Cost of living

Vancouver offers an exceptional educational opportunity for international students, but to fully benefit from your experience, you must plan a realistic budget early on. The cost of living can vary depending on your location and lifestyle, and carefully managing these expenses is essential since studying abroad is a significant and meaningful investment.

Budget accordingly

The proof of financial support required by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for a study permit application is $22,895 for one student. International students need to budget accordingly when planning to study in Canada and ensure they have sufficient funds to cover the cost of living, in addition to tuition and school fees.

As of 2025, housing can range between $1,000 and $3,000 per month depending on the type of accommodations, while meals can range between $500 and $1,000 per month depending on the choices of food, dietary preferences and restrictions, and method of cooking or dining. Utilities can range between $50 and $150 per month, depending on how much is included in the rent, and transportation can range between $50 and $200 per month, depending on the modes of transportation. Generally speaking, it is safer to budget a minimum of $2,000 to $2,500 per month. The cost may be higher if you are coming with family members. 

Here are some online resources that may be helpful budget planning tools:

• Budget Planner from the Government of Canada
• Numbeo cost of living estimate
• Livingcost.org

Living in Vancouver

Vancouver is the third-largest city in Canada and the largest city in the province of British Columbia. Its beautiful location, close to the ocean and mountains, attracts residents and visitors from all over the world.

Here are some resources to help with transitioning to life in British Columbia and Vancouver:

• The B.C. Newcomers’ Guide: The guide contains information and videos in a variety of languages. Topics covered include The First Few Days, Transportation, Finding a Place to Live, Money and Banking, Health Care, and more.
• Moving to Vancouver: The city of Vancouver offers a guide with downloadable resources and Areas of the City sections. Use the navigation map on the Areas page to link to community-specific information including services, news, and events. 

Renting in Vancouver

While VCC does not offer on-campus housing or a dormitory, there are many housing options, such as GEC Student Housing, SpacesShared, Homestays, and rentals. If you decide to rent a place, here are some reminders to get you started.

• Begin your search early and well before your move to secure the best options and avoid last-minute stress.
• Research neighbourhoods based on proximity to VCC, safety, public transport, and amenities. In addition to Vancouver, you may also find options close to SkyTrain stations in other Metro Vancouver cities like Burnaby, Richmond, New Westminster or Surrey.
• Check out social media groups or student forums specific to international students in Vancouver for housing leads and advice.
• Check out resources from Government websites, such as renting an apartment or house from the Government of Canada website

Tenant rights

It is important that you know your rights as a tenant in British Columbia. 

• A tenancy agreement is a contract between a landlord and a tenant and outlines important details such as rental duration, rent amount, and landlord/tenant responsibilities. Both landlords and tenants must sign and date the agreement. Ensure you review the terms and conditions carefully before signing the agreement and keep a signed copy for your records.
• One security deposit and one pet damage deposit (if applicable) can be requested for each unit by the landlord. Neither deposit can be more than half of one month’s rent. Always document the condition of the property when you move in.
• Landlords must provide written notice at least three months in advance for rent increases and can only raise rent once per year within government-set limits.
• It is the landlord’s responsibility to maintain the property in a safe and habitable condition.

If you require additional support, contact the Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB).

Beware of scams

Here are some common scams and tips, and resources on how to protect yourself, and what to do if you are scammed.

• Common scams
  • Fake Listings: attractive listings with low prices
  • Upfront Payment Requests: requests for deposits or rent before viewing the property in person
  • “Unavailable Landlord” Stories: claims of being out of the country and needing payment in advance
  • Identity Theft: requests for personal information, such as your SIN or bank details, before signing a contract
• Protect Yourself
  • Always view the property in person or through a verified virtual tour.
  • Never transfer money without a signed rental agreement after verifying the landlord’s identity
  • Research the landlord’s contact information and the property’s address.
  • Avoid overly good-to-be-true deals as they often are scams.
• What to Do If You’re Scammed
  • If you have been a victim of fraud, please report it to your local police.
  • In Vancouver, call 604-717-3321. If you do not have a suspect, and the amount is less than $25,000, you can make an online report.
  • If you have experienced an attempted fraud, please report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
  • Check out more resources from the Government of Canada and the Province of BC.

Accommodation options

It is exciting to live in Vancouver, which is constantly ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world, but finding the right rental accommodation may not be easy if you are new to the city. While there are numerous options available for students, such as furnished and unfurnished rentals in houses, basement suites, condominiums and apartments, it’s important to be aware of fraud and know your rights as a tenant. Check Renting in Vancouver for additional resources.