Arrival & Orientation

Orientation is Mandatory

Orientation is held the week before school. Typically, secondary orientation activities begin the Tuesday. Regarding elementary orientation, it’s normally held on the Tuesday, with students visiting their schools on the Wednesday or Thursday.

We ask that students arrive the weekend before to recover from jetlag and acclimatize. The latest students should arrive is the Monday of orientation week.

What to Expect at Orientation

Elementary and Secondary students will:

receive information about Burnaby, including the school system, medical insurance, and community resources;
receive a school tour;
meet staff and fellow students.

Secondary students will also meet their school counsellor to select courses.

Orientation Schedules

The full orientation schedules will be posted a few months before orientation begins:

February 2026 – Coming Soon

Arrival in Canada

When you land in Canada, be ready to present your passport, Study Permit Approval letter, and school acceptance documents to immigration. You may also be asked questions about your stay and where you’ll be living.

If you’re residing with a homestay provided by one of our experienced homestay companies, you will receive detailed arrival instructions. These companies arrange for you to be met by your host family or a trusted limousine service at the airport. They also will provided you with 24/7 emergency number so are always available to help.

Pre-Departure Planning

Orientation is mandatory for all new international students. It provides a valuable opportunity to prepare for school, adjust to a new environment, and meet key staff and peers.

Arrival & Orientation