Welcome to Pro! Whether you’re new to Canada or have been here a while, we want you to feel right at home as you start your aviation journey. This is a big step, and we’re here to cheer you on, guide you, and make sure you’re ready for all the amazing opportunities ahead.

Pro is more than just a school – we’re a community. A place where you’ll meet lifelong friends, grow as a person, and build the skills to soar in your career. Our instructors and staff are passionate about helping you succeed, and we’re all here to make sure you have the best experience possible.

This guide is designed to help you settle in. Think of it as your go-to handbook for everything you need to know – from tips on adjusting to life in Canada to advice on health, housing, finances, and student life. We want to make sure you feel supported and confident every step of the way.

How to Apply to Professional Flight Centre

Are you an International Student wishing to become a pilot in Canada?  Just 5 easy steps, and you’ll be on your way!  Here’s just how to do it!

STEP 1 – Complete LOA (Letter of Acceptance) Application Form.

STEP 2 – Admission office will email qualified candidates to confirm start date and make sure all information is correct.

STEP 3 – Submit a non-refundable application fee of:

  • $850.50 CDN ($810.00 + GST) for the Letter of Acceptance (Delivered through email),
  • Fee is payable by Credit Card or Bank Transfer. Admission office will provide Payment instructions through email.
  • If tuition prepayment option was selected, admission office will provide wire transfer instructions.

STEP 4 – Once the payment is received, we will sent you the LOA draft for review. The official LOA document will then be delivered to you via Email (Softcopy option). The official provincial attestation letter (PAL) will be issued once LOA document has been finalized.

STEP 5 – Apply for a Study Permit through IRCC website, and come to Canada!  It’s that easy!!

International Student in Canada

What’s it like to be an International Student in Canada? We recommend new students to go through BC’s New Comer’s Guide to learn about details on BC’s health, education, government systems and many more. This will prepare one’s arrival to BC and help one to adapt to the new environment quickly and smoothly.

Adapting to Canadian Culture

Canada is celebrated for its rich cultural diversity, and as an international student, your classroom interactions might be your first exposure to people from vastly different backgrounds and cultures. It’s common for many international students to encounter some level of culture shock during their initial months in Canada. While most Canadians are known for being friendly and welcoming to newcomers, adjusting to cultural differences can still require time and patience. We encourage students to read through “Your first month in Canada as an international student” article from RBC to help you transition smoothly into your campus life in Canada.

Pro is culturally diverse. We have trained pilots from over 40 countries encompassing all four corners of the globe.  We are well versed in the special needs that our out-of-country guests may need and we always go out of our way to make your stay a positive one in every way possible.

New Student Orientation

Following registration at dispatch, an in-person orientation is booked for international students at no additional cost. The orientation will include information about living costs, housing costs, availability of suitable accommodation, requirements for program attendance and progression, the institution’s policies, including the policy for dispute resolution for academic and non-academic disputes, employment rights and conditions in British Columbia, and tenancy rights in British Columbia.

Activities and Events for International Students

International students in Vancouver, British Columbia can enjoy many activities, including outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and events.

Outdoor activities 

  • Beaches: Enjoy the sun and surf at one of the many beaches in the city
  • Hiking and biking: Explore the area’s many trails and routes. Visit Vancouver Trails Website for hiking resources.
  • Winter sports: Go skiing or snowboarding in the winter. There are several ski resorts near Vancouver. For more details, visit following page from Destination Vancouver.
  • Ice skating: Rent skates at one of the many rinks at City of Delta.

Cultural experiences

  • Visit museums and galleries: Explore the Vancouver Art Gallery or the Vancouver Zoo
  • FlyOver Canada: Experience a state-of-the-art flight simulator
  • Visit Granville Island: Stroll through the farmers market and brewery
  • Visit Stanley Park: Walk by the water or go for a bike ride

Housing and Transportation Guide

Finding housing in the Vancouver area can be a tedious task, especially for those new to the region. To make the process smoother, it’s a good idea to begin exploring housing options well in advance. If you’re not yet familiar with the area, we have prepared Housing and Transportation Guide to help you get oriented.

This guide has been specifically created for international students new to Canada, offering insights into local accommodation choices and practical rental advice to help you secure a safe and comfortable place to live.

Budget for Housing

Housing costs in Metro Vancouver can vary widely depending on the area and type of accommodation. To get a clear idea of what to expect, it’s a good idea to explore a variety of available units in the neighborhood where you’re hoping to live. This will help you plan your budget more effectively and set realistic expectations.

To help you budget your expenses, we recommend using the following cost-of-living calculator: https://www.costofliving.workbc.ca/.

Accommodation Near School

Accommodations is an important factor in choosing a flight school. We have created an dedicated Student Accommodation page to provide suggestions to a host of accommodations available to students in areas around the school, ranging in style, comfort, and price.

