August is one of the best times to experience Ontario! With warm weather, long sunny days, and vibrant community events, it's the perfect month to explore beyond campus and enjoy everything the province has to offer.

Take advantage of local farmers' markets, outdoor festivals, beaches, hiking trails, and cultural celebrations happening throughout the month. Whether you're discovering a new city, enjoying a picnic in a park, or spending time with friends, August offers plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories before the fall semester begins.

A few tips for August:

Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during hot weather.
Check local event calendars for free concerts, festivals, and community activities.
Enjoy Ontario's beautiful outdoor spaces, but remember to follow park and beach safety guidelines.
Plan ahead for the upcoming academic term by reviewing your course schedule and important campus dates.

Make the most of the final weeks of summer and take time to experience the people, places, and cultures that make Ontario such a welcoming place to live and study. Happy August!

Arrive in Canada Series

Whether you're arriving in Canada for the first time this fall or looking to refresh your knowledge as a returning student, join our Arrive in Canada Series to learn about housing, working part-time, health insurance, making friends, and more.

To kick off the series, we'll be going live on Instagram to share tips on "What I Wish I Knew Before Travelling" on Wednesday, August 5, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Following the Instagram Live session, we'll host two virtual workshops: one focused on housing and the other on working while studying.

We'll conclude the series with an in-person Student Support Fair on Monday, September 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., where you can connect with campus and community resources and learn about supports available throughout your student journey.

More information about the series and how to participate can be found HERE.

GISE Workshop/Monthly Immigration Workshop - PGWP Walk through (Hybrid)

Tuesday, August 18, 2026
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

Do you know when you can apply for your PGWP? What documents you need for this application? What about your work eligibility before and after your application? Whether you can travel? Have inquiries on Spousal Open Work Permit too? We will provide you with a step-by-step guide on PGWP applications and take your questions. Register HERE and join the workshop either online or in person.

GISE Workshop - Applying for Permanent Residency in Canada (Virtual)

Thursday, August 20, 2026
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

Are you thinking about applying for Permanent Residency after completing your program(s) and gaining Canadian work experience? This workshop will focus on the process of applying for PR. It will go over the Express Entry program, Provincial Nominee Programs, the CRS and NOC, eligibility requirements, and the different ways to apply. We'll also share recent policy updates. Register HERE and join the workshop online.

Home@DC International Student Orientation Modules

Have you completed your Home@ DC Orientation Modules yet?

You can find them in your DC connect. Look for this icon in the Spring/Summer 2026 tab. The information in the modules will help you with this semester and the future ones! We will also send you out important updates through this module as well.

International Student Mentorship Program (ISMP)

Calling All Durham College Students!

Are you ready to make meaningful connections and get the most out of your college experience? We’re now recruiting mentors and mentees for our International Student Mentorship Program for Fall 2026 — and we’d love for you to be part of it!

Whether you're new to Canada or have already found your footing at Durham College, this program is designed to support first-semester international students as they navigate college life and settle into their new home.

How It Works:
Mentors and mentees are encouraged to connect at least three times between September and December — in person, online, by email, or however works best for you! You’re welcome to meet more often if you’d like. Scheduling is flexible and decided between each mentor-mentee pair.

Why Join?

Mentors gain valuable experience and the joy of helping others.
Mentees get insider tips and answers from someone who’s been there, done that.
Everyone gets to attend two fun mingling events with refreshments and prizes
Mentors who fulfill their commitment by meeting with their assigned mentee(s) at least three times within a term will be recognized with an appreciation lunch, a certificate of completion, and an opportunity to win an off-campus trip. Note: Domestic students are also welcome to sign up as mentors!

Ready to join or learn more? Visit our program webpage for all the details and to sign up.

Thanks for your interest — we can’t wait to see the connections you’ll make!

Graduating International Student Experience (GISE)

Are you finishing your studies this summer?

GISE (Graduating International Student Experience) is a step-by-step course available on DC Connect. It includes important information specifically for graduating international students and is mandatory to complete by August 31, 2026.

Through GISE, you’ll also have access to resources that support your next steps after graduation.

More information about GISE, including how to access the course, has been sent to your DC Mail. If you have questions or experience issues accessing GISE, contact us.

