INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
InFocus Film School welcomes a very diverse student body. As a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) recognized by Immigration and Citizenship Canada, international students are able to apply and study with us. Every class contains a broad mix of domestic and international students from around the world, and we strive to make studying abroad as simple and enjoyable as possible.
While this information should not be considered legal immigration advice, we have compiled a few important things to know for students looking to study in Canada.
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
All classes at InFocus Film School are conducted in English. If English is not your primary language, you may be required to provide Proof of English Proficiency through the successful completion of a recognized English Language Proficiency exam. You may have other options if you have not completed an English Proficiency Exam. Contact us for more details.
ENGLISH UPGRADING
If a student meets the InFocus Admission requirements, but does not have an acceptable English proficiency test score, the student still has several options for language upgrading.
InFocus has joint programs with Language-Education partners to assist students in meeting English Language requirements. Students can study English full-time until they achieve the necessary level of English proficiency, and then transition directly into the diploma program without completing the exam. Please email us to receive more information on our Language-Education partners.
PATHWAY PROGRAM
Graduates of InFocus Film School’s Film Production Program are eligible for placement into a pathway with Yorkville University. This allows InFocus graduates to earn a Bachelor’s of Creative Arts Degree in as little as 15 months.
ENTERING CANADA
STUDY PERMITS
For programs over 6 months in length, international students require a study permit. While Study Permits are issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), InFocus may be able to offer resources to assist in your application. For countries where visas may be problematic to obtain, we highly recommend you work with a specialized accredited immigration consultant or lawyer before applying for your visa to maximize the potential for success.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Citizens of certain countries and territories need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to visit Canada. Find out if you need a TRV here. Once more, we highly recommend you work with a specialized accredited immigration consultant or lawyer before applying for your visa to maximize the potential for success.
If you are traveling to Canada from a country that you do not hold citizenship in, you may require additional documentation. Please check with an immigration agent or consular official before you leave.
ARRIVING IN CANADA
Before you depart, ensure you have all of the documentation you will need to enter Canada. Most important are:
- A VALID PASSPORT – Your passport must be valid for the entirety of your stay in Canada. Check the expiration date and ensure you have enough time to renew your travel documents if required
- YOUR INFOCUS ACCEPTANCE LETTER – This will be required to prove the intention of your stay to border agents.
- YOUR INTRODUCTION LETTER FROM IMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP CANADA – This document shows that you have been approved for a study permit and will allow border agents to issue it to you.
- YOUR TEMPORARY RESIDENT VISA – If applicable
- PROOF OF FUNDS – You may be asked to prove that you will be able to support yourself for your time in Canada. A bank statement or other proof of funds will be required.
This list may not be complete. You should check with a consular official before departing to ensure you have all required documentation.
MEDICAL SERVICES
All international students should have their own medical insurance coverage while studying in Canada. After three months living in BC, students can qualify for BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP). Ensure you are privately covered for your first three months in British Columbia. As soon as you arrive in Canada enroll for MSP, your coverage usually starts three months after your arrival date. Apply here.
STUDYING IN VANCOUVER
Located at the Pacific Rim gateway of Canada’s west coast, in beautiful British Columbia, Vancouver is a dynamic hub for media creators and storytellers from all walks of life. Nicknamed ‘Hollywood North’, Vancouver boasts a thriving film and television production center – the third largest in North America after New York and Los Angeles – and is the proud host to some of the world’s greatest film festivals including the Vancouver International Film Festival and DOXA Documentary Film Fest.
Along with a thriving film and TV industry, Vancouver is a world-class city for 3D, game, and visual effects production. Vancouver is home to some of the largest visual effects studios in the world including Industrial Light and Magic, Scanline, Sony Imageworks, Method Studios, and more.
With its outstanding natural beauty, Vancouver also offers many recreational benefits, access to the ocean, mountains, parks and fitness centres, all complemented by a lively arts scene and vibrant nightlife.
COST OF LIVING
The cost of living for college students in British Columbia can vary significantly depending on factors like location, living situation, and lifestyle choices. Generally, students in Vancouver can expect to spend between $2,350 and $5,000 per month, including tuition, housing, groceries, transportation, and other expenses.
Example Breakdown of Costs:
Homestay: Between $1,100 and $1,400 per month.
Off-campus Rent: Can range from $800 to $2,000 per month.
Utilities: Around $100 per month on average for utilities like electricity, heating, and cooling.
HOUSING
The Vancouver rental housing market can be daunting, but there are resources for both domestic and international students. If you do not already have a place to stay, we partner with Van Sweet Home and VLE Limited to offer affordable and hassle-free housing solutions for people traveling from out of town.
Housing Resources:
Other Accommodation Resources:
Note, InFocus is not affiliated with the companies listed outside our partnered list, and does not inspect or vet any of the accommodations advertised therein. All students seeking accommodations should know their tenancy rights and exercise due caution when making independent housing arrangements.
BC TENANCY RIGHTS
As you settle into your new home, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Here are a few tips to help you navigate tenancy laws in BC.
For more detailed information, visit the BC Government’s Residential Tenancies page
Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement
Written Agreement: Your landlord must provide a written tenancy agreement. Even if one isn’t provided, the standard terms still apply once you pay a security deposit.
Review Carefully: Before signing, read the agreement thoroughly. Ask for clarification of any points you don’t understand.
Keep a Copy: Both you and your landlord should sign and date the agreement. The landlord must give you a copy as well. Keep it safe, as it serves as proof of your tenancy.
Security Deposit/Damage Deposit
Amount: The security deposit cannot exceed half of one month’s rent.
