A helpful guide to keep in mind before your arrival ????????

Canada has ranked as one of the top 5 destinations to study, according to. The country offers high-quality education and at the same time, it has turned into one of the easiest ways of immigration. Did you know that almost 10% of the student population in Canadian universities is comprised of international students?

We all know how challenging it is to move into an unknown city or country, but if you plan things right, your accommodation at the new place will be as smooth as it can get. Here at Vanmates, we are happy to help you in finding the right accommodation for you!

As a potential International Student, it is essential to know the living expenses. Here’s a complete list of the things with their prices you will require to live in Vancouver, Canada.

1. Accommodation

The average accommodation for private bedrooms ranges from $650CAD to $1,300CAD per month. At Vanmates, we make sure to find the right accommodation for you depending on your needs. Our services include housing, homestay, and airport pick-ups.

Our residences have located a maximum of 30 minutes away from downtown; which most of the colleges/schools are. Also, the opportunity of meeting people from all around the world is always a plus. Most of our houses have from 4 to 6 bedrooms and we always make sure to place the right people in the right place!

Want to rent with us? Check this Rooms

2. Travel Expenses

An advantage of being an international student in Canada is that you can drive a car in the city as long as you hold a valid driver’s license from your country. Once you change your status to Work Permit, for example, you need to have a Canadian Driver’s License.

If driving a car is more comfortable for you, keep in mind that fuel is about $1.35 per liter and insurance will cost you around $150CAD – $200CAD. If you are under a budget, Vancouver offers a great commuting system. You can either travel by bus or train which can cost you $98CAD per month. You can use it as many times as you want. If you are new to the city, you need to have your ‘compass card’ which is around $6.00 from the machines at any Skytrain station.

PD: Some public universities offer a discount when it comes to transportation, ask your school if they provide it.

3. Food and Groceries

Depending on your eating habits and standard of living, the food and groceries may cost you around $400CAD every month. There are so many affordable places where you can buy quality food. The best ones are local supermarkets; you can find so many great deals. If you can’t find one nearby, there are other options like Walmart, No frills, or Canadian Super Store.

4. Telecommunications

One of the most important things, once you arrive in Vancouver, is activating your new Canadian number. Telecommunications here might be a little expensive, but there will always be a way to reduce costs.

Through PhoneBox you can have prepaid and postpaid Canadian data plans, Unlimited talk, text, and LTE data. Their plans start from $25cad per month.

Get yours by using the promotion code: PORTINBENEFIT Apply Here

5. Health Insurance

Another thing to keep in mind is to get your MSP card (Medical Services Plan) as soon as possible only if you are going to stay in the country for more than six months.

MSP covers the cost of basic medical care within Canada, including most physicians and hospital services. The total cost for International students is $75.00cad per month. Apply Here