Our model
International Student Services is a division of the Student Success Centre that provides additional services and programs for international undergraduate, visiting and exchange students at McMaster University. In 2021, McMaster was ranked number 69 by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, and number 14 in the world in THE’s University Impact Rankings based on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
International students are a valued part of our community. We encourage you to explore these services, as well as our other services through the Student Success Centre. If you’re unsure where to get support for your specific concerns, check out our success coaching services.
Book a one-on-one appointment with a member of the International Student Services team on OSCARplus > Student Success Centre > Appointments > International Student Services.
- Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. ET
- Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. ET
Get drop-in, one-on-one guidance from the international student services team. Have quick online text chats (10–15 minutes) and get answers to your general questions about international student support.
Note: There will be no drop-ins on May 31, 2022.
All new and returning international undergraduate students are required to sign up for the iCent app. This ensures that we have the proper information to support you and help you make the most of your time at McMaster.
- 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 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.”
Note: Contact support@icent.app if you need to reactivate your existing account.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT UPDATES
Alibaba VPN will be decommissioned mid-June 2022
March 23, 2022When learning and operations shifted online in 2020, McMaster created an express VPN with an attached Alibaba Global Accelerator to improve speed and consistency of network access for students in mainland China. With the return to in-person learning, the university is decommissioning the Alibaba VPN accelerator in mid-June 2022. In most cases, students do not require a VPN/Alibaba to access core learning resources.
Ready for tax season? Review these important CRA updates
Winter 2022Check out this resource for important updates for international students from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Then, visit Mac’s Money Centre to learn about DIY tax clinics and free tax preparation services.
Do you know how to protect yourself from scams?
Winter 2022Unfortunately, international students sometimes become victims of scams. The best way to avoid these scams is to get informed. Be smart and stay safe! Watch this session to learn from Hamilton Police Services, Fraud Prevention, Crime Stoppers and McMaster Security.
Supporting international undergraduate students coming to Canada
2021–2022New and returning students must review the McMaster COVID-19 readiness plan, which outlines the actions required for travelling to Canada, documentation required and further information about what to expect upon your arrival to Canada.
Tools and Resources
RECOMMENDED READING
Supporting international undergraduate students coming to Canada
McMaster’s COVID-19 readiness plan for undergraduate students Information on this page is intended for undergraduate students. If you’re a graduate...
Applying for the International Student Work Opportunity (ISWO) program
Are you an international student seeking ways to earn money and gain experience? The ISWO program offers paid positions for...
Did you get vaccinated outside Ontario? Submit proof to the province’s vaccine system
Submitting your proof of vaccination will provide you with your QR code so you can access public areas that require...
Welcoming international students to McMaster for Winter 2022
Welcome! As we return to in-person learning, everyone in the International Student Services team is excited to meet and connect...