Advice to Landlords and students...Renting an apartment to an international student in Canada involves specific considerations for landlords. Keep in mind that regulations and requirements may vary by province or territory, so it's essential to check the local laws. However, here are some general guidelines that landlords in Canada might consider when renting to international students: Letter of Introducation: It is nice to reassure prospective landlord if you prepare a letter of introduction for them explaining your goals of coming to Canada and telling them a little about yourselves. It is also a good idea to get letters of reference for people you have rented from in the past or even better to provide letters of refernce from Canadian citizens that your landlord could contact that will give them a quality reference Proof of Enrollment and Study Permit: Ask for proof of enrollment from a recognized educational institution in Canada. Verify that the student has a valid study permit. Students should inquire with their post secondary institution if they can aquire a letter explaining their status as a student and the dates of their program If a students is renting with a partner or a spouse while studying in Canada do they have a work permit? You landlord will want to know if you have some sort of means to support yourself during you time in Canada. Does your post secondary program allow you to work part-time? Co-Signer or Guarantor: Some landlords may require an international student to have a co-signer or guarantor. This person is typically a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who agrees to take responsibility for the lease if the student fails to meet their obligations. Do you have any friends or relatives that live in Canada that can guarentee to a landlord payment should you have financial stuggles? Students should get a letter and contact information for their guarantor Rental Application: Have the student complete a comprehensive rental application, including personal and financial information, references, and any relevant documentation. Landlords should request financial information from students i.e. bank statements or pay stubs as proof of financial stability for your study term in Canada Security Deposit: Request a security deposit, as permitted by local laws, to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. Students are often surprised at this request but many landlords will request first and last months rent as a deposit for your accomodation. Though this can be a significant amount for a student, it is proof to the landlord that you are serious about aquiring your accomodation and being a good tenant. For landlords international students are sometimes considered higher risk for defaulting on rentals as compared to local renters. Communication and Language: Ensure effective communication, as language differences might exist. Have clear written agreements and be willing to clarify any terms verbally if needed. Lease Agreement: Provide a clear and detailed lease agreement outlining all terms and conditions, including rent amount, due dates, rules, and regulations. International students are typically required to sign 5 to 10 month lease agreements. Many of these agreemants require written 30 day notice be given to the landlord if you are planning on moving out. Students should be aware if they break their lease that the landlord may retain a portion or all of your security deposit. Bank Statements or Financial Guarantees: Some landlords may request bank statements or a financial guarantee to ensure that the international student has the financial means to pay rent. Rent Payment: Determine the preferred method of rent payment. Some landlords may require post-dated checks or electronic transfers. DO NOT Transfer money without guarenteeing the accomodation is reputable and real! Understanding Local Laws: Be aware of local tenancy laws and regulations to ensure compliance and fairness in the leasing process. Tenant Insurance: Encourage or require tenants to obtain tenant insurance to protect their belongings. It's essential to approach each situation individually, taking into account the specific circumstances of the international student. Landlords should always adhere to anti-discrimination laws and treat all tenants fairly. Additionally, consulting with legal professionals or local housing authorities can provide more specific guidance based on the location of the rental property. Be aware of fraud: Rental fraud is very common in Canada especially between international students and people pretending to be landlords. Internatioanal students are sometimes niave and too trusting. They are at a disadvantage of distance so they don't have means of advance viewing of rental accomodations. There have been many students that have arrived in Canada thinking they have secured accomodation only to find out that the accomodation doesn't actually exist and the fraudsters have made off with their security deposit. Independant Student Support Agents Canada (ISSA-Canada) always advises students to be wary of false promises. Sometimes if a rental accomodation looks too good to be true or the accomodation is unusually cheap often it could be a fraudulent situation. It is always best practice to have have someone inspect their future accomodation to ensure it exists, that the landlord is legitimate, ensure that the accomodation is livable (Meets Provincial Fire Code Etc.) and is what the landlord is promising the prospective renters is real (Sometimes internet pictures are fake) A in country person (Family, friend or Professional) can identify any issues in advance and also gather any documents the landlord might require. Independant Student Support Agents Canada can provide accomodation screening support for $260.00 CDN. For more information email us at neilhosler07@gmail.com (mailto:neilhosler07@gmail.com)or 1-780-718-6414. A little money invested up front can save you a great deal of misery later and it is reassuring to know your accomodation is secure and authentic before you come to Canada! Duly note is best to give yourself at least 90 days to find and source accomodation prior to your arrival in Canada. Leaving things to the last minute can be very stressful and can also cause students to end up finding temporary accomodations such as hotels and or Airbnb's which can be expensive if you have not given adequet time to source accomodation.

