Welcome
Welcome to IBU! We have compiled all the useful information you will need as you begin your journey as an international student.
Based on the most frequently asked questions, we have summarized the most important information by topic. Learn about our intakes and admissions processes. Once you’ve been accepted, prepare for your trip. All the information on this page is important so read carefully. We have listed some tips on health insurance but also go into detail about finances, culture, entertainment, and food. Many of our international students ask about the rules for working in Canada. Therefore, we have also compiled a list of student job conditions for you.
We will keep updating this article, but if you have any specific questions, please feel free to contact us – our Student Success Team is always happy to help.
First steps
IBU Calendar
As a first step, check our calendar to plan your travel dates.
Important Dates at International Business University
IBU International Student Handbook
Then we recommend downloading the “IBU International Student Handbook”.
It contains all the necessary information to help you prepare for your trip.
Click to download
Step One
Learn about our program start dates. If you need a study permit, make sure you check processing times from your country so you can plan ahead.
-Semesters (September. January and May)
–Apply
–Check processing times
Step Two
Been accepted into our program? Here’s what to do next
-Apply for a study permit
-Important Dates at International Business University
Most important things to consider and bring with you before your arrival
What are the most important documents for an international student in Canada?
- Letter of admission or invitation from International Business University
- Driver’s license or other forms of photo ID
- Travel health insurance plan
- Travel documents and passport
- Copies (physical and virtual) of your photo identification, tickets, health insurance, etc.
- Copy of your medical records with allergy and immunization information, especially if you have any previous medical concerns or a pre-existing medical condition
- Please photocopy all of your official documents and keep them separate from the originals so that if you lose your passport or other documents, you will have copies in organizing a replacement. We also recommend that you keep copies of your documents at home (in case something is lost, it is much easier to replace them this way).
- When traveling, it is advised that your passport be valid for at least 6 months.
Before leaving, it is worth making sure your documents are still valid because getting a new one abroad can take some time.
How much money does an international student need in Canada?
For more information on how to access money in Canada, check out our section on Money, Banking, and Finances.
Prescription & medication tips for international students
Visit your doctor at home for a checkup before your travel.
Make sure you pack:
- An extra pair of glasses or contact lenses, and a copy of your prescription for your glasses/contact lenses.
- Medication – Prescription or Over-the-counter (if you are taking any). There can be restrictions on the type and quantity of medicine you are allowed to bring into the country. Please review information on the Government of Canada’s website: Bringing health products into Canada for personal use for more information.
- A one- or two-page document that summarizes your medical history (blood type, past health issues and treatments, and current health issues and treatments). This way, both you and relevant medical providers will have access to the data vital for your treatment.
Items you can not bring to Canada
When entering Canada, Canadian Customs allows personal items such as clothing, books, toiletries, etc. to be brought into the country. However, there are restrictions on some items.
Before you leave, make sure you review what items you can and cannot bring across Canadian borders on the Canada Border Service Agency website Restricted and prohibited goods .
Living In Toronto
Health and Wellness
TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN CANADA
Health Insurance
If your stay in Canada is less than 3 months, you must purchase private comprehensive health insurance. The cost of private health insurance depends on several factors. To find private health insurance, you can research online. It is advisable to purchase travel health insurance in your home country before you leave. Before choosing a plan, get quotes from several insurance companies. Contact your home institution’s international or global learning office to see if they have recommendations for insurance plans and companies.
If your stay is longer than 3 months, purchasing a University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) is highly advised. The cost of UHIP depends on various factors, such as the length of your stay at International Business University. This insurance covers the cost of medical services such as doctor visits, hospitalization and treatment, examinations, and emergency services. International students must confirm with ISS that they are enrolled by emailing [email protected] from their email account and providing their student number.
Medical Emergencies
In the event of a serious medical emergency, such as a heart attack, stroke, broken limb, or other life-threatening injuries, call 911.
Hospitals near 80 Bloor St West Campus
St. Michael’s Hospital
30 Bond Street
Toronto, ON M5B 1W8
The emergency entrance is located at the corner of Victoria St. and Shuter St.
Mount Sinai Hospital
600 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 1X5
The hospital is located on the west side of University Ave at Gerrard St.
Toronto General Hospital
190 Elizabeth Street
Toronto, ON M5G 2C4
The emergency entrance is located east of University Ave. on Gerrard St.
Arts, Culture, and Entertainment
What you need to know about sports and teams in Canada is here. Your guide to Toronto’s professional sports: https://www.destinationtoronto.com/things-to-do/attractions/professional-sports/
Arts & Culture
Toronto is the largest city in Canada and one of the most diverse locations in the world. It is home to a wide range of museums, theatres, festivals, communities, and organizations. There is something for everyone here – if you know where to look. Here are some resources to help you get started. However, make sure you do your own research! There is so much that the city has to offer.
