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:
- Student Experience Office
- Faculty specific Orientation
- Graduate Studies and Post Doctoral Affairs Orientation
- Bader College Orientation
- NEWTS (New, Exchange, Worldly, Transfer Students) Orientation
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 |
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 |
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!