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International Student Guide

The International Student Guide is a resource carefully curated by current international students to help incoming TMU international students prepare for their new life in Toronto. We know that moving to a new country and starting university is full of mixed emotions, we've been there! Browse through our list of articles with essential information that will help you have a smoother transition to your post-secondary life in the big city.   

 Toronto packing list: What to bring and what to leave behind

Let us help you put together your packing list. We'll reassure you on what you can find here and remind of you the basics you need to bring. 

 Your home away from home: Navigating housing options in Toronto

Get a full picture of what the housing landscape is like in Toronto for international students.

 Find your way around: Transit in Toronto

You already know Toronto is a bustling, exciting city. This is your guide on what public transport is like here and how to plan your route to class.  

 Set yourself up: Getting an identification card and driver's license

We're demystifying the process of obtaining an identification card or driver's license in Toronto.

 Money matters: Tips to keeping a budget 

First time managing your own budget? Curious about expenses in Toronto? We've got you covered with an overview of your basic expenses and how to maximize your savings.

 Stay connected: Finding your cellphone plan

Getting a Canadian cell phone number is surely on your list of what to do when you get here. Let us walk you through what you need to know about how cell phone plans work in Canada. 

 Take care of yourself: Health insurance for TMU international students

It's essential to be aware of your health coverage as a student and how to make use of UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan) and the TMSU Health and Dental Plan. 

 International student favourites: 15 best restaurants in Toronto

Get excited for the diverse and vibrant food scene you can expect in the heart of Toronto. Trust our picks for where you should grab a bite to eat. 

 Building your future in Toronto: University life at TMU

Thriving socially and personally is crucial to your university journey, and TMU is a great place to make lifelong friends. 

 Stay warm: Winter in Canada

You might be nervous to experience a Canadian winter, and we don't blame you! Here's how to make the most of it. 

Looking to chat with current TMU students and ask them questions about what it's like to study here? Get to know our current international students and book a virtual meeting or start an online chat.

Want more international student perspectives on life at TMU? Check out the International Students Blog for authentic stories about being an international student in Toronto. 

Need pre-arrival support? Get in touch with the International Student Support (ISS) team at TMU. They are here to help make your journey to Canada and your experience as an international student as exciting as possible.

Complete this form to receive updates and information that matter to you. We’ll send you tips and tools to start planning your future in Toronto and support you along your journey.

Notice of Collection

Toronto Metropolitan University ("the University") collects personal information under the authority of the  (PDF file) University Act and in accordance with the University Notice of Collection. The University will collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (external link) . If you have questions about the collection, use and disclosure of this information by Toronto Metropolitan University, please contact the International Enrolment Office, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, M5B 2K3, international@torontomu.ca.