Find a restaurant or have some food delivered to you if you will be living off campus or if the on campus food outlets are closed. Click here to get some suggestions.
Open a bank account
Research the products and services offered by different banks;
Bring two pieces of identification with you if you choose to open a bank account (e.g. passport, study permit, driver's licence, etc.).
Set up a phone plan
Research the various service providers;
Here are a few to get you started (in Alphabetical order): Bell, Fido, Koodo, Rogers, Telus, Virgin Mobile, Freedom.
Determine the plan that best fits your needs;
Already have a phone? You may be able to select a plan, get a new SIM card and continue to use your phone!
Once at UTM
Obtain your TCard
Your TCard is your official University identification and will provide you with access to various services including access to the Library, the Recreation, Athletics and Wellness Centre (RAWC), the St George-UTM Shuttle Bus among others. Plus, you will need to have it with you for exams and to access to the Mississauga Transit.
Follow the steps listed on the letter you were provided with when you got your TCard to activate your UTORid;
Your UTORid will be printed on your TCard (top left corner of the scan bar);
The activation key will be printed on your letter;
Follow the instructions to setup your UTORmail, your official Univerisity of Toronto email.
Update address details on ACORN
Log in to your ACORN account and update your personal information with your new address, cell phone number and UTORmail address.
Support and Resources
Orientation
International & New-to-Canada Student Welcome - brought to you by the International Education Centre and UTMSU, this event will provide you with a great opportunity to meet other international, new-to-Canada and domestic students, discover the campus and explore the city!
O-Week - the official welcome to UTM provides new students with an introduction to academic and social life on campus to help with their transition;
Residence Orientation - only open to students living in on campus housing as a way to introduce them to their community;
UTMSU Orientation Week - first year student orientation brought to you by the University of Toronto Mississauga Student Union;
Parent & Family Orientation - for parents and families, a special session for parents of international students will be offered.
Health Insurance
Obtain and print your Health Insurance Card
International students are automatically enrolled in a health isurance plan to receive basic health insurance coverage in Ontario. Without your insurance, medical care can be very expensive. Please keep the following details in mind:
Familiarize yourself with your plan - you can find detailed information here;
Some programs like ACE@UTM students are covered under GuardMe.
Register, print and carry your health insurance card with you at all times;
Learn about your supplemental health and dental insurance plan offered through your Student Union;
Visit the International Education Centre (IEC) in room 2094A in the Davis Building (DV). We can help you to print your card and understand the differences between your basic and supplemental plans.
Participating in the various clubs, programs and events offered outside of the classroom is a great way to make your experience at UTM as rewarding as possible. There are many options, we have highlighted a few to get you started:
Clubs Week - an opportunity to explore the various student clubs on campus;
LAUNCH - a transition program for first year students;
utmLEAD - leadership development opportunity open to all students;
Social Insurance Number (SIN) - A SIN is a 9-digit number that you need to work and be paid in Canada and access government programs and benefits. You must apply for a SIN if you plan to work in Canada.
If you are considering working in Canada, there are two steps you should follow before you start looking for a job:
Visit the IEC in Davis Building 2094A during drop-in advising to determine whether or not you are eligible to work;
