International Student Orientation
Welcome to the University of Alberta and your new community!
International Student and Visitor Services is ready to help, and we look forward to speaking with you during any of our welcome events. We cannot wait to meet you.
Before you arrive
Pre-Departure Information Session
Parent Information Session
Airport Welcome
After you arrive
Campus Check-in Session
International Student Orientation
InfoMart
Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
We are so excited to welcome you to our campuses. Before you start preparing, we ask you to take some time to understand your responsibilities as a U of A student.
Before you Arrive
Pre-Departure Information Session | July 25 | 8:30 a.m. MDT | Online
During this session, you will receive essential information such as arrival times, what to pack, winter dressing, housing options, and services available throughout your time at the U of A. Feel free to inquire about any questions you may have.
Session on Renter’s Rights | July 25 | 6-9 p.m. MDT | Online
Attend this free online session presented by the City of Edmonton that covers your rights and responsibilities as a rental tenant, how to communicate well with your landlords, navigate applications, how to maintain a safe home, and more.
Complete the International Student Online Orientation
Online Orientation is a self-paced Canvas course accessible through Bear Tracks with your CCID. Each module contains valuable information on the unique aspects of student life at the U of A. You have the freedom and flexibility to complete each module on your own time.
Parent Information Session | Online
Help your parents and guardians register for the session. This is an opportunity to speak directly with U of A staff and learn about various campus services available to support students.
July 22 | 8:30 a.m. MDT | Online
Register for the online session
August 26 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. | In-person, Telus Centre, Room 150
Register for an in-person session
Airport Welcome
Take advantage of our Airport Welcome Services at the Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and receive a $25.00 transportation discount coupon towards the cost of a taxi ride to your accommodation. Whether you’re arriving during our booth hours or outside of them, we’ve got you covered.
Want to take public transit instead? Learn more about other transportation options
Use your @ualberta.ca account to complete the form. Having trouble, contact us.
After you Arrive
Campus Check-in Session | In-person
Aug. 18 - Sept. 5 | Mon-Fri, 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. | International Service Centre
After you arrive in Edmonton, plan to come to the Campus Check-in for a drop-in welcome session to get a bag and useful information to start your life in Edmonton. If you are arriving in late September, attend one of our bi-weekly welcome sessions.
International Student Orientation | Aug. 28
Aug. 28 | 9-11 a.m. | Centennial Centre for Interdisciplinary Science (CCIS), Room 1-430
Attend the international student in-person orientation session to connect with staff and other international students.
InfoMart | Aug. 28
Aug. 28 | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. | University Commons (Atrium), Campus Connections
Connect with campus and community services at the Infomart. Discover U of A resources, including student services, student groups, libraries, banks, and cell phone company representatives. Many prizes are to be had. Examples of the organisations you will be able to talk to:
- Local banks - Open a bank account here!
- Cell phone companies - Get a cell phone here!
- U of A service offices, including International Student and Visitor Services
Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Bring your immigration documents (study permit and passport) and get your SIN done right on campus at the International Service Centre. A SIN is a confidential nine-digit number needed to work in Canada or access government services. No registration is required.
Dates: Aug. 25, 26, 27, 29, and Sept 11 and 12
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. | International Service Centre
International Student & Visitor Services (ISVS) hosts various events and immigration webinars throughout the year.