Experience of international student in canada
(Real Experience from Sudbury, Ontario)
Moving to Canada as an international student studying in Canada is often described as exciting and full of opportunity. That part is true. What is less discussed is how small, practical oversights can quietly make the first few months harder than they need to be especially if you are not landing in a major city.
This guide is based on real experience as a Master’s student in Sudbury, Ontario. It focuses on what actually mattered after arrival, what was missed, and what I would prepare differently if I were starting again.
Canada Is Not One Experience
Advice written for Toronto or Vancouver often does not apply to smaller cities like Sudbury. Winters are colder, shopping options are fewer, and public transport is limited. If you are an international student studying in Canada outside large metropolitan areas, preparation matters more than improvisation.
When Winter Really Starts in Canada
In Sudbury, winter did not feel extreme immediately. October and November were manageable. The real shock came in December, when snow, ice, and very low temperatures arrived quickly.
Common Footwear Mistake
Arriving without proper winter boots is a serious error. Regular shoes or light “winter-style” footwear are unsafe on icy sidewalks and deep snow.
What to do:
Either bring high-quality insulated winter boots from home or plan to buy them immediately after arrival. Delaying this affects safety, attendance, and daily mobility.
Academic Essentials Many Students Forget
One of the most underestimated items is a calculator.
In many Canadian universities, mobile phones are not allowed during exams or assessments. This rule is strictly enforced. Discovering this during your first test adds unnecessary stress.
For an international student studying in Canada—especially in technical or computational programs—a basic approved calculator is essential.
Recommendation:
Bring a simple calculator you are already familiar with. It is cheaper and avoids last-minute problems.
Health, Cold Weather, and Sinus Problems
Cold weather in Canada is not just uncomfortable; it changes how your body reacts. Indoor heating dries the air, and combined with cold exposure, this often leads to sinus issues, headaches, and disturbed sleep.
Medicines and Comfort Items That Helped
-
Vicks
-
Zandu balm
These were not optional comforts. They helped manage sinus discomfort caused by cold and dry air.
Availability in Canada
Finding the same products in Canada is difficult or expensive, and alternatives do not always work the same way.
Also useful:
A face steamer or humidifier. Dry indoor air is a hidden challenge many international students underestimate.
Electrical and Technology Essentials
An electric plug converter is another small but critical item.
Without a proper converter, charging laptops and devices becomes unreliable. For students balancing coursework and part-time jobs, this quickly becomes a daily inconvenience.
Tip:
Bring at least one high-quality converter from home.
Preparing for Part-Time Work Before Arrival
Many international students studying in Canada plan to look for jobs after landing. This often delays income.
Some roles—especially in restaurants—require certifications such as server or food-handling training. These can often be completed online before arriving in Canada.
Advice:
Complete relevant certifications in advance. It shortens the time between arrival and your first paycheck.
What Did Not Cause Problems
Despite common fears, there were no unexpected demands for extra documents such as vaccination records, transcripts, or reference letters beyond standard requirements. Paperwork was manageable.
The real challenges came from practical readiness, not bureaucracy.
Key Advice for International Students Studying in Canada
Canada rewards preparation. Small items—winter boots, medicines, calculators, converters—have an outsized impact on comfort and performance. This is especially true in smaller cities like Sudbury.
If you are an international student studying in Canada, focus less on overpacking and more on bringing what Canada does not easily replace.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should international students prepare for winter in Canada?
In many parts of Ontario, serious winter conditions begin around December. Preparation should happen before that.
Can international students bring medicines from their home country to Canada?
Yes, in reasonable quantities for personal use. Always check Canadian customs regulations before packing.
Is a calculator really necessary for studying in Canada?
Yes. Phones are often prohibited during exams, especially in technical programs.
Is Sudbury harder for international students than big cities?
Sudbury is quieter and colder, with fewer immediate options. Preparation matters more, but living costs are often lower.
