With its breathtaking coastlines, welcoming communities, and highly respected universities, Nova Scotia has emerged as a leading choice for international students. If you’re preparing to begin your academic journey here, you’ve made an excellent decision.
However, moving to a new country comes with its own set of challenges. Planning ahead can make all the difference. This guide is designed to help you navigate every step of your transition—from arriving in Nova Scotia to settling into student life with confidence.
✈️ 1. Preparing for Your Arrival
Before you even board your flight, make sure you’ve completed the following:
Essential Documents: Keep your passport, study permit approval letter, health insurance documents, and vaccination proof easily accessible.
Packing Tip: Nova Scotia weather changes quickly. Pack layered clothing for winter and don’t forget to carry an umbrella since it rains very often during fall. For people visiting in summer, it is a great time to visit since summertime is a great time to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and beauty of Canada.
2. Finding Affordable Accommodation in Nova Scotia (Halifax)
As a student, you’ll generally have three housing options:
a) On-Campus Residences
• Ideal for first-year students
• Close to classes and student services
• Utilities usually included
b) Off-Campus Rentals
• Apartments, shared homes, or private rentals
c) Airbnb or Homestays
If you’re coming to Nova Scotia at the busiest time of the year, it is sometimes hard to find accommodation if you have not pre-planned. I recommend booking an Airbnb. Not all, but some of the options will be affordable, which is good for a couple of days.
https://www.airbnb.ca/a/stays/Nova-Scotia–Canada
1-night rental – Average $80–$100
However, this should be the last option if you are coming as an international student since you have a lot of other initial expenses to make. However, it can be the best option if you are travelling on a budget.
3. Getting Around: Transportation in Nova Scotia
Most students live in Halifax (the major city in Nova Scotia) or Sydney (a small town), where public transport is available.
• Halifax: Halifax Transit offers reliable bus and ferry services. If you are a full-time university student, you will get a free bus pass from your university or college, so you do not have to pay anything. Also, for visitors, they can buy a single-day pass or multi-day pass by downloading the Halifax Go app to make their travel easier.
• Uber & Taxis: Uber operates in Halifax and other Nova Scotia regions, but it is still going to be a costlier choice than local transport.
💰 5. Gathering Your Documentation
The next thing you need to do after arriving is to apply for your SIN number, which makes you eligible to work with an employer for part-time work.
• Apply for a SIN (Social Insurance Number): Visit your local Service Canada office
• Accessing your GIC bank account (e.g., Scotiabank, RBC, TD): Visit the bank—you might need a driver’s license (don’t forget to bring your driver’s license copy or abstract copy from your home country), or you will have to make a Nova Scotia ID by visiting your local Access Nova Scotia office.
Typical Monthly Expenses (Halifax area):
| Expense | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared) | $600–$900 |
| Groceries | $250–$350 |
| Transport | $80 |
| Phone & Internet | $70–$100 |
| Misc. Expenses | $100–$200 |
Take advantage of student discounts—many places offer reduced prices for students.
6. Academic Life in Nova Scotia
Attend orientation week to learn about resources, academic advising, and clubs.
Join campus events to network and make friends.
📚 If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to international student advisors—they’re there to support you.
8. Working as a Part-Time Student in Nova Scotia
You can work up to 24 hours/week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (as per IRCC rules). As a student, you can start applying for jobs on the following job portals:
Check job boards like:
• Indeed Canada
• Job Bank
• LinkedIn
Popular part-time student jobs:
• Customer service (retail, restaurants)
• On-campus jobs
• Delivery or rideshare (Uber, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes)
Don’t forget: You need a valid study permit with work conditions and a SIN number to work legally.
Moving to a new country comes with its own set of challenges. Planning ahead can make all the difference. Finally, Nova Scotians are some of the most helpful and kind people—it is one of the top choices among people who are looking forward to settling here in the long run.