Accommodations
Housing Options for International Students

Guildford College has provided many resources to find accommodations for students so they have a variety of housing and affordable rooms to rent around the Guildford College campus.

Anyone can easily search online for fully-furnished apartments and all utilities included private rooms, shared rooms and entire homes for a term, a year, month-to-month or short-term rentals.

Types of Accommodation
Homestay

Live with a local Canadian family

  • Cultural immersion experience
  • Meals often included
  • Support from host family
  • Practice English daily
  • Available through community partners
Private Room

Your own bedroom in a shared house/apartment

  • More privacy
  • Shared common areas
  • Often furnished
  • Utilities may be included
  • Opportunity to find roommates
Shared Room

Share a bedroom with another student

  • Most affordable option
  • Built-in study partner
  • Shared expenses
  • Social living environment
  • Good for making friends
Entire Apartment/Home

Complete living space for yourself or with friends

  • Maximum privacy and control
  • Choose your own roommates
  • Full kitchen and living space
  • More expensive option
  • Ideal for small groups
Housing Search Websites

Whether you want to rent a room, find an apartment or simply find a roommate, please look up any of the following links:

Specialized Housing Sites:
General Rental Sites:
Professional Rental Sites:

Safety Warning: Occasional fake or fraudulent listings have been found on classified websites such as Craigslist and Kijiji. Please do your due diligence and don't pay for an item you haven't seen or send payment to anyone you haven't met in person.

Finding Roommates
Connect with Fellow Students

Students can find a roommate who is attending the same college. This can help with:

  • Sharing accommodation costs
  • Having study partners
  • Building friendships
  • Sharing transportation
  • Cultural exchange

Check with Student Affairs and Services for roommate matching assistance.

Rental Types by Duration
Rental Type Duration Best For Notes
Term Rental 4-8 months Academic semester/year Matches study schedule
Annual Lease 12 months Long-term students Often better rates
Month-to-Month Flexible Uncertain timelines Higher monthly cost
Short-term 1-3 months Temporary housing While searching for permanent
Housing Search Tips
Before You Search:
  • Set a realistic budget
  • Determine preferred locations
  • List must-have amenities
  • Consider transportation to campus
  • Decide on roommate preferences
During Your Search:
  • View properties in person
  • Ask about utilities inclusion
  • Check internet availability
  • Verify safety of neighborhood
  • Read lease agreements carefully
Estimated Housing Costs

General Metro Vancouver Housing Costs (per month): Rent: $1,400 to $2,000; Utilities (hydro, gas, electricity): $50 to $150; Internet: $50 - $75; Tenant insurance: $25 to $35. Note: Prices vary significantly based on location, size, and amenities.

Homestay Experience
Cultural Immersion

For those students who want to experience local culture, they may choose to have a homestay when available from community partners and Non-For-Profit Organizations.

Homestay Benefits:
  • Learn about Canadian culture firsthand
  • Practice English in daily conversations
  • Enjoy home-cooked meals
  • Receive guidance and support
  • Make lasting friendships
  • Safe and supervised environment

Contact homestay organizations early as popular families fill up quickly.

Important Considerations
Legal Protections:
  • Understand tenant rights in BC
  • Keep copies of all agreements
  • Document property condition
  • Know security deposit rules
  • Understand notice periods
Practical Tips:
  • Visit during different times of day
  • Check cell phone reception
  • Test water pressure and heating
  • Ask about laundry facilities
  • Verify parking availability

Success Tips: Start your housing search early, especially for September intake. Be prepared with required documents, references, and first month's rent. Consider temporary accommodation while you search for the perfect long-term option.

Average Costs
  • Shared Room: $600-900/month
  • Private Room: $800-1,200/month
  • Bachelor/Studio: $1,200-1,600/month
  • 1 Bedroom: $1,400-2,000/month
  • Homestay: $900-1,300/month

*Prices vary by location and amenities

Required Documents
  • Valid passport and study permit
  • Proof of enrollment at Guildford College
  • Bank statements or financial proof
  • References (academic or personal)
  • Completed rental application
  • First month's rent + security deposit
Safety Reminders
  • Never send money before viewing
  • Meet landlords in person
  • Get receipts for all payments
  • Read contracts carefully
  • Ask for references from landlord
  • Trust your instincts
Related Resources
Arrival Guide Transportation Guide Healthcare & Insurance Banking Services Canadian Currency Taxes & Tips Legal Information Jobs & Employment Phone & Internet
Campus Location

Guildford College Surrey Campus:

205-5460 152 Street

Surrey, BC V3S 5J9

Consider transportation time and costs when choosing housing location.

Have any questions? Contact us to get more information on our programs, admission process, and more.

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PTIRU Mark EQA Mark
SABC Mark

Guildford College is Designated by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) .

DLI Information

Guildford College is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and we are approved to host international students. To apply for a study permit, international students need an acceptance letter from a DLI. For more information about DLIs, visit the Government of Canada's website. DLI Number: O179335207982

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