7 things to do before you leave to study in Canada
education • September 3, 2026
Are you an international student starting your studies in Canada this fall? Preparing early will make your trip and first weeks in Canada much easier. Use these tips to make sure your study documents, housing, finances, health coverage and travel plans are ready before you leave home.
1. Make sure you are approved to study in Canada
Before travelling to Canada, confirm whether you need a study permit. Most international students need to be approved to study in Canada by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Learn which documents you’ll need to submit as part of your study permit application from our blog on how to apply for a study permit in 2026.
Port of entry letter of introduction
If you apply from outside Canada and are approved, IRCC will normally send you a port of entry letter of introduction. This letter is not your study permit and does not guarantee you will be admitted to Canada. Bring the letter with you and show it to a border services officer when you arrive. Review the information in your IRCC account and follow the official guidance on preparing for your arrival in Canada.
2. Confirm your housing
Don’t wait until you arrive in Canada to decide where you will sleep. Fall is a busy arrival time, so confirm your housing and move-in date as early as possible.
If you will be living in a campus residence, find out:
- When you can move in
- What furniture and supplies are included
- Whether you need to purchase a meal plan
- Where to pick up your keys
- What to do if you arrive outside regular hours
If you will be renting privately, read the full lease before signing it. Whenever possible, use your school’s housing office or verified student housing resources to help evaluate a rental.
Be careful with rental fraud or scams
Do not send a large payment because someone is pressuring you or offering a deal that seems unusually cheap. Confirm the address, landlord, rental terms and payment instructions first.
Learn more about housing and accommodation options in Canada.
3. Build a realistic budget
Your expenses during your studies will include more than tuition and rent. Our student budget guide can help you estimate living costs. Costs vary between provinces and territories, so also check information from your school.
Don’t assume you’ll start working immediately
You must be able to cover your expenses without relying on employment in Canada.
If you are eligible to work off campus, you can only begin working once your study program has started. Eligible students may generally work up to 24 hours per week off campus while classes are in session. Check your study permit for details. Learn more from our blog on working in Canada as an international student.
4. Arrange travel and health insurance before you leave
Canada’s health coverage for international students varies by province, territory and institution.
Check with your school about whether health insurance is included in your student fees, and what it covers.
Before leaving, ask your healthcare provider for copies of important medical and immunization records. If you need to bring any health products to Canada, review the applicable Canadian rules first.
Consider travel insurance for your journey and for travel outside your province during your studies.
Learn more about health care and insurance for international students.
Pack for fall and prepare for winter
Canadian weather varies widely by region. Check the typical weather for your destination and pack clothing you can layer. Students often find it easier to purchase a winter coat and boots in Canada, where the items are designed for local conditions.
5. Complete your school preparations
Your school is one of your best sources of arrival information. Check your student email and online portal regularly so you don’t miss important deadlines.
Before you leave your country, confirm that you have:
- Registered for your courses
- Paid required tuition or deposits
- Signed up for international student orientation
- Submitted any required health or immunization records
- Saved contact information for the international student office
- Confirmed whether your program includes a mandatory placement, co-op or internship
School orientation is worth attending. It can help you understand your health plan, course expectations, transportation options, banking, student services and immigration responsibilities. It is also one of the easiest ways to meet other students.
6. Plan your arrival
Book your travel early enough to give yourself a reasonable amount of time to move into your housing, attend orientation and prepare for classes. These resources can assist you in your travels to Canada:
Check your passport
You’ll need a valid passport to enter Canada. Consider renewing your passport before travelling if it will expire during your planned period of study. It’s also a good idea to create paper copies of your passport in case of an emergency.
7. What to do when you arrive
At the Canadian port of entry, a border services officer will review your documents and ask questions about your plans. Answer clearly and honestly. Keep your school’s name, program information, Canadian address and financial documents easy to reach.
If you are approved to enter, the officer will issue your study permit. Read it carefully before leaving the immigration area. Check your name, school information, expiry date and any conditions related to studying or working. Ask an officer if you don’t understand something or believe there is an error.
Enjoy your time in Canada!
Your first few days may feel busy, but you don’t need to understand everything immediately. Attend orientation, ask questions and use the services available through your school.
For next steps, check out step 5 of your study in Canada journey for more information about getting to Canada, health coverage, housing and student life.
Welcome to Canada, and good luck with your studies!
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