Before You Arrive
Our students come from all across the world to study at Selkirk College. Learn how to apply to Selkirk College as an International Student.
For information on preparing to travel to Canada and what to expect when you arrive, read Information for International Students.
Prepare to Arrive
Before you depart:
1. Apply for a study permit (if necessary)
Ensure you have all the immigration documents (study permit, temporary resident visa) you need to enter Canada and study in Canada before you leave home.
2. Plan where you will live
- Apply for homestay, or
- Apply for student housing, or
- Search for off-campus housing
Apply early, student housing fills up quickly and homestay applications normally should be received at least one month before you plan to arrive. Selkirk College does not arrange or monitor for off-campus living.
3. Airport pick up services
There is an airport pickup and reception service available for students arriving at Castlegar Airport and living in Student Housing in Castlegar, Nelson or Off Campus Accommodation. This service costs $100~$180 and includes:
1. airport pickup
2. help with grocery shopping
3. Setting up a bank account
If you would like this service, please fill the application and send it back to International Student Services Coordinator.
If you are arriving from Vancouver or Calgary, the Castlegar Airport is only a short 1 hour flight away. To learn more about the Castlegar Airport visit: www.wkrairport.ca
What do I bring?
- Warm clothing for winter (In December, January and February temperatures are between -1 and -10 degrees Celsius).
- Cool clothing for spring and summer (in July and August temperatures are between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius).
- A valid passport or travel document.
- Documents you will need to present to immigration upon arrival in Canada.
- Credit card (if possible).
- Enough money to pay for books, basic medical insurance, food, accommodation, and spending money while you are in Castlegar.
- Power adapters for any electronic devices you bring. In Canada we use 120 volt power and have North American style outlets with 2 flat prongs and a round ground plug. Electronic devices from other countries will require an adapter in order to work in Canada.
- What to bring for Your Trip to Canada
Distance Information
- 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
What banks are available to me?
- Castlegar: CIBC, Credit Union, Bank of Montreal
- Nelson: RBC Royal Bank, Bank of Montreal, CIBC, Credit Union, Scotia Bank
- Western Union Castlegar
- Western Union Nelson: Safeway and Walmart