International Students

Our Diploma Programs have a proven history of turning students into full-time creative and business Professionals. Under the mentorship of our award-winning faculty you will develop extensive knowledge and technical ability while gaining the outstanding communication and self-marketing skills needed for a successful career.

Upon graduation you will earn a Canadian Diploma, and be equipped with the knowledge and skills to begin your career in North America, Europe, Asia and beyond.

Blanche Macdonald offers industry-recognized diplomas and certificates, but does not offer provincially recognized degrees. As such, graduates do not qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations.

International Students can choose between two types of Programs:

Domestic Programs
Study our regular award-winning curricula in a mixed class of Canadian and International Students.

• Global Makeup Diploma (1 year)
• Global Makeup Co-op Diploma (2 years)
• Global Esthetics/Medical Esthetics Diploma (1 year - 18 months)
• Global Esthetics/Medical Esthetics Co-op Diploma (2 years)
• Global Marketing: Fashion & Social Media Diploma (1 year)
• Global Marketing: Fashion & Social Media Co-op Diploma (2 years)
• Fashion Design Diploma (1 year)
• Fashion Design Co-op Diploma (2 years)
• Professional Hairstyling Diploma (1 year)
• Professional Hairstyling Co-op Diploma (2 years)
• Professional Hairstyling Foundations Diploma (6 months-1 year)
• Nail Studio Diploma (4-6 months)
• Freelance Makeup Artistry Associate Diploma (6-9 months)
• Professional Barbering Diploma (6 months)
• Professional Barbering Foundations Diploma (3-6 months)

International Programs
Featuring the same world-­class curricula and exceptional instructors as our regular Programs, these programs have one important difference: they have been specially designed for International Students who wish to improve their written and verbal English. They are attended primarily by other International Students.

• International Fashion Marketing Diploma (6 months)
• International Fashion Marketing Co-op Diploma (1 year)
• International Makeup Studio Diploma (3-6 months)
• International Makeup Studio Co-op Diploma (1 year)

BLANCHE MACDONALD'S OPTIONAL CO-OP WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM

As the Blanche Macdonald Centre is a private college offering 1-2 year diploma programs, our graduates are not eligible for the Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) option. While we are a fully accredited post-secondary institution, recognized by the government and have a DLI number; only students who have graduated from public universities or degree programs are eligible for the PGWP. Here is the IRCC website with further information.

The Blanche Macdonald Centre offers an optional Co-op program which allows the International student to legally work in Canada for the duration of their Co-op contract.

During Co-op, Career Directors will assist students in finding a paid position within their field of studies in Vancouver. This way, students can stay in Canada longer and gain valuable paid work experience.

CO-OP WORK EXPERIENCE

Put your knowledge to practice and get a head-start in the industry! Co-op Education is an experience-based approach to work-integrated learning. Our Co-op Program will place you in a professional role in a real-life workplace, such as a retail environment, office, agency or salon. You will earn academic credit as you gain real professional experience in the industry and solidify your skills and knowledge.

Co-op Students have a great professional advantage. By gaining real-life experience before they graduate, Co-op Students are incredibly desirable employees, prepared for a professional setting and ready to make a seamless transition from school to work. And with our extensive network of partnerships in the fashion and beauty industries, we are able to connect our Co-op Students with incredible opportunities. Many of these Co-op work experiences lead to further opportunities, important industry connections and even full-time employment.

Our International Students have the unique opportunity to expand on their studies by adding on a Co-op Work Experience segment, allowing them to spend up to two full years in Canada. Study with us for one year and then work in Canada for one year in your area of study.

We offer a two-year Full-time Co-op Diploma program in our Global Makeup, Global Marketing: Fashion and Social Media, Fashion Design, Global Esthetics and Professional Hairstyling programs, and a one-year Full-time Co-op Diploma program for our International Makeup Studio and International Fashion Marketing programs. Our Career Directors will work with Co-op students to coordinate work experience and volunteer opportunities (both paid and unpaid). Please note: Makeup Co-op work experience are largely in Cosmetic Retailing positions.

