Prepare and Arrive to York University

Welcome to York University!

We are excited to welcome you at York University.

Get ready with us through our pre-arrival support sessions, resources, and International & Exchange Student Orientation! As you prepare to arrive, let’s make sure you’ve taken care of everything before your arrival.

Don't forget to follow the Next Steps Checklist to prepare for your journey to York!

Immigration

Resources for obtaining proper documentation to arrive in Canada

Healthcare

Step by step walkthroughs on enrolling in the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)

International & Exchange Student Orientation

Meet other international students and get settled into York!

Orientation Week

Get excited and start the year strong through Orientation Week!

Pre-Arrival Sessions & Webinars

York International is here to support you! Whether you have a Study Permit application question, need to get insight on what your first year at York will look like, or build connections, our pre-arrival sessions and webinars provide a space for you to get information and feel better prepared to arrive to York University and Canada.

Session & Registration Link	What is it?	Who Should Attend?	When?
Ask Us Anything: Applying for Your First Study Permit	Ask an Immigration Specialist! Have questions about applying for your first Study Permit? Stop by with your questions, and one of our Immigration Specialists will support you!	You have questions about Study Permit Applications or need clarification on immigration requirements.	Bi-weekly March -August
Study Permit Application Support Session	Prepare to apply for your Study Permit. Gain an in-depth look into the Study Permit application process, how to avoid mistakes, and meet IRCC requirements. Have questions? Ask our Immigration Specialists during this session!	You have been accepted to York University, and you are actively preparing to apply for your first Study Permit.	Bi-weekly February - August
Study Permit Application Support Session for Graduate Students Ask Us Anything: Applying for Your First Study Permit for Graduate Programs	Ask an Immigration Specialist! Have questions about applying for your first Study Permit? Prepare to apply for your Study Permit with an in-depth look into the application process and required documents. These sessions are specifically designed for Graduate students.	You are a graduate student and have questions about applying for your first Study Permit or need clarification.	April 1, 2026 May 20, 2026
Navigating Study Permit Refusals for International Students	Was your Study Permit refused? Meet with one of our Immigration Specialists to find out what your next steps are and how to strengthen your second Study Permit application.	You applied for a Study Permit, and it was refused. You are preparing to re-apply.	Monthly February-August
Deferring Admissions: Key Immigration Considerations	If you are still waiting for your Study Permit approval, learn what next steps are required to request a deferral and how to maintain compliance with IRCC.	It’s close to the start of term, and you are still waiting for your Study Permit approval.	August 2026
Pre-Arrival Webinars	This webinar series will help you feel prepared for life and studies in Canada. Join us as we discuss what to expect when it comes to finding a place to live, cost of living, learning in a Canadian classroom, and student life at York University.	You are getting ready to travel to York University and Canada and want to feel prepared with expert tips and important information.	March 19, 2026 April 2, 2026 July - August
Global Connect	Meet with international students! Get to know other international students while playing some fun ice breakers and activities. Start building your community from the comfort of your home.	You are looking for an opportunity to meet other international students before arriving to York.	June 26, 2026 July 31, 2026

Find upcoming events, sessions, and drop-ins on York International’s Event Calendar

Need Help with Your Study Permit Application?

York has partnered with BorderPass to provide incoming international students with access to immigration support and licensed Canadian immigration lawyers. BorderPass helps you prepare and submit your first study permit application and provides ongoing support as you prepare for life and studies in Canada.

Learn more about BorderPass

Prepare for Life at York

We want you to have a smooth transition!
Look through our resource guides that support different aspects of your preparation and transition to York University and Canada.

CATEGORY	RESOURCE GUIDE
Student Life	Academic Resources at York.pdf Immigration Resources (Current Students).pdf Resources at YU.pdf UHIP Resources.pdf
Life in Toronto	Be Aware of Scams.pdf List of Canadian Banks.pdf List of Phone Companies.pdf Off-Campus Housing Resources.pdf Seasons in Toronto.pdf Student Financial Tips.pdf
Travel to York University	Arriving in Canada.pdf Immigration Resources (Incoming Students).pdf Packing List.pdf Transportation from YYZ to York.pdf

Getting Settled in Toronto

Access additional resources that can help you establish key aspects of your life in Toronto, including housing and everyday financial services, as you begin your journey at York University.

