Public College
- Offer speed
- Fast Offer Speed5–7 days
- Next deadline
- 2026-09-01
Program overview
The Optician diploma at SAIT in Calgary prepares you to help people see their best. Over two years you’ll learn ophthalmic optics, eyewear dispensing and fitting, contact lenses, and patient care, combining technical precision with strong customer service.
Hands-on training and practical placements prepare you to work in optical retail, optometry and ophthalmology practices, with pathways to professional registration.
What it costs per year · indicative
Living cost is an estimate; tuition is the institute's published international fee. We confirm exact, current figures before you pay anything.
Do you qualify?
These are the published minimums. Whether your profile fits — with your marks, gap and budget — is exactly what a free counsellor check confirms.
Admission requirements
International admission requirements:
- High school graduation (Grade 12) or equivalent.
- English: at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 (or 60% in English 30-2 equivalent).
- Sciences: Biology 30 and/or Chemistry 30 and Math 30-1/30-2 as required (varies by program).
English proficiency (one of): IELTS Academic 6.0 (typically higher for clinical programs), PTE 53, TOEFL iBT 80 (min 20 each), or Duolingo 115. Many health programs are competitive-entry and may limit international seats.
English requirements
Documents you'll need typical · we confirm yours
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Class 10 & 12 marksheets and certificates
- English test scorecard (IELTS / PTE / TOEFL) or MOI certificate
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Financial proof — bank statement / loan sanction + GIC
- Passport-size photographs
- Study-gap affidavit or work-experience letter (if applicable)
Getting documents right is the #1 reason applications succeed or get refused — our team checks every file before submission.
Career opportunities
- Licensed Optician
- Dispensing Optician
- Contact Lens Fitter
- Optical Sales Consultant
- Eyewear Stylist
- Optical Lab Technician
About Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
- Type
- College
- Ownership
- Public
- Rating
- ★ 4.7
- Reference No.
- O18761749692