International Student Support
Welcome to Excel Career College
At Excel Career College, we take pride in fostering a diverse, inclusive, and enriching learning environment for international student. Our commitment to excellence in education ensures you receive the support needed to achieve your academic and career goals. From admissions guidance and housing assistance to personalized student services, we are here to help you transition smoothly into life in Canada and make the most of your educational journey.
Why Choose Excel?
What our students say
Academic Support & Guidance
We are committed to helping students navigate their academic journey with confidence. Our international team provides personalized assistance to ensure international students stay on track and achieve their educational goals.
Our advisors work with students to select programs that align with their career aspirations and provide guidance throughout the entire enrollment process, ensuring a smooth transition from application to starting classes.
Transitioning to a new education system comes with unique challenges, but we’re here to make the process easier. Our advisors offer personalized support to help international students adapt to academic expectations, learning styles, and classroom culture in Canada. We provide the guidance and resources to ensure a successful academic experience.
Learning Support
At Excel, we provide various academic resources to help students succeed in their studies. From collaborative learning opportunities to digital tools, our support services are designed to enhance the student experience.
Our faculty members are dedicated to student success and offer one-on-one assistance during designated office hours. Whether students need help with assignments, exam preparation, or course concepts, instructors provide personalized guidance to enhance learning.
Students have access to digital study materials, e-books, and academic resources to support their coursework. These tools provide valuable reference materials, helping students stay on track with their studies and enhance their learning experience.
Our student portal serves as a one-stop platform for course materials, schedules, grades, and important academic information, making it easy for students to stay organized and up to date.
Finding Housing in Canada
Securing a comfortable and affordable place to live is an essential part of your transition as an international student. While searching for housing, it is important to explore different options, understand rental agreements, and choose accommodations that fit your lifestyle and budget.
There are several types of housing available for students in Canada. Consider the following options when searching for accommodation:
✔ Rental Apartments – Ideal for students who prefer independent living. Rentals can vary in price based on location, size, and amenities. Be sure to check lease terms before signing any agreement.
✔ Homestays – An excellent option for students looking for a family-like environment. Living with a local host family provides cultural immersion, home-cooked meals, and a supportive atmosphere.
✔ Shared Housing—Many students rent a shared apartment or house with roommates to reduce costs. This can be an affordable and social way to live while studying.
When searching for housing, keep the following tips in mind to ensure a safe and convenient living arrangement:
✔ Start Early – Begin your search well in advance to secure the best options before peak rental periods.
✔ Set a Budget – Consider rent and additional costs like utilities, internet, and transportation.
✔ Understand Your Lease Agreement – Carefully read and understand rental terms before signing. Be aware of deposit requirements, lease duration, and policies on cancellations or subletting.
✔ Beware of Rental Scams – Always visit the property (virtually or in person) before making any payments. Avoid listings that seem too good or landlords who refuse to provide official lease agreements.
✔ Check Location & Accessibility – Choose a place with easy access to public transportation, grocery stores, and other essential services.
✔ Explore Online Listings – Websites like Rentals.ca, Facebook Marketplace, and Kijiji can be great places to find available rentals.
Living Expenses in Canada
When planning your studies in Canada, it’s essential to factor in daily living costs alongside tuition fees. Understanding everyday expenses can help you create a realistic budget and manage your finances effectively throughout your academic journey.
✔ Use Budgeting Tools – Online calculators, such as the IDP Cost of Living Calculator, can help estimate monthly expenses based on your city and lifestyle
✔ Prepare for Seasonal Expenses – Winter essentials like warm clothing and heating costs can add to your budget, especially during colder months.
✔ Take Advantage of Student Discounts – Many transportation services, shops, and entertainment venues offer student discounts, helping you save on daily expenses.
Tenancy Rights in British Columbia
Renting as an international student comes with important responsibilities and protections. In British Columbia, the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) safeguards the rights of tenants and landlords, ensuring fair treatment and clear rental agreements. Understanding these regulations will help you make informed housing decisions.
✔ Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) – The RTB provides legal information, dispute resolution services, and guidance on rental laws in BC. Visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website for more details.
✔ Tenant Assistance Programs – Organizations like the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) offer free legal advice and educational materials to help renters understand their rights and responsibilities. Learn more at TRAC’s website.
Knowing your rights as a tenant ensures a safe and secure rental experience while you study in Canada.
Health and Wellness for International Students
✔ BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP) – International students studying in British Columbia for more than six months are required to enroll in MSP, which provides access to essential healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. You can learn more about it and apply on the official MSP website.
✔ Private Health Insurance – Since MSP enrollment has a three-month waiting period, students should obtain private health insurance to cover medical needs during this time. At Excel Career College, we have partnered with StudyInsured, a trusted international student health insurance provider, to offer affordable and comprehensive coverage. To learn more visit our Medical Insurance Page.
Here2Talk – A free, 24/7 mental health support service for students in British Columbia, offering confidential counseling via phone, online chat, or mobile app. Visit Here2Talk.
BC Mental Health Support Line – Provides crisis support and mental health information. Call 310-6789 (no area code needed) for free support anywhere in BC.
Crisis Centre BC – If you’re in distress, trained crisis responders are available 24/7. Call 1-800-784-2433 or visit Crisis Centre BC for online chat support.
Local Walk-In Clinics & Community Health Centers – Many clinics offer mental health services, including counseling and therapy. Check local listings or ask a doctor for referrals.
Career Development
Our Student Services team is here to support international students as they navigate employment opportunities in Canada. Whether you have questions about work eligibility, job search strategies, or workplace expectations, we provide guidance to help you make informed decisions while studying and preparing for your future career.
Complaints and Conflict Resolution
At Excel Career College, we are committed to maintaining a fair, transparent, and respectful learning environment. If students have concerns or issues, our Student Services team is available to provide guidance and ensure that all matters are addressed appropriately.
Complaint Submission Process – Students can submit complaints directly to the Student Services Team by emailing studentsupport@excelcareercollege.com. Our team will review each concern carefully and work toward an appropriate resolution.
Dispute Resolution Policy – Our Dispute Resolution Policy ensures that all student concerns are handled fairly, impartially, and efficiently within a structured framework. View the full policy here: ECC Dispute Resolution Policy.
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 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
Courtenay Campus
201-841 Cliffe Avenue
Courtenay, BC V9N 2J8
Phone: +1 (778) 802-9235
Email: studentsupport@excelcareercollege.com