More than 350 new student beds and a dining hall are coming to Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) Surrey campus, marking the first-ever 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, British Columbia’s 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 over 350 student beds and a 160-seat dining hall, with priority housing for Indigenous students and former youth in care.
The new student 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 for students to connect;
- student supports, including laundry facilities, housing services, and on-site security;
- active-living amenities like 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 that students have access to strong supports, such as safe and secure on-campus housing, to 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 of British Columbia 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.
The housing proposal was developed following community consultation, including with the Indigenous Advisory Committee at the university. KPU chose its campus in the Newton neighbourhood for its first student housing because of high levels of student interest, strong transit connections – including the R6 rapid bus route – and the upcoming child care facility.
“Adding on-campus housing is vital for supporting our students and the long-term future of Kwantlen Polytechnic University,” said Dr. Bruce Choy, President and Vice-Chancellor of KPU. “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.”
KPU will add a student housing and residence life team to operate the building and promote a safe, secure and engaged community that promotes equity and respects diversity.
“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,” says Honey Mathew, a 2025 Green Business Management and Sustainability graduate from KPU.
“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.”
Current housing support at KPU includes off-campus accommodation with GEC Living, an innovative home-sharing initiative with SpacesShared, and resources to help access homestay and rental options.
