International and Exchange Student Experience Events – Student Success Centre https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca STUDENT AFFAIRS Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:01:05 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 Intercultural Learning Certificate https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/intercultural-learning-certificate/ Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:33:32 +0000 https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/?p=35266 Intercultural learning opportunities open to all McMaster students

One of McMaster’s greatest strengths comes from the diversity of our campus community. We have so much to learn from another, but it can sometimes be challenging to leave our comfort zone and have meaningful cross-cultural conversations. This experiential learning opportunity provides you with opportunities to build your intercultural competencies and gain valuable cross-cultural communication skills. Not only will this help you connect with the people around you, but it will also give you a competitive edge in today’s workplace, where these skills are highly valued.

Open to all McMaster students, including undergraduate, graduate, domestic, international and exchange students.

Participate in events, workshops and programming on campus to earn a certificate recognizing your commitment to intercultural learning and growth. To earn the certificate, you must complete all of the following:

  • Attend two intercultural training workshops.
  • Complete two asynchronous training modules.
  • Participate in at least three of the eligible events (at least seven event hours).
  • Complete a short learning reflection.

Have questions?

Email Andrew Staples for more information. If you’re hosting or you know of an event on campus that would be appropriate to be included in the events listings, please reach out.

Register on OSCARplus

Why Culture Matters: How Culture Shapes the Way We Think, Live and Work

A deep dive into what culture really means, how it impacts everyone‘s lives and shapes the way we live, work and communicate.

Choose one of the following options: 

Lifelong Intercultural Learning

This workshop dives into the journey of cultural adaptation — its challenges, rewards and impact on our worldview. You’ll explore practical tools, fresh perspectives and ongoing opportunities to grow your intercultural awareness and thrive in diverse environments.  

Choose one of the following options: 

AODA and Human Rights

Asynchronous learning

Five short videos and a completion quiz that introduce important definitions, examples and expectations on supporting people with disabilities at McMaster. The training will take approximately 30 minutes to complete, including a required quiz.

Note: You need to submit proof of completion (available on Mosaic). Request to enroll in AODA and Human Rights training.

Call It Out: Racism, Racial Discrimination and Human Rights

Asynchronous learning

Created by the Ontario Human Rights Commission, this 30-minute interactive course provides the foundation for learning about race, racial discrimination and human rights protections in Ontario.

Note: You must take a screenshot/download the completed certificate as proof that you have completed this training.

Events and workshops will continue to be added throughout the year 

There’s a diverse selection of events to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that fits your interests and passion for intercultural learning. You must complete a minimum of seven hours from eligible events.

Navigating Canadian Workplace Culture

October 2, 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to help you smoothly transition into the Canadian workplace. This session is structured like a business meeting, giving you practical experience while you learn. We’ll cover essential topics, including introducing yourself to colleagues, understanding decision-making processes in meetings, engaging in small talk and communicating effectively with your supervisor. Note: This workshop is intended for English language learners and is not suitable for native/fluent English speakers. 

Navigating Canadian Workplace CultureLearn more

McMaster Museum of Art Exhibit: The Great Unseen

Active until October 17 | 1 hour toward completion

The exhibition, curated from a personal Caribbean heritage and diasporic perspective, focuses on Black, Caribbean, and diasporic artists — communities that have historically been excluded from dominant art historical paradigms. Visit the Note: Participants must submit a photo of an art piece and a brief summary (five to eight sentences) of how the art piece/exhibition challenged or expanded your worldview.  

McMaster Museum of Art Exhibit: The Great UnseenLearn more

Cultural Conversations

October 22, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | 1.5 hours toward completion

Cultural Conversations is a monthly series that provides an opportunity for you to meet with other students and learn about one another’s cultures by sharing, listening, and discussing how things are done in different cultural settings. 

