Explore the exciting international student life and see how Douglas College supports your transition and overall success in your study abroad.

Pursuing a post-secondary education outside your home country can be overwhelming. With so many things to consider, getting your application approved may seem to be easier than planning for what comes next – packing, arranging your flight, arriving, finding your long-term accommodation, and settling in. Not to mention the emotional rollercoaster that comes with being far from loved ones, and likely being outside your comfort zone. Therefore, it is essential that the college you choose offers support to facilitate your transition and provides tools that will ensure your success in your new environment.

Choosing Douglas College means being part of a thriving global community. It takes pride in being the top choice for more than 4,500 international students coming from 90 different countries. With its large international student population, Douglas College administers programs to support new international students on their transition, and programs for current students for attaining academic success and job preparation. Furthermore, Douglas College offers an English as Second Language (ESL) program which equips students with the language skills crucial for college and university success.

One notable onboarding initiative is the Strong Start Program, which is composed of new students’ orientation, and a mentorship program between a new international student and a returning student. This gives new students the necessary information to prepare for studying at Douglas and living in Metro Vancouver, all while introducing a network of peers that will guide your journey and facilitate cross-cultural exchange.

Outside the classroom, students have opportunities to be more engaged with a range of activities and events that strengthens networking and promotes work-life balance. Douglas College has an athletics program for those who want to compete in sports, as well as opportunities for casual games and fitness programs. Student clubs are also a huge part of campus social life, and at Douglas College, you are more than likely to find a group that shares your interests – may it be snowboarding, dancing salsa, or your field of study.

Aside from the student onboarding programs and campus activities, both of Douglas College’s main campus locations benefit new students with regards to finding affordable and accessible accommodation and exploring events for a vibrant life outside of campus. The New Westminster campus is known for its scenic view of the Fraser River, and proximity to the quayside lined with cosy cafes, restaurants offering various cuisines, and student-friendly pubs. The Coquitlam campus is next to the tranquil Lafarge Lake and is only a few kilometres away from British Columbia's picturesque mountains.

The support offered by Douglas College in and out of the classroom, coupled with the many unique experiences British Columbia has to offer, can help make the daunting feel of moving to study abroad something to look forward to. After all, you will be part of an inclusive community that understands what it takes to achieve an optimal international student experience.

Douglas College is BC’s largest degree-granting college, offering the greatest number of bachelor’s degrees, in conjunction with a range of associate degrees, graduate programs, career entry programs, and university transfer options.

Interested in being part of Douglas College’s thriving global community? Register with Global Study Guide to explore your degree options and find valuable support as you navigate your application process.