Helpful Information for 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. They offer student hotels as well as serviced apartments.

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.  Several locations which are accessible by transit.  Students are able to sign a contract for as little as 8 weeks up or plan to stay 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.