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.
In addition to the orientation programming on this page, you can attend other orientations that apply to you:
- Queen’s University Fall Orientation
- Graduate Studies and Post Doctoral Affairs Orientation
- Bader College Orientation
- NEWTS (New, Exchange, Worldly, Transfer Students) Orientation
International Student Summer Orientation (ISSO)
More info to come about virtual events in May, June, July, and August to help you get a head start on your journey to Canada. ISSO sessions are free and available to all incoming international and exchange students. Registration will be required.
Welcome Week
More info to come about in-person activities for students arriving in Kingston prior to the start of classes. Come to the QUIC for orientation sessions, tours of campus, social activities, and to pick up your welcome package. Registration will be required.
Welcome Week Centre Hours
- During Welcome Week, the QUIC will be open 8:30 am–6:30 pm, Mon.–Fri.
- After Welcome Week, the QUIC will be open 10 am–2 pm over the Labour Day weekend, Sat., Sept. 3–Mon., Sept. 5, 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.
Transitioning to Canada and Navigating a New Culture
Watch the recording of an intercultural session presented by the Intercultural Training Coordinator at the QUIC.
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.
University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)
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!
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Support
Join the Academic Skills Support Coordinator to learn about English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports that are offered through SASS, and how they work with the QUIC. Get answers to these questions and more:
- What is EAL support?
- What can I expect at a one-on-one EAL appointment?
- What other supports are there for EAL students?
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.