New Students

Undergraduate Student Arrival Checklist

Exchange Student Arrival Checklist

Graduate Student Arrival Checklist

Although Canada suspended most COVID-19-related border measures as of October 1, 2022, there is still important information you may need to know about travelling to Canada and what to expect upon arrival. Visit our International Arrival website for details.


JW mascot standing with a group of international students smiling off-camera

International Pre-arrival Welcome Modules

These modules will help answer many questions you may have about living and studying at Western and travelling to Canada. Our modules include information about the following topics:

  • ◆ Welcome to Western from Western International and the International and Exchange Student Centre
  • ◆ Academic Values in Canada and Academic Culture
  • ◆ Living in London and Finding Housing
  • ◆ Immigration Regulations for International Students
  • ◆ Health care, Health Insurance, and Wellness in Canada

You will be directed to a quick survey before continuing to the modules.

International Welcome Modules page

Study Permit and Immigration Information

  • Applying for your Study Permit
  • Important steps & documents
  • Your responsibilities

International Student Orientation

  • Event schedule
  • Pre-arrival Welcome Modules
  • Other orientation activities

What to Bring to Canada

  • Essential documents
  • Personal items and money
  • Electronics and Chargers

Finding Housing

  • On-Campus housing
  • Off-Campus housing
  • Temporary accommodations

How to Get Here

  • How to get to London
  • How to get to Western
  • London public transit

Health Care & Wellness

  • UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan)
  • Physical and mental health services
  • Health care providers and extended health insurance

Money & Banking

  • Tips to prepare before you arrive
  • Expenses to expect when you arrive
  • Banking information

Arrival & Settling In

  • When you should arrive
  • Setting up your home (Utilities, Mobile Phones, Internet)
  • Programs to help your transition

Western Basics

  • Key services for new students
  • Fees & tuition and your Western Identity
  • Course registration, Student Center, OWL, Western ONECard, bus pass