I-Start International Student Orientation: 2025-2026

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Start!

I-Start International Orientation 2025-2026 is your ultimate guide to kicking off your Carleton journey with confidence! This free, online mini-course is packed with everything you need to know about student life at Carleton and in Canada.Designed for all international students—undergraduate, graduate, and study abroad—this is your first step toward an amazing Carleton experience.

Why Join I-Start?

✅ Navigate Student Life with Confidence – Learn about academics, campus services, and student support so you can settle in smoothly.

✅ Feel Connected from the Start – Meet fellow international students and start building your community before you even arrive.

✅ Gain Essential Knowledge – Get expert guidance on topics like immigration, health insurance (UHIP), living in Ottawa, and adjusting to life in Canada.

✅ Learn at Your Own Pace – Access flexible modules you can revisit whenever you need them.

✅ Earn Co-Curricular Credit – Students who complete the course will be eligible for credit on their Co-Curricular Record, a system Carleton uses to record involvement during your time and enhances your resume and student experience.

✅ Exclusive Peer-to-Peer Sessions – Over the summer, students who sign up for I-Start will have access to Global Ravens Chats, online sessions where you can connect with other international students in a supportive, peer-led environment.

Key Feature of I-Start

  • Go at your own pace. Modules you can revisit when you need. This free, self-paced online course is the best way to prepare for your new adventure at Carleton. Plus, stay tuned for upcoming in-person and virtual events to help you feel at home in your new environment!

Please stay tuned to our ISSO events page for a variety of upcoming social, informational, and engaging in-person and virtual events designed to support your transition and enhance your experience! Our Ravens Student Life team shares all event updates on Instagram and TikTok. Follow us now to stay connected!

  • Academic Information

  • I-START INFORMATION

  • The personal information requested on this form is collected in accordance with Sections 38(2) and 41(1) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA), R.S.O. 1990, c.F.31 as amended. The information provided will not be used for any purposes other than those stated upon this form unless the applicant provides express written consent. Should you have any questions concerning your personal information, please contact Pierce White-Joncas, Manager, Privacy & Access to Information, Carleton University (607 Robertson Hall, 613-520-2600 ext. 2047). Carleton University is fully compliant with FIPPA and endeavours at all times to treat your personal information in accordance with this law.