Pre-departure checklist for students

From Capilano College

Once you have received your admission to Capilano College, there are many things that you need to do to prepare yourself for a rewarding international experience:

1. Learn more about where you are going. It is very important to invest time into researching and reading about Canada and British Columbia. Learn about the culture, geography, economy, and political and legal systems. The more you learn about Vancouver, the more you will appreciate the experience and the faster you will adjust to your new surroundings. Everyone experiences a different degree of culture shock, but certainly the more you learn about the culture, the better prepared you will be for your new way of life. Talking to other people who have visited, lived and studied in Vancouver is one of the greatest sources of information, but remember, everyone has different experiences.

 

2. Make sure your passport is in order. You will need your passport to enter Canada, as well as for other things like banking. It sometimes takes quite a while to obtain a passport, so be sure to apply early. If you already have a passport, you may want to make sure that it does not expire while you are overseas. Have a plan to keep your passport in a safe place. We recommend that you make several photocopies.

 

3. Obtain a student visa. You will need a visa to live and study in Canada for any extended period of time. This process can take a long time, so apply as early as you can. To apply for a Study Permit, you must take the letter of admission and Immigration Form received from Capilano College to the nearest Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission. The Canadian representative will ask for proof of financial support and the completion of a medical examination. The application fee for a Study Permit is $125 CAD.

 

4. Book your flight. Investing time into booking a flight is worthwhile. Often, as a student, you can find low-cost flights, but they sell out early. If you begin your search early enough, you may learn of a special seat sale that could save hundreds of dollars.

 

5. Buy additional health insurance. Students must have medical insurance. There is a 90-day waiting period before you are eligible for the British Columbia Medical Services Plan, during which you must carry extra health insurance. You can purchase this at home or in Canada. If you plan to purchase it in Canada make sure that you have travel insurance for your trip and for your first few days in Vancouver. Contact the International Student Centre for information.

 

6. Make money arrangements. Once you are in Canada, you will want to open a bank account. Before you go, however, you should arrange to obtain some local currency or traveller's cheques to use during the first few days after your arrival. Currency can be changed at the airport.

 

7. Prepare an arrival plan. Before you leave, you will want to know that arrangements for your first few days or weeks in your new home have been made. Some host family programs offer airport pickup or provide detailed directions on how to get from the airport to your destination. If you do not yet have permanent accommodation organized, you may want to reserve a few nights at a local hotel or an International Youth Hostel. Capilano College recommends that you arrive in Vancouver 21 days prior to the start of classes to allow time to get settled, adjust to the climate and other changes, and generally adapt to living in a new culture before classes begin. You may arrange your own accommodation or participate in a host family program. The usual fee for placement is $250 CAD and the average monthly cost for a private room and meals is $800 CAD. Many host family programs are available. Contact the International Student Centre for further information.