Arriving in Canada

In making your preparations for life in Canada there are several things you will need to consider.
Please read over this section for helpful hints on a number of different areas of life in Edmonton.

Documentation

Before you depart for Edmonton, be sure you are carrying all of the following information with you:

  • Valid Passport; (with visa, if required)
  • Student Authorization (form IMM 1208B)
  • Letter of Final Admission from The King’s University College
  • Proof of Funds Available (e.g. bank draft, transfer, letter of credit, scholarship or other proof)

    • Note: Bring these along in your carry-on baggage. DO NOT pack these in your luggage that will be sent through the baggage department at airport.


    Currency

    When you arrive, try to have at least $50.00 in Canadian cash available. A currency exchange service is usually open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. We also recommend that you carry enough traveler’s cheques or banks drafts to cover at least your first month’s expenses. Because of extra costs in the first month (e.g. apartment rental damage deposits, and books) this can amount to $1000.00 or more for a single student. If you are depending on meeting financial requirements through money received in Canada, please be certain that your money is available upon your arrival in Edmonton.

    Student Arrival

    The international students office would love to welcome you at Edmonton’s International Airport. If you do not have relatives or friends in Edmonton please inform the international students office of your flight arrangements and we will have someone awaiting you at the airport. Arrangements can be made by contacting
    ISA at istudents@kingsu.ca Tel: (780) 465-3500, or
    Kristen Drent at kristin.drent@kingsu.ca Tel: (780) 465-3500 ext 8009.

    Weather in Edmonton

    People here like to say, "In Edmonton, if you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes." The weather is constantly changing, even drastically within a day. The temperature varies considerably, ranging from 30 to -40 degrees Celsius (80 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit). When classes begin in the fall the days are generally warm (15 degrees Celsius). These temperatures, combined with the changing colours of the leaves, makes autumn a beautiful and pleasant season. It starts to move into the Winter season throughout November and December, with cold winds, snow, and temperatures anywhere from 5 to -20 degrees Celsius. January and February are usually the coldest months. Spring weather is unpredictable. It can be warm and wet with melting snow or cold and windy. The summers are warm, especially in July, with an average daytime temperature over 27 degrees Celsius. It is suggested that you bring warm clothing with you in the form of a heavy sweater, coat, hat and mittens, especially if you arrive in winter. If you are arriving in Edmonton in the fall then you might wish to purchase these items in Canada. You will then be in a better position to judge the type of clothing you will require to stay warm in the winter months. For a bigger picture, go here for sights and places to go in Edmonton.

    Related Links

    Current Students | Campus Life & Tour | Student Life | City of Edmonton Features | Location & Maps