Preparing to Study in Canada: Pre-departure checklist for International Students

Studying abroad in Canada may be a dream come true for you. However, it may also require organization and pre-planning to begin your overseas studies with confidence.

Before boarding the plane, there are steps you may want to take to help support a smooth start to your education journey in Canada.

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This article provides international students like you with a helpful 8-step pre-departure checklist. Let’s jump in:

Confirm Your Acceptance from a Canadian School

Taking action to secure your spot at a Canadian college or university is the first step in your education journey in Canada. Make sure you’ve received a formal letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI)—you’ll need this document to apply for a study permit, which is essential for international students coming to Canada.^[1]

2. Submit Your Study Permit Application

With your admission confirmed, it’s time to take the next step: applying for a Canadian study permit. Begin by reviewing the Government of Canada’s eligibility requirements to ensure you meet all the conditions to study in the country.^[2]

Once you've confirmed your eligibility, gather the key documents—your acceptance letter from a designated learning institution (DLI), a valid passport, and proof of financial support.^[3] When your documents are in order, you can submit your application online.^[4]

3. Organize and Back Up Key Documents

As you prepare for your move to Canada, collect all the important documents you'll need for travel and study. This includes your passport, letter of acceptance, proof of health and travel insurance, financial documents, and vaccination records.

Make both physical and digital copies—saving scanned versions in secure cloud storage or on a USB drive can be a lifesaver if anything gets lost along the way. Being well-organized now may mean fewer headaches later.^[5]

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4. Arrange Your Health Insurance Coverage

Before arriving in Canada as an international student, it can be helpful to have health insurance as you may need coverage in place to help with unexpected medical expenses during your studies.^[6]

You can start by finding out what health coverage is available in the province where you’ll be studying. Some provinces provide public health insurance to international students, while others require you to enroll in a private plan or one offered through your school.^[7]

Also, you may want to take some time to understand how Canada’s healthcare system works. While permanent residents and citizens benefit from universal coverage, international students must ensure they’re protected through the right plan.^[8]

5. Secure Comfortable Housing

Before you embark on your education journey in Canada, take time to find a suitable place to live. Whether it’s a dormitory, shared apartment, or private rental, explore all your accommodation options to find one that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

Be sure to factor in your budget and location when choosing housing, as these may have an impact on your day-to-day experience. After all, your living space can be the foundation of a successful and comfortable time in Canada!^[9]

6. Choose the Right Canadian Bank

As you begin your study adventure in Canada, setting up a bank account can help you manage your day-to-day finances more easily. Take the time to research different banks, comparing their fees, rates, and student-friendly services to find the best option that suits your needs.

For international students like you, TD Bank offers specialized banking solutions, including a no-fee chequing account to make your banking experience easier and more affordable.^[10] Getting your banking in order early may help you enjoy a smooth transition to life in Canada!

Learn more about TD International Student Banking Package

7. Set Up an International Student GIC

For any student studying in Canada, opening up a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is an important step to secure your finances – and should be done before you board the plane. An International Student GIC provides you with the funds needed for both your education and living expenses. It also helps you provide proof of funds required for your study permit application.

8. Get to Know Canada Before You Arrive

As your departure approaches, take some time to explore what life in Canada is really like. From cultural norms and everyday etiquette to local laws and regional customs, a bit of online research now can go a long way in helping you settle in with ease.

Browse online resources, join student forums, or participate in pre-departure orientation sessions offered by your school. You might also consider reaching out to current international students who can offer first-hand tips and insights.

Starting a new chapter in another country is a big step—but with a little preparation and curiosity, you’ll feel more prepared about the move.

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Why Choose TD?

150 years helping Canadians: 

TD has a proud history of delivering financial solutions to Canadians for more than 150 years. TD also brings a century of experience helping newcomers navigate the unique challenges of the Canadian banking system.

With over a thousand branches, and the ability to also serve you in more than 80 different languages, TD has become one of the largest and most trusted banks in Canada, now serving 16 million Canadians.

TD offers online support and resources of interest to newcomers on topics such as banking basics, moving to Canada, credit score essentials, and more. TD is open longer hours for your convenience and has thousands of ATMs across Canada to help you take care of your everyday banking needs quickly and easily.

Ready to Bank?

Learn more about TD New to Canada Banking Package today.

Book an appointment to talk with a TD Personal Banking Associate about the TD New to Canada Banking Package. You can book online right away, or visit the TD website to learn more.

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Information provided by TD Bank Group and other sources in this article is believed to be accurate and reliable when placed on this site, but we cannot guarantee it is accurate or complete or current at all times. The information in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide financial, legal, accounting or tax advice, and should not be relied upon in that regard. This information is not to be construed as a solicitation to buy. Products and services of the TD Bank Group are only offered in jurisdictions where they may be lawfully offered for sale. All products and services are subject to the terms of the applicable agreement. The information in this article is subject to change without notice.

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[1] Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Check your eligibility – Study Permit, Government of Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/eligibility.html (accessed 7 May 2025).

[2]  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Apply for a Study Permit, Government of Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/apply.html (accessed 7 May 2025).

[3] CanadaVisa, Canadian Temporary Study Visa, https://www.canadavisa.com/canadian-temporary-study-visa.html(accessed 7 May 2025).

[4] Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Letters of Acceptance, Government of Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/letters-acceptance.html (accessed 7 May 2025).

[5] EduCanada, Getting to Canada, Government of Canada, https://www.educanada.ca/study-plan-etudes/before-avant/getting-to-canada-venir.aspx (accessed 7 May 2025).

[6] EduCanada, Health Care, Government of Canada, https://www.educanada.ca/study-plan-etudes/before-avant/health-care-assurance-maladie.aspx (accessed 7 May 2025).

[7] CanadaVisa, Student Health Insurance Across Canada, https://www.canadavisa.com/student-health-insurance-across-canada.html (accessed 7 May 2025).

[8] Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Canada’s Universal Health-Care System, Government of Canada, https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/new-life-canada/health-care/universal-system.html (accessed 7 May 2025).

[9] EduCanada, Housing in Canada, Government of Canada, https://www.educanada.ca/study-plan-etudes/before-avant/housing-logement.aspx (accessed 7 May 2025).

[10] TD Canada Trust, International Students in Canada – Student Banking, https://www.td.com/ca/en/personal-banking/solutions/student-banking/international-students-in-canada (accessed 7 May 2025).