Accommodation
SFU residences (On-Campus Accommodation)
FIC students may choose to live in SFU residences at the Burnaby campus, just a short walk from classes. The residences feature single-room accommodation with extra-long beds and high-speed internet access, and common rooms with shared TVs and microwaves. They also have a dining hall and a meal plan that is available to the entire residence community.
Buses operate between the campus and Greater Vancouver’s rapid transit system at the foot of Burnaby Mountain on a regular basis. SFU also has an on-campus hotel where visiting family members can stay.
Living in residence means being at the centre of it all: barbecue nights, movie nights and ‘rez’ challenges are just some of the regular activities that make on-campus residence fun! SFU students, staff and volunteers are there to help make the most of the residence experience — whether it’s sharing study tips, finding the best cup of coffee or joining in a volleyball game. For many students, residence life is one of the most memorable aspects of their undergraduate experience.
Find out more and apply online via the SFU Residence and Houses website.
Students wanting to live in SFU residence should apply early, as there are limited places available.
Please note that residence fees are due August 1 for Fall term; December 1st for Spring term; and April 1st for Summer term.
Students may pay their fees by logging into MyPlace@SFU and completing the following steps:
- Selecting My Account.
- Viewing their residence fees, including printing an invoice.
- Selecting their fees to pay.
- Choosing a payment method of credit card, or Flywire for international banking.
Off-campus Accommodation
A wide range of off-campus accommodation is available to FIC students, including private rentals and shared accommodation. The SFU Residence and Housing resources will provide you comprehensive and up-to-date listings and are the best places to start looking for off-campus accommodation.
Vanmates
Looking for housemates? It is a simple process- fill out the form and Vanmates will reach out with the best options for you.
Experience living among other students in a shared apartment while enjoying a fully furnished room, ready for move-in. With the privacy of your own room, Vanmates also provides a vibrant and communal living environment for students, complete with shared spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and community events.
Enjoy the best of both worlds in a lively and accommodating student community.
Homestay
For many students, the opportunity to stay with a Canadian family in the local community offers special appeal. As a homestay student, you will have the chance to be a part of the family, taking part in family activities and celebrating special occasions.
All families are within commuting distance of FIC and SFU. Your homestay arrangement may include breakfast, lunch and dinner, and may be upgraded upon request to include special amenities such as internet access or a private bathroom. FIC’s preferred homestay providers are:
GEC Burnaby Heights
GEC provides fully furnished, comfortable accommodations to international and domestic students at affordable rates. GEC Burnaby Heights is a four-storey residence located in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood of Burnaby. The close proximity of this residence to public transit make this a popular choice for FIC students. Similar to other GEC properties, controlled access, 24/7 video surveillance of all entrances and public areas, smart locks, as well as live-in caretakers are just some of the features at GEC Burnaby Heights. Apartments are shared, usually with two students sharing a room.