Students will require a Canadian Co-op Work Permit. For information on upcoming Co-op program start dates, please contact a Blanche Macdonald Admissions Director.

The Blanche Macdonald Centre is a fully accredited College established since 1960. We are a Designated Learning Institution with Citizenship and Immigration Canada and hold the Designation Certificate with British Columbia’s Education Quality Assurance (EQA). Each year over 1000 students graduate from our exceptional programs in Makeup Artistry, Fashion Marketing, Fashion Design, Hairstyling, Esthetics and Pro Nails, taught across three campuses in Vancouver, Canada.

Career Services

The booming Fashion and Beauty industries offer infinite options for rewarding, creative and flexible careers. The skills that you develop here can be transferred anywhere in the world – so there's no limit to where you can go. Our comprehensive, cutting edge programs will prepare you to enter the industry poised for success, and our full-time Career Services Team will help you find your perfect career fit.

Working around the clock, our Career Directors will connect you with volunteer, internship and employment opportunities. They will assist you in building your network and boosting your confidence. That guidance is good for life – beginning on your very first day and continuing throughout the evolution of your career.

Graduate Success & Stories

With over a thousand students enrolling in our Programs each year, Blanche Macdonald has become a dynamic global community. Our International students import a vibrant collection of new customs, insights and inspiration that colour our world in exciting new ways. The leap from their home countries to our corner of Canada comes with big change, courage and incredible journeys.

Our International Graduates have launched exciting careers in the global Makeup, Fashion, Esthetics and Hair industries, creating a network of success stories that stretches across Canada and far beyond. Speaking in the international language of passion, we sit down with our global talent to talk the dreams that brought them here, the challenges they overcame, and all about the power of being an artistic representative in a new country. Meet the International stars that have joined us from around the globe in our UN storytelling!

Top 3 Reasons

Interactive Education

At Blanche Macdonald we believe that education should be collaborative, interactive and industry relevant. You'll work with fellow students in a series of hands-on projects and experiences. We'll immerse you in real-life environments, from behind-the-scenes retail and special events to live demos and advanced training with international experts. You'll take part in professional photo shoots for your own Portfolio, produced to a high industry standard and ready to be brought to job interviews and professional events.

Award-Winning Faculty

Our innovative Programs are taught by expert instructors who bring their experience directly to our classrooms. Their work has appeared in major publications, productions and on runways around the world. You may be learning from Emmy Award winning Makeup Artists, international Fashion professionals, renowned Fashion Designers, acclaimed Stylists, successful Salon and Spa owners, leading business executives and ambitious entrepreneurs. Together they provide an unparalleled education in every aspect of the Fashion and Beauty Industries.

Global Reputation, Global Network

Established since 1960, the Blanche Macdonald has a reputation for world-class education. We've been at the leading edge in the fashion and beauty industries for over five decades, developing a powerful global network of relationships that connects us – and our students – to major players in the field. As part of the Blanche Macdonald family, you have access to our unique network. This reputation is upheld by our fearless commitment to excellence, our progressive approach to education, and our fierce dedication to giving our students the exceptional experience they deserve.

General Admission Requirements

To meet our admission requirements, all applicants must:

• Have successfully completed High School or an acceptable equivalent, or be at least 19 years of age.
• Submit a completed Application form to the school.
• Demonstrate an aptitude for and strong interest in their chosen subject area.
• Attend a personal interview with an Admissions Director. For applicants who live out of town or out of the country, these Admission interviews can be conducted over the phone.
• Achievement in a recognized standardized language test/assessment at an overall level equivalent to IELTS 5.5 (academic) or higher. See our full list of recognized assessments here.

Applicants must meet the above criteria, pay their Tuition deposits in full and sign their Official Enrollment Agreements before they are considered officially enrolled in a program.

