Starting a new career path is no small feat. At ABES College in Calgary, we aim to make this journey straightforward and supportive. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the admissions process, financial aid options, student support services, and more.
Whether you’re new to Canada, returning to education, or seeking a career change, ABES College is here to assist you every step of the way.
About ABES College
Established in 1991, ABES College is a licensed private vocational school specializing in health care and social services programs. Our mission is to provide adult learners with the training and support needed to enter the workforce in areas that have the highest demand.
We collaborate with industry partners like Alberta Health Services and Calgary Laboratory Services to ensure our programs meet current industry standards and give our students the best chance of success. This approach has led to over 90% of our graduates finding employment within three months of completing their programs!
Programs Offered
ABES College offers a variety of programs designed to prepare students for in-demand careers in health care and social services. Each program includes practical training components to provide real-world experience.
Here is a list of each program and its duration:
- Health Care Aide: 32-week program with 320 hours of practicum.
- Addiction and Disability Community Support Worker Diploma: 27-week program with 8 weeks of full-time practicum.
- Dental Office Administration Diploma: 26-week program, available online or in-class, with 4 weeks of practicum.
- Medical Laboratory Assistant: 19-week program with 5 weeks of full-time practicum.
- Unit Clerk + Medical Office Assistant Diploma: 27-week program, available online or in-class, with 6 weeks of full-time practicum.
- Medical Device Reprocessing Technician: 40-week program with 8 weeks of full-time practicum.
- Pharmacy Assistant Diploma: 26-week program with 6 weeks of full-time practicum.
- Practical Nursing Diploma: 80-week program with 765 hours of full-time practicum.
For more details on each program, visit our Programs Page.
Admissions Process
Applying to ABES College is straightforward but involves several steps:
- Choose Your Program: Determine which program aligns with your career goals.
- Apply Online: Complete the application form on our Apply Now page.
- Discovery Session: An admissions advisor will contact you to schedule a session to discuss your goals and answer questions.
- Submit Documents: Provide necessary documents, such as transcripts and identification.
- Financial Consultation: Meet with a financial aid officer to explore funding options.
- Enrollment: Once accepted, complete the enrollment process and prepare for classes.
For a more detailed walkthrough, you can always reach out to an admissions advisor.
You’re Admitted! What’s Next?
Congratulations—you’re officially part of the ABES College family! Now, it’s time to prepare for the most exciting part of the journey ahead. First, you’ll receive an acceptance package detailing important dates, required documents, and orientation information. Carefully review this package, as it will guide your next steps, including attending orientation, setting up your student account, and exploring your program schedule. During orientation, you’ll meet instructors and classmates, get familiar with campus facilities, and receive essential tips for academic success.
Financial Assistance Options
We understand that financing education can be challenging. ABES College and different levels of government offer various financial aid options.
- Government Student Loans: Eligible students can apply for loans through Student Aid Alberta.
- Scholarships and Bursaries: Explore opportunities based on merit or financial need.
- ABES Student Grant: Pre-qualify for up to $1,000 in grants.
- Personal Payment Plans: Flexible payment options to suit your budget.
- Bank or Credit Union Financing: Student lines of credit may be available.
- Band Funding: Available for eligible Indigenous students.
- ABES Friend Referral Program: Refer your friends to ABES College and earn incentives. It’s an easy way to help fund your journey and help others succeed.
Learn more about these options in our detailed article on Financial Assistance Options for ABES Students.
Repayment Options
After graduation, managing loan repayment is crucial. Options include:
- Pre-Authorized Payment Plans: Automatic withdrawals from your bank account.
- Online or Telephone Banking: Make payments through your bank’s online system.
- Personal Cheques: Submit post-dated cheques for scheduled payments.
- Repayment Assistance: Programs available through Student Aid Alberta to help manage payments.
For more information, visit our page on Repayment Options.
Campus Experience
Our campus is conveniently located near Calgary’s inner city, offering easy access via public transportation. The environment is friendly, clean, and inclusive, ensuring you feel welcome and safe. Regular campus visits for instruction and hands-on training are integral parts of your program.
A Day in the Life at ABES: Your Daily Journey
Expect a balanced schedule combining classroom instruction with hands-on practical training. You’ll typically attend classes with small, supportive groups, allowing direct interaction with your instructors and peers.
Between lectures, labs, or practicum sessions, there are breaks to study, socialize, or meet with advisors. Every day is structured to reflect real-world working environments, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for your career after graduation.
Student Support Services
ABES College offers a wide range of student support services designed to help you succeed academically, professionally, and personally. From day one, you’ll have access to personalized academic advising, one-on-one tutoring sessions, and workshops aimed at strengthening study and career skills. Our dedicated career services team will assist you with résumé writing, job interview preparation, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Additionally, ABES provides mental health resources, confidential counselling, and guidance on managing work-life balance. Small class sizes mean personalized attention, ensuring no student feels overlooked.
ABES College is committed to your success, which is why we are proud to provide:
- Small Class Sizes: Ensures personalized attention.
- Flexible Scheduling: Evening and weekend classes available.
- Practicum Placements: Gain real-world experience in your field.
- Career Services: Assistance with job search and résumé building.
- Tutoring and Workshops: Additional academic support as needed.
Graduation Day: Celebrating Your Achievement
Graduation day at ABES College is a memorable event, marking the proud conclusion of your educational journey and the exciting start of your career. It’s an opportunity to celebrate your accomplishments alongside classmates, instructors, and loved ones who’ve supported you along the way.
Our graduation ceremony is thoughtfully planned to honour each student’s hard work, complete with caps, gowns, and a formal presentation of diplomas. Family and friends are invited to join this special occasion to capture photographs and memories that last a lifetime.
Career Outcomes
Now that you’re ready for the real world, you’ll be pleased to learn that ABES College boasts an impressive employment rate for its graduates. Our graduate employment rate is over 90% within three months of graduation. ABES programs provide practical experience and industry connections, giving students a unique advantage when it comes to finding and applying for jobs.
Next Steps: Apply Today!
Ready to apply to an awarding healthcare or social services program? ABES College is here to support you every step of the way. With comprehensive instruction styles, financial aid options, and dedicated support services, we’re committed to helping you achieve your goals.
Ready to take the next step? Apply Now and begin your journey with ABES College.