More than 350 new student beds and a dining hall are coming to Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) Surrey campus, marking the first on-campus housing project for KPU.

“We are thrilled to partner with KPU to deliver Surrey’s first-ever provincially funded on-campus student housing and dining project,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government continues to expand infrastructure in Surrey, helping meet demand for affordable housing for students, while reducing commute times and taking pressure off the local rental market.”

The eight-storey building at KPU’s Surrey campus will add more than 350 student beds and a 160-seat dining hall, with priority housing for Indigenous students and former youth in care.

The housing building and dining hall will offer:

• flexible living options with single- and double-occupancy rooms, and four-bedroom apartment-style units;
• a common room and multi-faith room where students can connect;
• student supports, including laundry facilities, housing services and on-site security;
• active-living amenities, such as secure bike storage and repair facilities; and
• access to food services seven days a week at the dining hall next door.

“Our government is focused on helping students gain the skills and training they need to secure good-paying jobs and building a future-ready workforce to strengthen our economy,” said Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “Accomplishing these goals means ensuring students have access to strong supports, such as safe and secure on-campus housing, so they can focus on their studies. This new student housing at KPU Surrey is essential to student success and to building a stronger community.”

Construction is expected to start in early 2027, with a capital cost of nearly $144 million: $119 million from the Province and $25 million from KPU. The KPU portion is funded by proceeds from the sale of land for the new Surrey hospital and BC Cancer Centre.

“Adding on-campus housing is vital for supporting our students and the long-term future of Kwantlen Polytechnic University,” said Bruce Choy, president, Kwantlen Polytechnic University. “Housing will give options for future students, helping them focus on their studies, while fostering a closer sense of community. We are extremely grateful to the Province for recognizing student needs and supporting our vision to meet it.”

Since 2018, the Province has committed $2 billion to build on-campus student housing at post-secondary institutions throughout B.C. To date, student housing to accommodate nearly 6,900 beds has been built throughout the province. Another 4,250 are underway.

Quotes:

Garry Begg, parliamentary secretary for Surrey infrastructure –

“Surrey is one of the fastest-growing cities in B.C. and I’m thrilled to see our city’s very first provincially funded student-housing project coming to KPU. This is one of many infrastructure projects underway in Surrey and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Jagrup Brar, MLA for Surrey-Fleetwood –

“This is a major milestone for Surrey students. Affordable on-campus housing means students can focus on their studies and less on commutes or finding a place to live. I’m proud to see our government investing in the future of young people right here in our community.”

Amna Shah, MLA for Surrey-City Centre –

“For many students, especially those in their first years, having a stable and supportive living environment can make all the difference. By building student housing on campus, we’re helping students stay focused on their studies, build community and access the supports they need to succeed.”

Honey Mathew, 2025 KPU graduate, green business management and sustainability –

“For many students, affordable housing is one of the first things they consider when choosing a university, as it shapes both their daily lives and sense of belonging. By offering on-campus housing, KPU will not only reduce long commutes and financial stress, but also create a safe and welcoming community that supports student well-being, smooth transitions and stronger focus on academic success.”