The Comox Valley International Student Program, run by School District 71 since 2005, brings international students from around the world to study in the Valley from elementary through high school. The program goes beyond academics, focusing on emotional intelligence development and global citizenship alongside educational achievement. Students can enroll in 5-10 month programs, graduate through the full program, or participate in summer and sports programs.

International students are placed with local homestay families who provide accommodation and cultural immersion. The program supports both students and host families—students receive orientation to Canadian culture, medical insurance assistance, activity programs, and airport coordination, while host families receive honorariums and training to create welcoming environments.

The Valley’s location works well for this: it’s between the Beaufort Mountains and the Salish Sea, easily accessible via the local airport with daily flights from Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. If you’re interested in hosting an international student, the program actively recruits local families. For students and families considering the program, it offers a smaller community setting on Vancouver Island with comprehensive support services. Contact them at 1-250-703-2904 or [email protected] for information.