STUDENT SUPPORT

Campus Operations and Facilities

Business Hours

Monday – Friday: 9am to 5pm

Facilities and Equipment

GBC provides a variety of facilities to support student success, including dedicated study areas and fully equipped computer labs. These spaces are designed to foster both focused learning and comfortable relaxation. Students are required to present their GBC student card for access to the computer labs.

GBC Student Email

Every new student will receive a GBC email address, which will be used for all important communications—such as orientation details, course updates (including instructor emails about assignments and exams), scholarship information, and more.

Make it a habit to check your student email regularly to stay informed.

If you encounter any issues with your student email, please contact admissions@gbcol.ca for assistance.

Accessibility

Should you wish to submit a complaint and/or feedback on the accessibility of our building, please complete this form.

Schedules

GBC follows a structured academic calendar for each program, with clearly defined class schedules, term start dates, and holiday breaks to help students plan their studies effectively. Any changes to class schedules will be communicated to students by Student Services or their instructor.

Housing and Residence Assistance

With Vancouver’s housing market being highly competitive, it’s important to begin your search as early as possible. GBC provides resources to help students find safe and affordable accommodation.

Independent Renting

Students who prefer finding accommodation on their own can use platforms like:

  • Craigslist
  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Liv.rent
  • Zumper

Rental Scam Prevention Tips

If you thinking of proceeding with renting a property, we recommend that you:

  • Always visit the property in person before signing any lease.
  • Meet the landlord or property manager to inspect the premises together.
  • Confirm the identity and contact details of the property owner.
  • Never send money before seeing the property and signing a lease.
  • Avoid sharing sensitive personal information.
  • Trust your instincts and proceed with caution if something feels off.

BC Tenant Rights

Tenants are entitled to certain rights throughout their tenancy, including the ability to resolve disputes and the right to quiet enjoyment of their rental unit. Landlords cannot physically evict tenants or change the locks to deny access. For more details, visit the Government of British Columbia’s website.

Housing Costs

The BC rental market is highly competitive, and average rental costs can be high. Before signing a lease, we recommend researching thoroughly. Consider factors such as your budget, preferred neighbourhood, nearby amenities, public transportation options, proximity to school or work, and whether you plan to have a roommate to determine if a place is the right fit.

For information on average rental prices by neighbourhood, visit the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Market Information Portal.

Costs of Living

The cost of living in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland can be high, influenced by factors such as inflation, rising interest rates, and increasing prices for essentials like groceries.

We recommend researching thoroughly before making the decision to move.

Helpful resources include:

Renters Insurance

Renters can choose to purchase tenant insurance to protect themselves and their belongings. This coverage can help pay for repairs or replacements after a covered claim and may also include liability protection. We recommend speaking with an insurance agent or broker to learn more about what’s covered and the expected costs.

Additional Resources

Anti-Racism and Harassment

Zero-Tolerance Policy

We are dedicated to creating an environment rooted in equity, inclusion, and respect for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or cultural background. Racism, racial discrimination, and any form of race-based harassment are strictly prohibited. We are committed to breaking down systemic barriers, fostering inclusive practices, and promoting open, respectful conversations about race and racism.

Dispute Resolution Policy & Anti-Racism and Harassment Policy

GBC has a Dispute Resolution Policy in place, which includes complaints made by students regarding harassment and discrimination based on the protected grounds outlined in the BC Human Rights Code.

GBC also has an Anti-Racism and Harassment Policy which outlines the preventive and responsive measures we have taken to ensure a respectful and inclusive environment for all.

Feedback & Complaint Reporting

Should you wish you wish to discuss your diverse needs or have recommendations/feedback on how GBC can better promote and foster a safe and inclusive learning environment, please contact our Campus Director, Terry at terry@gbcol.ca.

GBC also has an online reporting form if you would like to submit a formal complaint.

BC Human Rights Complaints

If you wish to file a Human Rights Complaint, contact the BC Human Rights Tribunal. More information on the complaint process can be found here: File a Complaint. If you wish to obtain free legal advice or support related to a human rights complaint, contact the BC Human Rights Clinic.

Additional Legal Supports

Educational Resources

Academic Progression and Learning Support

Advising and Learning Support Services

GBC provides academic advising and learning support services to help students successfully navigate their educational journey. These services include assistance with course enrolment, graduation planning, and more. Students can contact our Campus Director, Terry, at terry@gbcol.ca for support.

You will be introduced to these services during your orientation session. Around the midpoint of each semester, our Campus Director will also reach out to remind students of the available support and provide details on how to book a session.

If you are experiencing academic challenges, contact our Campus Director as soon as possible. Early communication allows us to provide timely assistance and explore solutions tailored to your needs.

In addition, instructors hold regular office hours for student support. Details will be provided by your instructor, typically on the first day of class.

Learning Resources

GBC offers workshops designed to help students develop key skills for academic success, including writing, language support, time management, and critical thinking. These workshops are held periodically throughout the academic year, with notifications sent to students via their student email.

If you need extra support or additional learning resources, please reach out to our Campus Director at your earliest convenience.

Disability and Accessibility Services

If you have a disability and need accommodations, GBC is here to support you.

We offer a range of academic accommodations, including but not limited to:

  • Extended Exam Time & Alternative Testing Spaces
    Additional time and quiet environments are provided for students requiring accommodations. Oral exams or adaptive formats are available when necessary.

  • Accessible Course Materials
    Digital textbooks, PDFs, and lecture slides are made compatible with screen readers. Alternative formats such as large print, braille, or audio versions can also be arranged.

  • Note-Taking & Lecture Recording
    With prior approval from instructors, students may be allowed to record lectures or access live captions.

If you require accommodations, please contact our Campus Director, Terry, at terry@gbcol.ca To ensure timely arrangements, submit your accommodation requests at the start of the semester.

Feedback

Should you have any feedback or complaints to share about our academic advising or learning support services, please complete this form.

Should you wish to submit a complaint and/or feedback on our disability and accessibility services, please complete this form.

Academic Policies

Tuition Payment Plans and Scholarships

Tuition Payment Plans

GBCe offers payment plans for students. For more information, students can email admissions@gblcol.ca

Scholarship Opportunities

GBC may offer scholarship opportunities depending on the program and time of year. We encourage you to regularly check your student email for announcements about available scholarships.

Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria designed to welcome a diverse range of applicants. For more details, please contact admissions@gblcol.com.

Generally, GBC scholarships require applicants to meet some combination of the following:

  • Maintain good academic standing

  • Meet GPA requirements (e.g., 3.0 or higher)

  • Demonstrate excellence in specific subjects

  • Participate in extracurricular activities

  • Engage in community involvement or volunteer work

  • Other criteria as specified

Local Community Integration Support

Student Support Person

We understand that moving to a new country can be challenging, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you need assistance transitioning to life in Canada, please don’t hesitate to contact Ankita, our Marketing & Admissions Officer, at ankita@gblcol.ca. Claudio is well-versed in the unique challenges of this transition and is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Engagement with the Vancouver Community

Students are encouraged to participate in local cultural events and activities, enhancing their integration into the Vancouver community such as by attending local events, attending networking events, and volunteering.

Networking Opportunities

GBC offers access to networking events and professional groups that help students build connections and explore career opportunities. Information about these events is shared through GBC communication channels. For events with limited capacity—such as Job Fairs, Co-op Workshops, and Career Orientations—registration forms will be provided in advance to ensure students have the opportunity to apply and participate.

Additional Resources