Orientation

Whether you start in fall or winter, QUIC has orientation sessions and videos to welcome you and support your transition to Queen's and Canada.

Queen's University offers various orientation opportunities for incoming students. Check out the links below to learn more about your options: 

These programs do not all happen at the same time, meaning you can participate in the QUIC ISSO and Welcome Week while also engaging in other activities. 

 

QUIC Orientation Events

International Student Summer Orientation (ISSO)

ISSO sessions have now completed for the summer. Check out the recordings of select sessions in the International Student Pre-Arrival Guide or on the page below.

 

QUIC Welcome Week 

Announcing the QUIC Welcome Week! From August 28th-September 1st join us for information sessions, tours and various social activities. All events require registration and are free. 

Monday August 28th 

10:00 AM Welcome and Ice Breaker 

City of Kingston Welcome!

5:00 PM Meet your Peers Social  Night

Tuesday August 29th 

10:00 AM UHIP Info Session

Campus Walks 

11:30AM, 12:30PM & 1:30PM

3:00 PM Meet your Peers Social 

6:00 PM Salsa in the Square 

Wednesday August 30th 

10:00 AM Canadian Classroom Info sessions 

11:30 AM Bus Trip!

5:00 PM Games Night!

Thursday August 31st 

10:00 AM Campus Security Info Session

Campus Walks

11:30AM, 12:30PM & 1:30 PM

7:00 PM Movie in the Square 

Friday September 1st 

10:00 AM Career Advising Info Session

11:30 AM Outdoor Games!

5:00 PM Waterfront Walk

Welcome Week Centre Hours

During Welcome Week, the QUIC will be open from 8:30 am - 6:30 pm, Monday - Friday. 

After Welcome Week, the QUIC will be open 10:00 am - 2:00 pm over the Labour Day Weekend Sat., Sept. 2nd - Mon., Sept. 4. to ease student arrival. 

Staffed by students, the centre will offer free coffee and a quiet space to relax, go online and meet with others 

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. 

This series of videos will answer your questions about health insurance in Ontario.

  • What services are covered by UHIP?
  • What does supplemental insurance cover?
  • How do I enrol in UHIP?
  • I am not studying in Ontario – how do I opt out of UHIP?

For more details please check out the Health Insurance section of our site.

Video coming soon! 

 

AMS and SGPS Supplemental Plans

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!