Skip to main content - Skip to contact information

Other Expenses

Homestay

If you request a homestay, you must complete a Student Profile/Homestay application form found at the following link, before a homestay placement will be made. Homestay / Peerstay program

Medical Insurance

The British Columbia Government requires all international students to have medical insurance while studying in British Columbia. Upon arrival, all new students of Vancouver Island University receive medical insurance for emergencies through Island Savings Insurance Services (ISIS), a private company. Students will not be able to participate in any institutional activities if they do not have current medical insurance. For additional information, visit the medical insurance page.

Living expenses

You can anticipate the following living expenses while studying at Vancouver Island University.

Note: International students who do not have sufficient funds to complete their studies must return to their home country.

These expenses are for living only and do not include entertainment, clothing or other personal costs.

Sample living expenses

English Language program
per Semester
(4 months)*

Degree programs
per Semester
(4 months)*

MBA/MScIB
14 month program*

Student ancillary fees

257

319

1,116.5

Books

300

800

2,000

Medical insurance

214

224

829

Housing & food (homestay $700/month)

2,800

2,800

9,800

Transportation (bus pass) 176 176 700

TOTAL

$3,733 (Cdn)

$4,255 (Cdn)

$14,456.5 (Cdn)

 
Extended health N/A 286.00/year 286.00/year
 
*Prices as of September 2012and subject to change without notice