Study in Vancouver

Vancouver, a dynamic city nestled in western Canada, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, innovation, and a vibrant multicultural community. As a global leader in sustainability and technology, Vancouver provides an ideal environment for international students seeking a world-class education. With its diverse population and exceptional quality of life, Vancouver offers many of the attractive qualities of the Canadian education system. Against its scenic backdrops, you can look forward to a welcoming and enriching study abroad experience here. 

Vancouver boasts a range of world-class colleges, each offering a distinctive blend of academic excellence, research opportunities, and a supportive learning environment. Here are some institutions among the top Canadian universities in Vancouver: 

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. It’s renowned for its focus on environmental sustainability, ranking seventh in the world for taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. With innovative programmes in environmental studies and sustainability, technology and computer science, and business, UBC is a top choice for international students looking to study in Canada–especially for Indonesian students who have recently shown increased interest in environmental studies. 

As another leading institution, Simon Fraser University (SFU) is well-regarded for its commitment to drive research and innovation that positively impact its communities. Its programmes in the arts, social sciences, and communication offer a diverse range of opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop their skills. 

These universities provide a rich and diverse academic landscape for international students. Whether your passion lies in environmental conservation, technological innovation, or artistic expression, you'll find a programme in Vancouver that aligns with your aspirations. 

Experience a vibrant multicultural city 

Vancouver is a cosmopolitan city that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. With a rich cultural and linguistic makeup, Vancouver offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. From bustling Chinatown and vibrant Little Italy to the vibrant Punjabi Market and the historic Gastown district, Vancouver's diverse neighbourhoods offer a unique cultural experience. International students can explore different cuisines, attend cultural festivals, and connect with people from all walks of life, enriching their personal and academic journeys. Indonesian students are particularly drawn to Vancouver for tis strong community, where they can find support, stay connected to their culture, and enjoy a sense of belonging while studying abroad. 

Thriving tech and business hub 

Vancouver's strong growth in sectors like technology, film production, and sustainable energy forms part of Canada’s appeal to international students. The city’s dynamic business landscape provides ample opportunities for internships, research, and future employment. Furthermore, its reputation as a global tech hub attracts leading companies and startups, creating a vibrant ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship. Students can gain invaluable experience by working on cutting-edge projects and networking with industry professionals while studying there. 

Access to nature and outdoor activities 

Vancouver's stunning natural beauty is a major draw for students. Nestled between the majestic Coast Mountains and the Salish Sea, Vancouver offers a unique blend of urban living and outdoor adventure. From biking through lush rainforests to sailing on the Pacific Ocean, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures to enjoy. On your study breaks, you can even take a quick trip out of Vancouver to see other attractions Canada has to offer, such as the Niagara Falls and Banff National Park. 

While studying abroad can be a significant financial commitment, many colleges in Vancouver support international students in their academic pursuits through a range of scholarship opportunities. These scholarships recognise academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.  

For instance, UBC offers the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES), which provides substantial awards ranging from US$10,000 to US$20,000 per year to exceptional students starting their first year of undergraduate studies.   

Aside from college-specific options, the Canadian government also awards international students with scholarships that cover study and living expenses. For example, the Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) programme enables ASEAN students to conduct short-term study or research in Canadian post-secondary institutions. 

If you’re hoping to apply for scholarships in Vancouver, you should research the specific offerings for each college and field of study early. To maximise your chances, do submit a comprehensive application that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. By proactively seeking out scholarship opportunities, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying in Vancouver and focus on your academic goals. 

To study in Vancouver for more than six months, you’ll need to understand the Canadian student visa requirements and apply for the relevant permits. The application process begins with securing admission to a designated learning institution (DLI) in Vancouver and obtaining a letter of acceptance. You will then need to acquire a provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL).  

Following that, you’ll have to submit a complete application package to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), complete with your passport and proof of financial support. The application will cost CA$150.  

