Transition into Your Studies at York University

Many services are available to help you move into university life. Find out how we can support you before you start your first term at York.

When you are considering York University for your studies, we want to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in your decision from the moment you make your choice. As you navigate your options, take a moment to learn more about York, and how you can get ahead before you begin your first term.

Your international student hub

York International (YI) is a service that offers support from your arrival to Canada to graduation. With YI, you can get guidance with official documents regarding your health insurance, immigration, and student success programs to help you become more familiar with the processes. A variety of events are hosted by YI which can help you build your skillset, make friends and branch out to discover what is available to you in the York community as you settle into your new home.

Get a head start on your learning

Entering a new space can be nerve-wracking. When you join York, you will have the opportunity to engage in a series of modules and workshops for incoming first-year students. By taking part in online modules offered through the YU-Prep program, you will be able to get a sense of what learning at York will be like and enhance your personal and academic development.

Involving your support system

While there is support for you on campus, you may also be seeking guidance from those at home. If you wish to have your family involved in your next steps, you can point them towards the Parents and Family webpage. Your parent or guardian taking part in your transition to post-secondary education can act as a pillar for you as you take your next step. By having them become familiar with our Parents and Family page, your family will be able to check out upcoming events and activities, student resources, and learn more about the student experience which will help them support you in your first year.

Boost your English Language Proficiency

Get support with language proficiency requirements with York University’s English Language Institute (YUELI) while you prepare for university life. While you learn English, you will be able to strengthen your professional skills, like workplace communication. Once you complete your time with YUELI, you can transfer to your preferred undergraduate program and get started on your studies.

Explore York’s campuses, classes, and services

After accepting your offer to York, you will be invited to a number of campus events that aim to help you learn more about what to expect in your first year, introduce you to campus services and have a chance to meet your peers. The Transition and Orientation webpage offers event schedules, information about the different communities on campus, who to connect with for any questions, and much more. Orientation events take place at the beginning of the term, giving you a chance to experience what your future at York can look like through virtual and in-person events.

As you think about the next steps in your university career, consider thoroughly researching what each school has to offer. At York, we want you to know that there are many supports and services available. If you are interested in learning more about York University, visit our website to learn more about our services, programs, and what our students and alumni have to say about their experience.