The website, www.BCforHighSchool.gov.bc.ca, shares information on the Canadian education system; how to enrol in a BC school and obtain a Canadian study permit; living with a host family; and postsecondary opportunities for students that want to stay in the province to study after high school.

“This resource will give international students the tools they need to decide to pursue their studies in BC”

The website includes links to a directory of both public and private high schools where international students can study, as well as contact information for the Ministry of Education, industry associations, school boards and consulates.

It also incorporates student video testimonials offering advice for international students and insights into life in British Columbia.

“You have to be independent, but also brave enough to ask for help,” counsels one international student featured in the video, while others advise prospective students to make friends with locals and join student societies.

Videos on the new website offer advice to international students at BC high schools

The website is currently available in English and Chinese. Japanese, Korean and Spanish language versions will be launched in early 2017.

“International education is good for our economy, our communities and for our students who get to learn about other cultures and our global future first-hand,” commented Mike Bernier, BC’s education minister.

“This new online resource will give international students the information and tools they need to decide to pursue their studies in BC – and to make sure they have a smooth transition into life here.”

International students enrolled in all sectors of education in BC contribute more than CAN$2bn in spending on tuition, accommodation and other living costs, supporting some 27,500 jobs across the province.