Return: At the end of your tenancy, the landlord must return the deposit within 15 days, provided there are no damages beyond normal wear and tear
Repairs and Maintenance
Landlords must maintain the rental unit in a state of good repair and ensure it complies with health and safety standards. You should keep the unit clean and report any needed repairs promptly.
Notify your landlord in writing if repairs are needed. If they don’t address the issue within a reasonable time, you can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch.
Landlord Access to Your Unit
Notice Required: Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours written notice before entering your rental unit, except in emergencies.
Emergency Situations: In emergencies, such as a fire or flood, the landlord can enter without notice.
Where to Get Help
Residential Tenancy Branch: Provides information and dispute resolution services.
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre: Offers legal education and information about residential tenancy law.
Local Settlement Agencies: May assist with tenancy-related questions or concerns.
BC EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS
To protect yourself in the workplace, it’s important to familiarize yourself with British Columbia’s employment laws so you understand your rights. Always keep records such as your employment contract, pay stubs, and any correspondence with your employer, as these documents can be essential if issues arise. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to speak up, discuss them with your employer or seek advice from trusted resources to ensure your rights are respected.
For more detailed information, visit the BC Government’s Employment standards page
Before You Start Working
Social Insurance Number (SIN): To work in Canada, you need a SIN. Apply online or at a Service Canada Centre.
Work Permits: Ensure your study or work permit allows you to work.
Employment Standards: Most workers in BC are protected by the Employment Standards Act, but some exceptions apply.
Wages and Pay
Minimum Wage: As of June 1, 2025, the minimum wage in BC is $17.85 per hour for most employment types.
Paydays: Employers must pay you at least twice a month, with no more than 16 days between paydays.
Pay Statements: You should receive a written pay statement detailing your hours worked, wage rate, and deductions.
Hours of Work and Breaks
Meal Breaks: If you work more than 5 hours in a row, you’re entitled to a 30-minute unpaid meal break.
Minimum Daily Pay: If you’re scheduled for more than 8 hours and report to work, you’re entitled to at least 4 hours of pay, even if no work is available.
Overtime: If you work more than 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, you’re entitled to overtime pay
- 1.5 times your regular wage for the first 12 hours
- 2 times your regular wage for any hours over 12
Time Off and Leaves
Vacation: After one year of employment, you’re entitled to 2 weeks of paid vacation.
Sick Leave: You’re entitled to 5 days of paid sick leave and 3 days of unpaid sick leave annually.
Parental Leave: Pregnant employees are entitled to up to 17 weeks of unpaid leave.
Safe Working Environment
Safe Conditions: Your employer must make sure your workplace is safe and follows health and safety laws.
Training: You must be trained to do your job safely, including how to use equipment and what to do in emergencies.
Protective Gear: If your job requires safety equipment (like gloves or helmets), your employer must provide it and train you on how to use it.
Refuse Unsafe Work: If you believe something at work is dangerous, you have the right to refuse the task until it’s safe. Your employer must investigate and fix the issue before asking you to do the task again.
Ending Your Employment
Notice: If you’re dismissed after 3 consecutive months of employment, you’re entitled to written notice or compensation.
Filing a Complaint: If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Employment Standards Branch within 6 months of the incident.
WHAT TO EXPECT
As an international student at InFocus Film School, you’re expected to maintain full-time attendance and meet academic requirements to stay compliant with your study permit. Our team is here to guide you through the process, from application to graduation. Explore our programs, review student work, and reach out with any questions, we’re here to help you succeed in Vancouver and beyond.
If you have questions regarding your application process, contact our International Admission Advisor: Vania Moraes at vania@infocusfilmschool.com
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS
Regular attendance is expected. Many of our programs are designed with collaboration through peer feedback and group projects. Your presence and participation matter and help contribute to a dynamic learning experience for everyone. All courses at InFocus have minimum attendance requirements, which are set to ensure students are receiving adequate guidance and instruction to meet the learning objectives of the program.
Specific attendance requirements vary by course, but typically range between 85% to 90%, depending on the course. You can find the attendance requirements for each course on your Course Outline, which you will be given at the start of each course.
There are also minimum attendance hours required to meet the eligibility for a certificate or diploma. You can find these on the Program Outline in your student enrolment contract, listed under “Completion Requirements”.
For on-campus programs, attendance is taken once at the beginning of class, and again after returning from break. Students not present for the attendance call will be marked absent. Chronic absenteeism or lateness may result in penalties, see the Attendance Policy for full details.
Students are encouraged to keep track of their attendance and keep a record of any absences. Students should notify the school in advance of any absences, wherever possible. In cases of emergency, notify the school at the earliest possible time.
ACADEMIC PROGESSION REQUIREMENTS
Students are expected to make reasonable academic progress during their studies. To that end, it’s important to keep up with in-class work, homework assignments, and projects. To facilitate good academic progress, we encourage students to:
- Complete all class assignments
- Hand in homework/deliverables on schedule
- Participate in group projects
- Maintain regular attendance
- Ask for assistance from your Instructor or Program Manager if you are struggling
Not all courses are offered every term, therefore failing a course can lead to significant delays in program completion. Support outside class time can be arranged for students who are needing extra assistance.
SCHOOL POLICIES
InFocus Film School has several policies in place to support the student experience:
- Student Statement of Rights
- Tuition Refund Policy
- English Proficiency Policy
- Accessibility Policy
- Grade Appeal Policy
- Attendance Policy
- Student Code of Conduct
- Discipline & Dismissal Policy
- Dispute Resolution Policy
- Harassment, Violence & Sexual Misconduct Policy
- Critical Incident & Crisis Policy
TALK TO OUR ADMISSIONS ADVISOR
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INFOCUS FILM SCHOOL
554 Seymour Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 3J5
info@infocusfilmschool.com
+1 604-915-6900
