Living in Vancouver

Situated between the ocean and mountains, Vancouver (Metro Vancouver) has stunning views, parks, and diverse culture. Students can explore the largest city in the province of British Columbia where outdoor fun meets modern life. PLC does not have on-campus student residences, however, there are many great accommodation, homestays and rental options in  Vancouver.

Homestay

Homestay program allows foreign students to live with a Canadian family and experience life as a family member. We encourage students to choose this option so as to get familiar with Canada much quicker and build friendships or connections and practice English outside the classroom. if this is your ideal option, below are some homestay agencies that can help you find a host family. Depending on your requirements and interests, EnjoyCanada, and Casa Accommodations will help to place you with a homestay family. Homestay families are all carefully screened and selected to ensure the best possible experience.

School Accomodations

Although PLC does not have student housing many companies in Vancouver provide off-campus student accommodations. If you want to experience living in a community with other students, meet students from different schools, and broaden your network in Canada beyond your KPU ties, this is a perfect choice for you. Some well-liked lodging options for students are mentioned below:

  • Casa Toronto/Vancouver: Casa provides accommodation services for international students in Toronto and Vancouver. Casa Student Housing provides three unique, excellent, and reasonably priced options for students – homestay, shared accommodation and suites.

Other Places to Find Accommodations

There are many other places students can go and find housing, apartments and furnished and unfurnished rentals. Students are advised to carefully consider these places and the information provided at their own risk. PLC does not take responsibility for off-campus rental accommodation.

  • Facebook Marketplace: We have been using Facebook mostly for staying connected with families, but Facebook Marketplace is one of the best places students can go to when they are looking for accommodation. In the marketplace, you can search for anything and hopefully have a seller on the other end. Go to the marketplace and search for keywords e.g rooms for rent – and make sure you change the location to your current location e.g surrey or burnaby.
  • Vanmates
  • Craigslist
  • GEC Residence 
  • Kijiji

Accessing Transport in Metro Vancouver

Movement in Metro Vancouver is made effective through Translink, the public transportation system, that overseas – bus, SkyTrain and SeaBus. Students can purchase Compass Card or Bus tickets (accessible when boarding the bus) to move effectively throughout the day. Monthly Passes, Stored Value, Cash Fares and Contactless Payment Fares are the available method of payment.

Safety in Vancouver

Vancouver Police Department makes sure everyone in Vancouver is safe and there is a peaceful environment. Crime is a global problem, and there might be some occasional pick-pocketing, thefts, and small crimes in Vancouver.

Other Resources

working as an international student

Working in Canada

Learn what you need to start working in Canada after you have arrived.

New Student Orientation

Our orientation process is tailored to ease your transition, introducing you to campus, services, and resources.

Medical insurance

Medical Insurance

Students are required to have medical insurance while in Canada as it can reduce hospital bills.