Studying and Living in British Columbia

Studying abroad can be challenging, especially at the beginning of your journey. Below is essential information to help you prepare for a successful study experience in Canada.

Living Cost

To estimate your living expenses while studying, you can refer to the external link below. Please note that this website is maintained by third parties, and we are not affiliated with the provider or responsible for the accuracy of the information:

• The Complete Cost of Living in Vancouver for Students | 2025 | VanMates

Housing Options

We do not provide on-campus housing. Many students arrange accommodation independently through student housing platforms such as:

• GEC Living
• Vancouver Homestays

Please note that we are not affiliated with these providers. Contact them directly for information on availability and pricing.

Tenant Rights

Before signing a tenancy agreement, make sure you understand your rights as a tenant:

• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre

Health Insurance

International students enrolled in programs lasting 15 weeks or more must provide proof of sufficient health insurance coverage for their entire stay.

Under the Medicare Protection Act, enrollment in the Medical Services Plan (MSP) is mandatory for all eligible residents and their dependents. International students in British Columbia with a study permit valid for six months or longer are considered residents and must register for MSP.

• Health fee for international students | Government of British Columbia
• Apply for MSP | Government of British Columbia

Workplace Rights

If you plan to work part-time while studying, it is important to know your workplace rights to protect yourself:

• Workplace Rights | WorkBC
• Work off campus as an international student | Government of Canada

Financial Assistance

International students seeking financial assistance are strongly encouraged to explore scholarships and bursaries available in their home country.

Students must pay tuition and additional fees before receiving their Letter of Acceptance. The Government of Canada also requires proof of financial support when applying for a study permit.

CCST offers a Co-op Bursary Plan. For details, please refer to our Financial Aid page:

• Financial Aids | Canadian College of Shiatsu Therapy
• Proof of financial support | Government of Canada

Mental Health, Addiction & Well-Being Resources in BC

If you ever feel overwhelmed, need someone to talk to, or require help with substance use, health concerns, or personal safety, the following free and confidential resources are available in British Columbia, many of them 24/7.

24/7 Mental Health Support
• Here2Talk – Free, confidential counselling and referral service for all BC post-secondary students (phone, app, chat).

Website: www.here2talk.ca
Phone (Canada): 1-877-857-3397
Phone (Outside Canada): +1-604-642-5212 (international charges may apply)

Addiction & Substance Use Support
• BC Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service – 24/7 confidential information and referrals for anyone in BC.

Phone (Lower Mainland): 604-660-9382
Phone (Toll-free in BC): 1-800-663-1441

Overdose Prevention & Naloxone
• Toward the Heart (BC Centre for Disease Control) – Information on naloxone, overdose prevention sites, and how to respond to an overdose.

Website: www.towardtheheart.com

General Health & Wellness
• HealthLink BC (8-1-1) – Free provincial health information and advice line. Nurses available 24/7; dietitians, pharmacists, and mental health professionals available at set times.

Website: www.healthlinkbc.ca
Phone: 8-1-1 (toll-free in BC)

Crisis Support
• 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline – Call or text 988 for immediate crisis support in Canada (24/7, free, confidential).

Website: 988.ca