It's crucial to start the application process early, as processing times can vary. To ensure you have the best chance of success, remember to have all your documents ready and fulfil all the visa application requirements.

Connect with our expert counsellors to get guidance on how to apply for a student visa in Canada.

The cost of studying and living in Vancouver involves various expenses, but these can easily be managed through wise budgeting choices and strategy. Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect as an international student:  

• Tuition fees: These vary significantly by college and programme. Undergraduate degrees at public universities can range from CA$34,000 to CA$48,000 per year. Meanwhile, more expensive private institutions can cost CA$41,000 to CA$62,000 per year. 

• Student accommodation: On-campus housing can cost around CA$1,100 to CA$2,000 per month, while off-campus options like shared apartments or studios might range from CA$1,300 to CA$3,400 per month. 

• Living expenses: These include food, transportation, utilities, and personal expenses. On average, international students in Vancouver should budget around CA$1,300 to CA$2,000 per month for living expenses. 

• Healthcare: As an international student, health insurance is mandatory. You can expect to pay around CA$800 to CA$1,300 per year for a typical university health insurance plan. 

To manage your finances more effectively while studying in Vancouver, you can adopt several budgeting habits to control your spending. For example, using public transport options is a cost-effective way to get around. Exploring shared housing or living slightly farther from the city centre can also make accommodations more affordable, reducing your monthly expenses. Additionally, you can consider taking on a part-time job to supplement your living expenses.

Living alone abroad can take some getting used to, and it can be made much easier with external support. To that end, many colleges in Vancouver offer comprehensive medical and psychological support services for student well-being. 

International students have access to both public and private healthcare services, and most universities have on-campus health clinics for basic medical needs. These clinics often provide services like routine check-ups, vaccinations, and mental health counselling. 

Universities also offer a range of support services on campus to help students succeed academically and personally, including academic advising, tutoring, career counselling, and personal counselling. These services can greatly help you navigate the challenges of university life and achieve your full potential.

While you study in Vancouver, you might want to find part-time work opportunities there to supplement your cost of living and gain professional experience. International students on a valid study permit are generally allowed to work part-time in Canada for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions. Vancouver's thriving tourism and hospitality industry offers numerous employment opportunities for students, with positions available in restaurants, cafes, hotels, and retail stores. 

The city's growing tech sector also provides opportunities for students with relevant skills to find part-time work or internships in areas like software development, web design, and digital marketing. Before you start applying for jobs, however, do familiarise yourself with the terms of your study permit, such as whether you’re allowed to work off-campus. Do also note that you’ll need to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) before starting any type of employment in Canada.

You might also be considering establishing your post-study career in Vancouver. The city’s diverse economy offers a range of exciting careers for international graduates, with paths in software development, artificial intelligence, and game design. For students in creative fields, Vancouver is also a major centre for film production, with a growing demand for skilled professionals in visual effects, animation, and post-production. 

If these prospects sound exciting to you, you can explore post-study work options like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to stay in Canada temporarily to work. Check out your college’s career services, networking events, and industry partnerships to give you an edge in connecting with potential employers in Vancouver.

While Canada boasts many fantastic cities, Vancouver offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty that sets it apart. Unlike the bustling energy of Toronto or the historic charm of Montreal, Vancouver offers a more laid-back atmosphere with easy access to outdoor adventures. With its diverse communities, stunning landscapes, and rich lifestyle options, Vancouver promises an enriching and fulfilling study abroad experience.

If you’re applying to study in Vancouver, IDP can help you navigate the student visa requirements and even assist with preparing for IELTS, among many more.  

We know that embarking on a study abroad journey can be complex, which is why we aim to make the process more straightforward. From applying for scholarships in Montreal to finding student accommodation in Toronto, we provide comprehensive support to international students at every step of the way. 

Our expert counsellors will give you personalised guidance as you apply to study in Vancouver. Submit your details through our platform to connect with an IDP counsellor and begin your journey today!