International Student Orientation
All new international undergraduate and graduate students beginning their studies at SFU this Spring 2026 are invited to our multi-part orientation series to get transition support and make connections.
Have you checked out our Welcome Guides? These resources offer a step-by-step checklist for new international students preparing to begin their studies at SFU.
Y Pre-Arrival Virtual Sessions:
- Part 1: Study Permit & Travel Tips
- Part 2: Medical Insurance for International Students
- Part 3: International Student Panel
- Part 4: Undergraduate Transfer Student Q & A
Y Post-Arrival In-Person Sessions:
Pre-Arrival Virtual Sessions
Part 1: Study Permit & Travel Tips
Attend this live virtual info session to learn about timely topics to prepare for your time at SFU, and get your questions answered. Session topics include:
- Immigration documents (study permits/visas) and travel requirements
- Enrollment requirements and work eligibility (as they relate to study permit conditions and work eligibility only)
- Deferral process
- Admissions and deadlines
i Please Note: For course planning advice, please contact your academic department.
Study Permit & Travel Tips
Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM - 6 PM (PT)
Where: Zoom (details will be sent to registrants via email)
S Missed the session? You can watch the recording here.
Part 2. Medical Insurance for International Students
Attend this live virtual info session to learn about timely topics to prepare for your time at SFU, and get your questions answered. Session topics include:
- Medical insurance and supports (guard.me@SFU, BC MSP, Studentcare Health and Dental Plan)
- Campus medical and mental health resources
- Wellbeing tips
Medical Insurance for International Students
Date: Monday, November 17, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM - 5:45 PM (PT)
Where: Zoom (details will be sent to registrants via email)
S Missed the session? You can watch the recording here.
Part 3: International Student Panel
Attend this live virtual session to get tips from current international students to make the most of your time at SFU. Student panelists represent international undergraduate and graduate experiences from various faculties. Session topics include:
- Student transition experiences
- Student life and social activities
- Academic expectations and SFU resources
- Off campus housing information and resources.
International Student Panel
Date: Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM - 6 PM (PT)
Where: Zoom (details will be sent to registrants via email)
Undergraduate Transfer Student Q & A
Date: Thursday, December 11, 2025
Time: 3 PM - 4 PM (PT)
Where: Zoom (details will be sent to registrants via email)
Post-Arrival In-Person Sessions
In-Person Info Session
Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (PT)
Where: TBA
International Student Welcome Socials
SFU Burnaby
- Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
- Time: 12:30 PM - 3 PM
- Where: Global Student Centre (AQ 2013)
SFU Surrey
- Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2026
- Time: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
- Where: Mezzanine, Surrey Centre Building
Social Insurance Clinics (Optional)
Service Canada is coming to the SFU Surrey campus to help you obtain your Social Insurance Number (SIN) on campus. A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a 9-digit number that the Canadian government requires for taxation purposes. You must have a valid SIN in order to be paid for any work you do in Canada.
Social Insurance Clinics
SFU Burnaby
- Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026
- Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
- Where: Global Student Centre (AQ 2013)
SFU Surrey
- Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2026
- Time: 9 AM - 1 PM
- Where: Mezzanine, Surrey Centre Building
Zoom & Technical Requirements:
To attend our virtual sessions, you must have access to internet, and a working computer. Registered participants will be provided with a link in advance via email to access the online space. Our live virtual sessions will be offered via the online platform Zoom. Learn more about SFU Zoom features, tools, and privacy.
Accessibility:
We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to participate. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact us at sfu_global@sfu.ca.
Case-specific Enquiries:
For any case-specific enquiries regarding your immigration documents and travelling to Canada, please do not hesitate to get in touch with an International Student Advisor.
? Have questions?
If you have questions about International Student Orientation Series, please email us at sfu_global@sfu.ca.