Welcome to New Westminster

A riverside city with charm, history, and student life

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CAD 15,000–25,000/year
Annual tuition fees
CAD 1,200–1,800/month
Monthly living costs

Why study in New Westminster

New Westminster offers a unique mix of history, convenience, and community. Located just outside Vancouver, this riverside city gives you access to a peaceful lifestyle while still being close to major urban amenities. You'll enjoy affordable living, a strong student network, and easy access to nature and city life. For international students, New Westminster is a practical and welcoming choice, providing both academic support and vibrant surroundings for personal growth.

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Student life

As a student in New Westminster, you’ll enjoy a balanced lifestyle with riverside views, local eateries, and student hangouts. The city has a walkable downtown, excellent public transport, and a tight-knit community feel. Whether you're exploring parks, attending cultural events, or grabbing coffee with classmates, you'll find that life here is relaxed yet well connected. Its location also makes it easy to explore Vancouver on weekends.

Avg. wage per hour

CAD 16.75/hour

Max. allowed part-time hours

20 hours/week

Cost of living

  • Food: CAD 300–500/month
  • Rent: CAD 700–1,200/month
  • Household Bills: CAD 100–200/month
  • Transport: CAD 90–130/month
  • Miscellaneous: CAD 100–200/month

Accommodation choices

  • University accommodation
  • Private halls
  • Shared houses
  • Private/Studio apartments
  • Co-living spaces

Most opted part-time jobs

  • Barista
  • Retail assistant
  • Tutor
  • Office clerk
  • Receptionist

Public transport

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Metro
  • Bike sharing
  • Ferry

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CULTURE

New Westminster is a city that values community, history, and inclusivity. You’ll find cultural festivals, riverside markets, and local art spaces that reflect a welcoming and diverse population. The city’s historic downtown and multicultural influence make it easy for you to connect with others and feel at home. Whether you’re attending community events or exploring local history, there’s always something to discover.

SAFETY

New Westminster is considered a safe city with well-managed emergency services. For urgent help, call 911. For non-emergency police assistance, contact +1 604-525-5411. It’s safe to explore, but always follow basic precautions at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Discover the city

New Westminster, located in British Columbia, is one of Canada’s oldest cities. Positioned on the Fraser River and just a short SkyTrain ride from downtown Vancouver, it offers a calm, convenient lifestyle. With green parks, cultural spaces, and riverside paths, the city provides a scenic and student-friendly environment that blends history with modern convenience.

Language

English

Currency

CAD

Population

80K

Area

15.6 sq. km

Frequently asked questions

Yes, New Westminster is a great option for international students. It offers affordable living, career-focused education, and easy access to Vancouver. The city is peaceful, well connected, and known for its inclusive community, making it easy for international students to adapt and thrive.
New Westminster is more affordable than central Vancouver. Monthly student living costs usually range from CAD 1,200 to 1,800. Shared housing and public transport help keep expenses low, and part-time jobs can offset living costs.
Absolutely. The city is known for its close-knit community and diverse culture. You’ll find that locals are welcoming, and student services are well developed, helping you feel supported from day one.
Yes, student housing is generally accessible. You’ll find university-managed options, private halls, and co-living spaces. It’s best to start your search early to find places close to transit and campuses.