6 Tips to Prepare for Studying Abroad in Canada
Canada is a top choice for international students looking to study abroad, and foreign enrollment in the country has skyrocketed. If you’re thinking of studying in Canada, making a list of what you have to do once you arrive will ensure your experience starts strong.
6 tips to help you prepare for college in Canada
Adapting to a new country and culture can be daunting. But by using these six tips, the transition to living and studying in Canada will be much easier:
1. Explore your school’s services
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, 807,750 foreign students had active study visas in Canada in 2022 – a 31 percent percent increase from the number of students in the previous year. With this many international students accepted to Canadian schools, it’s not surprising that schools have entire departments dedicated to helping students adjust to their new environments. Contact your university’s international student office to find out what services are available. Common programs include:
- Clubs: You can join clubs that are specifically designed for international students. These clubs give you a chance to connect with students going through the same experience as you, and the other members can provide advice on the culture and your coursework.
- Cultural activities: Schools frequently plan cultural activities for students, such as trips to the theater or local museums or on-campus concerts. These events are typically free or available at a discounted rate for students.
- Language classes: Some colleges have language groups or classes for international students. These programs give you a chance to practice your language skills outside of the classroom.
- Counseling: Adjusting to life in another country can be challenging. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, you can visit your campus counseling center to talk to a therapist.
2. Think about health care
Canada is unique in that its provinces and territories have different healthcare policies. In some areas, international students are eligible for free healthcare if they meet certain residency requirements, but others do not extend eligibility to international students.
In some cases, you may have to purchase your own health insurance policy, since universities often require it for all students. Your school’s international student center may be able to recommend an insurance company or may even have an insurance partner that issues policies.
Many campuses have their own health clinics, and you may be able to use telehealth services to get nonurgent care without leaving your dorm.
3. Open a Canadian bank account
As a student in Canada, you’ll need to open a Canadian bank account. At a minimum, you’ll need a checking account so you can pay your bills and withdraw cash for expenses, but it may be a good idea to also open a savings account to set aside money for emergencies.
When researching your banking options, look for a bank or credit union with ATMs either on campus or nearby so you can avoid added ATM fees when you withdraw cash. Some colleges have partnerships with banks or credit unions, so your school may be able to refer you to financial institutions.
TD* is a leading bank for international students and offers the TD International Student Banking Package, which includes specific services to help international students manage their finances in Canada. Students are eligible for checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees (see terms). If you’re looking to build credit, the TD Cash Back Visa card can help you accomplish this through timely payments, and will allow you to earn cash back on everyday purchases like groceries and gas. TD’s extensive ATM network and mobile banking app also makes it easy to manage your money from anywhere. Connect with a TD banking consultant to learn more.
To open a bank account as an international student, you’ll need to visit a branch and provide your passport, your university letter of acceptance and your study permit.
A Canadian bank account will make your life easier in managing your day to day finances and is the first step on building your credit profile in Canada which will help you over time.
4. Prepare for the weather
Canada’s weather can come as a shock to many students. Summers in the country can be quite warm, but the winters can be especially brutal. Temperatures can be extremely cold, and heavy snow is common.
You may find your clothing isn’t appropriate for Canada’s weather. Before you go shopping and spend lots of money on new items, find out if your college has a thrift shop or a low-cost student supply store. Or you may be able to shop at a local thrift store like Goodwill or Value Village. By shopping at thrift stores, you could get the coats, gloves and other items you need for much less than if you bought them at major retailers.
5. Consider working part time
In Canada, international students can work part time when they start their study programs. Getting a part-time job can be an excellent way to earn money while you’re in school to cover your day-to-day expenses and reduce the amount of money you need to borrow. In Canada, international students can work up to 20 hours per week while class is in session.
On-campus work
Many colleges hire students to work on campus, and you can do so without a work permit if you meet certain requirements. Each province may have different criteria, so you’ll need to check with your school to see if you’re eligible.
Off-campus work
If you are eligible for work while in school, it will say so in the conditions of your study permit. If eligible, you can work for employers beyond your college if your study program has already started.
You can work off campus without a work permit if you meet the following requirements:
- You’re a full-time student at a designated learning institution.
- You’re enrolled in a qualifying postsecondary program.
- Your study program is at least six months long and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.
- You have a Social Insurance Number.
6. Explore financial aid and private loans
Studying in another country can be expensive, and Canada has a fairly high cost of living. If you need additional help finding international student funding, contact your school financial aid office. The financial aid representatives may be able to recommend certain scholarships to you, and you may be able to search for additional opportunities on your own. Useful tools to find potential financial aid include the following:
You may also be eligible for private student loans designed for international students. With international student loans, you can borrow enough money to cover up to 100 percent of your tuition.
Financing your education with a private loan
Studying in Canada can be an excellent opportunity for you to reach your academic and personal goals. You’ll get a chance to attend top-notch schools, develop your language skills and learn about different cultures.
If you need help securing international student funding, check out MPOWER Financing’s student loan options. MPOWER provides loans to students attending more than 400 eligible schools in Canada and the United States, and you don’t need a cosigner to qualify for a loan. Get answers to all your international student loan questions in our international student loan FAQ.
Preparing to study abroad in Canada
Studying abroad in Canada can be an excellent way to explore the customs and culture of another country while working toward your degree. Although adjusting to school in another country can be challenging, preparing ahead of time can make the transition much smoother. By researching your financial aid options, thinking about work opportunities and ensuring you have appropriate healthcare coverage, you will be ready for the upcoming semester.
*TD is a partner of MPOWER Financing