Tenancy Rights and Responsibilities

A lease, often referred to locally as a tenancy agreement, is a legally binding contract in Canada between a tenant and a landlord or property manager for renting a property. Once both parties sign the lease, a tenancy begins, and the leaseholder, along with any other occupants listed (such as family members or roommates), officially become tenants. In British Columbia, tenants are granted specific rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancy Act.

Before signing a lease, we strongly advise taking the following steps:

  1. Get to know the area: Spend time exploring different neighborhoods to find a location that suits your needs and preferences. If possible, live in the Vancouver area for a few months before committing to a lease in your name.
  2. Understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant: Take advantage of free resources like the Renting it Right online courses and review materials on the Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre website, including their Tenant Survival Guide.
  3. Inspect the property in person: Arrange a viewing with the landlord or property manager. If you can, bring a friend or family member along. Document any existing damage (photos can be helpful) and notify the landlord. Take the opportunity to explore the neighborhood and check for amenities like transit, grocery stores, parks, and cafes.
  4. Read the lease thoroughly: Take your time to review the lease carefully. Ensure you fully understand all the terms and conditions, as it becomes a legally binding agreement once signed.

Taking these steps can help you make an informed decision and ensure a smoother renting experience.

Transportation

We are located at Boundary Bay Regional Airport (CZBB), which is about 20 minutes from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and less than 40 minutes to downtown Vancouver, Surrey and the US Border.

You can get to Professional Flight Centre by car, bus or bike. Public transit is definitely recommended. We are just 200m (2 minutes walk) from the bus stop. If you do drive, there are plenty onsite free parking space available.

Please visit our Transportation page detailed travel information.

Health Insurance, Safety, Crisis Management & Mental Well-being

Mandatory Health Insurance

In British Columbia, the health insurance is provided through government through Medical Services Plan (MSP). MSP is a mandatory health insurance plan, for everyone who lives in British Columbia (BC) for six months or longer. International Students upon arrival at Professional Flight Centre must provide proof of initial 3-month Private Health Insurance coverage in BC. Upon arrival, students must apply for Medical Services Plan (MSP).

More information can be found at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/bc-residents/benefits

Student safety

Vancouver is a safe city and violent crime is not common. As in any other big city, however, thefts, pick-pocketing, and small crimes do happen. Please review International Student Safety page from Vancouver Policy Department (VPD) for tips to stay safe while travelling on transit or out at night.

Local Clinics

8-1-1 is a free, confidential phone line in British Columbia that provides health information and advice. It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is operated by HealthLink BC. 

Need medical care right away? Visit one of these trusted clinics close to school:

Mental Health Support

In Canada, we believe that mental illness is caused by a complex interaction of genetic, biological, personality, and environmental factors and that it can affect people of all ages, cultures, education and income levels. We also believe that every life has its ups and downs and that increasing self-esteem, coping skills, and social support can help people be more resilient, and bounce back from adversities.

Your mental well-being matters. International students can access mental support blow at anytime. You are welcomed to reach out to school at anytime if you require assistance:

Emergency Procedures

Your safety is our top priority at Pro. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the following emergency protocols:

  • Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
  • Evacuation Plans: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and assembly points on campus.
  • Emergency Drills: Participate in regular fire and earthquake drills to practice safe responses.
  • Severe Weather Alerts: Stay informed about local weather conditions and follow school guidelines during severe weather events.

Crisis Management Resources

Pro provides support for students facing emergencies or challenging situations:

  • Student Services: Contact dispatch at 604-952-4635 during operational hours.
  • Mental Health Crisis Line: Call 310-6789 (no area code needed) for immediate mental health support in BC.
  • VictimLink BC: Call 1-800-563-0808 for support if you experience violence or abuse.
  • Talk Suicide Canada: Reach out at 1-833-456-4566 (available 24/7) for suicide prevention support.

Financial Planning and Support

Tuition and Fees

The latest estimated total cost of Flight Training at different stages of the Professional Pilot Program and aircraft’s hourly rate can be found at https://proifr.com/programs/rates/. All prices are in Canadian Dollars. The training cost is the same for domestic and international students.

Payment Methods

Tuition payments can be made via bank transfer, cheque, bank draft, credit card, or other approved methods.

Opening Bank Account

Opening a Canadian bank account (in-person or online) is one of the first things you should do as an international student. Please call or visit the bank first to see if an appointment is required for opening a new account.

You will need to bring following documents with you when opening a bank account:

  • Passport
  • Study Permit
  • Letter of Acceptance
  • Proof of Address (such as rental agreement or utility bill)

Below is a list of popular banks in Canada:

Scholarships

Many organizations provide scholarships for international students in Canada, such as:
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
• EduCanada Scholarships
• BC General Aviation Association Scholarship

Flight Training

Flight Training Videos

If a picture worth a thousand words, then a video is worth a thousand pictures! Professional Flight Centre is one of the very few flight schools that allow students to film during flight. Many of our students have recorded and shared flight training videos on social medias. These videos have helped many others to master and successfully complete their training. To see what flight training at Professional Flight Centre will be like, visit our media page.

