International Student Orientation
Welcome to the University of Alberta and your new community!
Join us for Winter 2027 International Student Orientation to learn about the essential services, resources, and opportunities available to you as an international student. Meet other new students, connect with campus support teams, learn about living and studying in Canada, and get answers to questions about your transition to university life.
Wednesday, January 6, 2027 | 4 - 7 p.m. | TELUS International Centre, Room 150
Important Dates: Winter 2027
- November 26 | Online Pre-Departure Session, 9-11 a.m.
- December 10 | Online Pre-Departure Session, 9-11 a.m.
- December 21, 22, 23, 24 | Campus Check-in, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- December 25, 2026 - January 3, 2027 | University Winter Closure
- January 4-5, 2027 | Campus Check-in, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- January 6-8, 2027 | On-campus SIN Clinics, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- January 6, 2027 | International Student Orientation, 4-7 p.m.
Before you arrive
Online Pre-Departure Information Session
Get ready for your move to Edmonton! Join one of our online sessions to learn about to help you prepare for your arrival. Learn about travel, packing, housing, preparing for winter, and support services available on campus.
Upcoming sessions:
- Thursday, November 26 | 9 - 11 a.m. MT | Online (Zoom): Register here
- Thursday, December 10 | 9 - 11 a.m. MT | Online (Zoom): Register here
Online Orientation (Optional)
Prepare for a successful first year with Online Orientation. Topics covered include preparing for your trip, immigration, finding housing, understanding health services, living in Edmonton, and adjusting to the academic community and culture.
Prepare your Travel and Immigration Documents
Before departure, make sure you understand the documents you need to travel to Canada and enter as an international student.
Need help during the closure? Learn more
After you arrive
Visit the International Service Centre | Campus Check-in
Come say hello! Visit the International Service Centre (ISC) to meet our team, connect with student volunteers, pick up a welcome bag, and get information to help you settle into life at the U of A.
- Campus Check-in dates:
- December 21 - 24, 2026
- January 4 - 5, 2027
- Time: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Location: International Service Centre (ISC) [Google Map]
Campus Check-in will not be available during the university's winter closure, December 25, 2026 - January 3, 2027.
Get Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) on Campus
If you plan on working in Canada, you are legally required to have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). We are hosting an on-campus SIN Clinic to make this easy for you. You must bring your physical passport and your valid study permit.
January 6, 7, 8 and 15 | 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. | International Service Centre
Attend International Student Orientation
Join orientation designed to support your transition to life at the University of Alberta.
Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2027 | 4 - 7 p.m. | Telus International Centre, Room 150 [Google Map]
Meet other students and get involved
Orientation is just the beginning! Throughout the year, ISVS organizes social activities, workshops, webinars, and opportunities to connect with other international students.