Leaving your home to live, study, and work in another country can be extremely daunting. You are forced to live away from your family, in an unfamiliar environment, and handle all the challenges on your own. However, there are various benefits that come with study in Canada – high-quality education, research opportunities, post-grad work prospects, and so much more.
Canada has been a student favourite for years now and for all the right reasons. It not only gives you a chance to gain high-quality academic knowledge and research options, it also offers an enriching cross-culture experience. There are a few things that you should know before moving to Canada to pursue higher studies that will make your application process easier, faster, and worry-free.
Things you should know if you are going to Canada to study
1. Take care of your finances
The first and foremost step of studying in Canada is to organise your finances. In addition to the tuition fees and travel costs, you should have some money set aside for unexpected situations that may occur while you are in Canada. They can be buying extra books, supplies for university, or travelling.
If you do this, you do not have to worry about money and can give your undivided attention to your studies. If needed, you can always go to the support service desk for international students – and ask for a full list of the fees before arriving in Canada. Not to mention, keep exchange rates in mind.
2. Pack essentials for Canada
Travelling with things you need while studying abroad is important. Therefore, the first step in packing is to make a checklist of things you will require for your student life. Make sure you start this process as early as possible to avoid last-minute hassle, as there will be a million other things you should be worrying about. To ease your tension, here is a list of a few essential things:
Important Documents – these may include your educational certificates, college admission papers, student visa, passport, flight tickets, and copies of all these documents. Make a separate folder and keep your documents there.
Medicines – If you take any medications, pack them. Also, keep other general medicines for minor illnesses like colds, coughs, and fever.
Clothing – Make sure to keep clothes that dry faster and also which do not need ironing. Heavy jackets are a big no-no, you can buy them in Canada as per the winter temperature there. Keep socks, scarves, and gloves. Pack toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and other toiletries that you may need.
Electronic Items – It is essential to keep your mobile chargers, laptop, laptop charger, USB cords, and adapters that may work in Canada.
3. Look for an accommodation
Finding a house before you leave your home country and hop on that flight is to find suitable accommodation. The best way is to look for houses in the city where your educational institution is located. Canadian universities and colleges have on-campus housing for students. You can explore that or opt for off-campus accommodation. Your options will include student residence, shared apartment, paying guest, and individual apartment.
If you have a budget crunch, then there are many affordable cities for students to live in. Whether you choose on or off-campus housing, the facilities will differ. On-campus accommodation will give you a chance to be around other people, and off-campus will give you a sense of independence and opportunities to meet people outside the classroom.
4. Find a part-time job
Generally, Canada student visa processing time takes about 8 weeks. Once you have your visa in hand, you will be able to travel to Canada and get your study permit. So, once you settle in Canada, make sure to start looking for a part-time job. Working during your study session is allowed under your study permit, but not before that.
You will be allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours every year – either on or off campus. Get a Social Insurance Number, without which you will not be allowed to work in Canada. This way, you will be able to work during your studies, gain experience, and also meet your basic expenses.
5. Prepare for the cold weather
If you live in India, then Canada’s cold weather will be something you have never experienced before. Though Canada has various climates, the temperature on the north side falls below 0 degrees Celsius in the wintertime. Therefore, it is ideal to bring your quality winter clothes with you that you can layer. Only bring your hats, sweaters, scarves, and socks with you.
To bear Canada’s cold, you must buy heavy jackets from here only. They are specifically designed for the local weather and the winter jackets you may have brought from home may not be able to resist the harsh cold. Once in Canada, if you suspect frostbite due to long exposure to cold, seek medical help on an immediate basis.
Planning to study in Canada? Talk to industry experts - Canada immigration consultants in Chandigarh – Nationwide Visas. With so many years of counselling thousands of students wishing to study in Canada, they are the best fit to assist you in your study abroad journey. From 1-on-1 counselling sessions to visa filing and post-landing settlement, Nationwide Visas supports you in every way possible to make your journey as smooth as possible.