The Quad at York: Off-Campus Student Housing

Please note: First-year students should apply for York University Housing where you’ll get the best of student life, convenience of being close to class, and supports to help you succeed. The Quad is a housing option for upper-year students.

The Quad is a purpose-built student living community located steps from York University’s Keele Campus, offering fully furnished accommodations designed for upper-year students, including international students looking for a convenient living experience near campus. Designed around the way students live, study, and connect, The Quad offers modern suite styles, dedicated study spaces, fitness facilities, social lounges, retail conveniences, and student-focused amenities. With year-round programming and community events, students have opportunities to connect, engage, and make the most of their university experience. Apply today at quadatyork.ca! The Quad is independently operated. 

Recordings of Previous Webinars

Arriving at the Canadian Border

Understanding the Role of International Student Advisors and Immigration Specialists (ISIAS)
Essential Documents for Entry at Canadian ports (Airport or Land border)
Arrival tips: What to expect when you land in Canada
Study Permit Conditions: Key Reminders for International Students
Key Resources:
- Arriving at the Canadian border slides
- Arriving at the Canadian Border Resource Guide

Navigating the Canadian Classroom as Graduate Students

In this webinar, new incoming international graduate students will learn:
Academic expectations related to teaching, learning and the language of instruction at York University.
The significance of upholding academic integrity and its role in your academic journey at York University.
Key resources and support services available to enhance your graduate success.
Orientation process and its benefits for your transition into graduate studies.
Key Resources:
- Navigating the Canadian Classroom as a Graduate Student

Preparing for the Canadian Classroom

The unique characteristics of the Canadian post-secondary education system.
The various ways students may be evaluated in their classes.
The value of group work in a Canadian classroom setting.
Available academic resources at York University.
Key Resources:
- Preparing for the Canadian classroom slides
- YorkU Resources Guide

Financial Tips for International Students

The general cost of life in Canada, including cost of studies, living expenses, and more. 
The various kinds of financial aid that are available to international students, such as scholarships, awards, and bursaries.
Resources available to students to support their financial planning, such as budgeting resources, student discounts, and more.
Key Resources:

Living in Canada

The various housing and accommodation options available to international students at York University, including housing application process and important deadlines.
The holistic benefits of living in residence as a first-year student.
Identify alternate residence options other than on-campus housing and important considerations.
Key Resources:
- Living in Canada Slides
- Off-Campus Housing Resources Guide

Look Ahead at Your First Year at York

A first-year student's academic calendar at York University.
Helpful academic resources available at York University.
Gain knowledge on how to build a robust first year experience.
Balancing student life as a York University student in Canada.
Key resources:
- Look Ahead at Your First Year at York Slides

Looking Ahead at Your First Year at York

A first-year student's academic calendar at York University.
Helpful academic resources available at York University.
Gain knowledge on how to build a robust first year experience
Key Resources:
- Looking Ahead at Your First Year at York Slides
- YorkU Academic Resources Guide

Student Life at York

The unique characteristics of Canadian culture.
Balancing student life as a York University student in Canada.
Resources available to students to support their overall health and wellness.
Key Resources:

Arrival at the Canadian border

Academic expectations including language, teaching and learning differences at York University
Value and Importance of completing the Graduate Academic Integrity mandatory Module
Important people, resources and services to know and how to seek help
Key Resources:

Preparing for the Canadian border

The unique characteristics of the Canadian post-secondary education system.
The various ways students may be evaluated in their classes.
The value of group work in a Canadian classroom setting.
Available academic resources at York University.
Key Resources:
- Preparing for the Canadian Classroom Slides
- YorkU Resources for Academic Success

Financial Planning for International Students

The general cost of life in Canada, including cost of studies, living expenses, and more
The various kinds of financial aid that are available to international students, such as scholarships, awards, and bursaries.
Key Resources:
- Financial Planning for International Students Slides
- Financial Tips for International Students

Living in Canada - What to Expect

The general cost of life in Canada, including cost of studies, living expenses, and more.
The various housing and accommodation options available to international students at York University, including housing application process and important deadlines.
The holistic benefits of living in residence as a first-year student.
Identify alternate residence options other than on-campus housing and important considerations.
Key Resources:
- Living in Canada - what to expect
- Housing Guide