Cultural ConversationsLearn more

Seed Teachings with Cari Henhawk and the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge

October 23, 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. | 1.5 hours toward completion

Join Auntie Cari Henhawk from the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge, who will review details about seed ceremonies and share some songs for the seeds to hear.  

Seed Teachings with Cari Henhawk and the Indigenous Health Learning LodgeLearn more

Language Café

October 28, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | 2 hours toward completion

Get ready for an evening of cultural connection and language exploration! Language Café brings together the diverse languages spoken at McMaster University — and gives you the chance to learn directly from your peers in a fun, friendly setting. 

Language CaféLearn more

Introduction to Intercultural Communication

November 13, 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

Explore how your own cultural norms, beliefs and values shape the way you connect with others. In this interactive session, we’ll unpack the hidden influences behind everyday communication, uncover common cross-cultural misunderstandings and learn the foundational skills to communicate effectively across cultures. 

Introduction to Intercultural CommunicationLearn more

Cultural Conversations

November 24, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | 1.5 hours toward completion

Cultural Conversations is a monthly series that provides an opportunity for you to meet with other students and learn about one another’s cultures by sharing, listening, and discussing how things are done in different cultural settings. 

Cultural ConversationsLearn more

World Stage at Mac: Multicultural Showcase

November 26, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | 90 minutes toward completion

Experience the Magic of the Season at World Stage at Mac. Join us on November 26 for World Stage at Mac, a multicultural talent showcase featuring incredible performances from McMaster’s diverse community.

Holiday Around the World

December 9, 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. | 90 minutes toward completion)

Join us for our “Holiday Around the World” drop-in event as we come together to celebrate the diverse holiday traditions that make this season special.

Holiday Around the WorldLearn more

Winter Solstice Teachings

December 19, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Hosted by the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge, join Cari Henhawk to learn about Indigenous teachings about what the Winter Solstice is, and why it is celebrated.

Winter Solstice TeachingsLearn more

Events and workshops will continue to be added throughout the year 

There’s a diverse selection of events to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that fits your interests and passion for intercultural learning. You must complete a minimum of seven hours from eligible events.

Home Cooked at Mac

Asynchronous | 1 hour toward completion

Learn about another culture by participating in a virtual cooking class! Download the recipe, go shopping and watch the cooking video to learn how to prepare a new meal. Participants must submit proof of their finished meal as proof of participation (e.g., a selfie or photo).

Home Cooked at MacLearn more

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Fundamentals and Foundation Module

Asynchronous | 3 hours toward completion

The EDIA Fundamentals module is a five-part module, designed by the Equity, Diversity and Anti-Oppression Program within the Equity and Inclusion Office, to provide the community with accessible, self-paced learning about EDIA, Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression, with a spotlight on anti-Black racism in higher education.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Fundamentals and Foundation ModuleLearn more

Stories from Abroad

January 14, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

This is event is designed for students who are interested in going on exchange. Join this storytelling social to hear about the influential experiences of our returning exchange students.

Stories from AbroadLearn more

Cooking Session – Bibimbap

January 16, 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. | 90 minutes towards completion

Learn cooking skills in a relaxed and interactive environment with the Student Wellness Centre and McMaster Access Program featuring Bibimbap, a favourite Korean rich dish with egg, tofu, veggies and side dishes.

Cooking Session – BibimbapLearn more

Cultural Conversations

January 26, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | 1.5 hours toward completion

Cultural Conversations is a monthly series that provides an opportunity for you to meet with other students and learn about one another’s cultures by sharing, listening, and discussing how things are done in different cultural settings.

Cultural ConversationsLearn more

Navigating Canadian Workplace Culture

February 5, 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to help you smoothly transition into the Canadian workplace. This session is structured like a business meeting, giving you practical experience while you learn. We’ll cover essential topics, including introducing yourself to colleagues, understanding decision-making processes in meetings, engaging in small talk and communicating effectively with your supervisor. Note: This workshop is intended for English language learners and is not suitable for native/fluent English speakers.

