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Student Services
Our Student Services team offers a wide range of accessible supports to help you succeed during your time as a CAT student and your transition to sustained employment after graduation. We’ll meet you where you are on your journey, and through a variety of services, help you realize the personal and professional future you see for yourself. Student Services also coordinates student events throughout the year including networking events and collaboration gatherings.
We’ve listed the supports we offer below. Want to know more? Please stop by Student Services and introduce yourself!
You will get...
Personal and Academic Coaching
We recognize that students often have multiple challenges in their lives, be it health, home life, personal relationships or employment. Should you have personal or academic issues that arise during your course of studies here at the College, you are strongly encouraged to make an individual coaching appointment.
These sessions can be very helpful as a sounding board, helping you to develop coping strategies and work through your challenges. Please note our team may refer you to other professional services within the community if deemed appropriate.
Career Preparation and Assistance
Through a mix of workshops, lectures and practice sessions, we’ll help you identify and leverage your strengths as you build your career plans. We even provide opportunities for you to connect with future employers.
Daily Life in Kelowna
Adjusting to life in a new city is an important part of your educational journey. Whether you’re from across the country or overseas, our goal is to support your transition and help you feel at home in Kelowna. Below are some essential services and resources to help you navigate daily life:
Transportation
Kelowna has a reliable public transit system operated by BC Transit. Students can purchase monthly bus passes at a discounted rate and plan routes using the Transit App. Bike lanes and walking paths also make active transportation a safe and convenient option.
Childcare
There are a variety of licensed childcare centres in the Kelowna area. The Kelowna Child Care Society offers a comprehensive directory of local childcare providers. We encourage students with children to register early due to high demand.
Communications
Mobile phone and internet services are widely available from providers such as Telus, Rogers, Bell, and Freedom Mobile. Prepaid and monthly plans can be set up with valid ID. Free Wi-Fi is also available on campus and at many local libraries and cafés.
Banking
Major Canadian banks such as RBC, TD Canada Trust, Scotiabank, CIBC, and BMO all have branches in Kelowna. To open an account, students will typically need to provide two pieces of identification and proof of enrollment. Some banks offer special accounts for international or post-secondary students.
Student health, wellness & safety resources
At College for Arts and Technology, student success extends beyond the classroom. We are committed to supporting the health, safety, and well-being of all students throughout their educational journey. Whether you need academic support, mental health resources, healthcare information, or emergency assistance, help is available.
Mental health & wellness
Adjusting to college life can be both exciting and challenging. Students experiencing stress, anxiety, personal challenges, or concerns affecting their well-being are encouraged to seek support early.
Students may contact the Student Success team for assistance connecting with appropriate resources and services. Additional community resources are available throughout Kelowna and British Columbia.
Mental health resources:
- Student Success Team
- Interior Health Mental Health & Substance Use Services
- Kelowna Community Resources
- Here2Talk — free mental health support for post-secondary students in British Columbia
- 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Foundry Kelowna
Health care services
Students living in British Columbia may be eligible for coverage through the Medical Services Plan (MSP). International students studying in British Columbia for six months or longer are generally required to enroll in MSP.
Local healthcare services include:
- Walk-in medical clinics
- Urgent and Primary Care Centres
- Kelowna General Hospital
- HealthLink BC — dial 8-1-1 for non-emergency health information and advice
Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with available healthcare services shortly after arriving in Kelowna.
Addiction & overdose prevention resources
The College supports provincial initiatives that promote awareness, education, and prevention related to substance use and overdose. Students seeking information about addiction services, harm reduction, or recovery resources may access support through Interior Health and community service providers.
Resources include:
- Substance use counselling and support services
- Harm reduction education
- Community outreach programs
- Addiction recovery resources
Naloxone training & free naloxone kits
Naloxone is a medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and may help save a life while emergency medical services are en route. Free Naloxone kits and training are available throughout British Columbia through the BC Take Home Naloxone Program.
In Kelowna, students can obtain free Naloxone kits and training from many participating pharmacies and healthcare providers, including:
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- London Drugs
- Save-On-Foods Pharmacy
- Other participating community pharmacies
Students can ask a pharmacist whether their location participates in the BC Take Home Naloxone Program.
Safety & emergency resources
If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Important contacts:
- Emergency Services: 911
- HealthLink BC: 811
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988
- Kelowna General Hospital
- Student Success Team
Students are encouraged to save these numbers in their phones and familiarize themselves with available support services.
Creating a safe and inclusive learning environment
College for Arts and Technology is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students. Students are encouraged to review the Student Handbook for information regarding:
- Student Conduct Expectations
- Harassment and Discrimination Policies
- Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policies
- Student Complaint and Dispute Resolution Procedures
- Student Rights and Responsibilities
If you have concerns regarding your safety, well-being, or academic experience, please contact Student Services or the Student Success team for assistance.
Student Handbook
We want you to succeed and our helpful Student Handbook is filled with helpful advice and resources. View and download your copy with the button below!
Download Handbook