Post-Arrival
Enrolling at Your Canadian University
What to do at your university after you land: register for courses, join your health plan and keep the enrolment rules of your study permit.
University Student Portal
Example program
2026-27
Steps After You Arrive
Finish these steps in your first weeks.
- Register for courses: Use your university's online system before term starts.
- Join your health plan: Ask your school which plan to join. In BC, also apply for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) after you arrive.
- Get your student card: Your university will tell you how.
- Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN): You need it to work. Apply after your program starts.
Stay enrolled
If you stop studying or break the rules of your study permit, you may have to leave Canada.
Papers for Your First Weeks
Bring these to your university and keep copies.
Immigration papers:
- Study permit - The paper that lets you study in Canada. The border officer gives it to you at the airport. Check the dates and the rules on it.
- Passport - Your visitor visa (temporary resident visa) is in it. Students from India and Pakistan need one to enter Canada. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) puts it in your passport when it approves your study permit.
School papers:
- Letter of acceptance - From your school. It must be a designated learning institution (DLI), a school the government approves for international students.
Check with your university
Each university sets its own steps for new students.
Orientation
Most universities run events for new international students. Check your school's dates.
Course Registration
Register for enough courses to stay a full-time student.
Study permit rule
Stay enrolled in each term, apart from scheduled breaks.
Help at Your University
Your school's international student office can help with letters, health plans and study permit questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tips
- Register for your courses before term starts.
- Keep a full-time course load in each term.
- Ask your school which health plan you must join.
- Ask your school for a letter that says you are a student, when you need one.
Complete Guide to Canada
Explore all aspects of studying in Canada with our comprehensive guides
Post-Arrival - Detailed Guides
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Get personalized guidance for studying in Canada with our expert consultants
Get Free ConsultationHelp from our team
Need help with your first weeks at university?
We help you plan enrolment, your health plan and your study permit rules before and after you land.
Get Guidance