1. Student Life
  2. Orientation

Orientation

International Student Summer Orientation Pre-Arrival Sessions take place online.
Zoom account is required to register and attend. All sessions start at 10:00 am ET.
Please review relevant Pre-Arrival Guide's modules prior to attending sessions.

Date Session Pre-Arrival Guide modules to review prior to attending

June 12




 

Welcome to the QUIC & Study Permits.

  • Current processing times
  • What's a study permit vs. a visa
  • What's next

Register here.

 Module 1. Get to know Queen's.




 

June 19







 

Finding Housing and Living Off-Campus
The Off-Campus Living Advisor provides information about search for housing in Kingston, including:

  • Conducting a housing search
  • Protecting yourself from housing scams
  • Leases and tenant rights
  • Living with roommates

Register here.

 Module 4. Not that you're here: Living in Kingston.






 

June 26




 


Academic Connections Certificate: Academic Culture Shock
Academic culture is different around the world. Classroom expectations, assignments, exams, group work, etc. Are you ready to navigate the Academic Culture in Canada?

Register here.

Module 5.3. Academic Life.
Module 6.3. New Community, New Challenge: Culture Shock.
Module 6.5. Academic Considerations.
July 3


 

Your Rights in Canada
As you prepare to take part in the rich and diverse experiences that Canada has to offer, it is important that you are aware of the human rights, freedoms and protections that apply to you under Canadian law. Join the QUIC, the Human Rights and Equity Office and the Yellow House to learn more about your rights and the various resources available to you.

Registration coming soon.

 Module 7. Your Rights 101.
July 10

Financial Planning: Budgets are Important
What are the true cost of living in Kingston?
How can I plan for unexpected costs?
What scholarships and bursaries are available?
What would a realistic budget look like?
The Awards Office is here to answer these questions and more. This session will focus on costs associated with living in Kingston, Ontario.

Register here.

Module 2.4. Planning Your Finances.
Module 2.5. Create a Budget.
July 17

Understanding Health Insurance
Join the International Student Advisors to talk about Health Insurance:
What are primary and supplementary health insurance?
What health services are available on campus?
Where are the nearest emergency room and urgent care centre?

Register here.

 Module 6. Health and Wellness.
July 24 Introduction to Job Search in Canada. 
Join the International Student Career Coach and the International Student Advisor who will cover many work-related topics.
  • Work opportunities for int. students at Queen's and in Kingston
  • Job search in Canada
  • How to build network in a new country

Register here.

 Module 8. Working in Canada.
July 31 Prepare for Arrival in Canada
Join Arthur Chen, International Student Advisor, to learn more about what you should know about arriving in Canada, including:
  • What documents you should bring with you
  • Where to find current travel entry requirements for Canada
  • What to expect when you arrive at the border
 Module 3. Arriving in Canada.
August 7 Ask an International Student Advisor and What to Expect during Welcome Week.
  • Ask your questions
  • Learn about the Welcome Week schedule and activities
  • Get registration instructions
  

 

Orientation Videos

What is the Queen's University International Centre (QUIC), and how can you benefit from its programs and services? Who works at the QUIC? Knowing your campus resources and opportunities early on can make a positive difference in your transition and finding a new home in Kingston.

Off-Campus Housing

The Off-Campus Living Advisor (ocla@queensu.ca) outlines the timelines for your housing search, how to best navigate the Kingston rental market, budgeting, how to pick the best housemates, what to expect in a lease or a sublet arrangement, how to avoid housing/rental scams, and more.

Cell Phones in Canada – What Plan is Right for You?

How much does a cellphone plan cost? What are the “big three”? Can I get a new SIM or do I need a new phone? Can I use my current plan in Canada? Get answers to these and more questions in this video. 

Introduction to Student Academic Success Services (SASS)

Follow the Intercultural Academic Support Coordinator as they show you how to use the Student Academic Success Services website and all the supports available. Check out our Academics page as well!

SASS is here to support you with your academic transition and the academic expectations at Queen’s. Check out these programs:

Financial Planning: Budgets are Important

Queen’s Financial Aid and Awards staff share tips on student finances and budgeting in this International Student Financial Aid session. Learn about the cost of attending university, supplies, and living expenses, as well as student budget examples, financial aid options, and fraud prevention.

Banking in Canada – How Do You Get a Bank Account?

Watch this video to learn about banking in Canada and what to consider when deciding which bank to use. 

  • Are banks safe?
  • Which plan is right for me?
  • What do I need to set up my account?
  • Can I set up my account from overseas?

Introduction to Career Services

Learn about career supports and resources available to international students, including:

  • Appointments with career educators and advisors
  • Drop-in advising 
  • Workshops

Job Searches and Working with a Study Permit

Students Who are Parents

The Immigrant Services Kingston and Area (ISKA) settlement advisor shares tips on finding childcare, enrolling children in school, and after-school programs. Check out resources on our page and other Queen's resources. 

Video coming soon!