International Students

• STUDENT RESIDENCES:
  If you are looking for a student-orientated housing option, Global Education City (GEC) is a student residence located in Vancouver. They offer student hotels as well as serviced apartments. Global Education City (GEC) is a student residence located in Vancouver. Their mandate is to “offer access to, and provide, safe, secure and comfortable accommodations to foreign and domestic students, thereby helping to give them a positive, meaningful experience while they live and study in Vancouver, BC, Canada.”  Residence halls are open to students of any institution and have a variety of choices or room types.  Students are able to sign a contract for as little as 8 weeks for their whole degree.  Visit their website for more information.
• HOTELS:
  If you are looking for a place to live until you settle down in a long-term apartment, there are plenty of hotels near CityU. Most hotels offer a shuttle from the airport or taxi service. The YWCA Hotel Vancouver is safe and affordable option in Downtown Vancouver.
• AIRBNB:
  Airbnb has many short and long term options for students.  Visit their site to investigate your options.
• HOSTELS:
  If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to hotels, hostels would be a good compromise if you don’t mind sharing a room with other people.  Visit this website for more information.
• HOMESTAY:
  Another alternative is homestays.  You live with a family of your choice and meals are often provided.  This method of living offers the chance to live like a local and experience what life is really like in that place. For more information, visit Vancouver’s homestay website.
• If you want to rent your own pace in Vancouver, there are some useful resources where you can find options—like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Be aware of scams: Never send money before signing a rental agreement. To learn more about your rights and responsibilities, visit the BC Tenancy Branch (Residential Tenancy Branch of British Columbia).

• AIRBNB: 
  Airbnb has many short and long term options for students.  Visit their site to investigate your options.
• HOSTELS: 
  If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to hotels, hostels would be a good compromise if you don’t mind sharing a room with other people.  Visit this website for more information.
• HOMESTAY: 
  Another alternative is homestays.  You live with a family of your choice and meals are often provided.  This method of living offers the chance to live like a local and experience what life is really like in that place. For more information, please visit Canada Homestay Network, or Homestay Calgary for places focused on Calgary.

• Understand international tuition rates by program 
• Learn about payment deadlines, methods, and refund policies 
• Access fee schedules and financial policies 

• Understanding Canadian Banking: A Comprehensive Guide for Newcomers 
• Open a Canadian bank account as an international student 
• Learn about credit, debit, and managing money in a new country 
• Understand currency exchange and international transfers 

• Prepare your budget to study in Canada 
• Build a personalized student budget 
• Estimate monthly living expenses in Canada 
• Access tools and resources to manage your finances wisely 

• Your work eligibility as an international student 
• Working in Canada as an international student 
• Get tips on balancing work and academics 

The population of Canada is divided into three main categories: 

• Citizens 
• Permanent Residents (also known as landed immigrants) 
• Temporary Residents 

Temporary residents are legally in Canada for temporary needs, including foreign workers, tourists, and international students. 

In other words, students who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents are considered international students. This includes U.S. citizens without dual citizenship and anyone studying under a Study Permit, Work Permit, Temporary Visa, or any other type of visa. 

Enrollment Requirements for International Students: 

• Undergraduate students: Minimum of 15 credits (3 courses) per quarter. 
• Graduate students: Minimum of 9 credits per quarter. 

Consequences of Non-Compliance: 

• Loss of study permit status. 
• Ineligibility for work authorization (on-campus or post-graduation). 
• Possible requirement to leave Canada by immigration authorities. 
• Delays in academic progress and program completion. 

CityU offers an education that is accessible to working adults and transfer students.  

Our curriculum is: 

• Taught by practicing professionals 
• Results-oriented and hands-on 
• Informed by current industry demands 

Our learning model is designed to help professionals earn a degree that will lead to a better job, salary, title, or life after graduation. 

For details on Study Permits, Visa application processes, and related inquiries, visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. 

Tip:  Always check the Immigration Refugees Citizenship Canada (IRCC) page for Study Permits for the latest application requirements and timelines. 

• ☐ Bachelor’s degree (recognized equivalent)
• ☐ Minimum GPA of 2.75 (or equivalent)
• ☐ Program aligns with your academic and career goals

• ☐ Official transcripts (all post-secondary institutions)
• ☐ Certified English translations (if required)
• ☐ Resume or CV
• ☐ Statement of intent
• ☐ Letters of reference

• ☐ IELTS Academic / TOEFL / Duolingo test completed
• ☐ Official test scores ready for submission
• ☐ Confirm if you qualify for a waiver

• ☐ Complete online application form
• ☐ Upload all required documents
• ☐ Pay application fee (if applicable)

• ☐ Receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
• ☐ Review admission conditions (if any)
• ☐ Pay required tuition deposit

• ☐ Valid passport
• ☐ Letter of Acceptance
• ☐ Proof of financial support
• ☐ Immigration documents completed
• ☐ Biometrics appointment (if required)

• ☐ Arrange housing
• ☐ Purchase health insurance
• ☐ Book your travel
• ☐ Prepare required documents for entry to Canada

• ☐ Attend orientation
• ☐ Complete enrollment requirements
• ☐ Confirm class schedule
• ☐ Connect with student services

• ☐ Understand internship (practicum) requirements
• ☐ Confirm work authorization conditions
• ☐ Stay enrolled full-time

• ☐ Apply 6–9 months in advance
• ☐ Double-check all documents before submission
• ☐ Monitor your email regularly for updates
• ☐ Keep copies of all immigration documents