Student Housing Support
For students seeking accommodation, Cambridge College provides guidance and resources to help students find safe, suitable, and affordable housing options. While the College does not operate on-campus housing, our Student Services team supports both domestic and international students by providing information about reliable off-campus accommodation options. These may include shared apartments, private rentals, homestay arrangements, and student-friendly housing communities designed for students and young professionals.
Need Help Finding Housing?
Our Student Services team offers personalized guidance to help students identify housing that meets their needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you are looking for a private apartment, shared accommodation, or a homestay environment, our team can assist you throughout the process.
Support services include:
- Personalized housing guidance based on location, budget, and lifestyle preferences
- Access to a list of trusted landlords, rental agencies, and homestay providers
- Housing options reviewed for student safety, suitability, and reliability
- Ongoing support and referrals to reputable housing partners and agencies
Cost of Living in Canada
Planning your education in Canada involves more than tuition fees. Understanding the cost of living is important for managing your finances and ensuring a smooth academic experience.
Students should budget for expenses such as:
- Housing or rent
- Food and groceries
- Transportation
- Utilities and internet
- Personal and recreational expenses
- Seasonal costs such as winter clothing
Living costs may vary depending on the city, accommodation type, and personal lifestyle choices.
Budgeting Tips for Students
To manage expenses effectively, students are encouraged to:
- Use cost-of-living calculators to estimate monthly expenses based on their location
- Plan for seasonal expenses, including winter clothing and heating costs during colder months
- Take advantage of student discounts offered by public transit systems, retailers, and entertainment providers
- Track monthly expenses to maintain financial stability during their studies
Tenancy Rights in British Columbia
Students renting accommodation in British Columbia are protected under the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA), which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. Understanding these rights helps ensure a safe and fair housing experience.
Resources for International Students
Students can access the following resources for guidance on tenancy rights and housing support:
- Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB): Provides information about tenancy rights, responsibilities, and dispute resolution between tenants and landlords.
- Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Offers free legal information, tenant education, and housing support services across British Columbia.
Cambridge College encourages all students to review these resources and understand their housing rights to make informed accommodation decisions while studying in British Columbia.
Right to a Safe and Habitable Home
- Landlords must provide a rental property that is clean, safe, and meets health standards.
- Repairs and maintenance are the landlord’s responsibility unless caused by tenant negligence.
Right to Privacy
- Landlords must provide 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.
- Tenants have the right to enjoy their rented space without unnecessary disturbances.
Right to a Tenancy Agreement
- All tenancies must have a written or verbal agreement outlining the terms, such as rent amount, payment schedule, and rules for the property.
- Ensure you receive a copy of your agreement for reference.
Tenant’s Responsibilities
- Paying Rent on Time: Rent must be paid in full by the agreed-upon date.
- Maintaining the Property: Tenants must keep the property clean and report damages to the landlord.
- Following the Agreement: Abide by the terms in the tenancy agreement, including rules about pets, smoking, and noise.
