Part of your success at UBC involves proactive financial planning. Review the resources below and connect with an Enrolment Services Advisor if you would like guidance on how to start.
Understand your costs
Tuition and student fees
The first step is to understand how much a school year will cost you and what the related expenses are. Knowing your costs will give you the foundation to build your financial plan. Start by understanding the costs for tuition, student fees, and books:
Living costs
Next, consider how much it will cost to live in Vancouver.
- If you are living on campus, you’ll need to cover residence fees and a meal plan.
- If you’re off-campus, you’ll want to consider rent, groceries, and utilities.
Be sure to account for your personal expenses, such as your phone bill, subscriptions, and social expenses. If it’s in your financial plan, you won’t be caught off-guard. Use the cost calculator to help you calculate your first year finances.
If you’re a graduate student, use the graduate cost calculator to develop your financial plan.
Know your resources
After determining your educational costs, you’ll need to find resources to cover those costs.
Domestic and US students may be eligible for government student loans.
International students must ensure they have sufficient financial resources for their studies at UBC. Unless you have received a scholarship, plan to cover the full cost of your degree.
Learn more about financial assistance programs for students studying at UBC.
Map your timeline
Enrolment Services is committed to helping you, but it is your responsibility to meet important deadlines. Review key dates and deadlines.
You’re strongly recommended to apply for your student loan by mid-July.
Build a financial plan
Every student should have a financial plan. Once you’ve gathered the information above, you’ll be ready to make one and find what works best for you.
These tools and tips can help you get started on your financial plan:
- How to budget
- Spending Plan Template (Excel)
- Budget-Planning Worksheet (pdf)
- Understanding Credit (pdf)
- Sticking to the Plan (pdf)
- Student Loans and Graduation (pdf)
Maintaining your financial plan
Once you have a plan, it’s important to use it. Sometimes this is easier said than done. If it’s not working, making adjustments as needed is okay. Stay on top of your obligations with your previous loans and be prepared for your loan repayment.
Financial Wellness workshops
During the summer months, Enrolment Services Advisors host free Financial Wellness workshops for students who are new to UBC. Other workshops open to all students are available throughout the year. Browse upcoming sessions and register through the event schedule.
Additional workshops for student groups are available by request. Visit Financial Wellness Training and Education to learn more or request your workshop online.
Financial Resources Canvas course
Sign up for Understanding Your Financial Picture on Canvas to take a deeper dive into financial content. The course provides a foundation for managing your finances and introduces topics like budgeting.
If you have questions
If you have questions, please contact your Enrolment Services Advisor directly.
For general questions, please call 604 822 9836 or submit a question through the online form.