Outdoor Activities
If you are interested in outdoor activities (e.g., cycling, swimming, camping, skiing, hiking, nature walks, etc.) or just want to be outside, there are many options available in the city and province. Here are some resources to get you started:
Food
Toronto has a truly diverse population, which is reflected in its cuisine. There are many different culinary experiences you can have. Here are some links for you:
Getting Around in Toronto
City of Toronto Transit
Toronto city’s public transit system, Toronto Transit Commission or TTC
Buses, subways, and streetcars are all part of the citywide public transportation network that is run by the TTC.
If you have a disability, you can learn about the accessibility features in the TTC system on the Easier access on the TTC website.
The TTC also offers Wheel-Trans, which is a para-transit service that provides safe and accessible transit options specifically for persons with disabilities.
You can book your trip either online or by phone.
The easiest way to use the TTC is by purchasing a Presto Card, external link. However, you can also purchase individual passes, or pay with cash.
Can International Students Work In Canada?
Eligibility to Work On/Off-Campus
Full-time international students enrolled in a post-secondary program at a Designated Learning Institution may work on or off-campus without a work permit if they meet all the following conditions:
- You have a valid study permit;
- You have already started to study in your program;
- You have obtained a Social Insurance Number (SIN);
- You have met the conditions on your study permit that confirms on- and off-campus work eligibility;
- You are enrolled in a program for more than six months, which leads to a degree or diploma.
You require a Social Insurance Number (SIN), which is a nine-digit number, to work in Canada or to be eligible for government benefits and programs. It is also used to file taxes, however, certain students can also get an Individual Tax Number (ITN) instead.
A SIN can only be assigned to one individual, and no other person is permitted to use it. You are responsible for protecting your SIN. Do not carry your SIN around with you; instead, save any documents containing it and other personal information in a secure location.
For more information, visit the Service Canada website.
Who is eligible to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?
You must have one of the following conditions or remarks printed on your study permit to apply for a SIN:
- “May work 20 hours per week off campus or full time during regular breaks if meeting criteria outlined in paragraph 186(v) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations”
- “May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria, per paragraph R186(f), (v) or (w) and must cease working if no longer meeting these criteria”
- “May accept employment on the campus of the institution at which registered in full-time studies”
Post Graduation Work Permit
A post-graduation work permit (PGWP) is a document that gives you permission to remain in Canada as a worker and work full-time for up to three years after you graduate from a Canadian post-secondary institution.
Since applicants are only eligible for the PGWP once in their lifetime, we suggest you speak with an international student advisor to determine the best time to apply if you intend to continue your education in Canada. To be eligible, you must have maintained full-time student status during each session of your program(s) of study with a duration of at least 8 months. To see full eligibility details including those who do not qualify, visit the IRCC website.
When to apply for your PGWP
You must complete all requirements of your degree program before you can apply for your Post-Graduation Work Permit. This means that you cannot apply during your final semester.
If you are applying within 180 days (approximately 6 months) of completing your program of study, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- You must have a valid study permit.
- You have held a valid study permit within the 180-day period and applied for visitor status before your study permit became invalid.
- You have applied for the restoration of temporary resident status.
HOUSING OPTIONS
International Business University wants all international students to feel welcome and comfortable in their new home. IBU will support you finding off campus accommodation with other students or on your own.
You should have your accommodation arranged prior to arrival, which means all required fees are paid and you have received confirmation. Be sure to visit our Housing Tips page for some important information to get you started.
IBU partners with an off-campus housing service options below. These extensive real-time databases will help you find vacancies located near IBU campuses. Listings include photos, contact information and property features.
All accommodations include, at a minimum:
- a furnished room with a window
- a bed with clean linen (sheets, pillow, and blankets)
- private storage for your belongings (such as a chest of drawers or a closet)
- access to a shared/private bathroom with your own clean towels
- a quiet place to study, usually in your own room
Places4Students is the proven Off-Campus Housing Listings Resource for over 190 college and university campuses throughout North America.
https://www.places4students.com/
Tel: 001-1-866-766-0767
Canada Homestay Network (CHN) manages homestay accommodations for international students at IBU. Through a CHN homestay, students reside with an approved host and become integrated members of the family and community. Homestays are available for a minimum one-month period.
IBU students are invited to apply online any time here: https://studentportal.chnonline.ca or you may link to our website here: www.canadahomestaynetwork.ca
Payment is made directly through CHN.
Harrington Housing offers a unique and upscale co-living experience in the hub of major cities around the world all at less than the market rate. See what is Harrington Rent Price Compared to others.
https://www.harringtonhousing.com/location/toronto
Please note: It is important for you to do your due diligence and choose the service provider that is right for your needs – whether from this list or beyond. IBU assumes no responsibility for off-campus leases, agreements and the quality services provided by these organizations.
Here are a few other websites that provide listings of available rooms or apartments for rent:
Padmapper: https://www.padmapper.com/apartments/toronto-on
Viewit: https://www.viewit.ca/
For any inquiries regarding student housing, contact our International Student Services office [email protected]
