New-to-Canada Student

Students hands joined in the air

Welcome to the International Education Centre (IEC) at the University of Toronto Mississauga! We are dedicated to supporting our international students by offering a wide range of services, programs, and events designed to enhance your academic and personal experience. From immigration support and health services to global learning opportunities and intercultural events, the IEC is here to help you thrive in your new environment. Explore our resources and connect with our community to make the most of your time at UTM.


On this page:


Programs & Events

The International Education Centre (IEC) at the University of Toronto Mississauga recognizes the unique needs and experiences of our international students. We are committed to creating tailored programs and events that cater to their diverse backgrounds and support their transition to life in Canada. From the International Student Mentorship Program (ISMP) that pairs new students with upper-year mentors, to Canada-eh?, an immersive series exploring Canadian culture, our offerings are designed to foster a sense of community, facilitate cultural exchange, and provide a supportive environment for international students to thrive.

Click here to see all programs and events offered by the IEC!


Below are Programs & Events designed to support international students:

Canada eh

Log in to Folio to register for upcoming sessions and trips 

Are you new to Canada or have not had the chance to explore the country but want to learn more, such as about Canada’s peoples and places, food and culture, holidays and landmarks, seasons and weather as well as meet peers and go on fun trips to explore your new home away for home?  

Then this program is for YOU!  

Join us for exciting trips filled with learning and fun as we explore Canada from all aspects. 

Students participating in at least 3 series will be eligible for Co-Curricular Record notation. 

Some experiences to look forward to:  

  • Trip to Niagara Falls - September 21, 2024 SOLD OUT

    • 9:30 AM: Departure from UTM 

    • 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Scavenger Hunt: Explore the Falls area and engage in a fun scavenger hunt activity (Optional) 

    • 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Free Time: Explore Niagara Falls, enjoy local attractions, and have lunch 

    • 4:30 PM: Meet for Check-in and Departure 

  • Energize your sporty spirit with a trip to a Toronto FC soccer game! -October 2, 2024

    • 5:30 PM – Arrival and Registration at SSHub 

    • 6:00 PM – Departure from UTM

      • Group departs together using public transportation
    • 7:10 PM – 9:30 PM – Toronto FC Match at BMO Field - Arrive and settle at BMO Field to enjoy the game. 

    • 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM – Return journey to UTM 

  • Ignite your cultural curiosity with a visit to the Aga Khan Museum! (January) 

  • Fuel your sense of wonder with a visit to the Royal Ontario Museum (March) 

& Lots more. 

Register and learn about these events on the IEC calendar:

 


For all questions and feedback regarding Canada, Eh? please contact us at international.utm@utoronto.ca

Students talking

The Dinner and Dialogues Series invites you to explore cultural celebrations through food and dialogue. Each event in this series offers an opportunity to taste authentic dishes from diverse cultures while engaging in meaningful conversations about traditions, values, and community. Join us as we celebrate cultural diversity, foster intercultural understanding, and create connections that transcend borders.


Registration Information: 

  • Registration Fee: Participants are required to pay a $10 fee to register for each event. 
  • Registration details for each event will be updated closer to the date. Stay tuned for more information on how to participate in these enriching cultural experiences! 

Upcoming Dinner and Dialogue Events:

  • Diwali: November 7th, 2024, 5pm - 7pm in the UTMSU Presentation Room - Register here
  • Christmas: December 6th, 2024, 5pm- 7pm in the UTMSU Presentation Room - Registration coming soon
  • Lunar New Year: January 18th or 25th (TBD) - Registration coming soon
  • Caribbean Carnival: February 2025 (TBD)  - Registration coming soon
  • Eid and Navrus: April 3rd, 2025, 5pm - 7pm in the UTMSU Presentation Room - Registration coming soon


GIFTS

 

The Global and Intercultural Fluency Training Series (GIFTS) will help students to develop their leadership and communication skills in facilitating cultural relations. In our rapidly changing and interconnected world, learning and understanding how to work and build relationships with diverse and intercultural environments are imperative skills for success. These sessions will guide students through critical reflection on their personal self-identity and their relationship and impact on local, national, and global scales. Join in on the deep discussions, activities, and personal and professional growth opportunities! 

Fall 2024 Program Schedule:

  • Thursday September 26th - 4:30pm - 6:30pm
  • Thursday October 3rd- 4:30pm - 6:30pm
  • Thursday October 10th- 4:30pm - 6:30pm

*MUST attend ALL 3 dates and times above to complete the program

Students will receive the following upon completion of the program:

  • Certificate of Participation
  • Intercultural Development Inventory® (IDI) Assessment (value of $20) 
  • CCR recognition*
  • Celebration lunch
  • On or Off-campus volunteer experience

*To receive CCR recognition, participants MUST complete ALL of the following requirements: 

  • Attend ALL 3 sessions 
Click here to register

 

International Education Week!

Join the International Education Centre (IEC), along with on-campus partners, UofT faculty and community members during International Education Week (IEW) to celebrate all things global! Students will be able to meet new people, develop a global and intercultural mindset, and learn about the benefits of internationalizing their student experience! Come and attend the various events that will be taking place through the week of November 18th to November 22nd. The theme and schedule will be released in the fall semester!

Want to Earn Co-Curricular Record (CCR)?

UTM Students who attend 3 or more events during the week of IEW can submit a 1 page reflection paper answering any of the following questions in order to earn CCR:

  • Why is interculturalism important to our society?
  • What are the benefits of having a global mindset and how will you use it in your everyday life?
  • What is 1 new thing you learned about yourself, culture, and international education from participating in IEW 2024?

Reflections can be submitted via email to: rebeca.mahadeo@utoronto.ca 

Click here for more information: https://uoft.me/utm-iew 

Outbound Exchange

The UTM Exchange program offers students the incredible opportunity to study at over 140 partner institutions in more than 60 countries. You can choose to study abroad for one semester, a full academic year, or even up to three semesters, all while paying your regular U of T tuition fees. This program allows you to immerse yourself in new cultures, gain international experience, and earn credits towards your degree. Whether you are looking to enhance your academic journey or broaden your global perspective, the UTM Exchange program is designed to help you achieve your goals.


Apply for Exchange

 

UTM Abroad

Students talking

At UTM Abroad, we believe that international experiences can change your life. So, we created two streams of short-term international experiences that will build your global awareness, connect you to a network of like-minded peers and give you a space to develop personally, professionally & academically. And, they fit within your regular UTM semester. Both our Academic and Co-Curricular Experiences offer in-person and virtual options to explore the world in a variety of ways. 



Why UTM Abroad?


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The short-term experiences offered by UTM Abroad fit within your study breaks, so you can continue to take your regular UTM courses uninterrupted.
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One international component fee covers flights, transportation, accommodation, meals and in-country activities associated with the course.
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Travel with a UTM Staff member with crisis response and first aid training to support your health and well-being abroad.
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24hr on-call support in Canada from the International Education Centre's on-call representative during travel periods.
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One-on-one advising pre- and post-trip to support your participation in these experiences.
Apply for UTM Abroad