Exciting news article from Study Travel News.... Canada has announced a new Tech Talent Strategy and measures that will allow foreign workers to study for longer periods in the country. Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, confirmed a three-year temporary measure that removed the limit on the length of study programmes that temporary foreign workers can enrol in without a study permit. Previously, workers could only study on programmes of six months or less and had to apply for a separate study permit for longer courses. Minister Fraser said, “Temporary foreign workers are incredibly important for the Canadian economy, and many have aspirations that go far beyond the work that initially brings them to Canada. With this policy in place, we hope to empower foreign nationals to improve their skills in order to meet their career goals and achieve their dreams, while providing a future potential source of talent for our labour market.” Canada is looking to attract more tech talent. The Minister has also announced Canada’s first-ever Tech Talent Strategy to attract and retain international talent in high-growth industries. Measures in the strategy include an open work permit stream from July 16th for H-1B speciality occupation visa holders in the USA to apply for a Canadian work permit, and study or work permit options for their family members. The H-1B visa is used by some international graduates in the USA. Canada will also implement an Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program, which will include: employer-specific work permits for companies contributing to the government’s innovation goals; open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations; and improvements to the Start-Up Visa programme with increased places and longer permits. Minister Fraser said, “We’re enthusiastic about the ambitious goals we have set in immigration, because they aren’t just about numbers - they are strategic. With Canada’s first-ever immigration Tech Talent Strategy, we’re targeting newcomers that can help enshrine Canada as a world leader in a variety of emerging technologies. I’m grateful for the collaboration of the tech, start-up and business communities, who have provided valuable insight to develop this strategy. Having a fast and flexible approach, one that is broadly supported by Canadians, is truly Canada’s immigration advantage.” In September last year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) released a strategy to expand routes to residency for international students and temporary workers. By Matthew Knott News Editor

Are you an international student interested in studying at a post secondary institution here in Canada? As a student progresses through high school and gears up for post secondary study, I would encourage all students to build their academic English language skills. (AES) Even if your education has been in a country where English was your primary language of education, you may find your academic English skills (AES) to not be on par with the future post secondary course of your dreams. As an international agent here in Canada, I am finding that quite a few universities and colleges are now requiring an English language test score as part of their application process. While sometimes Post Secondary Institutions will exempt certain nations from this requirement, I am finding more and more Designated Learning Institutions are adding blanket English language requirements to all international students no matter what country or educational system you hail from. It is prudent that students can demonstrate a solid English language test score as part of your application profile. Especially if you are seeking out high level post secondary Bachelor or Masters programs in fields that require a high level of academic English i.e. Engineering What is Academic English Skill (AES)? Academic English Skills (AES) is a qualification that provides you with the thorough training in language and academic skills needed to achieve your academic potential at the university of your choice. Key skills that AES will develop include: Reading effectively and critically Making notes in lectures and presentations Delivering presentations and participating in academic seminars Researching, planning and writing academic essays Developing the accuracy and range in written and spoken language required to express yourself appropriately, with clarity and confidence How can I get an impression about where my AES skills are at??? Take a free English language test. The three key English language exams use for post secondary admission are... TOEFL iBT - take a free practice test at https://www.ets.org/s/toefl/free-practice/start.html IELTS - take a free practice test at https://www.ielts.org/usa/ielts-practice-test Duolingo English - take a free practice test https://englishtest.duolingo.com/readiness As an international student agent over the last 20 plus years, I have actually taken some of these practice exams just to see where my AES skills are at and to be able to get a feeling of what my students needs are. As a person whom grew up in an English language educational system, I found the practice exams to be quite humbling. I found myself having to look up many of the words and definitions in order to fully understand them myself. I strongly recommend pursuing an English language program before you apply to study in Canada. The time and expense you take in advance will be of benefit as you will not likely have to take an English as a Second Language program prior to your program of study. Taking AES programs in advance will also help prepare you for the academic language that will regularly be used in your program of choice. Long and short it...it will be easier to participate and get solid grades in your program. NEVER STOP LEARNING!!! It is a recipe for life success😊

