How to prepare for life in Canada as an Indian student

Knowledge is your first step to making the most of your time in Canada. From visa and financial considerations to academic preparation and living in Canada—this article aims to prepare you with everything you need.

1. Visa and documentation: Indian students may fast-track study permits

Once you have been accepted into a Canadian learning institution, ensure that you have all the necessary documents for a study permit. Generally, you need:

• Proof of acceptance
• Proof of identity
• Proof of financial support

You may also need to include other documents such as a medical exam, or, if you plan on studying in Quebec for more than six months, a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (your school can help you apply).

2. Finances: Create a budget, build credit and open a chequing account

Creating a budget and sticking to it is easier said than done when travelling to a new country. Don’t forget to budget for some fun when you’re calculating tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and any other costs.

You can try for scholarships and grants to help finance your studies. A Canadian study permit allows you to work part-time during the school year and full-time during scheduled academic breaks.

Once you arrive in Canada, you can open a chequing account. Scotiabank offers an account that’s specifically for international students.

3. Health Insurance: Make sure you’re covered

Be sure to check whether your educational institution provides health insurance coverage, not all do. Otherwise, you may want to arrange for private health insurance. Although Canada offers publicly-funded healthcare, international students are not covered in all provinces, and some may be subject to a waiting period before becoming eligible. Familiarize yourself with the Canadian healthcare system and understand how to access medical services in case you need it.

4. Accommodation: Find a place to live

As an international student, you may be able to live on-campus, rent off-campus, or even stay with a Canadian family in a homestay. Research what housing options are available near your educational institution and consider shelter costs as well as proximity to campus and amenities. All these factors will play a role in your monthly expenses and lifestyle during your studies.

5. Climate and clothing: Check the weather

What to wear when you get to Canada will largely depend on where you plan to land and during what season. As Canada is a large country, the second largest by land area, your seasonal needs will not be the same in the West as they will be in the East. The West coast tends to be warmer, whereas the East coast and toward the middle of the country experiences colder, harsher winters. Living in Northern Canada is a whole different experience as well. In the territories, there may be fewer daylight hours in the winter and fewer hours of darkness in the summer.

For the winter, you will want to have a winter jacket, winter boots, hats, gloves or mitts, and scarves to keep warm. The fall and spring may call for rubber boots and rain jackets, or at least light jackets. Summertime can be hot and sometimes humid, so be sure to pack shorts and t-shirts as well.

7. Academic preparation: Get ready for school

The more you know about your educational institution, its campus facilities, student services, and support systems, the more prepared you’ll be to get the help you need. It is also good to be aware of important dates, deadlines, orientation programs and any pre-arrival requirements.

You may also want to prepare for your academic journey by reviewing the curriculum and course requirements for your program. Your professors or academic advisors may be available to answer your questions on pre-study materials or recommended readings.

8. Social activities: Meet people

As you’re researching your institution, be on the lookout for social activities as well. Most learning institutions will have clubs or some sort of international student community. Making friends is not only important for your mental health and well-being, but it can be invaluable in your career long after you graduate.

9. Travel and Arrival: Get where you need to go

Plan your travel arrangements well in advance. Book your flight tickets and also figure out how you’re getting from the airport to your new home. You may want to look into bus routes or arrange for someone to pick you up. There’s always the option to get a taxi, but you may wish to explore more affordable options first.

10. Culture and lifestyle: Learn about food, fun, and finances

It’s a good idea to learn about Canadian culture, customs, and lifestyle before you arrive. To give an example, Canadians typically don’t know what a lakh or crore is, so you might have to say, “hundred thousand” or “ten million”.

Urban centers that are populated with more Indians will likely have access to Indian food that will remind you of home. For vegetarians, there are usually plant-based options at most restaurants, but if you’re not sure it’s a good idea to ask. When dining at any restaurant, keep in mind it is expected that you will tip when you are served at your table or when you are buying a drink at a bar. Although the preference varies from place to place, typically people tip 15-18 percent of their bill.

Canada is a secular nation, but national holidays oftentimes align with Christian celebrations like Christmas and Easter. Many Canadian towns and cities put on holiday-themed activities during the months of November and December. With a large Indian population in Canada, you may also be able to find a diaspora group that puts on events to celebrate your favourite annual holidays.

Outside of the big cities, public transportation may be less developed in Canada as a lot of the locals use cars to get around. You may wish to consider buying a car if you are planning to stay long term in a smaller city. Also, traffic is on the right side of the road in Canada, not the left.

While cash is king in India, in Canada you benefit from having what’s called a “credit score.” This number is built up over time through your credit history. Having a good credit score can help you obtain loans for purchasing a home or a car. You can start building your credit history by signing up and applying for a credit card.