Welcome to an exciting new chapter! The International Education team proudly offers a series of sessions designed to help new students have a smooth and successful start to each semester. These sessions are carefully crafted to guide you as you settle into life in Canada, begin your studies at the College, and become an integral part of our vibrant Okanagan College community. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Please note that there are three mandatory components to the International Orientation.
Be sure to register for these sessions and contact us for more information at askoc@okanagan.bc.ca. We look forward to welcoming you!
To ensure a successful start to your journey at Okanagan College, we’ve organized a series of mandatory sessions to help you prepare, settle in and connect with your new community.
| Sessions | Date/Time | Location | Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual International Student Orientation | Thursday August 13, 2026 at 8 am PDT (Pacific Daylight Time) | Zoom | Register here | This essential session provides key information on must-know platforms, immigration advising, early arrival medical insurance, entry requirements, packing tips, and more, ensuring a smooth transition to Okanagan College and life in Canada. |
| In-Person Orientation | Tuesday September 8, 2026 | Kelowna, Vernon & Penticton Campus | Registration opens mid-July | Explore your campus, meet your classmates, and explore your new community! This day is all about making connections, getting local tips, and feeling at home at OC, plus fun activities and campus tours. |
| OC Ready – Fall 2026 Online Prep Course | Completion deadline: TBC | Brightspace | Registration opens mid-July | This self-paced course gives you a deeper dive into life in Canada and what to expect at OC. It covers important topics like cultural adjustment, daily life, medical insurance, and academic expectations, things not fully covered in the live orientation sessions. |
| Sessions | Date/Time | Location | Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I’ve Applied, Now What? | Teams Meeting | Closed | Get insider tips on admissions, application status, housing, and financial planning. Perfect for those still finalizing their OC plans. | |
| Plan Ahead Virtual Session | Zoom | Closed | Step-by-step support on how to register for classes, build your timetable, and use “Plan Ahead.” All students should have received an email with the registration link. *Trades and ESL students do not need to attend the Plan Ahead session, as registration will be handled by the College. |
The college-wide orientation will be held at the start of September at each campus.
For more information, please visit Orientation.
Please arrive to your campus before the in-person orientation events and try not to travel on days when the virtual orientations are scheduled.
* If you are traveling several months before your studies begin, be prepared to give detailed explanations and supporting documents in case airline or border officers ask. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer you meet at the airport/border crossing will make the final decision on whether or not you are admissible to Canada.
*Remember, you will not be allowed to work in Canada until you have begun full-time studies and you meet the requirements.