10 things Indian students in Canada must know
Moving to Canada as an Indian student is more than just crossing continents — it’s a cultural leap, a financial workout, and often, a climatic betrayal. Between deciphering GPA systems, surviving -30°C winters, and learning that “sorry” can mean anything, there’s a lot that no brochure or university webinar will tell you. This isn’t just a guide — it’s a reality check wrapped in humor, caffeine, and the occasional identity crisis. Whether you’re headed for a master’s in Toronto or a diploma in Halifax, here are 10 things every Indian student should know before Canada makes you polite… and permanently broke.Here’s a sharp, practical, and slightly tongue-in-cheek list of 10 Things Indian Students in Canada Must Know — whether you’re heading to Toronto, chilling in Vancouver, or braving the snow in Saskatoon.
1. The Weather is Not Just Cold. It’s a Personality.
• Canada doesn’t do mild. It does -25°C with a wind chill that makes your ancestors shiver.• Buy a proper jacket. Not a Zara puffer. Think down-filled, fur-lined, costs-as-much-as-rent.
2. “Sorry” is a National Currency. Learn to Use It.
• Someone steps on your foot? You say sorry.• Bump into a pole? Say sorry to the pole.• It’s not guilt. It’s social lubrication.
3. Tim Hortons is Not Just Coffee. It’s a Rite of Passage.
• Double-Double. Timbits. Ice Cap in December.• Every Canadian student has survived on a $2.50 coffee and stale bagel combo.
4. Tuition is International. So is the Shock.
• Brace for ₹25–40 lakhs/year depending on the program.• Add rent, groceries, insurance, winter gear, and Netflix.• Congratulations, you now understand compound financial trauma.
5. You’ll Start Saying “Eh?” Without Realising.
• “It’s cold, eh?”• “Midterms were brutal, eh?”• Soon, even your WhatsApp texts will have passive-aggressive Canadian politeness.
6. No One Knows Where Your ‘Percentage’ Fits.
• 85% in CBSE? They’ll convert it to a 3.2 GPA and hand you a participation medal.• Learn the bell curve system and curve your expectations.
7. Work Permits are Your Second Degree.
• 20 hours/week part-time. That’s the law.• Uber Eats, Walmart shifts, TA jobs, or helping aunties with Excel — everything counts.• But no, you can’t pay off your fees working part-time. That’s a myth.
8. Cultural Shift is Real. Prepare for Reverse Shock Too.
• First, you’ll feel out of place in Canada.• Then, you’ll go back to India and feel out of place there.• It’s not identity crisis. It’s character development.
9. Build Credit History. It’s Like Dating Your Bank.
• Get a credit card. Use it. Pay on time.• Want to rent an apartment, buy a car, or not be treated like a financial toddler? Start early.
10. You’ll Meet Other Indians. Many. Everywhere.
• One moment you’re speaking Hinglish in the subway, next minute you’re at a Diwali potluck in Brampton.• Canada’s a multicultural buffet. But your sabzi may still come from Patel Brothers.
