Kamloops-Thompson International Student Program

Kamloops-Thompson International Student Program

We are one of the world leaders in English, Math and Science with British Columbia being one of the highest ranking provinces and Kamloops being one of the best districts. Simple choice! We offer a variety of programs to suit the needs of our students. We provide support for our students with Counseling and English as a Second Language as required. Along with the academic programs available to our students, the International Program offers a vibrant activities program for all of our International Students to enjoy! 

Why Come to Our City

Located in the heart of BC, a top choice for International students due to the quality of our educational system and a mild climate. Kamloops, population of 90,280, is nestled in South-Central British Columbia where the region supports approximately 500,000 residents.

We are proud to be a University City with Thompson Rivers University, a leader in International Education. Over 13,000 university students choose to study here with 90 different countries being represented on campus and in our community.

We are fortunate to enjoy four seasons throughout the year in a beautiful area that lends itself to hiking, skiing, boating, golf and many outdoor and indoor athletic pursuits. In fact, Kamloops is proud to be the 'Sports Capital of British Columbia' and pleased to welcome and host many sporting events at our modern Tournament Center facility and other community sporting sites.

The International Student Program offers a large variety of activities outside of school time for the students to take part in. Our activities coordinator works hard to provide activities that every student can enjoy through out the year.

Activities and Recreation

The International Student Program offers an ongoing activities program with several activities every month keeping students connected and assisting them in making friends while enjoying sports, nature, and cultural experiences. There is an emphasis on nature-related activities during all months of the school year highlighting the distinct four-season climate of Kamloops.  Activity fees cover all of the activities except the longer overnight trips and skiing, where fees apply.

Kamloops has a vibrant Indigenous community, and the First Peoples Principles of Learning are embedded in many of the activities.

At SD73, we are able to offer a unique experience/opportunity in that students can earn up to 8 credits by participating in the activities program.

School District No. 73 is Seeking Homestay Families

Families living in the Kamloops-Thompson region understand the benefits of attending the public school system here. We know it is an experience and an opportunity that many families around the world want for their children. The program is currently seeking Homestay Families in Kamloops (especially in the Valleyview, Juniper, Dallas, and Sun Rivers areas) and Clearwater. 

"This District is considered a leader in the province, and British Columbia is recognized as one of the world leaders in English, Math, and Science.  Young people from around the world are interested in studying in Kamloops.  We are looking for Homestay families for the next school year. Hosting an international student is a wonderful experience and a great way to expand your family's horizons and see your surroundings with a fresh perspective."

- Bill Hamblett, Assistant Superintendent - Secondary 

Benefits of becoming a Homestay Family

If you become a homestay family, you will be helping a student from another country while they attend school.

School District No. 73 compensates families at a rate of $1,000 per month, per student. That is $5,000 per semester and $10,000 per school year. Families may host multiple students if they wish. 

Your duties as a host family will include providing a private room for each student, having regular meals with your student, assisting with school start-up routines and providing guidance and support while the student studies in Kamloops or in Clearwater.