International Alumni Network

Are you finishing your studies this summer?

Your journey doesn’t end at graduation. You can use this enrolment form to join the International Alumni Network, an opportunity to expand your professional network, explore new opportunities, and stay connected with the Durham College community after graduation.

The International Education Office, in collaboration with the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, will stay in touch with alumni and share ways for you to remain engaged and involved beyond your time at DC

Housing Pulse – Arrival and Temporary Stays

Are you a new international student arriving in Canada soon?

If your long-term housing has not yet been secured, consider arranging temporary accommodation for your first few days in Canada. Book early with a nearby hotel, Airbnb, or other short-term rental and confirm the location to ensure convenient access to public transit.

You can also explore temporary housing options through Durham College resources or trusted platforms such as Places4Students.com.

Planning ahead can help reduce stress upon arrival and give you more time to find safe and suitable long-term housing while settling into your new community.

Don’t forget to sign up for our Arrive in Canada – Housing workshop for more information and support

🌞 What's Happening in Durham Region This Summer?

Looking for ways to enjoy the summer before classes begin? Durham Region is full of free and affordable activities this month!

🎵 Whitby Sounds of Summer Enjoy free outdoor concerts on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Bring a lawn chair, meet friends, and experience local music in a relaxed outdoor setting. [whitby.ca]

🎬 Movies in the Park Watch a movie under the stars at parks across Durham. Whitby's outdoor movie night takes place at Whitby Civic Park, while other communities including Ajax and Pickering also offer free screenings. [whitby.ca]

🛍️ Farmers' Markets Visit weekly farmers' markets in Whitby and Brooklin to shop for fresh Ontario produce, baked goods, and handmade items while supporting local vendors. [whitby.ca]

🍓 Pick-Your-Own Berry Farms July and August are peak berry-picking season. Visit local farms to pick strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries while enjoying Ontario's countryside.

🚶 Explore Durham Outdoors Take advantage of more than 240 kilometres of trails, waterfront parks, beaches, conservation areas, and picnic spots across the region. Summer is the perfect time to experience Ontario's natural beauty.

Student Tip: Many summer events in Durham Region are free and accessible by Durham Region Transit (DRT) or GO Transit, making them a great way to explore your community on a budget.

Living a Healthy Lifestyle – Beat the Heat & Stay Healthy

Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy everything Durham Region has to offer, from parks and trails to beaches and community events. While staying active outdoors is good for your physical and mental well-being, it's important to protect yourself from the summer heat.

Hot weather and strong UV rays can increase your risk of dehydration, sunburn, and heat-related illnesses. Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle, drink water regularly throughout the day, and wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when spending time outdoors. Seeking shade and wearing a hat and sunglasses can also help protect you from harmful UV rays.
A few simple habits can help you stay healthy all summer long, so you can enjoy the season safely while making the most of your time in Durham Region.

📍 Local Tip: Planning to spend the day at Lakeview Park, Lynde Shores, or another local park? Check the UV Index before you head out, bring a refillable water bottle, and take breaks in the shade during the hottest part of the day. Durham Region recommends limiting sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
https://www.durham.ca/health-and-wellness/environment-and-your-health/sun-safety-and-tanning
https://www.durham.ca/health-and-wellness/healthy-living

Canada's Wonderland Student Trip 2026!

Ready for a day of thrills, roller coasters, and unforgettable memories? Join Us for a Trip to Canada's Wonderland!

Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
Cost: Only $20 per person

Your $20 Includes:
Admission ticket to Canada's Wonderland and One-way bus transportation to the park

Important Information:

Students are responsible for arranging and paying for their own transportation home from the park.
Space is limited and registration is required.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of Canada's top amusement parks at an amazing price!

Whether you're looking for adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, exciting attractions, or a fun day with friends, Canada's Wonderland has something for everyone.
Reserve your spot today and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure!

Register here

One-on-One In-Person Meeting

We welcome international students to meet with us in person to discuss any questions or concerns. Our team is available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Our office is located on the second floor of the Student Services Building at the Oshawa campus. When you arrive, please take a ticket from the kiosk by entering your student number and selecting “International.”

At the Whitby campus, an International Student Advisor is available every Wednesday, sitting together with the Enrolment Services team. Please also start with the kiosk for a ticket.