Starting school in Canada can be exciting, but the first few weeks also come with many things to organize. For international students beginning their studies in September 2026, here are some important areas to check as you settle into school and daily life in Canada. 

📅 Check Important Academic Dates 

Every school has its own academic calendar. Make sure you know key deadlines such as:

• Course registration and add/drop dates
• Tuition payment deadlines
• Withdrawal deadlines
• Midterms and final exams
• Reading week and holidays
• Winter semester registration

Check your school email and student portal regularly. If you are unsure about a deadline, contact your school’s registrar, student services or academic advisor.

🩺 Make Sure You Have Health Insurance

International students may not automatically be covered for all medical costs in Canada, and health insurance requirements vary by province and school. 

Your coverage may include:

• Provincial or territorial health insurance
• A school health plan
• Temporary private insurance
• Extended health and dental benefits

Find out when your coverage starts, what it includes and whether you need to apply for provincial health insurance. You should also know where to find a doctor, walk-in clinic, pharmacy or emergency room when needed.

👉Read More about health insurance: 

MSP Made Simple: Health Coverage for International Students in B.C.

Understanding UHIP: Ontario’s Health Insurance Plan for International Students

AHCIP Guide for International Students: Free Health Insurance in Alberta

Saskatchewan Health Insurance: Applying for a Health Card as an International Student

🏦 Set Up Your Banking

If you have not opened a Canadian bank account, the beginning of the semester is a good time to compare your options.

Look at:

• Monthly fees
• Student banking plans
• Transaction limits
• ATM access
• Interac e-Transfer
• Debit and credit cards
• International transfer fees
• Promotional offers and conditions

Do not choose an account based only on a welcome offer. Make sure you understand the fees and account requirements.

👉Account Booking Service! Book in your confident language: RBC Booking Page on CISM | Canada International Student Magazine  

🧭 Explore Your School’s Student Services 

Most Canadian colleges and universities provide services to help students adjust academically and personally.

Look for:

• Academic and international student advising
• Immigration support
• Career services
• Counselling and wellness resources
• Housing and financial aid
• Accessibility services
• Campus security
• Student clubs and activities

Knowing where to find support early can make it easier to get help when you need it.

🚇 Learn How to Get Around Your City

Public transportation is different in every Canadian city. Learn:

• Which transit system serves your area
• How fares are paid
• Whether student discounts are available
• How to plan your route
• When the last bus or train operates

Also allow extra travel time during weekday rush hours, especially when commuting to morning classes.

👉Read More about transportation at page 214:  

🔐 Watch Out for Scams

International students and newcomers may be targeted by scams involving people pretending to represent:

• Government or immigration authorities
• Banks or police
• Schools
• Landlords
• Employers
• Phone or delivery companies

Be cautious if someone pressures you to send money, provide personal information or threatens you with immigration consequences.

If you are unsure, contact the organization directly using information from its official website rather than the phone number, email or link provided in a suspicious message.

📚 Understand Academic Expectations 

Academic rules in Canada may be different from those in your home country.

Become familiar with your school’s policies on:

• Academic integrity and plagiarism
• Citation and referencing
• Attendance and late assignments
• Group work
• Exams and course withdrawals
• Use of artificial intelligence tools

Rules for tools such as ChatGPT can vary by school, course and instructor. Always check your syllabus or ask your instructor before using AI for academic work.

👉Read More:

Academic Honesty in Canada: Why Plagiarism Is Taken Seriously

🍁 Need more information about life and study in Canada?

Useful tips for everyone: Newcomer Resource Guide 2026

Student Essential & Services: International Student E-Magazine

Sources: Preparing to Study in Canada, Protect Yourself From Fraud 

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