Sharing the latest news from the Study Travel Network.... Canada is leading in international students’ perceptions of being an attractive destination and preferences, according to the latest survey conducted by global higher education placement agency IDP Education. The Emerging Futures report was based on the responses of 10,149 IDP Education clients from 93 countries, and compared perceptions of the five major English-speaking higher education destinations as well as reasons for studying abroad and choice of destination. Students rated Canada as clearly the highest on perceptions of graduate employment opportunities, post-study work policies and welfare, and slightly ahead of rival destinations for value for money. Graphic source - IDP Connect The USA and the UK were perceived as offering the highest-quality education. Canada was also the first-choice destination for 27 per cent of the students surveyed, followed by the USA (20), the UK and Australia (both 19). New Zealand’s prolonged border closure would appear to have impacted on its perception among students – the destination ranked lowest on four of the categories, and was first-choice destination for only four per cent of students surveyed. When asked why they had chosen their first-choice destination (with multiple answers possible), high quality of education was cited by 63 per cent, followed by opportunities after graduation (52), supports international students (48), and part-time work opportunities (44). More than 30 per cent of the students for each of the major destinations said that they intended to work in that country after graduation. However, Canada’s migration pathways appeared to be an attraction for international students – 30 per cent of those who chose Canada as first-choice said that they intended to apply for permanent residency. The next highest was those who chose New Zealand (23), followed by Australia (19). Simon Emmett, CEO of IDP Connect, said that the results highlighted the increasingly competitive nature of the global sector and the importance of return on investment for students. “The results of this comprehensive research are clear. For competing destinations to remain competitive, they must deliver a positive experience and positive outcomes for students, whilst improving the ways in which they communicate this with future students,” he said. Canada ranked first for students on several factors in the IDP report. “Tomorrow’s international students are motivated by the return on investment of their education, the countries in which institutions, governments and, most importantly, employers can work together to develop the right offer to students and best practice in post-study employment, will benefit the most from the next generation of skilled and highly educated students, in turn fulfilling their labour market needs and the needs of their economies.” Article Credit Matthew Knott-News Editor Study Travel Network

The government of Canada has announced a new scholarship for international and domestic students to remember the victims of the Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 crash. Two years since the downing of the flight from Iran to Ukraine, which led to the deaths of 176 people including a number of international students enrolled in Canada, the government said it was proceeding with a scholarship scheme based on consultations with family members of the victims. The programme is expected to disburse 176 scholarships averaging CAN$25,000 for each beneficiary, which the government said with “strengthen the bonds between people through international academic exchanges”. The scholarship will be open to both international and Canadian students and the first call for applications is expected to launch in the fall of 2023. Scholarships will be available to international and domestic students. The Canadian government is also developing a pathway to permanent residency for certain family members of the victims and is launching a public consultation on a remembrance memorial. In coming weeks, the government will also consult on a similar scholarship to honour those lost in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302 air disaster, which killed 157 people when it crashed in 2019. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said, “Too many Canadians’ lives were forever changed by the loss of a loved one in an air disaster. Most recently, Canadians were amongst the victims of the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 and the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash. We will continue to stand by the families of victims, and through the scholarship programme and commemoration tribute, we will continue to remember and honour their legacies.” Click here to read the Canadian government statement about the memorial scholarships. By Matthew Knott News Editor-Study Travel Network

Welcome to 2022 Everyone!😊 Are you dreaming of making 2022 your year to study abroad in Canada? Let us help you make your dreams become reality!!! A couple of short tips from all of us at Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) on the current climate of international study in Canada right now and moving forward into 2022. Be advised that all Canadian Secondary and Post Secondary Institutions are actively accepting student applications for September 2022 entry and even January 2023 entry in most cases. They have been accepting student for over 2 months now! It is very important that if you wish to make your 2022 dreams of studying abroad possible, that your recognize the need for prompt applications and to do so as soon as possible! Ensure that your passports are up to date, you are getting required vaccinations in advance and keeping them up with required boosters. Ensure that you are gathering all the necessary educational documents together for us to help you apply. If you have any questions in terms of what you need to apply to Canadian institutions please don't hesitate to ask. Here at ISSA-Canada we are more than happy to help with free advice😊 Please also be aware that Immigration and Refugee Canada is continuing to experience backlogs in application processing. Typical application times for Study Permits and Visa's are still upwards 3-4 months to process. It is best not to delay your applications to Canadian educational institutions as your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) is one of your first required documents the IRC will require. If you have any questions about how to obtain a Study Permit or a Visa please let us help by connecting you with one of our certified Immigration and Refugee Canada Consultants at Canada Immigration and Beyond. They would be happy to help. Do you need accommodation for your Canadian study term? Let us help you by screening an excellent host family to welcome you into their family. Your host family are your very first friends here in Canada. Having a host family as your primary resource is an excellent way of totally immersing in Canadian language and culture😊 Independent Student Support Agents-Canada has access to over 600 screened and certified homestays across Canada. Let us be your homestay provider for your Canadian experience! The world is slowly reopening...Travel restrictions are getting more flexible so long as you are meeting your home countries and Canada's travel requirements. All secondary and post secondary intuitions are looking forward to continuing to welcome you into their in person programs for 2022! We look forward to seeing you soon!!! To begin your application to study abroad in Canada start here... http://www.applyboard.com/partners/Independent_Student_Support_Agents-Canada A advisor from Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) will contact you right away once you application is received!

