You must have comprehensive health and accident insurance during your stay in British Columbia. You must show proof of insurance coverage before starting classes. The BC Medical Services Plan is available to students who have been in Canada for at least 3 months.
The current rate is $69.25 per month. Consequently, you must buy private medical insurance for the first three months of your visit. It is best to buy insurance before you leave home. If you prefer, VEC will arrange medical insurance for you. The cost is CAD$60 per month or CAD$20 per week with a minimum of 2 weeks (an additional week is CAD$20).
How to buy medical insurance
To have your medical insurance arranged by VEC, you must pay for it when applying for admission. Insurance fees are not refundable. Students are only covered by insurance while they are enrolled in a course at the Vancouver English Centre. Your coverage will end when you leave school. If you are planning to study at VEC longer than 3 months, apply for the BC Medical Services Plan as soon as you arrive.
Private insurance coverage
Private insurance does not cover pre-existing illnesses and some other expenses, such as dental care and eye examinations. Vancouver English Centre will not be responsible in any way for any claims related to medical insurance. Vancouver English Centre will not be liable in any way to the student for loss, damage, or injury to persons or property howsoever caused.
To apply for the British Columbia Medical Services Plan, you must:
- Obtain a BC Medical Services Plan application form from the school
- Complete the application form
- Mail your completed application form, the monthly premium of $69.25, a copy of your passport and a copy of your Study Permit to:
Please note that it takes over two months to complete the application process. Consequently, it is best to apply to the Medical Services Plan as soon as you arrive in Vancouver.