International Student Orientation - Winter 2025
In addition to learning your way around campus and registering in classes, as a new international student, you need to register for health insurance, arrange for your social insurance number, an ID card or driver’s licence and learn practical tips to thrive at university. Participating in the U of A’s International Student Orientation activities ensures that you have what you need to start your new life in Canada.
Pre-departure Information Session | 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.
- Friday, November 22 | 8 - 9 pm | Register here
- Tuesday, December 10 | 3 - 4 pm | Register here
- Wednesday, December 18 | noon - 1 pm | Register here
Parent Information Session | Online
Help your parents to register for the session. This is an opportunity for parents and guardians to speak directly with U of A staff and learn about various University services available to support students.
Monday, December 16 | 8:30 - 9:30 am | Register here
Airport Transportation
Arriving in Edmonton between December 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025? The International Student and Visitor Services wants you to have a warm arrival and offers a complimentary voucher to help cover part of the taxi ride cost from the Edmonton International Airport to your accommodation in Edmonton.
- Registration is required. Please complete the Taxi Voucher and Orientation form below.
- The registration deadline is Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
- Vouchers will only be provided to new University of Alberta international students who will be arriving for the first time in December or January.
- Vouchers are valid for one use between December 1, 2024 and January 31, 2025.
- Vouchers can only be used with the participating taxi company listed on the voucher (Airport Taxi).
- Once you complete the form below indicating your interest in getting the voucher, we will send you the voucher by email to your ualberta email address. Vouchers must be printed and presented to the taxi driver at the start of your trip.
Click here to register for airport transportation
Arriving during the winter closure?
The University of Alberta is closed during the year-end holidays at the end of December (December 23 - January 1).
Online Orientation for International Students | Available anytime
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.
Campus Check-in Session | In-person
Thursday, January 2 | 1-3 pm | Telus Centre, Room 134
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 January, Don't worry! we have welcome sessions planned for you.
Fridays, Jan. 17, Jan. 24, Jan.31 | 2:30 - 3:30 pm | Telus Centre, Room 134
Join us to learn about University and helpful tips to enjoy life in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. You’ll meet fellow participants and receive some University of Alberta swag. Afterward, connect with experienced peers at the English Conversation Club. This is your opportunity to get answers to all your questions about the first few weeks of school. Learn tips for navigating campus life, managing coursework, and balancing your academic and personal commitments.
International Student Orientation | Jan. 3
Friday, Jan. 3 | 9-11 am | In-person, Telus Centre (room 150), North Campus.
Attend the international student in-person orientation session to connect with staff and other international students. Join the International Student and Visitor Services team for some light refreshments and interactive fun.
Click here to register for international student orientation
InfoMart | Jan. 3
Friday, Jan. 3 | 11 am-3 pm | In-person, Telus Centre, North Campus.
Connect with campus and community services at the Infomart. This is your time to get information that is helpful to studying and living in Alberta. 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 organizations you will be able to talk to:
- Student groups
- 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)
Dates: Thursday, Jan 2
Time: 11 am - 3 pm
Location: Telus Centre, Room 137 & 139
Bring your immigration documents (study permit and passport) and get your SIN done right on campus. A SIN is a confidential nine-digit number needed to work in Canada or access government services. No registration is required.