NOTE TO USE THE APPLYBOARD PLATFORM AND GET ASSISTANCE FROM INDEPENDANT STUDENT SUPPORT AGENTS-CANADA SIMPLY GO TO ... http://www.applyboard.com/partners/Independent_Student_Support_Agents-Canada and begin your application. ApplyBoard is excited to announce new Canadian scholarships offered by Braemar College, Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM), and Trebas Institute available for international students for the 2021 and 2022/2023 academic year. Below you will find details about each of the exclusive scholarships, including scholarship amounts and eligibility requirements. Braemar College Founded in 1995, Braemar College is a private secondary school located in the heart of Toronto, Ontario. Braemar offers grades 9 to 12, the college is also a postsecondary pathway provider that prepares students from around the world to enter Canada’s top colleges and universities. With over forty countries represented, Braemar offers summer, pathway, and Top Canadian University Pathway (TCUP) programs, depending on student needs and interest. Eligibility Requirements Braemar College is offering a Renaissance scholarship for all intakes in the 2022/23 academic year. This scholarship is available for students, excluding applicants from China. Students will automatically receive the Renaissance scholarship in the amount shown below based on geographical location: Asia: C$1,600 Americas/Europe: C$4,200 All other geographical locations: C$3,200 Please note that the full scholarship amount will be available to students enrolled in the September 2021 intake. Partial scholarships are available for 2022-23 intakes past September. For more information about scholarships from Braemar College, please check out the institution’s website as well as our Braemar College – Scholarships article. Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM) Through the Niagara College and Toronto School of Management partnership, Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM) delivers Niagara College programs and services at the Toronto campus. With campuses located in one of Canada’s largest cities, students will benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, career support, and incredible employment opportunities. Students that study at the Toronto campus will receive a Niagara College credential upon graduation. Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM) is offering a variety of entrance scholarships for international students which can be found below. African Continent Scholarship International students who are a resident of any nation in Africa and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. Caribbean Scholarship International students who are a resident of any of the Caribbean countries and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. Latin America & Brazil Scholarship International students who are a resident of Latin America or Brazil and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. South East Asia (SEA 1) Scholarship International students who are a resident of Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. South East Asia (SEA 2) Scholarship International students who are residents of the Philippines, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$1,000–C$2,000 scholarship. Please note: For the scholarships above, a scholarship of C$1,000 to be awarded in the first semester. Eligible applicants may qualify for an additional C$1,000 in the second semester; conditions apply. It cannot be transferred or combined with any other entrance scholarship. GUS CANADA Special GUS CANADA Special is a C$1,000 limited promotion offered to international students who are a resident of Latin America, Brazil, and Turkey and is enrolled into a Niagara College – Toronto undergraduate diploma program in 2022. This scholarship is only applicable to students that have received this offer. For more information about these scholarships and more, please check out our Niagara College – Scholarships article. Trebas Institute Located in Montreal, Quebec, Trebas Institute offers students programs and skills in Audio, Film and Television, Business and Technology, and Music, Event and Entertainment Management. Trebas offers small class sizes and practical lessons which allow students a personalized and supportive experience. With a campus located in downtown Montreal, students are able to access vibrant culture and extensive business links while studying. Trebas Institute offers several scholarships for international students which can be found below. Nurturing Talent Scholarship International students who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake and are enrolled in one of the following French or English programs are eligible for a C$4,000 tuition credit: College Diploma – Film and Television Production College Diploma – Sound Design College Diploma – Music Business Administration International Tech Grant Students from the Caribbean, North America, Central America, South America, French Speaking Countries, Overseas France, and SouthEast Asia are eligible for a C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year). Students who apply at least 30 calendar days prior to the start of the term, study in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake, and are enrolled in one of the following programs offered in French or English are eligible: College Diploma – Big Data Analytics and Business Intelligence College Diploma – Computer Security Analyst Diversity Grant International students who study in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake are eligible for a C$4,000 or C$7,200 tuition grant for the following programs offered in French or English: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management College Diploma – Big Data Analytics and Business Intelligence College Diploma – Computer Security Analyst Canadian Diversity Grant A C$1,500 grant is available for students who have a valid study permit and have landed in Canada for a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake in one of the following programs offered in French or English: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management College Diploma – Big Data Analytics and Business Intelligence College Diploma – Computer Security Analyst L'Heritage