International Students Support

Welcome to Western Community College, where diversity, inclusivity, and excellence in international education come together. We are committed to delivering quality education that supports your academic and career aspirations. Our vibrant international student community is supported by a wide range of resources, including admissions guidance, housing assistance, and personalized support services.

At Western Community College, we pride ourselves on creating a student-centered environment designed for success:

• Accreditation: Recognized with EQA certification and other prestigious accreditations.
• Tailored Education: Small class sizes for personalized learning experiences.
• Career-Oriented Programs: Programs designed with global industry needs in mind.
• Cultural Diversity: A welcoming, inclusive community of learners from around the world.
• Global Partnerships: Collaborations with leading organizations and industries.

Get started on your educational journey at Western Community College with our step-by-step guide tailored for international students. Learn about admission requirements, application procedures, tuition fees, and visa guidance to make your transition to WCC seamless and stress-free. 

Visit: International Student Admission Steps 

Orientation and Support 

Pre-Arrival Orientation

• Checklist: Visa, Health Insurance, and Housing
  Western Community College ensures students are fully prepared before arriving in Canada. We provide a comprehensive checklist covering essential tasks such as applying for a study permit through IRCC, enrolling in BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP) or obtaining private health insurance for initial coverage, and securing or off-campus housing. Our international student advisors offer personalized guidance to make this process seamless. 
• Virtual Campus Tours and Online Webinars
  WCC hosts interactive virtual campus tours to familiarize students with their future learning environment. Online webinars provide valuable information about academics, campus life, and cultural adaptation. These sessions also include live Q&A opportunities with faculty, staff, and current students, ensuring all concerns are addressed before departure. 

Post-Arrival Orientation

• Campus Tours and Social Networking Events
  Upon arrival, WCC organizes comprehensive campus tours to help students locate key facilities such as classrooms, libraries, and student lounges.  
• Community Resources for New Students
  New students are introduced to essential community resources, including local libraries, grocery stores, public transportation systems, and health clinics. Workshops are offered to help students navigate these services confidently and efficiently. 
• Introduction to Canadian Culture and Laws
  Orientation sessions introduce students to Canada’s unique culture, traditions, and societal norms. Topics include tenant rights, workplace expectations, public etiquette, and driving laws. These sessions are designed to ease the cultural transition and empower students to thrive both academically and socially. 

Learning Resources 

WCC ensures students have access to a wide array of resources to support their academic success. 

• Peer Tutoring and Study Groups: Students can join study groups or connect with peer tutors for assistance in challenging subjects. These resources foster collaboration and build confidence in mastering course materials. 

• Faculty Guidance: Professors and instructors maintain regular office hours to provide personalized help with coursework, assignments, and exam preparation. 

• Digital Learning Platforms and Libraries: Students gain access to extensive online databases, e-books, and digital tools that support research and learning. On-campus library facilities are equipped with study spaces, computers, and physical resources. 

• MyWCC Portal – The MyWCC Portal is an essential tool for every student, offering seamless access to a range of academic and administrative services. 

At Western Community College, our Student Services team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition for international students. We understand that finding suitable housing in a new country can be challenging, so we provide comprehensive support to help you secure a comfortable and safe place to live.

On-Campus Housing

Western Community College is currently building on-campus housing for 945 students in collaboration with Lark Group and ICT Group. Estimated to come 2028.

• Modern Dormitory Facilities: Students will enjoy fully furnished dormitories with amenities such as high-speed internet, laundry facilities, and common areas for studying and socializing.
• Affordable Payments: Flexible and transparent payment options will  be available to accommodate student budgets, ensuring financial ease during your stay on campus.
• Safety and Security: On-campus accommodations will be equipped with 24/7 security measures to ensure a safe living environment.

Off-Campus Housing

For students seeking housing off-campus, WCC offers comprehensive support to help secure a suitable living arrangement. WCC proudly assists local and international students with accommodation needs through Vanmates: Modern Co-Living spaces for students and young professionals (Vanmates Intake Form) ; and Sparrow: Affordable and secure room rentals across Canada.

Having trouble finding housing? 

• Our team provides one-on-one consultations to understand your housing needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re looking off-campus apartments, or homestay options, we guide you every step of the way. 

• We maintain a curated list of trusted landlords, rental agencies, and homestay providers. These options have been vetted for safety and suitability for students. 
  
• Our student services team helps you find housing through vetted agencies and providers. 

Cost Of Living in Canada

Planning your education in Canada involves more than tuition fees—it’s essential to consider the cost of living to budget effectively and ensure a smooth academic journey. Below, we provide an overview of typical living expenses for students in Canada and tips on managing your budget.

Budgeting Tips

• Use Cost Calculators: Tools like the IDP Cost of Living Calculator can help estimate expenses based on your city and lifestyle. ApplyBoard’s Cost of Living in Canada provides insights and tips for managing expenses effectively.
• Plan for Seasonal Costs: Winter clothing and heating bills may increase costs during colder months.
• Opt for Student Discounts: Many transit services, retailers, and entertainment venues offer discounts for students.

Tenancy Rights in British Columbia

As an international student in British Columbia, it is essential to understand your tenancy rights to ensure a safe and fair housing experience. The Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) in BC protects the rights of tenants and landlords, ensuring mutual respect and compliance. Here’s what you need to know: 

 Resources for International Students 

• Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): The RTB resolves disputes between tenants and landlords and provides guidance on tenancy rights. Visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website for more information. 
• Tenant Support Services: Local organizations, such as the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC), offer free legal advice and resources for tenants in BC. 

Employment and Career Development

Employment Services

WCC prepares students for successful careers with tailored career development resources. 

• • Resume and Interview Preparation: Personalized workshops help students create standout resumes and hone their interview skills. 

• • Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with industry professionals and alumni during career fairs and guest lectures. 

• • Job Placement Assistance: Advisors work closely with students to secure part-time or full-time employment opportunities that align with their career goals. 

Work During Studies

• • Off-Campus Work: Eligible students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks, as per Canadian work regulations. WCC conducts annual job fairs to ensure our students find work during with studies in Canada. Link To annual job fair photos 

• • Co-op and Internships: Some programs include hands-on co-op placements, allowing students to gain valuable work experience in their fields of study. 

Office hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM (Except on Holidays)

Scott Road:

#201, 8318 Scott Rd
Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

City Centre 3: