International Student Support
Welcome to Excel Career College
At Excel Career College, we are dedicated to providing international students with a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Our focus on academic excellence ensures you gain the skills and guidance needed to succeed in both your studies and your future career. From step-by-step admissions support and housing assistance to personalized student services, we make your transition to studying and living in Canada smooth, stress-free, and rewarding.
Why Choose Excel?
Academic Support & Guidance
We help students build confidence and stay on track throughout their studies. Our international support team provides personalized assistance to help students achieve their academic and career goals.
Our advisors guide students in choosing programs that match their career goals and provide support through every stage of the enrollment process. From application to the first day of classes, we ensure a smooth and stress-free transition.
Adjusting to a new education system can be challenging. Our advisors provide one-on-one guidance to help international students understand academic expectations, adapt to different learning styles, and adjust to classroom culture in Canada. We offer the resources and support needed to create a successful learning experience.
Please note: Programs at Excel Career College are not eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) as outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Completion of any program does not grant PGWP eligibility.
Learning Support
At Excel, we offer a wide range of academic resources to help students succeed. From one-on-one guidance to digital learning tools, our support services are designed to make the student journey easier and more effective.
Our instructors are committed to student success and provide individual help during scheduled office hours. Whether it’s assignments, test preparation, or understanding course material, students can count on personalized guidance that strengthens their learning.
Students can access digital resources, e-books, and study materials to support their coursework. These tools act as valuable references, helping them stay organized, improve comprehension, and stay on track with their studies.
The student portal serves as a central hub for course materials, grades, schedules, and academic updates. It keeps students connected to important information and makes it simple to stay organized throughout their studies.
Finding Housing in Canada
Finding safe and affordable housing is an important part of starting your life as an international student in Canada. When looking for accommodation, it is important to explore different options, understand rental agreements, and choose housing that matches your budget and lifestyle.
International students in Canada have several housing options to choose from. Here are the most common choices:
✔ Rental Apartments – A good option for students who want independent living. Rental costs vary based on location, size, and amenities. Always review lease terms before signing an agreement.
✔ Homestays – Living with a host family provides a welcoming home environment, cultural exchange, and home-cooked meals. This option is well-suited for students who prefer extra support.
✔ Shared Housing — Many students share an apartment or house with roommates to lower living costs. This is often both affordable and a way to build social connections while studying.
Finding a safe and comfortable place to live is an important part of your student journey in Canada. Keep these tips in mind to make the process easier:
✔ Start Your Search Early – Look for housing well before the busy rental season. This gives you more options and a better chance of finding a place that fits your needs.
✔ Plan Your Budget – Factor in not only rent but also utilities, internet, and transportation costs. This helps you avoid surprises and manage your expenses.
✔ Review Lease Terms Carefully –Take time to read all parts of the agreement before signing. Pay attention to deposits, rental length, cancellation rules, and subletting policies.
✔ Watch Out for Scams – Visit the property in person or through a verified virtual tour before paying anything. Avoid listings that look suspicious or landlords who refuse to provide written agreements.
✔ Consider Location and Convenience – Choose housing close to public transportation, grocery stores, and other services you’ll need regularly.
✔ Check Online Rental Platforms – Websites like Rentals.ca, Facebook Marketplace, and Kijiji can be great places to find available rentals.
For more details on housing safety and coverage, visit our Housing Page to learn about renters’ insurance in Canada.
Living Expenses in Canada
When planning your studies in Canada, it’s important to account for daily living costs in addition to tuition fees. Knowing what to expect with regular expenses helps you create a realistic budget and manage your money throughout your time as a student.
✔ Use Budgeting Tools – Online calculators, such as the IDP Cost of Living Calculator, can help you estimate monthly expenses based on your city, lifestyle, and study program.
✔ Plan for Seasonal Costs – Winter clothing, heating bills, and other seasonal needs can increase your expenses during colder months. Be sure to include these items in your budget.
✔ Make the Most of Student Discounts – Many stores, public transit providers, and entertainment venues offer student pricing. Using these discounts regularly can lower your daily costs.
Tenancy Rights in British Columbia
If you plan to rent while studying in British Columbia, it’s important to know the rules that protect you as a tenant. Under the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA), both students and landlords must follow clear rental guidelines. These laws are designed to create fair agreements, prevent disputes, and help renters feel secure in their housing.
✔ Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – This provincial office is the primary source for information on rental law. It provides details on tenant and landlord responsibilities, explains dispute resolution procedures, and offers practical guidance. Visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website for more details.
✔ Tenant Support Services– TRAC is a non-profit group that supports renters by offering free legal advice, plain-language guides, and educational workshops. Their resources can help you understand rental contracts and your legal protections. Learn more at TRAC’s website.
By learning about your rights and using these resources, you can approach renting in BC with confidence and avoid common challenges that students may face in the rental market.
Health and Wellness for International Students
If you are studying in British Columbia for more than six months, you are required to register for the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP). MSP gives you access to essential healthcare, including doctor visits, hospital care, and emergency services. You can find details and apply through the official MSP Website.
Because MSP has a three-month waiting period, international students should also arrange private health insurance to cover medical expenses during this time. At Excel Career College, we work with StudyInsured, a trusted provider that offers affordable and comprehensive insurance plans for students. Learn more on our Medical Insurance Page.
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Students in BC have access to several free and confidential support services:
Here2Talk – A 24/7 support service for students, offering free counseling through phone, online chat, or mobile app. Visit Here2Talk.
BC Mental Health Support Line – Provides mental health information and crisis support. Call 310-6789 (no area code required) for help anywhere in BC.
Crisis Centre BC – Trained crisis responders are available 24/7 by phone at 1-800-784-2433 or online via Crisis Centre BC.
Community Clinics & Health Centres – Many local clinics offer counseling and therapy services. Ask a doctor for referrals or check local listings for nearby options.
By making use of these resources, international students can access the healthcare and support needed to maintain both physical and mental well-being while studying in Canada.
Career Development
Our Student Services team helps international students understand employment options in Canada. We provide guidance on work eligibility and general workplace expectations, enabling you to make informed choices when planning your career path.
Complaints and Conflict Resolution
At Excel Career College, we are dedicated to creating a respectful and supportive learning environment. If a student experiences an issue or has a concern, our Student Services team is available to listen, provide guidance, and ensure matters are handled properly.
How to Submit a Complaint
Students may file a complaint by contacting the Student Services team directly at studentsupport@excelcareercollege.com. Every submission is carefully reviewed, and our staff works with the student to reach a fair outcome.
Dispute Resolution Policy
Our Dispute Resolution Policy ensures that all student concerns are addressed fairly and impartially. This structured process is designed to resolve issues clearly and effectively. You can review the complete policy here: ECC Dispute Resolution Policy.
Getting to Excel Career College
The Surrey campus is located just minutes from King George SkyTrain Station, making it easy to reach by public transit from anywhere in Metro Vancouver. Students can also access the campus by bus, taxi, or ride-sharing services.
The Victoria campus is in the heart of downtown, making it accessible by BC Transit buses that connect across the city and surrounding areas. Walking and cycling are also popular options for students living nearby.
The Kelowna campus is conveniently located near downtown. Students can reach the area by BC Transit bus, bike route, or local taxi service. The campus is also a short drive from Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which connects the city with major destinations in Canada.
Helpful Resources for International Students
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Find essential information about study permits, visas, and work permits to comply with Canadian immigration regulations.
Visit IRCC Website
BC Medical Services Plan (MSP)
Learn about health insurance coverage for residents of British Columbia, including how to enroll as an international student.
Visit MSP Website
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)
Get access to free legal advice and resources to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in British Columbia.
Visit TRAC Website
Canada Job Bank
Explore job listings, career resources, and employment opportunities designed for students and new graduates across Canada.
Visit Job Bank Website
National Occupation Classification (NOC)
Find detailed information on job categories, skill requirements, and employment trends across various industries in Canada.
Visit NOC Website
WorkBC
Explore job opportunities, career planning tools, and skill development programs to help you succeed in British Columbia’s job market. Visit WorkBC Website
Contact Us
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–5 PM (Except on Stat Holidays)
Surrey Campus
130-9850 King George Blvd
Surrey, BC V3T 0P9
Victoria Campus
225-1207 Douglas Street
Victoria, BC V8W 2E7
Kelowna Campus
103-565 Bernard Avenue
Kelowna, BC V1Y 8R4
Phone: +1 (778) 802-9235
Email: studentsupport@excelcareercollege.com