Important Information for International Applicants

Study Permits

If all documents are in order, Okanagan College will issue an admission letter that will allow the applicant to apply for a study permit through the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate.

International students are advised to check with their nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate to determine other document requirements and the length of time required to obtain a study permit.

Programs less than six months duration do not require a study permit. It is advisable for students to obtain a study permit if they wish to study for more than one semester as it is not possible to obtain a study permit from within Canada.

Medical Insurance

Okanagan College administers a medical insurance plan that offers students comprehensive coverage at a reasonable rate ($2 CAD per day.) It is mandatory that International students register with this plan and Okanagan College automatically enrols them as part of the registration process. After three months, students are eligible for the British Columbia Medical Plan at a rate of $64.00 per month. All rates are subject to change.

Extended Health and Dental Plan

International students registered in three or more courses in a degree, diploma or certificate program, or 18 hours per week in a vocational program longer than 40 weeks, are automatically enrolled in the Okanagan College Student Union's Health and Dental Plan. Visit www.oscu.com (Kelowna, Salmon Arm, Penticton) or www.kcsa.bc.ca (Vernon) for more information.

Accommodation

Homestay: Okanagan College staff will find families in the community who can provide accommodation for students. The cost, including room and meals, is $750 per month. For more information on Homestay, go to: http://www.okanagan.bc.ca/departments/International_Education/Accommodation/Homestay.html or contact:

Mame McCrea Silva, Program Coordinator, Homestay
1000 KLO Road
Kelowna, BC V1Y 4X8
250-762-5445 Ext. 4670
msilva@okanagan.bc.ca

Off-Campus: From September to April, nearby motels rent their units to students. Selection varies from bed-sitting rooms to small apartments, with rates ranging from $900 to $1,300 per month. A selection of apartment accommodation is also available in the community, but students must pursue this on their own.

Dormitory: Dormitory accommodation with single, twin and pod rooms are available with costs between $1,900 and $2,400 per semester (16 weeks). Students must apply directly to the Student Residence office for dormitory accommodation.

For more information check the website at www.okanagan.bc.ca/housing or contact:

Student Housing, Okanagan College
#100-860 KLO Road
Kelowna, BC V1Y 9K9
Telephone: (250) 862-5422
Toll free: 1-800-608-3124
Fax: (250) 862-5423