International Student Orientation Programs

Are you a new international student starting at UVic? Check out the International Student Welcome Programs to help you settle into life at UVic! You can register for sessions or view the recordings after they have taken place.

Four students smiling and posing for the camera.

Fall 2025 International Student Orientation Programs Online

Ready to Rent: Off-campus Housing

Renting off-campus housing can feel overwhelming, especially in a new country. In this session, we will delve deeper into the renting process and what to know as you get ready to rent. We will go over applying for housing, understanding rental contracts, and preparing to move-in. We will also discuss staying safe, responsibilities of landlords and tenants, and how to access housing support resources. Students will also have the opportunity to ask ICS Settlement Advisers any housing-related questions.

Consult our ICS off-campus housing information page for further resources.

Watch the recording

Uvic Ready: Pre-arrival prep

Kick off your UVic journey by attending this pre-arrival session for new international students. Our International Student Advising team will share important information and resources to help you prepare for travelling to Victoria, getting settled in, and starting your studies. Topics will include immigration documents, study permit conditions, port of entry tips, health insurance, transportation, and more!

Watch the recording

View the presentation slides

Studying and Working in Canada Information Session

At this session, our International Student Advisers will provide an overview of study permit conditions, on-/off-campus work eligibility, and post-graduation work permit eligibility for international students.

Health Insurance Information Session

Getting medical care in Canada can be very costly if you don't have the right insurance. At this session, ICS Settlement Advisers will provide an overview of health insurance for international students at UVic, and advice on how to ensure you have comprehensive coverage. We will discuss the differences between primary health insurance and extended health benefits, and how to use your insurance to access health care.

Academic Success in Canada Information Session

Learn about the basics of Canadian academics to ease your transition to studying in a new country and different learning environment. We will discuss the Canadian grading system, communication with TAs and Professors, academic supports on campus, and what to expect for course work such as assignments, quizzes, and papers. We will also share about expectations for group work and academic integrity, outline the importance of knowing your syllabus to create a semester schedule and leave lots of time to answer any questions you might have in anticipation of starting your academic career at UVic.

Introduction to Grad Writing

As an international grad student used to writing in a different academic context, you might be unsure of the expectations and standards of academic writing and research in a North American university context. We will review the importance of writing from research and practical strategies for planning, writing, and revising. We will focus on strategic approaches to self-edit in this workshop.

Academic Advising Essentials for Undergraduate Students Workshop

Academic Advising is here to support you on your academic journey. In this presentation you will learn:

What Academic Advisers do at UVic and how we can help you with course choices and program planning
How to connect with Academic Advising including how to make appointments
More about resources and supports to help you successfully proceed in your Academic Journey

This event is for International Undergraduate students in the Faculties of Humanities, Science, and Social Sciences only.

Getting to Know UVic Tools and Technology Information Session

This session will be co-hosted by the Computer Help Desk and Curriculum and Teaching Support.. You will learn about the UVic technology and tools you have access to and will use throughout your studies. These include Brightspace, Microsoft Office 365 and Echo360. We will also cover getting started with UVic’s online tools and cyber security tips for students.

Support for your Family

The International Centre for Students is here to support you and your family as you get established in Victoria. In this session, ICS Settlement Advisers will go over important information for international students with accompanying family members, such as health insurance, family housing, community services, and more. For students with children, learn more about the local school system and childcare resources. *Please note, this session is aimed towards students with dependents such as spouses and children, not for parents of incoming students.

Introduction to the UVic Library Information Session

This workshop will welcome you to the UVic Libraries to support your learning and research at UVic. Meet some of the friendly people that comprise the UVic Libraries Team while learning about the many useful resources and services that the library provides.