Ground School

Our famous Professional Pilot Ground School runs on a continuous basis and new students are welcome to join in at any time. This comprehensive 150-hour course is offered on daily basis from Monday to Thursday, both a morning and afternoon sessions are available to suit student’s schedule. Our ground school prepares you to achieve a solid passing mark on the Transport Canada Written Exams. Detailed class schedules can be found on Calendar page at: https://proifr.com/calendar/.

Testimonials

See what current and past students have to say about our excellent flight training programs on our Testimonials page.
Professional Pilot Program

Part-Time Job and Post-Graduation Employment

Job Opportunities for Students

During study period, full-time International Students can work up to 24 hours per week while studying in Canada. Occasionally, we offer job opportunities to students on campus. We always try our best to hire own Instructor Rating graduates; however, this also depends on the demand at the time.

Please visits Job Opportunities page for more information.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

If you complete your CPL flight training with our school under a student visa/permit, you are eligible to apply for work permit and work in Canada. Because according to Government of Canada, to be eligible for a Post-graduation work permit (PGWP), you must meet one of these requirements:

  • You’ve completed a flight training course at a Canadian training centre and now have a Canadian commercial pilot’s license, or
  • You have or you are in the process of getting an instructor’s rating, and you have a job offer to work as a flight instructor at a flight training centre.

Government of Canada has made it clear that new PGWP eligibility requirement based on field of study does not apply to flight schools (Official Link). Flight school graduates only need to meet the current eligibility criteria (even after November 1, 2024).

Employment Rights and Conditions in British Columbia

As an international student in British Columbia, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities as an employee in BC. This section provides an overview of employment standards, workplace rights, and key information to help you navigate the workplace confidently and safely.

The Employment Standards Act (ESA) sets out the minimum rights and responsibilities for employees and employers in BC. Key points include:

  • Minimum Wage: As of March 2025, the general minimum wage in BC is $17.40 per hour. Some industries may have different rates. Latest minimum wage can be found on BC Government page.
  • Breaks: You are entitled to a 30-minute unpaid break after 5 consecutive hours of work. Additional breaks may be required depending on your work environment.
  • Overtime Pay: If you work more than 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week, you are entitled to overtime pay.
  • Vacation Pay: You are entitled to 4% vacation pay on your earnings, which can be paid out with each paycheck or taken as time off.
  • Public Holidays: You are entitled to statutory holiday pay if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you work on a public holiday, you must be paid 1.5 times your regular wage.
  • Safe Work Environment: Employers are required to provide a safe and healthy workplace. If you have concerns about workplace safety, you can contact WorkSafeBC.
  • Protection from Discrimination: Under the BC Human Rights Code, you have the right to work free from discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age, or other protected grounds.
  • Protection from Harassment: You have the right to work in an environment free from harassment or bullying. If you experience harassment, report it to your employer or a trusted authority.
  • Right to Be Paid: Employers must pay you for all hours worked, including overtime. If you are not paid, you can file a complaint with the Employment Standards Branch.

Taxes and Payroll Deductions

  • Income Tax: As an employee, you are required to pay federal and provincial income taxes. Your employer will deduct these taxes from your paycheck.
  • Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Contributions to CPP are mandatory for most employees and provide retirement benefits.
  • Employment Insurance (EI): EI contributions provide temporary financial assistance if you lose your job or cannot work due to specific circumstances.

Canadian Permanent Residence

Over the years, many of our Instructors Rating students have successfully obtained Canadian Permanent Residence Status. We do not offer immigration advice or counseling services. We suggest interested students to contact Canadian government or an immigration expert for detailed information on CRS.

Additional Resources on Working in Canada:

• WorkBC Workplace Rights
• WorkBC Career Services for Post Secondary Students and Alumni
• Post-Graduation Work Permit
• Finding Work in BC

Academic Policies

School’s academic policies can be found on Academic Policy page.

Additional Information

Here are some more links to help you get more information on programs that we offer:

School Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/ProfessionalFlightCentre/

School Instagram Page:
https://www.instagram.com/proflightcentre/

School Media Page including Virtual Reality Tour and Flight Training videos:
https://proifr.com/about-us/media/

Frequently Asked Questions:
https://proifr.com/about-us/faq

Our Accreditations:
https://proifr.com/about-us/accreditations/

Private Pilot Licence:
https://proifr.com/programs/private-pilot-license/

Commercial Pilot Licence:
https://proifr.com/programs/commercial-pilot-license

Professional Pilot Ground School:
https://proifr.com/programs/daily-ground-school

Questions?

Please visit our FAQ section that addresses more frequently asked questions. Feel free to contact us if you have further questions.

Cessna 152 Aircraft Parked on Ramp at Boundary Bay Airport