International Students & Short-Term Studies

Overview

The Goh Ballet Academy hosts dancers from all over the world in our many annual programs including the Junior School, Senior Professional School and Goh Ballet Youth Company. International students are also welcome to join our International Summer Intensive Programs (no student visa necessary) or any of our short-term study opportunities listed below (no student visa necessary).

Auditions 2025/26

Elevate your ballet journey with Goh Ballet Youth Company, a premier program designed for aspiring professionals. Train with esteemed instructors, work with renowned choreographers, and gain the experience needed to step confidently into your future career.

*In-Person Audition (Vancouver) - March 16, 2025

*Video Auditions - Accepted until March 30, 2025

Scholarships available through the Chan Hon Goh Scholarship Award.

If you’re a dedicated dancer aged 16+ (GBYC) or 13+ (Scholarship) with advanced ballet training, this is your chance to be seen.

Goh Ballet Youth Company 2025/26

Annual (September - June)

Elevate your ballet journey with Goh Ballet Youth Company, a premier program designed for aspiring professionals. Train with esteemed instructors, work with renowned choreographers, and gain the experience needed to step confidently into your future career.

*In-person audition: March 16, 2025 (Vancouver)
*Video auditions accepted until March 30, 2025

Scholarships available through the Chan Hon Goh Scholarship Award.

If you’re a dedicated dancer aged 16+ (GBYC) or 13+ (Scholarship) with advanced ballet training, this is your chance to be seen.

Tuitions & Fees

International Students (Annual: September to June)

2025/26

Registration Fee:
CAD $500.00

Annual Tuition:
CAD $29,846.20

Scholarships & Financial Assistance

Goh Ballet Academy Canada believes in assisting families who are in need of financial aid as well as rewarding students with artistic merit and achievements.

Scholarships offered exemplifies these principles by offering support to promising dancers, nurturing their potential, and contributing to the vibrancy and diversity of the dance community. By removing financial barriers, the scholarship enables students to focus on their artistic growth, ensuring that the next generation of professional dancers can thrive, regardless of their financial circumstances.

All applications, financial information, and scholarship amounts are confidential. Selection is determined by a committee of Artistic Staff, and decisions are based on financial need as well as the performance, talent, potential, improvement, attitude, and conduct of the student during the previous term. Scholarships are disseminated after the recipient is registered for their appropriate annual program.

All scholarship/financial assistance recipients are required to sign a scholarship/financial assistance agreement and to abide by all conditions outlined in the contract.

Chan Hon Goh Scholarship Fund

The Chan Hon Goh Scholarship Fund and Goh Ballet Financial Aid is granted on an annual basis for eligible students and families enrolled in the Senior Professional School. Applications are available in the main administrative office and must be completed and returned by the posted deadline for consideration.

Applications for the Chan Hon Goh Scholarship Fund and financial assistance are accepted from Senior Professional School students who have been enrolled for at least one year.

Goh Ballet Canada Society

Goh Ballet Canada Society supports scholarships for senior students in levels PB-GBYC who have been enrolled at the academy for at least one year. GBCS scholarships are awarded by audition only (dates for the audition will be released in the Spring of each year), or through participation in the Canadian Masterclass Series.

Short-Term Study Opportunities

Students seeking a three to six month exceptional opportunity to expand on their technique and artistic skills while enhancing performance abilities will benefit tremendously in our short term study programs. Please note that any specially requested dates outside of the opportunities listed below will be reviewed and must be approved by the Academy’s Director.

3-6 Month Programs

September - December

Receive four months of intensive training in the Senior Professional School and rehearsals with the Goh Ballet Youth Company. Perform in Goh Ballet’s critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre accompanied by the Vancouver Opera Orchestra featuring choreography by Emmy-Award choreographer, Anna-Marie Holmes.

January - March

Receive three months of professional study with classes and rehearsals consisting of over 25 hours per week and coaching on select variations. Participate in local dance festivals and competitions in a variety of categories and genres.