Navigating Canadian Workplace CultureLearn more

Spirituality and Music

February 7, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. | 2 hours towards completion

McMaster’s Ecumenical Chaplaincy and the Campus Ministries Council host Juno-award-winning Canadian-Rwandan rapper Shad, tackling the topic of “Spirituality and Music”.

Spirituality and MusicLearn more

Intercultural Communications: An Introduction

February 12, 12:30 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

Explore how your own cultural norms, beliefs and values shape the way you connect with others. In this interactive session, we’ll unpack the hidden influences behind everyday communication, uncover common cross-cultural misunderstandings and learn the foundational skills to communicate effectively across cultures.

Intercultural Communications: An IntroductionLearn more

Rooted Together: Celebrating Our Collective Legacy

February 25, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. | 2 hours toward completion

The event will feature a special film screening of Steadfast: Messenger and the Message, a powerful documentary highlighting the life and work of The Honourable Jean Augustine, a pioneering advocate, educator, and trailblazer in Canadian history who played a pivotal role in establishing Black History Month in Canada.

Rooted Together: Celebrating Our Collective LegacyLearn more

Cultural Conversations

February 26, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | 1.5 hours toward completion

Cultural Conversations is a monthly series that provides an opportunity for you to meet with other students and learn about one another’s cultures by sharing, listening, and discussing how things are done in different cultural settings.

Cultural ConversationsLearn more

McMaster Museum of Art: Bloodline

Active until March 6, 2026 | 1 hour towards completion

Meryl McMaster: Bloodline is a survey exhibition reflect her mixed Plains Cree/Métis, Dutch, and British ancestry. This exhibition looks back on McMaster’s explorations of family histories, in particular those of her Plains Cree female forebears from the Red Pheasant Cree Nation in present day Saskatchewan.

Note: Complete the Monarch Butterfly Journaling Activity (available at the front desk of the MMA) and submit a photo of your journal as proof of completion.

McMaster Museum of Art: BloodlineLearn more

The Celestial Bear: The Six Nations’ Night Sky

March 25, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

A fascinating show that blends local culture, history, and modern-day astronomy that shares the Six Nation’s sky lore and language through traditional indigenous night-sky stories.
Note: Tickets cost $8.85 for this event.

The Celestial Bear: The Six Nations’ Night SkyLearn more

Cultural Conversations

March 26, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | 1.5 hours toward completion

Cultural Conversations is a monthly series that provides an opportunity for you to meet with other students and learn about one another’s cultures by sharing, listening, and discussing how things are done in different cultural settings.

Cultural ConversationsLearn more

Onekwá:tara – the Seven Dancers of the Pleiades

April 22, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | 1 hour toward completion

Learn about the story of Onekwá:tara – the Seven Dancers of the Pleiades, and how the story is portrayed in the night sky.
Note: Tickets cost $8.85 for this event.

Onekwá:tara – the Seven Dancers of the PleiadesLearn more
]]> Airport Welcome Program  https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/airport-welcome-program/ Wed, 22 May 2024 18:24:11 +0000 https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/?p=31485 Airport Welcome Program — we can’t wait to meet you!

Preparing for a big move to a new country, with all its excitement and uncertainties, can be a lot. We’re here to help as soon as you get off the plane and start your new chapter. We can’t wait to welcome you! Meet up with our volunteer team at the airport.

How does it work?

August 10 to 31, 2025, 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

With our Airport Welcome Program, you’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive in Canada. At Toronto Pearson Airport, International Arrivals in Terminal 1 and 3, student volunteers in orange t-shirts, will be waiting to greet you and make sure you transition to Hamilton safely. Plus, you can ask questions about student life in Canada and where to go for support when you need it. No registration is required. Just find a volunteer wearing an orange Airport Welcome t-shirt and say hi! 

I decided to volunteer for this program so I can help support students the moment they step out of international arrivals [and] I’ve seen how the program has reduced students’ anxieties about moving to another country. It can also provide a sense of comfort.

