Decision Process

You have decided that the best way to learn English is to study in another country. You are probably right! But be careful. The decision to study in another country is a big one. Take your time. Consider some options. Be thorough. Some important questions are:

What is the quality of education in the places where I have considered studying?

Education systems vary widely. You need to ask many questions before you choose. Canada, in general, and BC in particular, have excellent reputations for providing top quality experiences for international students in both education and living. Canada is a country which welcomes international students and Canadian English is easily understood. BC is a place which offers students the chance to study in highly regarded schools and to participate in a wide variety of cultural and recreational activities. Learn more. You have spent time researching and talking to your friends and family. You have decided to study in Canada and you have chosen BC first. But you and your family still have questions! You want to make sure you have made the right choice. You need some more answers.
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What about the climate? Recreational opportunities? The culture? Safety issues?

BC has a great diversity of climate, depending on the region where you choose to study. In all regions, there is a tremendous diversity of recreational activities offered-everything from horseback riding to canoeing. For more information about what each region offers, visit the BC Region Map page. BC culture is also diverse. Many people from all over the world make their home here in this beautiful province. Canadians in general, and British Columbians in particular, welcome people from all cultures and backgrounds.
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How much will it cost? What is the cost of tuition, homestay, application fees, health insurance, and placement fees?

Each public district in BC sets its own fees. Generally speaking, you can expect to spend between $19,000-$23,000 total (not including personal spending money) for a year of study in BC Public Schools.
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What is the exchange rate and the cost of living in countries where I might study?

The exchange rate for currencies varies from day to day. Check your bank or travel agent for current information. Generally speaking, you will find that studying in BC is less expensive than studying in the US or the UK. You will also find that studying in a Public School is less costly than studying in an independent, or private school.
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What about the cost of travel between your country and the place where you will study?

To find out the most up-to-date- information about travel costs, consult your local travel agents. BC is well served by major airlines. Most countries in Asia and Europe have direct flights to Vancouver.
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Which region and school district should I select?

That depends on you. Do you want to live in a large city? Do you prefer to live in a smaller community? Both have advantages. Contact programs in smaller and larger centers and find out what works for you. For how long do you wish to study in BC? How many schools are in the district? How many international students and from which countries? What is the number of ESL students in the district? Again, you need to contact a particular school district for answers to these questions. The answers will help you to narrow your choices of which program to select. BC has a huge diversity of geography and climate. Do you prefer the ocean? Do you enjoy the mountains? Do you enjoy skiing? Do you enjoy shopping? For more information about what each region and school district offers, visit the BC Region Map page.
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How can I be sure my school will be a good fit for me?

Every public school in BC must meet rigorous standards and must be formally ‘accredited’ by the Ministry of Education. All BC public schools require teachers to be certified. The BC curriculum is approved by the government and is taught in a similar manner everywhere in BC. High academic achievement is an important goal in all BC schools. However, there are also differences. Some schools offer exceptional sports programs. Some offer a huge variety of visual and performing arts programs. Others offer outdoor recreational programs. Some schools offer semesters (2 per year); others offer linear 10 month timetables. Some schools are large and may enroll up to 2,000 students. Others are smaller and may enroll as few as 200 students. International staff in each district work hard to match students’ interests and backgrounds with the school they will attend. You can be assured that you will be matched with a school that meets your needs. The key here is making sure your application is complete and that it clearly indicates your goals and interests. In this way, you can be sure to have a great time and to be matched with an excellent school and a caring and supportive homestay.
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How will I be supported in my school?

Each International Program has a structure in place to support students. Students are provided a thorough orientation when they arrive. Topics include course selection; information about Canadian culture, health and safety; and discussion about host families. Each school has staff who advise international students and help them adjust to their new surroundings and who deals with any problems that arise during the school year. Counselors also deal with academic issues.
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Where will I stay when I study in Canada?

BC international programs have well defined homestay programs that provide students with places to live while they study here. Normally, you will complete a form which asks you to describe various aspects of your life; for example, your hobbies, your food likes and dislikes etc. Your profile is then matched to suitable families. The IPSEA schools of BC offer homestay to international students because they believe that homestay is the best way to maximize your use of English. When you live with a host family you learn not just to adjust to the structure of the language as it is taught at school (textbook English) but you can also learn the way that English is actually used and spoken by each member of your host family. Living with a host family and conversing with them will prepare you for English at its normal speed and with all its variations as it is used in everyday life. It is the perfect complement to your ESL classes at school. Detailed information about homestay programs can be found on the various school district’s websites. See the BC Region Map for links to them.
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What if I become ill or have a medical emergency?

It is compulsory in BC that international students studying in BC for more than five months are enrolled in the BC Medical Services Plan. Students are registered upon their arrival and become members of the plan after a three month waiting period. During the first three months, private medical insurance is provided for international students. All international programs have a structure in place for dealing with medical emergencies. Medical issues are always discussed at orientation.
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Can I develop my skill in a specific area such as sports, art or music?

One of the exciting things about BC schools is that students have the chance to explore (and to get credit for) all sorts of interests. Schools encourage students to join athletic, art, music and theatre programs. As an international student, you will find that joining a team or participating in drama is one of the best ways to meet Canadian students and to improve your English. Visit district websites or contact international programs to find out what you can do to enrich your life in a BC school. Get involved! You’ll have a wonderful time.
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What about playing on a school sports team?

BC schools offer a huge number of ‘varsity’ sports including golf, tennis, wrestling, basketball, swimming, track, baseball, football, rugby, badminton, volleyball and curling. International students are welcome to try out for teams and to compete. Participating on a school teams will be one of those special things you remember about your time in Canada. I have a special talent and interest in basketball or dance or drama or soccer or golf. What can I do? Many BC schools offer special ‘academies’ that provide specialized coaching and expertise in sports, dance or other areas. Students attend school and, at the same time, receive intensive instruction in their area of talent. BC school credits are given for these areas of intensive study. For information about these special ‘academies’ that each school district offers, visit the BC Region Map page.
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Do I need a visa or study permit?

All students who plan to study in a BC Public School for six months or longer are required to apply for a Study Permit from Citizenship and Immigration Canada before arriving in the country. See Study Permit.