January - June

Receive six months of intensive training and rehearsals. At the end of training, perform in Goh Ballet's annual showcase performance at the Vancouver Playhouse which may include classical and contemporary original choreography as well as possible repertoire by George Balanchine, Marius Petipa, and some of today’s most sought after choreographers.

January - February (Integrated Language Studies)

This four week dance training and language studies course offers a sampling of studying in Vancouver. Daily dance classes are offered with English tutoring as well as weekend sightseeing and excursions.

July - August (Summer Intensives)

Goh Ballet’s International Summer Intensives for Senior and Junior level students are comprehensive educational programs specifically designed to assist each dancer to gain technique, learn new choreographic repertoire and challenge themselves to strive for excellence. Opportunities are offered for varying levels of students. Admittance is by invitation only. Please visit our auditions page for details.

Curriculum
  • Classical Ballet
  • Ballet Repertoire/Variations
  • Technique Development
  • Character/National Dance
  • Musical Theatre/Theatrical Performance/Mime
  • Pilates/Body Conditioning
  • Pas de Deux
  • Progressive Ballet Technique
  • Contemporary
  • Showcase Demonstration Presentation

During this four-week program, students will be assessed for possible acceptance into the Goh Ballet’s annual programs including the Junior School and Senior Professional Schhol. The Goh Ballet is committed to fostering talent and supporting those needing financial assistance. Scholarships are available for international students. More information is available upon acceptance into the program.

Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) - Vocational Studies

The Goh Ballet Academy enhances student education through the highly respected Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) graded and vocational examinations. The Royal Academy of Dance is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organizations in the world with more than 13,000 members spread across 79 countries.

The examination syllabus is taught to more than a quarter of a million students around the globe and is one of the most widely used classical ballet syllabi in professional academies and college dance programs throughout Canada and the United States. Participation in the RAD Exam system is possible only through officially registered and certified RAD teachers and schools.

Upon annual assessment to ensure optimal progress, Junior School and Senior Professional School students are given the option to prepare for graded or vocational examinations.

Goh Ballet offers a dedicated two week Royal Academy of Dance Examination Studies course each June. Under the guidance and tutelage of an RAD vocational examiner, this program is geared to assist and to optimize syllabus understanding. It will focus on more precise execution and improvement of technique as well as coach artistic nuances with musical phrasings. Classes will also concentrate on Examination Specific Criteria for each level and the comprehension of French terminology used for Free-Enchainment. Students wishing to join this course must be enrolled or ready to enroll in the Academy’s annual program.

International Students Guide

Government of Canada

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Access information and resources pertaining to international studies, immigration programs, citizenship services, refugee protection, and issuing Canadian travel documents.

Designated Learning Institute (DLI)

A Designated Learning Institute is a school that has been approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students.

Goh Ballet is an Accredited Designated Learning Institute.

Programs offered by Goh Ballet are not eligible for the Post-Graduate Work Permit Program (PGWP). Learn more about PGWP through the link below.

EduCanada

EduCanada is the official Government of Canada source about studying in Canada for international students and researchers.

Provincial Guidelines (British Columbia)

Welcome BC

WelcomeBC helps people navigate their journey to a new life in British Columbia.

English Language Competency Requirement 2025

The Province of British Columbia is setting a new minimum language requirements at private training institutions to ensure new international students are better prepared for their educational and professional journey in B.C.

Prospective Students MUST attain minimum scores in a single sitting of the English Language Test (Verbal, Listening, Written). Applicants must submit verified test scores from provincial approved assessments. Only approved tests are allowed for application consideration.

Private Training Institution Regulatory Unit (PTIB/ PTIRU)

Formerly known as Private Training Institution Branch (PTIB), now known as Private Training Institution Regulatory Unit (PTIRU), is governed by the province of British Columbia. The Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills regulates private training institutions in British Columbia and provides consumer protection to students.

Provincial Attestation Letters (PAL) - British Columbia

January 2025 Update:
  • The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has revised student allocations and capacities across the provinces and territories.
January 2024 Update:
  • Study permit applications from outside Canada require a valid Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).