Grant A C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year) is available for new students from French Speaking Countries, and Overseas France who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake for the following English or French programs: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management The Americas Grant A C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year) is available for new students from the Caribbean, North America, Central America, and South America who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake for the following English or French programs: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management The SEA Regional Grant A C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year) is available for new students from Korea, Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake for the following English or French programs: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management For more information about scholarships from Trebas Institute, please check out the institution’s website as well as our Trebas Institute – Scholarships article.

It has been a difficult few years due to the international COVID 19 crisis. However as vaccination rates improve and travel and entry restrictions are being reduced world wide, Canada remains as a world leader as one of the favorite study destinations for international students. It is one of the most popular countries for higher education that provides a diverse variety of experiences and opportunities along with natural beauty and an adaptable environment. The best part is the reasonable cost of living that every international student can afford. Canada has some of the top-ranked universities in the world, including the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and the University of Alberta. There are both long term and short term courses available. Canada also has the best system of community colleges in the world for students who don’t have a big budget. ...Below are the top ten reasons to Study in Canada: #1 High-quality Education One of the top reasons to study in Canada is that it provides a high-quality educational infrastructure that focuses on developing the students for the future and improvising their skills. You can choose from various streams like engineering, IT, management, economics, mining, healthcare, and much more. Whatever course you are looking for, be it bachelor’s, master’s, certificate, or diploma, Canada offers you several colleges and universities to choose from. #2 Work and Study Most of the countries don’t let international students work while studying, but Canada is not one of them. It is one of the most prominent answers to the question- why study in Canada? While you are studying in Canada, you can earn money that will allow you to pay for your college fee or other personal expenses. Also, you can gain work experience. International students are allowed to work part-time for about 20 hours per week. Students can also apply for up to three years of post-study work permit based on the program duration. #3 Low Cost One reason to study in Canada for many students is the low education cost. As compared to other study destinations like the US and the UK, the tuition fee in Canada is relatively affordable. Besides, Canada also allows you to work while you study, so it is a win-win situation. If you want, you can apply for a variety of scholarships to manage your educational expenses. #4 Dynamic environment There is a massive presence of international students in Canada, making it a country full of diverse cultures and traditions. There are more than half a million international students in Canada who have the same concerns as you and therefore, you don’t feel like an outsider. Canada is a warm and welcoming country. It is a place where students can experience festivals of all ethnic groups celebrated by the whole country. The vast diversity makes Canada the best study destination for international students. #5 Best living conditions According to the United Nations, Canada is the best place to live in the world. It offers numerous educational opportunities and high quality of life, including clean air, clean water, world-class healthcare, and more. International students enjoy the same rights as a Canadian. It is also one of the safest nations in the world with a low incidence of violent crime and low population density. #6 Experience all seasons Canada is a country where you can experience all the seasons. The spring comes with chilly breeze, and the winters offer mesmerizing snowfall. The most sought-after season to look for in Canada in the autumn season. In this season, all the leaves of trees and plants turn orange changing the complete view of the country. It also has naturally preserved park systems offering various indoor and outdoor recreational activities. #7 Job Opportunities The one thing that students love about studying in Canada is the abundance of employment opportunities. International students can take advantage of many opportunities to research in telecommunications, medicine, agriculture, computer technology, and environmental science. It also provides post-study work opportunities that allow you to work under any employer in Canada. Students can also work on the campus without a work permit. #8 Explore a beautiful country Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world which attracts thousands of tourists each year. Students can enjoy the beauty of nature, wildlife, and the fabulous views of the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean. Canada offers six different time zones, sandy beaches, diverse metropolises, and an extended coastline. So why are you here, you can enjoy the most beautiful time of your life. #9 Immigration opportunity One of the best reasons to study in Canada is that the country provides immigration opportunities for international students. A three-year post-study work permit helps international students understand the work culture in Canada and gives them a view of their future. Canada’s Express Entry immigration system allows international students to immigrate to the country. It offers bonus points to people with Canadian study and work experience. You can also apply for permanent residency through Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program. In short, international students who have Canadian credentials and work experience can apply for permanent residency without even leaving the country. #10 Live with your family Canada allows you to bring your partner or your family on an open work permit. If you have kids, they can go to one of Canada’s public elementary or secondary schools without needing their own study permit. On getting permanent residency, you will be able to vote, get a Canadian passport, and also retain your original citizenship, just like any other Canadian citizen. These are just some of the top reasons to study in Canada. There are Countless other reasons make Canada a perfect study destination. So, what are you waiting for? Let Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) help you achieve your Dreams of Studying in Canada! Contact us to set an appointment for a free 1 hour consultation with an Certified ITAC/ICEF international student counsellor on how to make your dreams possible! Research, explore, and off you go.

Good morning everyone. I hope that the month of November is finding your well. I just wanted to send a quick note to let you know I'm still here busily working away at home as always.😁 I know it has been a while since I have posted but life happens when you are not planning😉 I have been busy given that I have two other jobs in addition to building this one😉 What have I been doing at Independent Student Support Agents-Canada this last month? We have found ourselves quite busy working with University students from Ghana, West Africa. I am happy to say that all of them have been accepted into Canadian Universities and Colleges for this coming January and for Spring 2022. This success has been keeping me optimistic in the fact that students are beginning to shift from at home studies to exploring the opportunities and gifts of studying abroad in Canada. They have all entered the next stages. The hardest part of entry at this point is backlogs in issuance of Study Permits from Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada. Hopefully as things progress the IRCC can catch up on their efforts so that students can get more timely permitting issued. Just a quick bit of advice for students thinking about coming to Canada for Sept 2022. Begin the process of applying NOW! As you can imagine as COVID 19 Vaccinations become a more standardized requirement students are now beginning to move between countries freely and with relative ease so long as you are meeting new travel requirements. As such Secondary and Post Secondary institutions are expecting a significant influx of international students coming to Canada for Sept 2022 and even Feb 2023. The majority of Secondary and Post Secondary Institutions that I am working with have already begun accepting student applications for the fall of 2022. In your preparations it will be best to apply as soon as possible as you want to give the IRCC plenty of time to process your Study Permit (I recommend no later than 4 months in advance and preferably 6 months in advance so your chances are best🙂) Here at Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) we are ready to support you through every step to achieve your dreams of study in Canada! So weather you need advice on which programs are best for English/Cultural Immersion, low cost tuition and scholarship options, or you need to consult with one of our Certified IRCC consultants about entry requirements, GAP year options for working in Canada and the USA, Study Vacation Options in Japan and in Canada, TOEFL iBT prep programs for next summer we can help you😊 in your journey. Simply drop us a note and schedule a free 1 hour consulting session with our certified ITAC/ICEF international student counsellors. You can also begin your application to study in Canada by clicking on this link and letting us assist you with your application and school selection http://www.applyboard.com/partners/Independent_Student_Support_Agents-Canada Have a terrific week everyone !!! Globally Yours Neil Hosler Owner/ITAC-ICEF Counsellor ISSA-Canada

Latest in news...During the early stages of the COVID-19 Crisis we knew it would be integral for us to continue to initiate contacts, promote intra-culturalism, and to continue to create opportunities for students both in Canada and students in Japan to build connections, share each others culture and help each other learn new language skills. As such in my former position with Global Partners Institute (Pre-closure) we built a working relationship with a very unique Japanese/English Learning Language program in Fukuoka, Japan called Genki Language Institute. Genki works with students in Japan and around the world of all ages in the education of both Japanese as a Second Language(JSL) and also English as a Second Language (ESL) In the formation of my new company Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) it still remains a very important mandate to continue working with Genki Language Institute in my efforts to connect students in Canada and Japan for these sharing opportunities. Over 2020-2021 we have introduced many students to each other and matched them for ongoing Pen Pal connections. Are you interested in... * Learning the Japanese Language * Helping a Japanese student develop their English Language Skills * Making future connections * Sharing your own unique Canadian culture and learning about the special cultural aspects of Japan? Then the ISSA-Canada & Genki Language Institute Program is for you😊To begin, simply drop us a note expressing your interest and we will send you a Pen Pal Match Sheet to fill out. Once you have completed your match sheet we will send it to our friends at Genki Language Institute and they will work with us to match you to a Genki student of similar age, gender, school grade and interests in order to best create a good match for easy conversation. Once we have created a match for you then we will connect you with your conversation buddy and let you begin conversing. This program is open to all ages and interests. So if you are in Elementary School, Jr High, High School, Post Secondary, Working, Retired, Whatever! We will do our best to match you to a buddy. Experience the fun today!!!

