Banking, SIM cards, housing, insurance, student discounts — the practical stuff nobody tells you about, all in one place.
Most banks offer newcomer accounts for international students. Some let you open them from abroad — highly recommended.
Newcomer banking offer — no monthly fees for 1 year. Apply from your home country before you arrive.
Add Affiliate LinkInternational student banking package. Widely available, great ATM network across Canada.
Add Affiliate LinkMulti-currency accounts for international students. Best rates for sending money home or receiving funds.
Add Affiliate LinkBuild credit history from day one as a newcomer. Essential for renting and future financial products.
Add Affiliate LinkHaving a local number is essential for banking, housing and everything else. Get sorted at the airport or before you fly.
Best value SIM in Quebec. No contract, flexible plans, referral bonuses for newcomers.
Add Affiliate LinkAffordable plans on Telus network. Great for students on a budget. Discounts for paying upfront.
Add Affiliate LinkInternational eSIM for your first days. Buy before you fly and arrive connected.
Add Affiliate LinkStudent housing options vary by country and city. Here's where to look — and what to watch out for.
Canada's largest rental listing site. Filter by city, budget and pet policy. Verified listings.
Add Affiliate LinkSearch "[City] International Students Housing" — active communities with sublet and roommate posts.
Visit FacebookClassifieds site with lots of rental listings. Great for furnished rooms and short-term rentals.
Add Affiliate LinkVerified student accommodation listings in the UK, Germany and other European cities.
Add Affiliate LinkMost provinces have a waiting period before provincial health kicks in. Private coverage for that gap period is essential.
Student health insurance used by 200+ universities. Covers health, dental and vision for international students.
Add Affiliate LinkHealth insurance for newcomers — gap coverage while waiting for provincial OHIP/RAMQ eligibility.
Add Affiliate LinkTravel insurance for the journey to your new country and the first few months while you settle in.
Add Affiliate LinkFree language learning app. Great for basic French before arriving in Quebec, or German for Germany.
Try FreeAffordable online prep courses for English proficiency tests required for most study visas.
Add Affiliate LinkAudio-based language learning — perfect for commutes. French, German, and more.
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