BC Council for International Education

BCCIE is a provincial Crown corporation that supports the internationalization efforts of BC’s public and independent K-12 schools, public and private colleges and universities, and language schools.

BCCIE works collaboratively with the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, partner ministries including the Ministry of Education and Child Care and the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, and with schools, districts, and institutions.

Housing & Accommodations

Government of Canada (IRCC)

Find out how newcomers can find safe and affordable places to live in Canada.

Study in BC Canada

British Columbia not only offers a world class education, it’s also a great place to live. Learn more about options available during your time studying in BC, Canada.

Accommodations Resources Available:
  • Housing Costs
  • Cost of Living
  • Housing Options
  • Tenant's Rights
  • Insurance

Facilities & Services

Goh Ballet Main (Vancouver)

Getting Here & Parking

The Academy’s home for over 40 years, the Main Street location is located at the intersection of Main Street and 8th Avenue, in Vancouver's Mount Pleasant neighbourhood.

The Main Street Location is right in the heart of Mount Pleasant and is surrounded by trendy restaurants, cafes and boutiques. Parking can be tricky depending on the time of day, but metered parking may be found on Quebec Street, 7th and 8th Avenue.

There are also EasyPark lots in the area. The nearest one is located at: Mount Pleasant Community Centre – lot 61. This lot is accessed from the alleyway off Kingsway. Please check the Vancouver Parks and Recreation website for information regarding hours.

Due to ongoing construction in the area please allow extra travel time when travelling to the Academy. Curb side loading zones on Main and 8th Ave are for drop off/ pick up only.

Arriving By Transit

SkyTrain-Expo Line-Bus (Main Street)

On the Expo Line, get off at Main Street/Science World Station. From there take the Southbound #003 (to Broadway) or the #008 or #019 to Kingsway @ Main. Alternatively, it is a 13-minute walk southbound along Main Street from the station to Goh Ballet.

SkyTrain-Canada Line-Bus (Broadway)

On the Canada Line, get off at Broadway/City Hall Station. From there take the eastbound #009 or Express #099 to Kingsway. For more information on bus/SkyTrain schedules, fares, maps and trip planning, visit www.translink.ca.

Studios

The Academy has a total of five studios spread across two floors. Studios 1 and 2/3 on the main floor and Studios 5 & 6 on the second floor.

Washrooms & Dressing Areas

Student washrooms are located on the lower level and on the second floor. Male and female washrooms are on the basement level and female and gender-neutral washrooms are located on the second level. Parents are welcome to use the second level washroom when they drop their child off for class, but for security purposes we request signing in at the main administrative office first.

Lockers

Lockers can be rented annually (please enquire with administrative staff about rentals) and are located in the dressing rooms on the lower level. Storage cubbies for student’s daily use can be found in the washrooms on the lower level and in the hallway on the second floor. Avoid storing valuables in cubbies. Do not leave your valuables without supervision.

Pianos & Audio Devices

Pianos are located in each studio and are off limits for student use. Students are not permitted to play on the pianos at any time. Portable speakers are kept in the main administrative office and should only be used by instructors or as directed during scheduled class or rehearsal times.

Loitering

Loitering is not permitted at the Academy. Students should make arrangements to leave the Academy (via safe transportation) immediately after their classes are finished for the day.

Health & Safety

The well-being of our community remains Goh Ballet’s top priority. We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment by adhering to recommended health, safety, and sanitization protocols. Our measures are designed to protect all students, faculty, and visitors within our facilities.

As a private learning institution, Goh Ballet ensures compliance with health and safety guidelines specific to international students studying in British Columbia.

Academy Policies

Non-Discriminatory Policy

Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada not only believes in expression through dance, but also supports and encourages self expression.

The Academy admits students of any race, colour, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, creed, national and ethnic origin.

The Academy affords them all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the Academy.

We do not discriminate based on race, colour, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its education policies, admission policies, scholarship programs, or any other Academy administered programs.