Are you experiencing road blocks to your planned study abroad experience here in Canada? From my perspective as an international student support agent I can say there has been a definitive slow down in international student travel to Canada, especially in these difficult times of the COVID 19 crisis. In my conversations with sending schools and students abroad there has been so much uncertainty in international study abroad. Part of the issue reflected is uncertainty of study travel. As every country has different travel rules, students don't often know what the requirements are in their own country as well as the requirements of travel and entry to Canada. Then there is the uncertainty of once you get here can you get home if the need arrives? At present Canada's borders are open to International students wishing to come here to study. All you need is proof that you have had two COVID-19 Vaccinations of an approved vaccine before travelling. Student travelling to Canada must use the ArriveCan app which can be downloaded at https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/arrivecan.html Also on this site is good information about travelling to Canada and any changing restrictions. Some students are staying in their home countries because of uncertainty as to whether schools in Canada are accepting students for in person classes. For obvious reasons students do not wish to pay a lot of money only to experience online education. In talking to all the register Designated Learning Institutions (DLI's) that I represent here in Canada. All of them are open for business. Classes for the most part are all in person with the only restrictions being a daily health check i.e. if you feel ill don't go to school, classes are set up for positive self distancing i.e. staying 6 ft. apart and mandatory masking with regular hand disinfection. Some Post Secondary institutions are doing what they call hybrid programs. These are where students go to classes several days per week and then also do online learning which during these times is a good compromise. Some provinces in Canada are now also instituting vaccine passports. These are a digital proof that you have been vaccinated that can be linked to a QR Code on your phone or you can carry a printable copy on your person. Vaccine passport well controversial, are good way for businesses and facilities to keep unvaccinated people from entering, therefore encouraging the public to take the steps to be vaccinated. Vaccine passports will be something extra that you can expect in Canada once you arrive. Canada is ahead of many nations in terms of vaccination of the population, but there is still many people that do not wish to get vaccinated. For the most part the world of international study abroad is slowly reopening and I remain optimistic when looking forward to 2022-2023 forward. Many institutions are already seeing a rebound, with students coming for successful program experiences. What kinds of issues are you running into in your own countries? I would love to hear from students so we can get a more global perspective and perhaps work through restrictions and provide other students with extra advice. Have you been travelling already? What kinds of experiences have you had already? Positive experiences? Negative experiences? How did you overcome them? Drop us a note or join in this forum as we would be excited to hear from you!!!😊

Was reviewing some great information from ApplyBoard today for international students planning on travelling to study abroad. ISSA-Canada is a partner Agent with ApplyBoard. Studying abroad is an exciting adventure. However, it can be difficult to know exactly what you need to bring and leave behind before hopping on a plane to study in Canada, the United States, or the United Kingdom—especially during COVID-19. From what to do before you start packing and a handy document checklist on what to expect upon arriving at your study abroad destination, we’ve compiled a list to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible. As student looking to enter Canada for study should regularly review COVID-19 Travel Information. COVID-19 travel requirements continue to evolve on a frequent basis. We recommend that you monitor the following websites for updates and the latest information: https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid Before You Start Packing Before you start packing your suitcase, you should: Verify luggage restrictions with the airline Pack for all sorts of weather Check what you can’t bring through customs, such as animals, plants, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat products, controlled substances, etc. Illustration of travel documents Document Checklist Upon arrival, you will be asked to show your travel and study-related documents to the Border Control Officers for clearance before exiting the airport. They must be physical, paper documents—not stored on an electronic device, such as a mobile phone or tablet. Ensure that they are easily accessible so you can produce them when asked, so don’t check them in with your luggage. Tip: A folder will help you keep everything organized and in one spot. You should have: A valid passport A valid study visa A