Any Letters of Acceptance for Funding or Immigration purposes are issued once the above criteria have been met.

Click here for more details about Admissions to Blanche Macdonald Diploma Programs.

English Language Requirements

All programs are conducted in English. Successful applicants must be able to communicate effectively in English. Total fluency in English may not be required, however applicants must exhibit written and spoken English skills that will allow them to understand course material, complete assignments and exams, and graduate successfully.

International Applicants may be required to complete of an internal English Assessment Test before they are accepted onto their chosen program.

Program Registration Process

1. Please select the program you would like to enroll in.
2. Fill out an application form.
3. The College will contact you for a personal interview or a phone interview.
4. The College will review the results of your application and interview and determine if you are accepted.
5. If your Registration is approved, a tuition deposit is required to secure your seat. Please refer to the International Tuition Schedule for payment plans.
6. When your Enrollment is successful, you will receive the College's notification of acceptance and an Official Letter of Acceptance.
7. Arrange any necessary Student Visas, BC Medical Insurance, Housing and Financial needs.
8. The College will contact you for confirmation of your start date.
9. Start your Program at the Blanche Macdonald Centre!

Welcome to the Blanche Macdonald Centre! We’re delighted you’ve chosen us as your Canadian academic home.

Blanche Macdonald Centre is proud to hold the Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, a provincial symbol ensuring we meet BC’s standards for quality education and student protection. This designation also qualifies us as a Designated Learning Institution, which allows you to apply for and study in Canada under a valid Study Permit. Our DLI Number is O19257719332.

The Centre also holds a Designation Certificate issued by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

Blanche Macdonald Centre offers industry recognized diplomas and certificates, but does not offer provincially recognized degrees, so its graduates do not qualify for a PGWP under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations.

Studying in Canada offers not just a world class education but also a chance to experience one of the most diverse and inclusive countries in the world. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Accommodation, Housing and Transportation

While Blanche Macdonald Centre does not provide housing, our dedicated housing team offers guidance and resources to help find safe, local accommodations.

You’ll find more information under our Housing page.
Our housing team will also reach out to you personally to help you with your housing search.

Vancouver has excellent public transportation (Compass Card info available at TransLink).

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fee information is included in the applicable Program Brochure published on our website.

The tuition and fees payable to Blanche Macdonald Centre are listed on your student contract. Please contact your Admission Director with any questions you may have.

Academic Information

As an international student at Blanche Macdonald Centre, it’s essential to understand your program’s structure and the expectations for successful completion.

These include:

• Program Name and Credential issued upon successful completion
• Program Outline (List of courses, hours per course and delivery method (on-site/online)
• Graduation Criteria (Minimum attendance requirements, academic standards, and completion of all required coursework)

Where to find this information:

1. On your Student Enrolment Contract
2. In the Student Handbook sent to you as part of your Welcome Email.

An academic calendar (program schedule) is provided and reviewed during the Orientation session on the first day of the program of study.

Student Academic Support Services

The Centre has a number of staff dedicated to providing academic support. These individuals (Program Directors, Associate Program Directors, Program Managers and Program Co-ordinators) are listed in the Student Handbook for the program of study and are the official point of contact for international students.

He/she/they will facilitate your Orientation session on the first day of class and provide ongoing support and guidance as you adjust to life in Canada while studying at Blanche Macdonald Centre.

Student Safety, Health and Wellness

Medical Insurance: You must have health insurance upon arrival. Private health insurance is available from a number of providers.

Medical Services Plan (MSP) is the provincial health insurance plan in British Columbia. Anyone living in BC for six months or longer (including international students) is required by law to enroll in MSP and pay the plan’s premiums. MSP covers the cost of basic medical care within Canada, including most physician and hospital services. Presenting your BC Services Card issued by MSP will allow you to access medical care without having to pay at the time.

You must apply for MSP as soon as you arrive in BC. There is a three month waiting period before MSP coverage begins: this is the rest of the month in which you arrive in BC, plus two full calendar months. An application may be obtained from Blanche Macdonald Centre Centre or on the MSP website.

Wellness and Adjusting to Life in Canada

Arriving and living in a new country can come with both excitement and new challenges. Students may even experience culture shock early or later during this period of transition and adjustment. This phase of unfamiliarity and discomfort is normal and common as everyone adapts to a new living environment at their own pace. We encourage all students to take care of themselves by building and sustaining healthy habits and seeking professional help when they need it. Here are some examples of some general tips and guidelines:

• Get enough sleep each night
• Eat healthy meals at regular hours
• Limit screen-time
• Build and maintain social connections with family & friends
• Get enough physical activity
• Go outside and get fresh air
• Reach out and contact a professional and people you trust for support

Stress Management Strategies

Students will inevitably face multiple stressors in their everyday life while managing school, work, and life responsibilities. The stress response is normal as it signals our bodies to adapt to deal with these stressors. Each time we adapt to a daily stressor, we develop the skills to be more resilient and cope with stress the next time we encounter it.

Stress can be both good and bad! Too much stress can lead to burnout, anxiety and panic while too little stress can lead to inactivity and a lack of focus and motivation. Developing resilience helps us adapt to challenges and setbacks and find ways to shift back towards more balance. It is important that students notice when stress appears, recognize imbalances in their lives, and take proactive steps to manage it.

Here are some examples of ways to cope with stress:

• Calm breathing exercises
• Mindfulness practices
• Self-compassion
• Staying connected to your community

Emergency and crisis support

If you are feeling unsafe and in an emergency situation, please call 911.

Here2Talk: 24/7 free access to clinical counselling for post-secondary students at 604-642-5212 or toll-free 1-877-857-3397.

Additional information, emergency contacts, and community-based services are listed in Blanche Macdonald Centre’s Student Handbook. This information is also posted in all washroom facilities on all campuses.

Employment

International students are allowed to work off campus for up to 24 hours per week if they meet all the conditions set by IRCC and are studying full-time after their program has started. Here is the IRCC link for this information: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/work/work-off-campus.html

Each program includes classes on resume writing and interview preparation.

We also have a dedicated Career team for each program. They post career and volunteer opportunities on our Blanche Macdonald Centre FaceBook pages, job boards located at each campus, and on our program Instagram account.

The Career Directors are also the designated staff working with students in our Co-op programs.

Contact information for the Career Directors is listed in the Student Handbook and discussed at Orientation held on the first day of class.

Rights and Responsibilities

It is important you familiarize yourself with the Blanche Macdonald Centre Policies so you understand your rights and responsibilities as a student. These include policies for Attendance, Grade Appeal, Dispute Resolution, Sexual Misconduct, Fair and Respectful Treatment, Critical Incident and Crisis Management. All policies are accessible:

• In your Student Contract
• In the Student Handbook
• On the Blanche Macdonald Centre Website

As an international student, you are protected under:

Human Rights Code of BC For information on the BC Human Rights Code, please follow this link: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/00_96210_01

BC Employment Standards Act (if working off-campus under study permit conditions)

For information on the BC Employment Standards, please follow this link: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/employment-standards-advice/employment-standards

PTIRU Regulations

EQA Standards

You are responsible for:

• Attending regularly and performing academically
• Following Blanche Macdonald Centre policies and code of conduct
• Maintaining valid immigration status

Applying for a study permit is the responsibility of the Student. In this section we have outlined some general information regarding applying for a Study Permit in Canada. However, please note that these are general guidelines, and it is best that the student contacts Citizenship and Immigration Canada for the most up to date information.

According to Citizenship and Immigration Canada, to be eligible to study in Canada, you must:

• Qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller
• If you’re under 18, you don’t have to be fully vaccinated. You do need to study at a designated learning institution (DLI) with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan.
• Are enrolled at a DLI
• Prove you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees
• Living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
• Return transportation for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
• Obey the law, have no criminal record and get a police certificate (if required)
• Are in good health and get a medical exam (if required)
• Prove to an officer that you will leave Canada when your study permit expires

To learn more please visit the Citizenship and Immigration website.

