How to survive in Canada as an international student

How to survive in Canada as an international student

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Studying in Canada as an international student is very exciting but don’t get carried away, it comes with its share of challenges.

With the country’s world-class education system, diverse culture, and welcoming people, Canada offers a unique experience to international students.

However, the transition to a new country isn’t an easy one, you need to prepare ahead of time (if you want to survive it) because a lot will be different when you come here especially if you are coming from a country outside Europe.

Here, we will discuss what you need to do in preparation for your time here and how you can survive the changes you will witness in Canada when you come in as an international student.

How to survive in Canada as an international student

If you want to survive in Canada as an international student, you have to be prepared for the changes you will experience even before coming.

Everything will be different from how they are in your home country (what you are used to, the people, weather, system of education, and food) and the only way out is to prepare for them in advance and meet them along the way.

  • Make pre-departure preparation

Before you even set foot in Canada, you need to carefully plan and prepare. Here are some key steps to take:

  • Visa and documentation

    • Make sure you have all the necessary immigration documents with you before you start coming to Canada. You need to have a valid study permit and visa.
    • Have a copy of your acceptance letter from your educational institution.
    • Once you get your student visa, study the immigration regulations to avoid any issues upon arrival.

  • Prepare financially

    • Budgeting: This is very important, you need to develop a realistic budget that covers your tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.
    • Part-Time Work: If you need more money to support yourself, you can explore part-time job opportunities on or off-campus, while at it, make sure you obey visa restrictions and academic priorities.
    • Scholarships and Grants: Still to support yourself financially, you can check and apply for scholarships and grants, they are a great way to ease the financial burdens of studying in Canada.

  • Get Health Insurance

    • As an international student, you need health insurance, make sure you have health insurance coverage, you can get it when you arrive here or before coming to Canada.
    • Before signing up for one, ensure you understand the coverage and how to access medical services.

  • Cultural Adaptation

    • As a student, you need to embrace Canadian culture and be open-minded. Attend local events, make friends with both international and domestic students, and participate in cultural exchange programs.

  • Academic success is important

    In Canada, thriving academically is very important, you cannot afford to fail courses continuously, as it will affect your immigration status.

    Here are some tips for success:

    • Manage your time properly: You need to develop strong time management skills to balance coursework, assignments, and personal time effectively. Create a schedule and stick to it to avoid falling behind.
    • Utilize resources: Take advantage of academic resources, including libraries, writing centres, and tutoring services. Seek help if needed, and don’t hesitate to engage with professors and classmates.
    • Make sure you understand the Grading System: Familiarize yourself with the Canadian grading system to set realistic academic goals. Be proactive in seeking feedback from professors to enhance your learning.

  • Housing

    • You also need to explore affordable housing options, such as on-campus residences, shared apartments, or homestays. Start your search early to secure suitable accommodation – you can start even before arriving in Canada.

  • Academic support

    • Canada has several academic support resources for international students, you should always take advantage of these resources.
    • The support systems include study groups, writing centres, and tutoring services. Ensure you understand the academic policies and expectations in your school.

  • Language Skills

    • While Canada is a bilingual country, English is the predominant language in most provinces. Improve your English language skills if needed, and don’t be afraid to practice and make mistakes.

  • Live a healthy lifestyle

    • Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Canada has several outdoor activities, so take advantage of the natural beauty around you.

  • Socializing

    • Join clubs, student organizations, or community events to meet people and make friends. This will not only enrich your experience but also provide a support network.

  • Cultural awareness

    • Learn about Canadian customs, etiquette, and cultural norms. Canadians are generally friendly and polite, and understanding these social cues will help you integrate better.

  • Take advantage of work opportunities

    • Understand the regulations regarding working while studying. Canada allows international students to work part-time during semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks but you must keep the rules.

  • Networking:

    • Build a strong professional network by attending networking events, and career fairs, and connecting with alumni. Networking can lead to job opportunities and valuable advice.

  • Explore local services

    • Learn about local services such as public transportation, healthcare facilities, and community resources. In addition, understanding the emergency services and support systems – will be helpful in times of emergency.

  • Stay informed

    • Keep yourself updated with immigration policies, work regulations, and any changes in the Canadian education system. Join relevant online forums and communities for updates.

  • Balance work and study

    • Prioritize your studies but also ensure a healthy work-life balance. Effective time management is crucial for you to succeed academically and maintain personal well-being.

  • Winter preparedness

    • Prepare for Canadian winters by investing in warm clothing and learning about winter safety. Also, learn about public transportation during winter conditions.

  • Counselling services

    • Take advantage of counselling services offered by universities. We all know that adjusting to a new culture can be challenging, but when you have a support system, you will be in good hands.

  • Legal compliance

    • Keep your visa stats in mind and ensure you comply with immigration regulations. Attend orientation sessions to understand your rights and responsibilities.

If you follow these tips, you will have a great time in Canada.

Conclusion

It’s easy to survive in Canada as an international student if you plan your stay well, as a student, everything here will be new, from the academic system to the cultural nuances.

Read also:

To make the most of your experience, you need to plan, get your finances in order, get ready for the change in weather, and academic system be open to meeting people, join student groups and participate in other socializing activities.

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