Travel to Canada
IMPORTANT: Do NOT book non-refundable travel until you have received your study permit and have registered for courses. Travelling to Canada prior to registering into courses may impact your student status in Canada.
All international students are encouraged to be on campus prior to their starting date to attend orientations; details will be sent to your email in advance or find more information on the Orientation Sessions page.
Still outside of Canada?
Travel requirements are subject to change; please refer to the Government of Canada travel website for the most up-to-date information.
Already in Canada?
Please check if your post-secondary study permit is current. If it expires within 90 days, apply for an extension as soon as possible. Visit IRCC Extend Your Study Permit for details.
If you have already applied for an extension prior to your study permit expiry date, you have maintained status and may begin your studies while waiting for a response from IRCC.
Health and Medical Insurance
All international students living in British Columbia (BC) are required, by law, to have primary medical insurance while staying in BC.
As an international student, you are eligible for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) issued through the Government of BC; however, there is a mandatory 3-month wait period before your MSP coverage begins.
To avoid any gaps in your coverage, you must apply for MSP upon arrival in Canada and coverage will begin after the mandatory waiting period.
Students who arrive in BC for their first semester of study at Langara College will be enrolled automatically in a temporary medical insurance plan for the first 3 months of the semester (guard.me More Enhanced health insurance plan).
For full details on medical coverage, visit Medical Insurance and Health Resources or view our workshop recording.
Tools and Apps
2FA and Computer User ID (CUID) – Before you can access the Office 365 and the Brightspace Learning Platform, you will need to activate your Two Factor Authentication (2FA) and Computer User ID (CUID). Learn more.
Office 365 Email – Communication from the College and your instructors will go to your Langara Office 365 email account. It’s imperative that your account is set up and that you check regularly for important information.
Brightspace Learning Platform – Courses are delivered through the Brightspace platform. Review the learning guide to understand how to login and access your courses, how to navigate through your courses, how to submit assignments and join discussions, and more.
Langara Student Success Course (LSSC) – This course prepares you for academic life at Langara and introduces you to key supports available on campus and online.
Virtual learning supports – We have many supports to help you with virtual learning – from tips, apps and Brightspace support, to library services, free writing and tutoring support and more.
Pre-Arrival Guide – This detailed guide will help prepare you for smooth travels and a positive transition in your new home and college. Information includes travel to Canada, studies at Langara, and living in Metro Vancouver.
On-campus Support
One-on-one International Student Advising – Our ISC’s host drop-in sessions for new international students to answer your questions.
Academic Advising (Course Planning) Drop-in Sessions – Our academic advisors are here to provide enrolled students with academic guidance. From exploring program options to planning for university transfers to specifics like registration for courses.
Counselling – Our Counsellors are available to answer your personal, educational, or career questions through a variety of options. Learn more about services available or book a personal, educational, or career counselling appointment.
Contacting your instructor – If you need to contact your instructor, you can find your instructor’s information on the Instructional Departments page. If your instructor isn’t shown under their Department, please contact the Department directly.
Maximize Your Time Here
i-Guide Mentorship Program – The i-Guide Mentorship program helps new international students adapt more easily and feel connected to the college community by matching current, more experienced students with new international students for their first semester at Langara College.
Academic Advising Centre – Academic Advising is here to support you throughout your academic journey. Whether you need help with course planning, program requirements or navigating academic challenges, our team is ready to assist. We encourage you to take advantage of this valuable resource to help you succeed.
Get to know Vancouver – Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia and the third largest in Canada. Accommodation, phones, internet, shopping, and transportation are all important aspects to consider when coming to study here. Learn more.
Attend orientation – Participate in new student orientations to make friends, ask questions, and start creating memories at Langara.
Langara Global workshops – Langara Global collaborates with various departments from around the college to host workshops on immigration, academics, and lifestyle. Check the events calendar.
i-Events – Langara Global volunteers organize a number of events throughout the semester for students to experience different aspects of life on and off campus. Follow Langara Global on Instagram to learn more.
Langara Student Union (LSU) – This organization is composed of all registered students at Langara College and operates as a co-operative, providing services to members including a health and dental plan, mental health resources, accounting services, an inexpensive photocopy service, a student discount program and more.
Finding Housing – Looking for a place to live when you arrive in Vancouver? Check out our Housing Resources – filled with important information, including things to consider before renting a place and tips to help you recognize potential rental scams and fraudulent activities.