Fourth-year student, Soraya Rosli

Read the full story: McMaster student volunteers welcome international students at the airport

The Airport Welcome Program is presented in partnership by McMaster University, Mohawk College and Columbia International College.

iCent is an app where you can access resources like information on local transit and banking, to support your transition to living and learning in Canada. This tool provides a personalized experience based on your year and program, connecting you to wraparound supports and resources in one place.

  • Download the iCent app (available at the Apple Store and Google Play Store). If you’re unable to download the app, visit the iCent web version.
  • Select “Canada” as your institution’s country.
  • Select “McMaster Undergrad Programs” as your institution name.
  • Follow the “email and PIN” button.
  • Enter your McMaster (@mcmaster.ca) email ID. You will receive an email with a secured PIN to log in.
  • Enter the secured PIN and go to “continue.”

August 10 to 31, 2025

McMaster University is working with Airways Transit (a local transportation service) to provide incoming first-year international undergraduate, graduate, McMaster English Language Development (MELD) and exchange students, a free, safe and reliable ride from the Toronto Pearson Airport to McMaster University residences on main campus and the Graduate Student Residence at 10 Bay Street in downtown Hamilton. Students arriving outside of student residences will be charged a fee.

Instructions on how to book your transportation will be available soon.

Discover how the International and Exchange Student Experience (IESE) team can support your success at McMaster and beyond.

]]> Ignite Program https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/ignite-program/ Wed, 22 May 2024 13:55:27 +0000 https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/?p=31442 Get your first year started with our annual Ignite Program

We’re excited to welcome you to our McMaster community! We’re here to help you make the most of your time at McMaster. Ignite is a pre-orientation program designed to connect you with the information, resources and support you need before the school year begins. 

  • Explore McMaster University and Hamilton, your new home away from home, with fellow international students.
  • Connect with peers and make friends.
  • Meet with your Faculty.
  • Get organized with basic needs like opening a bank account, choosing a phone provider, and arranging on-campus residence.
  • Gain a sneak peek into university life before the fall semester starts.
  • Discover valuable information about student services and opportunities to get involved on campus.
  • Take the chance to explore the lively city of Hamilton.

Ignite is open for all new first-year international undergraduate students living in residence. This program is first-come, first-served. You must commit to all three days of the program to participate.

More information on 2026 programming coming soon

Ignite is presented in partnership with Housing & Conference Services and Faculty Offices. 

Ignite program helps first-year international students feel at home

September 8, 2023

“McMaster feels [like] a family. I’m feeling very excited to be the first generation to study here abroad because I think it is a dream for many students from my country and I feel like I’m an example for my little brother and I hope he can follow my steps.”  — First-year student, Francisco Wong

Ignite program helps first-year international students feel at homeRead more

Ignite Program gives first-year international students tools to thrive at McMaster

September 23, 2022

“It’s been amazing. I came here really, really nervous about two things: academics, because the system is so different from my country, and making connections socially. So, I thought Ignite was something that would really help me out with this, and it actually did. I feel like I’m entering a new family already.” — First-year student, Avani

Ignite Program gives first-year international students tools to thrive at McMasterRead more

iCent is McMaster’s app for international undergraduate students

Download the app for updates to support your journey at McMaster and beyond. This includes important information, upcoming events, resources and more.

  • Download the iCent app (available at the Apple Store and Google Play Store). If you’re unable to download the app, visit the iCent web version.
  • Select “Canada” as your institution’s country.
  • Select “McMaster Undergrad Programs” as your institution name.
  • Follow the “email and PIN” button.
  • Enter your McMaster (@mcmaster.ca) email ID. You will receive an email with a secured PIN to log in.
  • Enter the secured PIN and go to “continue.”
]]> International Student Winter Socials https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/international-student-winter-socials/ Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:08:42 +0000 https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/?p=25860 International students, let’s end the year with some cheer and festive fun!

