If you’re getting ready to come to York as an international student, chances are your notes app is already full of reminders, documents, deadlines, flights and housing information. It’s a lot to keep track of. This YU Blog breaks down the key details to sort out before you arrive in Toronto, Canada, so you can feel ready for both the move and your first weeks on campus.
Here are five tips to help you prepare!
Tip 1: Understand your immigration status
To study at York, most students need a study permit. This is what allows you to stay in Canada as a student. Your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), on the other hand, is what allows you to enter Canada.
Depending on the country you are from, you’ll apply for one:
- TRV: required for some countries
- eTA: for visa-exempt countries, linked electronically to your passport
To learn more about out which one applies to you and how to apply, you can explore York International’s immigration website.
Keep in mind, your study permit determines how long you can stay in Canada, while your TRV/eTA determines how you enter or re-enter Canada.
Tip 2: Know what to keep handy when you land in Canada
When you land in Canada, this is the moment where everything you’ve prepared for comes together. You’ll go through a quick process at the airport where your study permit is officially issued. As long as you have your documents ready, it’s usually smooth and straightforward.
To make things easy, keep these in your carry-on bag (not your checked luggage):
- passport
- port of entry (POE) letter of introduction
- York University’s offer of admission
- proof of financial support
- any additional documents listed in your approval
Having these organized ahead of time means you can move through the airport with no last-minute searching and no stress. It may seem small, but it makes a big difference after a long flight!
Pro tip: Visit York International’s Prepare and Arrive webpage to explore all upcoming and past webinars, including “Arriving at the Canadian Border.”
Tip 3: Plan your arrival and getting to York
Once your documents are sorted, it’s time to think about your arrival. From navigating the airport to reaching campus, having a plan can make your first day feel much easier.
The Prepare and Arrive webpage has a step-by-step arrival guide to walk you through what to expect when you land, how to get to campus and what to prepare in advance.
You can also start thinking about:
- how you’ll get from the airport to your residence or housing;
- what essentials you want to pack; and
- your first few days in Toronto, including groceries, transit and settling in.
Tip 4: Stay on top of your academics
Planning for your studies is just as important as planning your travel. Before arriving, take some time to:
- review your program and course options;
- check admission conditions or required documents; and
- confirm your enrolment steps and important dates
Pro tip: If you’re still exploring your program or want to double-check requirements, the Preparing for University Academics webpage is a great place to start.
Getting familiar with your academic path early on can help you feel more confident when classes begin.
Tip 5: Plan your finances and support
Pro tip: York International’s webinar, “Financial Tips for International Students,” is a great way to learn more about finances and hear from York students.
York offers a range of financial services and resources to help you along the way, so take some time to see what options are available to you.
You’re not doing this alone
One of the best things to remember is that support is always available. York International is here to help you both before you arrive and throughout your journey, whether you have questions about documents, settling in or campus life.
Pro tip: Stay connected with York International by following them on social media and checking your email for their newsletters!
Starting something new in a new country is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can also be an incredibly exciting one.
You’ve got this, and we can’t wait to welcome you to York!