May marks the beginning of a new semester in Ontario, offering international students a fresh start and new opportunities. As the weather becomes warmer, campuses feel more vibrant and welcoming, making it a great time to settle into new classes and routines. Students should also be aware of Victoria Day, a provincial holiday later in the month, which may affect class schedules, campus services, and business hours. And while spring brings sunshine and blooming trees, it also signals the return of mosquitoes—so don’t forget to enjoy the outdoors and pack some bug spray with your sunscreen!
May is a great time to review your timetable and make sure your study permit and other important documents are up to date as you begin the term.
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International Student Welcome - Chai Time Meet and Greet (In Person)
May 1, 2026
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
The International Student Orientation, offered in person, is open to all new international students starting their DC program in May 2026. With a variety of fun-filled activities, this session promises to be an unforgettable celebration of community and Canadian culture, welcoming you to your new home at DC. Registration in advance for this in-person session is mandatory.
You may register here.
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Arrive in Canada - Student Support Fair (In Person)
May 8, 2026
10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Just arrived in Canada or getting ready for a new semester? Come by the Student Support Fair and discover the many services designed to support you throughout your journey at DC!
Meet friendly staff, explore on‑campus and community resources, and learn how to make the most of the supports available to international students. Whether you’re brand new or returning, this is a great opportunity to ask questions, make connections, and start (or continue) your semester feeling informed and supported.
All new and returning international students are welcome. Drop in and say hello!
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Monthly Immigration Workshop - Changes to the Coop Work Permit (Virtual)
May 22, 2026
10:30 a.m.
On April 1, IRCC eliminated the need for a Coop Work Permit for most students. Come to the workshop to see what the changes are and if you need a Coop Work Permit or if you need to change the conditions on your Study Permit.
You can register here.
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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 Summer 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 May and August — 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?
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Mentors gain valuable experience and the joy of helping others.
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Mentees get insider tips and answers from someone who’s been there, done that.
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Everyone gets to attend two fun mingling events with refreshments, prizes (chance to win 1 of 3 $20 Tim Hortons gift cards), and great vibes!
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Mentors who meet with their mentees 3+ times will receive a completion certificate, and a free Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment (a $30 value!) courtesy of our Career Development office.
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! |
Housing Pulse - Housing Meets Work
When searching for any part- time work, use Google Maps to check the best commute and the last available commute from your address. If you live near a transit or cycling route, you can save hundreds of dollars each month by choosing the right commute option. Smart planning means less time commuting and more time earning or studying. Please find the upcoming changes to summer 2026 for your Housing & Transportation needs.
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Durham Region Transit schedule updates: Please re-check your commute times with updated summer schedule here
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Hydro/Electricity Time of Use rates changes: Please look at the change in rates for Time of Use during Summer 2026 BEFORE you see a high utility bill. If you are living in Durham Region you will need to look at Elexicon and Oshawa Power websites.
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Living a Healthy Lifestyle - Take Time to Recharge This May
May marks a natural pause for many students, a time to rest, reset, and reflect after a busy academic year. As the days grow longer and warmer, consider using this month to recharge in ways that work for you. Spend time outdoors, reconnect with friends, or enjoy simple routines that support your well being. If you’re working, studying, or staying local, remember to balance your responsibilities with moments of rest. Taking care of your physical and mental health now can help you return feeling refreshed, grounded, and ready for what’s next. Read on to see what’s taking place in the Durham Region this month that might help you recharge.
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RBC Ride for the 'Ridge
May 24, 2026
7:00 am - 2:00 pm
Location: Ajax Downs - 50 Alexander's Crossing, Ajax, ON L1Z 2E6
In partnership with the four Foundations of Lakeridge Health, the RBC Ride for the ‘Ridge is Durham Region’s premier cycling event bringing together passionate cyclists, community leaders, and health care supporters, all riding to make a difference for the hospitals of Lakeridge Health. When cyclists become 'Ridge Riders, they join an exclusive group of passionate individuals with a mission to advance health care close to home.
Pingle’s Tulip Days
May 9, 2026
9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Pingle's Farm Market, 1805 Taunton Road, Hampton, Clarington
Join us for a vibrant celebration of Spring at the largest tulip festival in the Greater Toronto Area, featuring over 500,000 stunning blooms, pick-your-own flower bouquets, photo prop stops, live music, farm-to-fork food and drink, wagon rides, and more!
Doors Open Oshawa
May 2, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Various sites throughout Oshawa
Experience Doors Open Oshawa, an annual event held on the first Saturday in May. This event provides an opportunity to explore Oshawa's diverse heritage and cultural sites. Spend the day discovering local history, unique Oshawa buildings and spaces while celebrating the community's heritage.
Doors Open Ontario is a province-wide celebration that provides a unique opportunity to explore and enjoy sometimes hidden and always interesting places and spaces in cities across Ontario, free of charge from May to October. |
In-Person Support at Whitby Campus on Wednesdays
Every Wednesday, a member of the International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE) team is on campus at Whitby!
Drop by the front line any time between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. We’re sitting right beside our Enrolment Services colleagues and are always happy to help.
When you arrive, just remember to grab a ticket from the kiosk so we can make sure everyone is served in order.
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Meet Your International Educational Team
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FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO FIND OUT MORE!
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