APPLYING FOR YOUR STUDY PERMIT

If you are planning to study in a short-term course or program in Canada that is six months or less, you do not need a study permit. However, you must complete the course or program within the period authorized for your stay in Canada.

Even if you do not need a study permit, it is a good idea to apply for a permit before you come to Canada. If you decide that you want to continue your studies in another program after you complete your short-term course or program, you must apply through a Canadian visa office outside Canada for a Study Permit if you do not already have one.

Not sure if you will need a Student Visa? Review this Student Visa Requirement.

STUDY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS

There are ten steps to apply for a study permit:

1. Check the application processing times.
2. Obtain and print the application.
3. Determine where you will submit your application.
4. Collect the documents you need to apply.
5. If studying in Quebec, check the provincial guidelines.
6. Complete your application for a study permit.
7. Pay the correct processing fee.
8. Check your application.
9. Submit the application form.
10. Supply additional information or documents.

For more information about how to apply for a study permit, visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website here.

For any questions about studying at the Blanche Macdonald Centre as an International student, please contact your Admissions Director at 604.685.0347 or 604.685.0337, or call Canadian Immigration Services on 1.888.242.2100.

The Blanche Macdonald Centre has three locations in central Vancouver:

Uptown

At 30,000 square feet, our Uptown campus is situated in an award-winning, architecturally spectacular City Square shopping centre and houses the departments of Professional Makeup Artistry, Esthetics/Spa Therapy and Nail Technology, a fully equipped Mac Computer Lab and administrative offices.

Downtown

Spanning approximately 18,000 square feet, this multi-million dollar facility on Robson Street is located in the heart of Vancouver's fashion and shopping district. It houses the Fashion Design and Fashion Marketing faculties as well as the Pro Hair Program, with numerous Hair studios and theory rooms, and a 24-station Mac Computer Lab.

Atelier

Education, retail and entertainment converge at this 25,000 square foot state of the art retail, gallery and educational space. Brimming with natural light and polished concrete, our Atelier Campus is a second home to our Professional Makeup and Hairstyling programs as well as our first ever student-operated Hair Salon, Q&A, and our very Pro Beauty Boutique, CurliQue Beauty, providing exclusive beauty, skincare, haircare products, industry seminars and personal consultations. Events including exclusive speakers, expert demos, fashion shows and graduations are held in the soaring atrium overlooking Robson street.

Critics agree. Vancouver is one of the most beautiful - and livable - cities in the world.

Known as the Jewel of the Pacific Rim, Vancouver is a vivid and vibrant city. A multicultural hub with international sophistication, rich cultural resources and breathtaking scenery, Vancouver is safe and friendly. Here, cultures and cuisines exchange ideas and influences against a spectacular backdrop of snow-capped mountains, rainforests and the Pacific Ocean.

Vancouver's temperate climate, with mild winters unlike the rest of Canada, ensures its streets and cafes are always bustling. Vancouver is a city brimming with cultural events, world class shopping, gourmet restaurants with an endless array of international cuisines, and a vibrant nightlife.

The cosmopolitan city centre, home to Blanche Macdonald's three campuses, is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. With miles of pristine public walkways, beautiful beaches that hug the coastline, and numerous bike paths and hiking trails, Vancouver's outdoor activities are endless. The international ski resort of Whistler is easily reachable and the provincial capital Victoria, with its touches of British Colonial Architecture, is a simple ferry ride away.

Hundreds of movie and television productions have been filmed in and around Vancouver. The city has earned its reputation as Hollywood North, with local film production revenues exceeding over a billion dollars annually. After even a brief visit to Vancouver, you'll understand why the entertainment industry can't stay away.

Vancouver is a wonderful place to visit. It's an even better place to live.

