Pre-departure and arrival information

Check the Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for travel advisories

Ensure you review the Travel, testing and borders webpage on the IRCC website.

This website will include information about possible delays or changes for those travelling from outside of Canada.

Download the Georgian iCent app

The iCent app is an essential tool to help you get valuable information about Georgian College and living in Canada. The features on this app have helpful materials to guide you through your time at Georgian from start to finish. 

All international students at Georgian are required to download the app and set up their profiles using their student emails. Get it for free through the Apple Store or Google Play to access all the beneficial resources available.

iCent is also accessible through your computer via your preferred web browser. Get started with the web version.

Please note: iCent is not available for Georgian@ILAC or Lakehead students.

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Complete your mandatory pre-arrival forms

Within the iCent app, you’ll need to complete your MANDATORY pre-arrival forms.

This is an essential requirement before you travel to Canada.

Confirm your study permit/student visa

As a vital document for studying in Canada, you will need to apply for a study permit/student visa before starting at Georgian.

Once you have the letter of acceptance (LOA), provincial attestation letter (PAL), and a tuition deposit receipt, you should apply for your study permit/visa as soon as possible so that you can obtain the document to start your program on time.

It is critical that your Immigration Medical Exam (IME) is completed and linked to your study and work permit application before you arrive in Canada. This will help prevent permit restrictions which may stop you from participating in placements or work activities related to healthcare, childcare, or education. Having such restrictions can severely impact your ability to fulfill your program requirements and achieve your academic and professional goals. Please see the Placement Office page for more details.

Once you receive your study permit/visa, you must upload it to the International Application System (IAS) portal before you can register for your courses.

Bring proof of your immunization records

Depending on your program, you may be required to have certain immunization shots.

If that’s necessary, then you must be prepared to show proof via paperwork that you’re fully vaccinated, as per program mandates.

Visit the admissions webpage to see if your program has such requirements.

Complete the international student safety modules

Although Canada is one of the safest countries for international students, we want to ensure you don’t fall victim to scams and frauds that may target you.

Located on MyGCLife, the international student safety modules include critical information to ensure your safety.

Once you complete the modules, you can check them off as completed in the Georgian iCent app.

Learn about your student health insurance coverage

At Georgian, your health insurance will be provided through Guard.me and the Georgian College Students’ Association (GSCA).

Visit our health insurance webpage for details about your coverage.

Please note: If you arrive before the insurance start date, it’s important that you purchase your own health insurance from the date of arrival in Canada up to the insurance start date. Visit guard.me International Insurance to apply for insurance coverage for additional days.

Attend Georgian’s International Information Week

Hosted virtually six weeks prior to the start of the semester, International Information Week (IIW) aims to prepare students for their arrival.

Daily sessions will take place from Monday to Friday. Recordings will be available online afterwards.

Two weeks prior to IIW, we’ll send you an email with details on when and how to attend the sessions.

Complete Head Start pre-orientation

Receive further important details before you commence your studies by attending the Head Start pre-orientation.

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Attend your program’s Academic Orientation

Meet your professors and fellow classmates in your program during your Academic Orientation.

Explore your housing options

Finding a place to live can be one of the hardest parts of moving abroad. Fortunately, there are a list of options and supports available to help you securely and safely find your home away from home.

Visit the housing webpage for details to assist you with your search.

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Obtain temporary accommodations

If you need help with temporary accommodation (e.g., hotel, Airbnb, etc.) while you search for housing, please contact us at housing@georgiancollege.ca.

Visit the Airport Welcome Desk

The Airport Welcome Desk can provide information about shuttle and transit information, temporary accommodation and hotels, banking services and currency exchange, special assistance and baggage claims and more.

Visit the airport arrival webpage to learn more about the services and hours of operation.

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Book airport pickup services

To help make your arrival at Toronto Pearson International Airport smooth, Georgian College recommends arrival services through a few different companies.

Visit the airport arrival webpage to learn more about recommended airport pickup services and find out how to book.

Your one-stop shop for new Georgian students

Condensed into one helpful guide, Georgian’s Guide for New Students will ensure you have a lot of the information you need to successfully start your schooling.

Settling in for your studies at Georgian College marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your educational journey.

To facilitate a seamless transition into your life as an international student in Canada, we’ve compiled a list of invaluable resources on our Life in Canada webpage.

Here, you’ll discover crucial information that will greatly assist you as you settle into the country. From essential documentation to cultural insights, these details are designed to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

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