The Gulf Islands International Program is a homestay program and recognizes that a good homestay is essential to a sense of security and belonging. Our program is only as a good as its homestays. International students need to feel happy in their homestays so that they can thrive in their studies.
You are part of a Canadian Family.
Homestay accommodation means a student will live with a Canadian family and will be treated just as if they were a family member. A host family is there to support a student’s adjustment to the Canadian way of life. The homestay is a place of comfort.
The Homestay Setting
All homestay accommodation hosts meet high standards for safety and comfort including at least the following:
- A bed with clean linen
- Private storage for a student’s belongings (chest of drawers or a closet)
- Access to a bathroom with clean towels (typically bathrooms are shared among members of the host family)
- Full meal plans (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Medical Insurance
All international students are required to have medical insurance while studying in Canada. The Gulf Islands International Education Program provides a combination of interim medical insurance from a private company (StudyInsured™) and the British Columbia Medical Services Plan for our students.
Important homestay and medical insurance links:
Province of BC Homestay Guidelines
Medical Services Plan Benefits
StudyInsured’s Comprehensive+ Plan for students
- Virtual Health Care
- How to Submit a Claim on the StudyInsured™ Student Portal
- SHAS – Stay Healthy At School – SHAS Resource Referral Guide
