BC Symposium: Advancing International Student Support
About
On February 18 and 19, the BC Council for International Education’s and the Canadian Bureau for International Education’s third annual symposium is taking place in-person at Vancouver Community College’s downtown campus.
This event is an opportunity for international education practitioners to exchange knowledge, share resources, and stay informed about our sector. Topics presented will focus on the international student lifecycle. The agenda will feature plenary sessions, interactive breakout sessions, and networking activities.
The registration fee is $150 (plus tax) and will include refreshments on both days, and lunch on Thursday. The deadline to register for this event is February 11, 2026.
Call for Proposals
On the afternoon of February 19, we’ll have 1-hour sessions where we’re inviting practitioners to present on best practices and initiatives related to student support. You are invited to submit a topic related to any part of the international student lifecycle.
Examples of topics to present on include:
- Recruitment and Admissions
- Arrival and Orientation
- Immigration and Academic Advising
- Student Health and Wellbeing
- Graduation and Transition to the Workforce
You may also submit a topic on another student support related area of your choice.
If you are interested in speaking at the symposium, please fill in the call for proposals below by October 30, 2025. Selected speakers will receive a discount on their symposium registration.
Program
Wednesday, February 18 |
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Afternoon |
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Thursday, February 19 |
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Morning |
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Grab-and-Go Lunch |
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Afternoon |
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Please note that the program is subject to change.
Travel
In alignment with BCCIE’s commitment to environmental sustainability at our in-person events, we encourage you to consider your chosen method of transportation to Vancouver and how it impacts your carbon footprint. Where possible, avoid air-travel and instead opt to carpool, walk-on the ferry, or take public transportation.
We have secured a special nightly rate at The Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown for symposium attendees. Rooms are available at a special rate of $189 (plus taxes and fees). Book your room using the button below by January 18, 2026, to take advantage of this special rate. If you are booking by phone or email, please provide the hotel with the group booking code “CIE”. One night deposit will be charged at time of booking and deposits are refundable if cancelled at least 14 days prior to arrival.
Event Partners
