While injury or illness is rare, it can happen. If you need help communicating with your insurance provider, family, or a medical professional, we can assist you. We also provide students with emergency contact information and guidance on what to do in urgent situations.

Our staff offer individualized academic support based on each student’s needs. Whether you’re having trouble with course material, adjusting to instruction in English, or managing your workload, instructors and administrative staff are available to help you succeed. Students are encouraged to speak with their instructor or visit the front desk for assistance.

Homestay

We like to place students in the homestay that suits them best, however the number of homestays are limited so all of a student’s desires may not be met. Students who are accepted into homestays, should understand that this type of accommodation is about learning the Canadian family lifestyle. Homestays are within a 30-minute bus ride of CSBA. Homestays include 3 meals per day and utilities (e.g. heating or showers). In some larger homes, 2 to 3 students may be accepted, but in theory each student will have their own bedroom.

Note: It is very difficult to place smokers, especially in homestays. Smoking is banned from homestays, and even if you don’t smoke at home, smoke smell can linger. Smoking cessation prior to arriving at CSBA is highly-recommended.

Shared-Housing

CSBA can arrange accommodation within a 30-minute bus ride of the school. A share-house offers more independent living than in homestays. Students may share a room with others, which may include Canadians or other international visitors. The kitchen, livingroom and bathrooms are shared spaces, and the contract details can vary depending on the location and number of share-mates.

Note: Smoking is not very common in Whistler. In fact, the ski resort has banned smoking. Share-homes have also banned smoking. Even if you don’t smoke at home, the smell of cigarettes can linger. Smoking cessation prior to arriving at CSBA is highly-recommended.

CSBA will assist with housing/accommodation for students. For more information, please contact us.

CSBA has staff available on-call to help with interpretation at your accommodation, at medical appointments, or when using external facilities. We are here to support you in situations where language may be a barrier.

At this time, CSBA does not offer institutional financial assistance, scholarships, bursaries, or awards.

To help our students feel at home and connected to the community, we kick off the school year with a fun and engaging scavenger hunt, giving students the opportunity to explore the town of Whistler and get to know their surroundings.

CSBA is proud of its strong partnerships with local businesses, Whistler Blackcomb, the recreation centre, and local schools. Thanks to these relationships, our students are recognized in the community and can confidently reach out for support or assistance at any time.

In addition, our staff are always available on site during school hours to provide personalized advice, guidance, and local knowledge, helping students transition smoothly to life at CSBA and in Whistler.

We regularly check in with our students and recommend volunteering opportunities and community events that may be a good fit for them. When needed, we also assist with the registration process to help them get involved.

We begin the school year with an in-person orientation designed to help students transition smoothly to life at CSBA and in Whistler. During orientation, students receive a comprehensive information package that includes details about our school policies, the support services we offer, housing options and tenancy rights, and other helpful resources to get you started. Daily Life Information is also provided during Orientation Week to help students settle into their new environment with confidence.

Transportation
Students are encouraged to bike or walk whenever possible. During orientation, we will guide you on how to purchase a bus pass and use the local transit system. In case of emergencies, please contact us so we can help arrange transportation to medical services if needed.

Child Care
CSBA does not provide on-site child care services. However, if you need help finding a local provider or arranging child care, please reach out to our staff — we’re happy to assist.

Communications
CSBA can help you set up a Canadian phone plan and configure your mobile device. We will also provide a list of emergency contacts and important local phone numbers during orientation. If you need help accessing the internet, or sending and receiving mail or packages, our staff are always available to assist.

Banking
At the beginning of the school year, CSBA staff are available to help students open a Canadian bank account, learn how to deposit and withdraw funds, and set up direct deposit when applying for jobs.