You’ve accomplished a lot this year. Now’s the time to celebrate and make some memories. Join us for some end-of-term events and activities to unwind, socialize and have some winter-themed fun.

Note: These events are for international students only.

Colouring & Conversations Social Drop-In

December 8, 01:30 p.m. to 04:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Join us for a relaxing afternoon of colouring while engaging in friendly conversations with fellow participants. All supplies will be provided, so just bring your creativity and a willingness to chat!

Colouring & Conversations Social Drop-InRegister now

Holiday Around the World

December 9, 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Join us for our “Holiday Around the World” drop-in event as we come together to celebrate the diverse holiday traditions that make this season special.

Holiday Around the WorldRegister now

Holiday Trivia

December 10, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Join us for a festive evening of fun and knowledge at our Trivia Night: Holiday Edition! Test your holiday spirit and seasonal trivia skills as you compete with friends (and make some new ones!).

Holiday TriviaRegister now

Cookie Decorating and Gingerbread House Making Drop-In

December 11, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Join us as we celebrate the holiday season and participate in a holiday tradition of decorating cookies and building gingerbread houses.

Cookie Decorating and Gingerbread House Making Drop-InRegister now

Movie Night: Home Alone

December 15, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Sit back, relax and enjoy as we watch Kevin McCallister defend his home from burglars in the holiday favourite movie: “Home Alone”. Feel free to bring your coziest blankets and pillows to make yourself even more comfortable during the movie.

Movie Night: Home AloneRegister now

Movie Night: Home Alone 2

December 16, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Kevin McCallister is back and this time he is in New York City! Sit back, relax and enjoy as we watch “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”.

Movie Night: Home Alone 2Register now

Make Your Own Festive Ugly Sweater

December 17, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

The Ugly Holiday Sweater is a fun staple in the December wardrobe. You’ll have a chance to decorate your very own sweater with crafts, paints and more. All supplies will be provided, just bring your very own sweater to customize!

Make Your Own Festive Ugly SweaterRegister now

Friendship Bracelet Making Drop-In Social

December 19, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET | MUSC B118

Whether you’re a seasoned bracelet-making pro or a complete beginner, this event is designed for everyone. We’ll provide all the materials you need to craft beautiful, personalized friendship bracelets.

Friendship Bracelet Making Drop-In SocialRegister now

International and Exchange Student Experience

Available until December 24 and reopening on January 5

The International and Exchange Student Experience team’s here to support you. Feel free to connect with us if you have questions or concerns about:

  • Academic performance or personal concerns
  • Adjusting to living in Hamilton
  • Immigration
  • Understanding your health insurance
  • Accessing campus resources
  • And more

Book an appointment on OSCARplus (under Student Success Centre > Appointments > International Student Services). Or, visit us on Mondays and Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Tuesdays and Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

International and Exchange Student ExperienceOSCARplus

Student Wellness Centre

Varied availability during the winter break

The Student Wellness Centre is the place on campus to address your wellness needs. They provide a range of counselling options, medical services and wellness programs so that you can get the most out of your McMaster experience, academically and personally.

  • Counselling: Learn how to access options for mental health and wellness counselling.
  • Resources (varied availability): Discover a collection of mental health resources and ways to get non-urgent help outside of clinic hours.
  • Crisis support (including 24/7 options): Find out how to get crisis and emergency support, whether you’re on or off campus.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Emergency: 911
    • McMaster Security Services: 905-522-4135

Visit their website for a full breakdown of all the resources open to you during the winter break.

Student Wellness CentreStudent Wellness Centre website

Mental Health Supports

 

Good2Talk

Available during the winter break

Good2Talk is a free, confidential helpline providing professional counselling, information and referrals for mental health, addiction and well-being. This service is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Options are available via phone call, text, online forums and more.