Alcohol, Drugs, Smoking Policy

Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada believes in maintaining a drug and alcohol-free environment. Any student found possessing, distributing, or using alcoholic beverages, marijuana, or illegal or controlled substances of any kind, or improperly using prescription or over the counter drugs while in the Academy will be dismissed.

If the school suspects that a violation of this policy has occurred, a student will be required to have a substance use evaluation, which may include a drug screen. The substance use evaluation will be requested by the Academy; if the student is not compliant, they may be asked to withdraw from the school. Students who are transparent about their substance use with the Academy may receive special consideration.

Smoking of any kind (tobacco, vaping, marijuana) is dangerous to the health and development of young artists the Academy prohibits the use of tobacco and marijuana, including the use of vapes, by students. It is against Canadian law for an individual younger than 19 to purchase tobacco or marijuana in any form. Vancouver Health By-Law No. 9395 restricts smoking within six meters of doorways, windows and air intakes. Individuals who disobey can be fined up to $10,000.

Zero Tolerance Policy

Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada has a zero-tolerance policy for the following:

  • Physical intimidation.
  • Verbal harassment, verbal abuse, lewd and vulgar conduct, and profanity.
  • Sexual harassment and coercion.
  • Theft or destruction of the Academy property or property of others.
  • Possession of drugs and/or alcohol. (Any student found using, distributing, consuming, or under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol will face immediate expulsion).
  • Firearms or weapons of any kind.
  • Trespassing on roofs or other restricted areas of the Academy, including the administrative offices after business hours.
  • Film or photography in changing areas and washrooms.
  • All forms of dishonesty.

Harassment & Bullying Policy

Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada is dedicated to providing all students with a safe and healthy environment free from harassment and hazing. We want our students to grow both artistically and emotionally. We strongly encourage families to speak with their children about the negative effects of harassment and bullying.

Bullying, Hazing & Harassment

Verbal or physical conduct that has the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for any member of the community is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Any student who believes they are a victim of bullying or harassment should immediately notify their primary teacher or any member of the Administrative Staff. Disciplinary responses to bullying, harassment, or hazing may range from counselling to dismissal from the Academy.

The Academy also views being complacent or a bystander to bullying as a sign of acceptance. We expect all students to stop or bring to the attention of a teacher any behaviour that could be considered bullying or harassment. Students who witness this behaviour and do not come forward will be held accountable for their failure to respond appropriately. Retaliation by the perpetrators in the form of further action (including shunning, etc.) may result in dismissal from the Academy.

Sexual Harassment & Assault

Sexual harassment is defined as: unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Goh Ballet Academy and Youth Company Canada complies with all British Columbia provincial laws and regulations regarding sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Offences can include:

  • Conduct that has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment
  • Conduct that interferes with a person’s performance and submission to such conduct is made a condition of a person’s advancement
  • Actions in which a person’s reaction to such conduct is used for decisions affecting that person.

Student Code of Conduct

Above all else, the Academy strives to provide a learning environment that is a safe place for all those who love dance to excel to the best of their ability. This environment can only be maintained if dancers and their families are respectful of the Academy’s Directors, Faculty, and Staff.

Please note: Those who fail to follow our code of conduct and expectations will be reported immediately to the Director who will decide the appropriate disciplinary action for each situation and each family. Penalties may include (but are not limited to):

  • Written Warning
  • Suspension from class
  • Probation
  • Fines
  • Dismissal from the Academy

Please alert administrative staff immediately if any suspicious, unsafe, or self-destructive activity is taking place in the Academy.

Representing Goh Ballet Academy & Youth Company Canada

When participating in Academy events in public including, but not limited to, performances, appearances, educational outreach events, festivals, and competitions, each student is expected to follow the same policies, procedures, and etiquette that apply when inside the Academy, as outlined in this handbook.

Anyone found violating these policies or representing the Academy in a manner detrimental to the interests of the Academy will be subject to a penalty.

