Getting Here

Students come from all across the world to study here. We're so glad you'll be joining us.

Before You Arrive

Apply for a study permit

Find out all the documents you will need and how to apply for a study permit.

Apply for a Study Permit

What to bring

Prepare for arrival in Canada. 

Check out our list for tips on handy supplies for life in Canada and our student handbook.

What to Bring

Find a place to live

Explore homestay, on-campus housing and off-campus housing options.

Getting Here

By air

Explore flights from Vancouver to Castlegar through Air Canada.

Search flights from Vancouver to Trail through Pacific Coastal Air. 

By bus

Search bus service from Vancouver to Castlegar or Nelson at Mountain Man Mike's.

Arrival pick-up services

There is a pick-up and reception service available for students arriving by air and by bus. This service costs $100–$180 and includes:
 

  •       Airport pickup

  •       Help with grocery shopping

  •       Setting up a bank account

If you would like this service, please fill out the application form and send it back to the international student services coordinator. 

Settling In

Medical insurance

Get more details on medical information and health insurance.

Tenant insurance

Tenant insurance protects your personal belongings against theft, fire, flood and vandalism.  
 

  • Selkirk College will not assume responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged personal items.

  • Homestay families are also not responsible for students’ personal belongings.  

  • If there is a fire or theft in your home and you have not insured your belongings, it will be your responsibility to replace any items that are damaged or lost.

Costs

  • Insurance to cover damage by fire, flood, theft or vandalism on $5,000 worth of property will typically cost about $100 per year.

  • The amount you pay is referred to as the premium.

  • Your policy will describe what it covers. If something is not written in the policy, then it is not covered.

  • Some policies will have a deductible. This is the amount of money that you will pay if you make a claim.  Any amount over the deductible will be paid by the insurance.

For your records, you should make a list of every item you own, record how much the item is worth and the serial number (if it has one). Taking a photo of valuable items can help if you need to make a claim.

Banks

Castlegar
 

Nelson
 

  • Nelson: RBC Royal Bank, Bank of Montreal, CIBC, Credit Union, Scotia Bank

  • Western Union Nelson: Safeway and Walmart

Getting around the region

  • Nelson to Castlegar: 44 km

  • Vancouver to Castlegar: 620 km via Crowsnest Pass Hwy 3

  • Kelowna to Castlegar: 309 km via Crowsnest Pass Hwy 3

  • Calgary to Castlegar: 622 km via Crowsnest Pass Hwy 3

For transportation around the region, visit BC Transit.