Ten Things to Know About Canadian Culture

1. Expect Canadians to be more talkative and outspoken in the classroom. You may be startled the first time you're sitting in a Canadian classroom and a student, not the teacher, addresses the class. In many countries, students are expected to simply listen and take notes. In Canada, this is called a lecture. In a discussion class, students are encouraged to talk and are usually graded on 'class participation.' The Canadian education system values 'critical thinking,' and teachers will often ask students for their opinion on an issue.

2. Time matters. The pace of life in Canada is fast and Canadians value their time. Day planners and agendas schedule their days. Being on time is important, whether you are meeting a friend for coffee, or arriving to a class. You will hear the expression that you are expected "on time." This means you should arrive at the given time exactly, or even a few minutes early. The only exception to this rule is an informal gathering or party.

3. They aren't trying to be rude. Canadians are typically very busy people, moving from one activity to another throughout the day. It is common for a Canadian to pass by the same person every day on the way to class or downtown and not say hello. This can be shocking to some, since in many cultures it is usual practice to say hello to even vaguely familiar people. Don't take it as a sign of rudeness. Try nodding or smiling and it won't be long before the classmate you see in class or the library says hello back.

4. Laws are laws. In Canada, laws are created and are expected to be followed by everyone. All international students are subject to Canadian laws and not knowing a law is not an excuse to break it. It is illegal to drink alcohol or consume cannabis if you are below the age of majority, or take any illegal drugs at all. Familiarize yourself with Canadian law and to see how our laws differ from your country before you arrive in Canada.

5. Expect straight talk. International students are sometimes surprised with the 'straightforward' talk, questions and comments made by Canadians. Honesty is an important value to Canadians and it is common for them to give a straight answer and not speak around an issue or 'beat around the bush.' Again, this is not a sign of disrespect or rudeness. Generally if a question is asked, an honest, direct answer is best.

6. Casual dress and mannerisms. Canadians usually dress in a casual manner with the exception of special parties, weddings and work related situations. It is common to see a high school student in denim jeans, baseball hats, athletic shoes and a t-shirt. In addition, it is common for Canadians to use slang and cut words down in speech. This may be shocking if you are from a country where dress and language is formal. However, when addressing a teacher or other adult, it is always best to address them properly and use a more formal approach.

7. Difficulty with an accent. It is unsettling when even the best English speaking international students are asked repeatedly to explain what they mean and repeat themselves. Although Canadians love to learn about other cultures and languages, they may not be used to hearing different accents. Don't give up or get upset when you ask a question and a Canadian responds with "what?" Try speaking slowly and repeat the question again using different words. If that doesn't work, try simple, improvised sign language or gestures.

8. Canadians like their space. It seems that in Canada, everyone has or wants a big car, a large house and lots of land or yard. Canadians are used to personal space, too, and become uncomfortable when that personal space is breached. You may notice that Canadians stand a few feet away from each other. In some cultures it is acceptable to stand closer or lean in towards the person when talking, but when you are in a conversation with a Canadian, give them their personal space.

9. Canadians will ask questions. Once in Canada, you may feel bombarded with questions: What do you want? How do you feel? How are you classes? How is your homestay? How much did you pay for that? What do you want to eat? What do you want to do? Some of these questions are not acceptable in other countries. Canadians are not asking these questions to make you feel uncomfortable; on the contrary, they are asking them because they want to get to know you better. If you would rather not answer a question, it is acceptable to change the conversation subject or simply say that you are not comfortable answering the question. Canadians will typically respect your wishes and not push further.

10. Canadians will expect you to know English. English is spoken almost everywhere in Canada. Many Canadians speak French, as Canada is a bilingual country, but most Canadians will expect to communicate with you in English. In many countries around the world, it is common to hear two or three languages spoken by government officials, schools, and common citizens. This is not true in Canada. English is spoken in schools and business is conducted in English. This may be a worry for you at first, but do the best you can and carry a dictionary or translating device with you until you feel confidant speaking in English. A smartphone is probably enough these days! Also, make sure to carry some identification with you, like a student card, so in the worst case scenario, you will have a connection you can draw on to help ease communication.

What to pack for life in Canada: suggested basic list

1 warm winter jacket and winter boots
• 1 light spring/fall jacket
• 1 warm winter hat, scarf, and gloves or mittens
• 2 pairs of blue jeans and 2 pairs of corduroy pants or other material such as cotton
• 1 pair of running shoes, 1 pair of casual shoes, 1 pair of formal shoes, 1 pair of flip-flop sandals
• 5 long-sleeved shirts and 5 short-sleeved t-shirts
• 2 pairs of shorts
• 1 bathing suit or swim trunks
• 14 pairs of underclothing and socks
• 1 set of formal clothes for dressy events with family and friends; this may include a skirt or dress, or a nice jacket
• Pictures of your family to share with people here and keep in your bedroom
• A pouch or handbag for your passport and important documents
• Personal toiletries and vitamins, etc.
• School supplies
• Laptop computer

** Make sure your checked luggage does not exceed 23 kg per bag if travelling with Air Canada, as penalties apply.

We look forward to seeing you in Canada!