  • You can contact a trained, volunteer crisis responder 24/7 by texting GOOD2TALKON to 686868.
  • You can contact a professional counsellor 24/7 by calling 1-866-925-5454.
Good2TalkGood2Talk website

TAO

Free for McMaster students

Feel better faster with access to over 150+ video sessions that provide scientifically researched content to help you build life skills, engage in professional development, and explore common concerns, such as stress, anxiety and depression.

TAOTAO login

COAST (Crisis Outreach and Support Team)

Hamilton’s crisis line is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The COAST mobile team, consisting of a mental health worker and a police officer, will respond to crisis calls between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. ET daily.

COAST (Crisis Outreach and Support Team)COAST website

Barrett Centre for Crisis Support

Barrett Centre for Crisis Support provides a safe environment in the community and responds to the needs of individuals, 16 years of age and older, who experience a mental health crisis and do not require a hospital stay. We provide confidential and free services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

  • 24 Hour Crisis Line: 905-529-7878
  • Toll Free: 1-844-777-3571
Barrett Centre for Crisis SupportBarrett Centre website

Emergency Departments and Medical Care

Emergency Departments

  • Hamilton General (237 Barton Street East Hamilton, Ontario, L8L LX2)
  • Juravinski Hospital (711 Concession Street Hamilton, Ontario, L8V 1C3)
  • St. Joseph’s Healthcare (50 Charlton Avenue East Hamilton, Ontario, L8N 4A6)

Medical Care

  • Main West Clinic (1685 Main St. W, Unit 135, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 1G5)
    • 905-512-2222
  • West End Urgent Care (690 Main St. W, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 1A4)
    • 905-512-2199 ext. 72000
  • MarCare Walk In (1461 Main St. W, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 1C9)
    • 905-521-2222
]]> Pre-Arrival Orientation Webinars for International and Exchange Students https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/international-student-prearrival-webinar-series/ Wed, 03 Aug 2022 16:35:07 +0000 https://studentsuccess.mcmaster.ca/?p=21923 Get ready for university life in Canada

Attend our webinars to meet your community of support and get answers to your questions about studying at McMaster.

All times listed are in Eastern Time (ET). Visit this website to get help converting to your home time zone.

New Study Permit Application

Do you want to know how to apply for your study permit? Our immigration team will be leading a webinar to discuss how to apply for a new study permit. Join us for this online webinar and bring your questions.

Study Permit Extension

Learn how to extend your study permit if you’re currently living in Canada, with guidance from our immigration team. Join us for this online session and bring your questions.

On-Campus Housing

Living in residence provides a convenient option for students to access class, build stronger friendships and adjust to university life. Learn about the type of rooms, how to apply and the benefits of living on campus.

How to Pay Your Fees and Navigate Mosaic

Mosaic is an essential platform for all students. Join this session to learn about all its capabilities, from course registration to paying your tuition through university-approved channels.

Off-Campus Housing in Hamilton

Searching for housing off-campus can be challenging, especially if you are new to Hamilton. Join us to learn about the types of housing available, how to search and what to search for in a student rental.

Living in Hamilton + Fun Things To Do in the City

What’s it like to live in Hamilton? Join this session to Learn about Canadian culture, getting a cell phone, local transportation, Canadian winters and more.

Health Insurance (UHIP) and Canadian Healthcare System

What happens if you’re injured, require medicine or need to see a doctor? Join the International and Exchange Student Experience team, in collaboration with the Student Wellness Centre, to learn about the University Insurance Health Plan (UHIP), your supplementary health plans and how the medical system works in Ontario.

Meet Your Neighbours and Ask Me Anything

McMaster has international students joining from all over the world, and some might be coming from your home country! This interactive social will help connect you with other incoming international students. You will have the opportunity to connect with an upper-year international student, ask your questions and meet new friends.

Studying at a Canadian University

Is university different than high school? Learn about the undergraduate classroom experience, how to be a successful student in Canada and ways to access valuable resources and support.

