Landed in Canada for the January Intake?
We would like to welcome all international students who have just landed in Canada for the January Intake! Student life in Canada can be full of ups and downs, just like a roller coaster. If you begin your journey right, the road ahead can get easy and bright! With that being said, let’s talk about some tips that can make your stay in Canada a lot more comfortable. Here are a few tasks that all new international students should complete in the first week upon landing!
Open Bank Account
One priority is to open a bank account since most banks in Canada offer free basic banking to full-time students. Under this, no additional fee is collected by the bank for chequing accounts, but students must look out for other conditions that may apply. Banks in Canada offer the option to open a chequing and savings account for students. There are various banks for international students in Canada. Some of the international students’ preferred banks are:
- CIBC
- Scotia Bank
- RBC or Royal Bank of Canada
- Bank of Montreal
- TD Canada Trust
Banking with CIBC has an additional benefit as it helps the students have an SPC or the Student Price Card.
Students Price Card or SPC
SPC offers student pricing and provides discounts, contests and special limited-time offers on items for activities, fashion, food, and even services such as car repairs, booking flights or cell phone plans at participating retailers across Canada. They also have an app making it convenient for students to scan for discounts while shopping outdoors. Make SPC App your best friend and save those extra bucks!
If you want to learn more about SPC card, check our article!
SPC Cards and Why You Should Get One
All you need to do is have an account at CIBC and be 13 years or older. SPC+ is an exclusive free membership for eligible students. SPC+ members get access to heavy discounts, exclusive contests, plus ALL the regular SPC member perks.
Attend College Orientation
The international journey may get hectic, and the first few days after arrival may get challenging, but participating in the College Orientation Programs is a must. College Orientation is a chance for incoming students to explore the campus, meet faculty, and talk to academic advisors like professors or teachers for any questions or concerns. Some Colleges may have the orientation online while some may invite the students to the College to show them the campus. This is designed for students so they can learn more about the College or interact with their new classmates.
Get your SIN number
Getting a Social Insurance Number on time is extremely important for new international students. This is a nine-digit number that one must have to work in Canada. You can apply for a SIN at any Service Canada office. It’s an easy procedure which will hardly take an hour (if you make an in-person appointment at the office). Make sure you don’t forget your documents while going for the appointment. You may get your SIN by other means such as online or by mail. Documents include:
- Passport
- Study Permit
- Address Proof
Click here to learn more.
Make new friends
Once you land in Canada, interact with as many people as possible, as it will help you improve your communication skills and boost your confidence. Do not hesitate to make new friends and talk to your peers, as they are your new family in Canada. Do your daily activities like grocery shopping and going to the gym, and discuss your culture. You can also discuss accommodation preferences with them or learn about their culture. This way, you will have a lot of topics to discuss.
Hunt for your perfect apartment
So, once you have made friends, it is best to share accommodation. Not only is it nice to have company, but it also helps cut the cost of living in Canada as the expenses get shared.
Click here to learn more about renting an apartment in Canada, the useful tools for searching the apartment, types of accommodations and documents required by students to rent an accommodation.
Get a local SIM
There are many phone service providers in Canada, so it is always good to compare phone plans before settling on one. Some plans may have additional discounts for the students, so it is best to choose the one which is good for your pocket. Though you can check the deals individually on the company’s website, various links will help you compare the price. Some known service providers are:
- Freedom
- Koodo
- Bell
- Rogers
- Fido
- Chatr
If you want to learn more about Canadian phone companies, check the below’s article!
Keep Your Phone Number When Switching Carriers
Last but not least, don’t forget to visit places on your bucket list. In Canada, it is advisable to check the weather conditions before leaving, especially in and around Vancouver as it may rain anytime. Dress appropriately for the weather, stay warm and always keep an umbrella with you.
All the best for your student journey!
Source: Social Insurance Number Phone Plans in Canada Bank in Canada Cell Phones with Plans Banks for international students in Canada Student Price Card CIBC
Disclaimer:
The information has been gathered as accurately as possible at the time of writing, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the official website and digital channels.
