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International Orientation 2024

Thursday, August 29, 2024 – Saturday, August 31, 2024

Thank you to all our first-year international students for attending International Orientation! We hope it helped you feel more at home and connected to our campus community.

Remember, we're still here for you! Visit the International Experience Centre for support and resources. We're excited to continue supporting you throughout your journey at Waterloo.

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I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of IO, but without a doubt, the bonfire stood out as the pinnacle!  Engaging in captivating conversations and forming connections with students from diverse cultural backgrounds was an absolute blast!

Faizan A. (Volunteer 2022) 

Schedule

  1. 2024
    1. Aug
      1. Day 1: Basic Needs

        August 29

        Get set up for success with a variety of events that will help you:

        • Learn how to use public transit 
        • Set up a Canadian bank account
        • Find a phone plan that's right for you
        • Get connected with services on campus
        • Make new friends through a variety of fun activities across campus

      2. Day 2: Information Sessions

        August 30

        Attend a variety of sessions on topics such as:

        • Canadian classroom experience
        • Immigration
        • Co-op and working in Canada
        • International Student Experience 

        Followed by an International Student Welcome reception with senior leaders.

      3. Day 3: Getting Settled

        August 31

        Connect with the community at a movie stream with IPC or Activities with Athletics. Students who missed the first day of International Orientation will also be able to set up a Canadian bank account and purchase necessities. Following that, join Waterloo Orientation in the afternoon!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need to register/ sign up for International Orientation?

Yes, you will need to register for International Orientation. Keep an eye on your UWaterloo email for more information on how to register.

Do I have to go to International Orientation and Waterloo Orientation?

We strongly encourage you to attend both International Orientation and Waterloo Orientation. International Orientation will get you set up for life in Canada with activities and sessions planned specifically for your needs; while Waterloo Orientation will help you get connected with your faculty and the greater Waterloo campus. Both orientations have some once-in-a-lifetime events that you don't want to miss! 

Do I have to pay for International Orientation?

No, there is no additional fee associated with International Orientation. 

How do I know if I am eligible for International Orientation?

If you identify as an International Student beginning your undergraduate studies at UWaterloo, then you are eligible for International Orientation! This includes students who:

  • Are Canadian Citizens but spent most of their life outside of Canada
  • Completed high school in Canada but hold citizenship from another country
  • Completed high school outside of Canada
  • Are completing a BASE or iBASE program.

Students who are studying at the University of Waterloo on an International Exchange/Study Abroad term and have completed one or more years at an institution in another country are not eligible for International Orientation and should register for Exchange Orientation.

International students in graduate programs (Master's, PhD or other) should register for Grad Orientation.

If I register for International Orientation, do I have to attend every event?

You don't have to attend every event, but we strongly encourage that you attend as many as you can! These events are carefully planned with the needs of international students in mind to make sure that you have a seamless transition and set yourself up for success at Waterloo!

I won't be able to attend International Orientation due to Visa/Study Permit delays. Is there a way that I can still get this information?

We will be hosting a Late Arrival Welcome in late September for students who are unable to attend International Orientation. Keep an eye on your UWaterloo email for details once you arrive or reach out to ise@uwaterloo.ca for details in September. 

When should I arrive in Canada for International Orientation?

We recommend arriving before IO begins, however if that is not possible you will be able to join in on the fun and attend Waterloo Orientation. Before you plan your flight, make sure that you can move into your accommodation when you arrive. Most leases begin on September 1, so you may need to book a short-term accommodation if you arrive before this. If you are living on-campus, connect with Campus Housing to secure your move-in time slot. 

International Orientation is a partnership between the Student Success Office (SSO), and the University's six faculties.