Designed for international students, this 30-day program offers a safe and supportive place to stay as you settle into life in Canada.
You will live with a welcoming host who provides a comfortable home and three meals per day, while Niagara College offers guidance and resources to help you adjust with confidence.
There is no deposit required and no refunds provided, as the Landing Pad program is limited to 30 days.
Your host covers routine household expenses, including three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
If you have special dietary needs, attend special events, or join your host family on weekend outings, consider contributing to any additional costs. If your host family is covering these expenses for you, be sure to express your appreciation for their generosity.
Please avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Debit, bank, and credit cards are widely accepted and offer a safer way to manage your spending in Canada.
Costs
Monthly: $950 (due upon arrival)
Length: 30 days
Fees Include: Meals, Private Bedroom, Bed, Desk, Dresser, Unlimited Internet
Your Landing Pad host will provide food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. While ingredients will be available, you may need to prepare your own breakfast and lunch.
Dinner is typically a shared family experience. It is common for all household members to sit down together, enjoy a meal, and talk about their day. Be sure to ask your host what time dinner is served so you can be home on time. If you will not be home for dinner, it is very important to let your host know in advance.
While your meals are included in the program, you may choose to purchase additional food or drinks that are not typically part of your host’s routine. This is a great way to become familiar with local grocery stores and prices.
If you enjoy cooking, talk to your host about preparing meals together. Mealtimes are one of the best opportunities to experience Canadian culture, connect with your host family, and settle into your new environment. It may feel different at first, but many students come to appreciate and enjoy these shared moments.
Living with a Canadian family may be a new experience, and understanding household expectations will help you adjust more easily.
Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind:
Personal Hygiene
In Canadian culture, good hygiene is very important. Please remember to:
- Shower daily
- Use deodorant
- Brush your teeth each day
Bathroom Etiquette
- Showers should be kept to 10 minutes or less
- Toilet paper is flushed down the toilet
- Sanitary products should be wrapped and placed in the garbage, not flushed
Laundry
- Ask your host to show you how to use the washing machine and dryer
- Do laundry only when you have a full load
- Wash clothes after 7:00 p.m. or on weekends when energy costs are lower
Energy Use
- Turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use
- Electricity in Canada is more expensive during peak hours, so conserving energy is appreciate
Internet, Computers & Cell Phones
- You are encouraged to bring or purchase your own computer for home use
- Internet use should be respectful and reasonable — excessive use may lead to disconnection
- Niagara College has computer labs available for students at no cost
- If your cell phone does not support a Canadian SIM card, you may need to purchase a new phone
- Hosts will not allow romantic partners to stay overnight
- Friends should not be invited for regular meals
- Always ask your host before inviting anyone over
- You are responsible for any damage caused by your guests
Open and respectful communication with your host family is key. If you are unsure about something, just ask — they are there to help you feel welcome and supported.
Most issues can be resolved through open and respectful communication. If any concerns arise, students or host families are encouraged to complete the following form that will be reviewed by NC’s Housing and Settlement Advisor: