International Student Orientation
Welcome to the University of Alberta and your new community!
We are so excited to welcome you to our campuses. Register for the International Student Orientation to learn about the programs and resources that support your transition to life in Canada.
Before you arrive
Pre-Departure Information Session
Parent Information Session
Airport Welcome
After you arrive
Campus Check-in Session
International Student Orientation
Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Before you arrive
Online Pre-Departure Information Session
Our fall pre-departure sessions have now concluded. If you missed a session or would like to revisit the information shared, access the presentation slides. It covers everything you need to know before you arrive, from travel planning and packing tips to housing, winter preparation, and key support services on campus.
Review the pre-departure slides
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.
Airport Welcome Services
Arriving in Edmonton between August 1 and September 30, 2026? International Student and Visitor Services wants you to have a warm arrival and offers a complimentary voucher to help cover $25 of the taxi fare from Edmonton International Airport to your accommodation in Edmonton.
After you arrive
Visit the International Service Centre | Campus Check-in
Start your U of A journey with a warm welcome. Get a welcome bag, receive important information, and connect with staff and student volunteers who can support you in settling into life in Edmonton.
- Dates: August 17-26 and August 28-31 (including weekends)
Campus Check-in is not available on August 27 due to International Student Orientation. - Time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- Location: International Service Centre (ISC) [Google Map]
Get Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) on Campus
Sept. 4 and Sept. 17 | 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. | International Service Centre
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.
Attend International Student Orientation
Join this full-day orientation designed to support your transition to life at the University of Alberta.
- Date: Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026
- Time: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Location: Centennial Centre For Interdisciplinary Sciences (CCIS), Room 1-430 [Google Map]
Welcome Weekend: International Student Social
The ISVS team invites our new international students to an afternoon filled with connection, food, games, and fun! Celebrate your arrival on campus with us. Enjoy food like hot dogs and iced tea, participate in yard games, meet student groups and staff, learn about winter essentials, and have a fun start to your U of A experience.
- Date: Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026
- Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
- Location: International Service Centre (ISC), Front Lawn [Google Map]
Looking for upcoming events?
International Student and Visitor Services offers programs, workshops, webinars, and social events throughout the year.