Parents of International Students

  

The decision to study abroad can be a difficult one, and as the parent of an international student, we recognize that you may have additional questions, issues or concerns regarding your son or daughter’s stay at McMaster. We want you to feel comfortable knowing that your son or daughter has access to many sources of support while away. As a result, we have compiled information and links to those resources that may be of particular interest to you.

The Younger International Student and Guardianship: There is a policy concerning the guardianship of international students that has been implemented by Citizenship and Immigration Canada which requires that all international students under the age of 18 have a notarized declaration signed by a parent and by their Canadian guardian before they are issued a study permit. McMaster University cannot take responsibility of guardianship. Therefore it is up to the student's family to satisfy this requirement.

Before arriving in Canada

Visit the International Student Services website for further information - http://oisa.mcmaster.ca/.

Links

Immigration Canada –– http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.asp
Office of Student Affairs - http://studentaffairs.mcmaster.ca
Student Affairs looks after the overall health and welfare of students at McMaster and provides many services.

Student Affairs Services

International Student Services Office
ISS is geared towards providing support for the academic and personal development of international students and internationally-minded Canadian students.

Housing & Conference Services
Conference Services, Living On Campus, Off Campus Housing and residence admissions.

OFF-Campus Resource Centre (OCRC)
Rental listing, housing-related resources for students and others visiting McMaster on a temporary basis including copies of the Hamilton Bus Route Map, referrals to local legal clinics etc.

Student Wellness Centre
Providing support to the whole student - mind, body, spirit - through a range of wellness services such as personal & psychological counselling, medical & health services, and wellness education resources.

Athletics & Recreation
Discover Your Strength

English as a Second Language (ESL)
Classes & Support

Student Accessibility Services
Offers various supports for students with disabilities including classroom accommodations, test and exam accommodation, learning strategies, assistive technologies, note taking, as well as groups and events.

Student Success Centre
Providing convenient access to an array of student services in the areas of Career and Employment, Transition and Academic Success, and Community Service-Learning, Civic Engagement and Leadership.

International students are able to work on campus without a work permit.

For students wishing to find employment off campus, please refer to this website: http://oisa.mcmaster.ca/immigrationmatters/workingincanada.cfm.

 

Other Services

Hospitality Services
McMaster Hospitality Services is dedicated to providing healthy, nutritious and flavourful food including vegetarian choices, international food menus, healthy options, as well as quick snacks and made-to-order entrees. Meal plans are available to suit both on-campus and off-campus students

Financial Aid & Scholarships
Recognizing excellence in learning. Helping students address the financial obligations associated with University study.

Titles Bookstore
McMaster University Bookstore