Reporting

If a student believes they have been a victim of harassment, sexual harassment, or sexual assault of any kind by a member of the Academy community they may speak privately with Senior Management, regarding such matters in a safe environment. Claims brought will be discussed confidentially and proper investigation will take place. All reports are confidential and will be taken seriously.

Resources for International Students

Government of British Columbia

All students registering for programs with a duration of 15-weeks or more must provide evidence of sufficient health care insurance coverage for the duration of their stay.

Effective September 1, 2019, international students studying on a valid study permit for at least six months of the year in British Columbia pay a health fee to contribute to and benefit from B.C.’s health-care coverage.

Under the Medicare Protection Act, enrolment with MSP is mandatory for all eligible residents and their dependents. International students in British Columbia with a study permit valid for six months or more are deemed residents of British Columbia and required to register for MSP.

EduCanada

EduCanada is the official Government of Canada source about studying in Canada for international students and researchers.

Vancouver Coastal Health

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is one of five regional health authorities in British Columbia working in partnership with the Ministry of Health to provide high quality, health care services within the region.

Study in BC

British Columbia is a safe study destination for international students, providing a health care system with hospitals, walk-in clinics, general practitioner doctor’s offices, and various specialists for specific health problems.

BC Human Rights Code

The Code applies to all businesses, agencies, and services in B.C., except those regulated by the federal government. It protects people from discrimination in situations such as at work, in a store or restaurant, or between a landlord and tenant.

BC Education Sector

Critical Incident & Crisis Management Policy

Goh Ballet is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. This policy outlines our approach to responding to critical incidents in compliance with PTIB, Government of Canada, provincial guidelines, and EQA standards.

What is a Critical Incident?
A critical incident is any unexpected event that causes trauma and disrupts normal operations, such as:
  • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, wildfires)
  • Threats to safety (violence, active shooter situations, terrorism)
  • Medical emergencies or pandemics
  • Sudden or accidental deaths
  • Critical infrastructure failures (fire, gas leaks, power outages)
Response Plan We follow a structured approach to managing critical incidents:
  • Prevention & Preparedness: Risk assessments, emergency drills, and training.
  • Immediate Response: Ensuring safety, activating emergency plans, and notifying authorities.
  • Incident Management: Coordinating response efforts, providing crisis support, and ensuring compliance.
  • Recovery: Reviewing response effectiveness, and restoring normal operations.
Roles & Responsibilities
  • Faculty & Staff: Follow procedures and support students.
  • Students & Families: Adhere to safety protocols and report concerns.
Policy Review & Updates
  • This policy is reviewed annually or after a critical incident to ensure continued effectiveness.
  • Last Review Date: January 2025

Program & Learning Support

As one of Canada’s leading professional youth ballet organizations, the Goh Ballet Youth Company Canada (GBYC) was formed as a bridge for students who desire continued intensive training and professional performance opportunities.

For those 16 years old and above, GBYC offers the opportunity to refine technical and artistic skills while providing the support and guidance needed to pursue a rewarding dance career.

The program focuses on building technical and artistic excellence, which is showcased through a wide-ranging and ever-expanding repertoire of classical and contemporary ballet, jazz, character, and Chinese dance.

With many performance opportunities and tours as well as educational outreach, the program is further enhanced through the influence of internationally renowned guest teachers and choreographers who create original repertoire and instruct master classes.

The GBYC program consists of the following curricula:

  • Classical Ballet
  • Dance Repertoire/Variations
  • Technique Development
  • Pas de Deux/Partnering
  • Contemporary/Jazz
  • Improvisation
  • Pointe or Men’s Work
  • Body Conditioning
  • Workshops/Master Classes
  • Creative Process with Choreographers
  • Performance Tours (seasonal)
  • Public Performances and Presentations
  • Educational & Community Outreach Events

Our programs are lead by accredited and certified professional teachers, complemented by experienced industry coaches who provide bespoke mentorship. Within the academy, students benefit from personalized guidance, ensuring an enriched and tailored educational experience.

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