English Language Support at McMaster

Living and studying in an English language environment can be challenging. If English isn’t your first language, join us to learn about supports, resources and tips to enhance your language abilities during your time at McMaster.

Banking in Canada

This webinar focuses on opening a bank account, getting a credit card and understanding how to effectively manage your money in Canada.

Budgeting for University 101: International Edition

Studying in Canada is an exciting experience – you get to travel, try new activities, meet new friends… We’re here to help you make all these experience and memories possible by creating a realistic budget to manage your money! Join our webinar on managing your money to learn saving tips, where to get student discounts in Canada, and more!

Ask Me Anything with the IESE Team

This one-hour virtual drop-in is an opportunity for incoming international students to ask their questions about coming to McMaster. The International and Exchange Student Experience (IESE) Team will be online to answer your immigration, healthcare, housing, and other questions live in this session.

How to Find the Help You Need

Looking for help or advice during your studies?

This webinar introduces the wide range of supports available to you through the International and Exchange Student Experience (IESE) team and the Student Success Centre (SSC). Learn how to access key services, navigate McMaster’s support network, and make the most of the resources designed to help you succeed academically and personally.

New Study Permit Application

Do you want to know how to apply for your study permit? Our immigration team will be leading a webinar to discuss how to apply for a new study permit. Join us for this online webinar and bring your questions.

Study Permit Extension

Learn how to extend your study permit if you’re currently living in Canada, with guidance from our immigration team. Join us for this online session and bring your questions.

Off-Campus Housing in Hamilton

Searching for housing off-campus can be challenging, especially if you are new to Hamilton. Join us to learn about the types of housing available, how to search and what to search for in a student rental.

Living in Hamilton

What’s it like to live in Hamilton? Join this session to Learn about Canadian culture, getting a cell phone, local transportation, Canadian winters and more!

Preparing for Grad School

Learn how you can plan for your transition to life as a McMaster graduate student. In this session, we’ll talk about campus resources and services available to all graduate students, including some additional tips for international grads to help you prepare for your arrival in Canada.

  • Dates coming soon

English Language Support at McMaster

Living and studying in an English language environment can be challenging. If English is not your first language, join us to learn about supports, resources, and tips to enhance your language abilities during your time at McMaster.

International Graduate Pre-Arrival Information Session

An information session for Summer 2026 incoming international graduate students on the various services and supports offered by the International and Exchange Student Experience office.

International Graduate Student Panel Q&A

Learn from a panel of current international graduate students as they share their experiences of studying at McMaster and living in Canada. You’ll have an opportunity to ask questions.

Health Insurance (UHIP) and Canadian Healthcare System

What happens if you’re injured, require medicine or need to see a doctor? Join the International and Exchange Student Experience team, in collaboration with the Student Wellness Centre, to learn about the University Insurance Health Plan (UHIP), your supplementary health plans and how the medical system works in Ontario.

Banking in Canada

This webinar focuses on opening a bank account, getting a credit card and understanding how to effectively manage your money in Canada.

Hi, exchange students!

Please note that you’re also welcome to attend the other webinars on this page. So, in addition to this section, check out the undergrad or grad tabs for more support.

Missed a webinar and want to catch up? Email macincoming@mcmaster.ca for access to recordings.

New Study Permit Application

Do you want to know how to apply for your study permit? Our immigration team will be leading a webinar to discuss how to apply for a new study permit. Join us for this online webinar and bring your questions.

ETA and TRV Immigration Advising for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. Whether you join our exchange program for a single-semester or full-year exchange, you are required to apply for either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or Temporary Residence Permit (TRV) to travel to Canada. Join this webinar to learn which documents you require and how to apply for them.

If you’re studying in Canada for six months or more, you will also require a study permit alongside your ETA or TRV to travel to Canada. Please join one of our New Study Permit Application Webinars listed under this tab to learn more about this process.

On-Campus Housing

Living in residence provides a convenient option for students to access class, build friendships and adjust to university life in Canada. Learn about the type of rooms, how to apply and the benefits of living on campus.

Exchange Meet and Greet for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. McMaster has exchange students joining from all over the world! Join our interactive social to help connect you with other incoming exchange students. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new friends, start building community and ask questions!

UHIP, Health and Well-Being at McMaster for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. What happens if you’re injured, require medicine or need to see a doctor while on exchange? Join the International and Exchange Student Experience team, in collaboration with the Student Wellness Centre, to learn about the University Insurance Health Plan (UHIP) and how the medical system works in Ontario.

Services at McMaster for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. At McMaster, we offer numerous services to help you succeed academically and personally while studying abroad. Join us to learn more about the different services available to you!

Academics at McMaster for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. Join this webinar to learn about the academic culture at McMaster University, how to navigate our grading system, important dates happening this year, adding and dropping courses and more. This session is designed to set you up for academic success.

Creating Community at McMaster for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. Explore the different ways to build community at McMaster. This session highlights opportunities to get involved through MSU clubs, IESE and Student Success Centre events and socials, the McMaster International & Exchange (MIX) community, the McMaster Outdoor Club (MOC), and more. Learn how to connect with peers, find your people, and make the most of your exchange experience.

Athletics and Recreation for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. Discover everything McMaster’s Athletics & Recreation facilities have to offer. This session will cover who has access to our facilities, membership options, and the wide range of programs available – from fitness classes and recreational activities to intramural leagues and varsity opportunities. Learn how to join a team, get involved, stay active, and make the most of McMaster’s vibrant recreation community.

McMaster Tools to Know for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. Learn about the key online platforms you’ll use at McMaster, including iCent, Mosaic, Avenue to Learn, and Oscarplus.

Student Accessibility Services (SAS) for Incoming Exchange Students

This webinar is for incoming exchange students. This session will explain who can access SAS, how to register, and the types of academic accommodations and supports available. Learn what SAS is here for, how the process works, and how the team helps students succeed by reducing disability‑related barriers in the academic environment.

Off-Campus Housing in Hamilton

Searching for housing off-campus can be challenging, especially if you are new to Hamilton. Join us to learn about the types of housing available, how to search and what to search for in a student rental.

Ask Me Anything with the IESE team

A one-hour virtual drop-in webinar where international students can ask questions about studying at Mac, immigration, healthcare, etc. and have their questions answered live by a subject matter expert (SME).

Living in Hamilton

What’s it like to live in Hamilton? Join this session to Learn about Canadian culture, getting a cell phone, local transportation, Canadian winters and more.

How to Pay Your Fees and Navigate Mosaic

Mosaic is an essential platform for all students. Join this session to learn about all its capabilities, from course registration to paying your tuition through university-approved channels.

How to Find the Help You Need

A short presentation on the type of support offered to students through the IESE/SSC, and how we can help students navigate the different services at McMaster to ensure they have every opportunity to do well and be successful in their studies.

Budgeting for University 101: International Edition

Studying in Canada is an exciting experience – you get to travel, try new activities, meet new friends… We’re here to help you make all these experience and memories possible by creating a realistic budget to manage your money! Join our webinar on managing your money to learn saving tips, where to get student discounts in Canada, and more!

iCent is McMaster’s app for international undergraduate students

Download the app for updates to support your journey at McMaster and beyond. This includes important information, upcoming events, resources and more.

  • Download the iCent app (available at the Apple Store and Google Play Store). If you’re unable to download the app, visit the iCent web version.
  • Select “Canada” as your institution’s country.
  • Select “McMaster Undergrad Programs” as your institution name.
  • Follow the “email and PIN” button.
  • Enter your McMaster (@mcmaster.ca) email ID. You will receive an email with a secured PIN to log in.
  • Enter the secured PIN and go to “continue.”
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