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British Columbia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse cultural scene, and world-class universities. If you’re considering studying in British Columbia or are already a student in the province, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the cost of living to effectively manage your finances. By understanding the expenses associated with rent, tuition, transportation, food, entertainment, and more, you can make informed decisions and plan your budget accordingly.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
What Is The Cost of Living in British Columbia Canada For Students?
British Columbia offers a high standard of living but can be associated with higher costs compared to other provinces. It’s important to consider expenses such as rent, tuition, transportation, food, and entertainment. Below we have given an average breakdown of the cost of living in British Columbia for international students.
| Particulars | Prices (in CA$) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 950 – 1000 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | 1,000 – 1500 |
| Transportation | 60 – 80 |
| Food | 650 – 700 |
| Utility | 110 – 130 |
| Entertainment | 50 – 70 |
| Groceries | 100 – 150 |
| Clothes | 80 – 100 |
Cost Of Groceries In British Columbia
Stocking up on groceries in British Columbia is an adventure in itself, with a variety of fresh, local, and international options to suit every student’s budget and taste. From farmers’ markets offering organic produce to affordable supermarkets like Save-On-Foods and No Frills, international students will find plenty of choices to fill their fridges. Whether you are trying out new ingredients or craving a taste of home, British Columbia’s grocery scene is both diverse and accessible, making it easy to maintain a healthy diet while studying in this vibrant province.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Apples (1kg) | 6 – 7 |
| Bananas (1kg) | 1 – 3 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 5 – 6 |
| Tomatoes (1kg) | 5 – 7 |
| Potatoes (1kg) | 4 – 5 |
| Onions (1kg) | 2 – 4 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 2 – 4 |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | 1 – 3 |
| Milk (regular, 1 litre) | 2 – 3 |
| Loaf of fresh white bread (500g) | 3 – 5 |
| White rice (1kg) | 5 – 7 |
| A dozen regular eggs | 5 – 6 |
| Local cheese (1kg) | 15 – 20 |
| Chicken fillets (1kg) | 15 – 2 0 |
| Beef round or similar red meat (1kg) | 20 – 25 |
| Mid-range bottle of wine | 15 – 20 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | 20 – 25 |
| Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | 100 – 150 |
Cost Of Transportation In British Columbia
Getting around British Columbia as an international student is both convenient and scenic, thanks to the province’s well-connected and reliable transportation system. Whether you are commuting to classes or exploring British Columbia’s stunning landscapes, you will find a range of options to suit your needs. We have given a general breakdown of the approximate costs involved in travelling.
| Mode Of Transport | Fare |
| One-way ticket for local transport | 2 – 4 |
| Regular monthly pass | 140 – 150 |
| Taxi fare for 1 hour of waiting (standard rate) | 35 – 40 |
Cost Of Leisure And Fitness In British Columbia
Staying active and enjoying your downtime is key to a balanced student life, especially in a place as dynamic as British Columbia! International students will find plenty of opportunities to unwind, stay fit, and connect with new friends—whether it’s through university sports teams, local yoga studios, or exploring the province’s breathtaking parks and trails.
| Particulars | Prices |
| The monthly membership fee for one adult at a fitness club | 40 – 60 |
| Hourly tennis court rental (weekend rate) | 10 – 12 |
| One ticket to an international movie release | 14 – 20 |
Cost Of Utilities In British Columbia
When moving to British Columbia as an international student, managing utilities is a key part of budgeting for your new life. Utilities typically include essentials like electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage disposal, all of which ensure a comfortable living environment. However, when you book your student accommodation with UniAcco, you need not worry about paying your bills separately, as they are all included in the rent.
| Particulars | Prices |
| Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m² apartment | 100 – 150 |
| Monthly mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data | 60 – 70 |
| High-speed internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable or ADSL) | 70 – 100 |
Cost Of Studying In British Columbia For International Students
British Columbia is home to several prestigious universities offering a wide range of programmes for international students. The tuition fees vary significantly depending on the university and programme chosen. Students should consider both the academic offerings and the associated costs when selecting a university to ensure it aligns with their educational and financial goals.
| University | Average Tuition Fees (CAD) | Popular Programmes |
| University of British Columbia | 35,000 – 58,803 | BA Economics, MBA, MSc Computer Science |
| Simon Fraser University | 28,000 – 32,000 | BBA, MSc Computing Science |
| University of Victoria | 25,000 – 30,000 | BA Psychology, BSc Computer Science |
| BC Institute of Technology | 18,000 – 30,000 | Engineering Design and Drafting |
| Thompson Rivers University | 19,604 – 54,909 | BEng Software Engineering |
| Vancouver Island University | 21,000 – 55,937 | MBA, BSc Biology |
| University of Northern BC | 25,000 – 30,000 | BCom, MSc Nursing |
Minimum wage In British Columbia vs. other places
When comparing minimum wage rates, British Columbia stands out with its competitive pay compared to other regions in Canada. While the minimum wage in British Columbia reflects the province’s higher cost of living, it remains comparable to, or in some cases better than, wages in various other provinces and territories.
| Province/Territory | Minimum Wage (CAD per hour) |
| British Columbia | 17.40 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 15.6 |
| Northwest Territories | 16.7 |
| Nova Scotia | 15.2 |
| Nunavut | 19 |
| Ontario | 16.55 |
| Prince Edward Island | 15.4 |
| Quebec | 15.75 |
| Saskatchewan | 14 |
| Yukon | 17.59 |
Visa Costs For International Students
When planning to study abroad, understanding visa costs is an important part of budgeting for international students. In Canada, international students must apply for a study permit, which includes various fees such as the application fee, biometrics, and potential medical exams. These costs can vary depending on the student’s country of origin and additional requirements. Having a clear picture of these expenses helps students prepare financially and ensures a smooth application process, allowing them to focus on their education and experience in Canada.
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
| Study Permit Application | $150 |
| Biometric Fee | $85 |
| Total Cost | $235 |
Additional Considerations
Non-Refundable Fees: Both the study permit application fee and the biometric fee are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Payment Methods: Fees can typically be paid online or at designated locations, and it’s important to keep a receipt of your payment.
Processing Time: The processing time for a student visa can vary but generally takes about 20 days after biometrics are submitted.
In conclusion, British Columbia offers a vibrant and diverse lifestyle for students, but it’s essential to plan your finances carefully. While costs may vary based on personal choices and location, British Columbia remains a popular choice for international students due to its quality education and enriching student life. With proper planning, living in British Columbia can be a rewarding and manageable experience.
FAQs
What is the cost of living in British Columbia for students?
The average cost of living for students in British Columbia ranges from CAD 1,900 to CAD 2,200 per month, depending on lifestyle and location.
What is the cost of living in Canada for international students 2024?
Students should budget approximately CAD 20,635 per year for living expenses, excluding tuition and airfare, while enjoying a vibrant and diverse lifestyle in British Columbia.
How much does it cost to live in the University of British Columbia for international students?
At the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, international students can expect to pay between CAD 10,700 and CAD 13,850 for a room and meal plan over two terms. These costs can vary depending on the type of accommodation and meal plan selected.
What is Canada’s unemployment rate?
Canada’s unemployment rate currently stands at 6.60%, up from 6.40% last month and 5.50% last year. Despite this increase, it remains below the long-term average of 8.03%.
Is British Columbia a good place to live for international students?
Yes, British Columbia is a great place for international students, offering a lower cost of studying compared to many other locations, along with a high quality of life, stunning scenery, and welcoming, safe communities.
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