copy of your passport and visa (be sure to also email a scan to yourself as well as a family member) Your Letter of Acceptance/Admission and a printout of any relevant information on the program/course you are studying Original or certified copies of your academic transcripts and qualifications Proof of payment for accommodation, tuition fees, etc. Other personal identification documents, such as a birth certificate, ID card, and driver’s licence Any required COVID-19 tests or vaccination results (if applicable) X-rays (if required) Evidence that you have enough money to study abroad, such as bank statements used to support your visa application Accommodation confirmation and full address University or college address and contact details Any health or travel insurance documents The college or university’s 24-hour helpline Details of any prearranged transportation provided by the college or university (you are encouraged to book this if available) Any additional required documentation Illustration of student packing What to Take with You You should also consider bringing the following with you: Cash. You can set up a bank account when you arrive, so don’t carry too much. Prescription medication. However, you don’t need more than a few weeks’ worth. Bring any prescriptions with you (in English), so you can have them filled when you arrive. Be sure to check what medication you are allowed to bring with you. Travel adaptor, laptop, phone, and any other devices you will require. Warm clothing. A list of items in your luggage and a description of your luggage—don’t forget to attach a tag with your full name and telephone number. A few face masks and sanitizing products. Reminder: You can’t take liquids more than 100 ml on the plane with you. What Not to Take with You Avoid bringing the following: Bedding and linens Kitchen equipment Large amounts of toiletries—you can purchase additional items inexpensively upon arrival Meat, dairy, fruit, vegetables, and potato-based products—these items are strictly prohibited Illustration of airplane What to Expect Upon Arrival Upon arriving by air, you will pass through immigration control before picking up your baggage. Make sure you have the documents mentioned above easily accessible. The Immigration Officer will ask you some questions to ensure that you’re coming to your study abroad destination for genuine study purposes and that you intend to leave after completing your studies. You must be able to answer these questions clearly without having to rely on an interpreter Here is a list of common questions that an Immigration Officer may ask you: What is your name? Where are you from? What is your home address? What are your mother’s and father’s names? What is your birth date and where were you born? What university or college are you going to attend? What program/course are you going to study and how long is it? What are your plans after completing the program/course? Who packed your bag(s)? Do you know what’s inside the bag(s)? How much cash are you carrying with you? Do you have relatives/friends/family here? If so, where do they live? If not, where will you stay? Is someone coming to pick you up at the airport? You should respond to all questions asked by the Immigration Officer with simple and clear answers. If you don’t hear or understand a question, you can ask the officer for clarification. Next, you can proceed to collect your baggage and officially begin your study abroad adventure!

Good morning everyone, Schools is in session here in Canada. We are greatly enjoying working with our new partner Canada Immigration and Beyond whom are our primary go to people who assist international students with their IRCC paperwork to get their study permits. CIB can also offer International students with IRCC Consultant advice on how to progress from your post secondary studies into post graduate work permits (PGWP) and eventually help you with your efforts to gain permanent residency here is Canada (PR) Here at Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) we are very excited about our new relationship with Canada Immigration and Beyond - New Beginnings! Together we can offer a one stop shop for students in helping them with predeparture paperwork, secondary and post secondary designated language institution placements (DLI) to best meet you needs and objectives. Once you have gained acceptance to study in Canada we can help you with your travel plans, airport transfers, COVID protocol advice, homestay or dorm stay in your region of study, custodianship for minors, local student support coordinators (LSSC's) to help you achieve success on your study abroad journey and much much more! ISSA-Canada also offers opportunities to study both English and Japanese for students and we do outbound study adventure vacations and gap year programs for students who wish to earn money working at summer camps in the USA and or travel to Japan. We have the key to unlock the world for you as international restrictions begin to lift. Fee free to join this forum and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have:) Neil Hosler-Owner/ICEF-ITAC international student counsellor and agent.

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