For more information about Vancouver, please visit About Vancouver under Student Resources on our website.

Our Program Associates are here to assist International students in finding accommodations during their stay in Vancouver. Read more information about housing in Vancouver in our Student Resources section.

British Columbia Services Card

You will receive a British Columbia Services Card in the mail when you register with MSP. There will be a registration number embossed on the Services Card which is used to determine the status of your insurance.

Your Services Card will have the same expiry date as your Study Permit. Each time you receive a new Study permit, you will need to extend your MSP coverage. If you do not pay your monthly fee, you do not have insurance. It is important to carry your Services Card at all times as it must be presented to health care officials at the time that you are receiving care.

For further information visit the BC Services Card website here.

All students at Blanche Macdonald must have BC medical coverage or health insurance.

The BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) is the basic form of medical insurance. MSP hospitalization and most physicians’ services and referrals. It does not cover prescription medication, eyeglasses, and dental care. We strongly recommend applying for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) as soon as you arrive in Vancouver. If you do not have insurance, it will be your responsibility to pay the entire cost of all medical attention you receive.

MSP is available to out-of-province or International Students who have a valid Study Permit issued for six or more months, for a monthly fee. New residents who are applying for MSP will be subject to a 90 day waiting period.

If you are not already a BC resident, or if you are not already covered by MSP, it is strongly recommended to apply as soon as you arrive in Vancouver.

Applying for the Medical Services Plan (MSP)

Find out how to apply online or download an application form on the BC Government website here.

To learn more about MSP, please visit the MSP info page on the Government of British Columbia website here.

Care Card

You will receive a British Columbia Care Card in the mail when you register with MSP. There will be a registration number embossed on the Care Card which is used to determine the status of your insurance.

Your Care Card will have the same expiry date as your Study Permit. Each time you receive a new Study permit, you will need to extend your MSP coverage. If you do not pay your monthly fee, you do not have insurance. It is important to carry your Care Card at all times as it must be presented to health care officials at the time that you are receiving care.

For further information visit the BC Care Card website here.

Clinics & Hospitals

Vancouver Coastal Health provides a full range of health care services ranging from hospital treatment to community-based residential, home health, mental health and public health services.

Vancouver Travel Clinic provides services for pre-travel needs and specializing in Travel medications.

The nearest hospital to Blanche Macdonald is the Vancouver General Hospital on 12th Avenue. There is also an Urgent Care Centre at UBC Hospital that provides treatment for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions. Note, Urgent Care Centre is not for emergency care.

Vancouver also has many walk-in clinics. For a nominal fee you can visit a doctor without going to a hospital. To find your nearest clinics click here.

Useful Links and Phone Numbers

Healthcare & Emergencies

Emergency Services (Ambulance, Fire, Police) | 911
Crisis Centre | 604.872.3311 (this is a 24 hour emergency line)
S.A.F.E.R | 604.879.9251 (confidential line for depression, suicide)
Violence Against Woman Crisis Line | 604.255.6344 (24 hour and toll free)
Woman's Crisis Line | 604.872.8212

Immigration

Canada Customs | | 604.666.0545
Immigration Canada | 1.888.242.2100

Transportation

BC Ferries | 250.386.3431
TransLink (Public Transit - Buses, SkyTrain, SeaBus, etc) | 604.953.3333

Public Holidays & Important Dates

The Blanche Macdonald Centre is closed for all Statutory Holidays. There is a scheduled two week Christmas break. Dates will vary according to each program. Please check with the Registrar or your Program Director for the specific Christmas holiday dates. For a list of statutory holidays click here.

Working In Canada

International Students enrolled in one of our Full-time diploma programs are eligible to work up to 20 hours off-campus while attending their studies at Blanche Macdonald Centre. You will need to hold a valid Study Permit and apply for a Social Insurance Number at Service Canada to work off-campus.

To learn more visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada's Work Off Campus site.