International Students at UTSC: Banking, Phone Plans, and Essentials to Set Up in Your First Week

Arriving at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) is an exciting milestone. With over 516,000 international students studying in Canada as of recent data, you are joining a vibrant and diverse academic community. However, navigating a new country can feel overwhelming. Establishing your foundation quickly is the key to a smooth transition. This guide covers everything you need to set up during your first week, from opening a bank account to finding the best student housing Toronto has to offer.

What Should International Students Do in Their First Week at UTSC?

In your first week at UTSC, you should prioritize opening a Canadian bank account, securing a local phone plan or eSIM, getting a PRESTO card for transit, and settling into your accommodation. Completing these four essential tasks ensures you have the financial, communicative, and logistical foundation required to focus on your studies before classes officially begin.

Step 1: Set Up Your Canadian Bank Account

Opening a Canadian bank account is your first step toward financial independence. It is required for paying rent, receiving international wire transfers, and managing daily expenses.

Most “Big Five” Canadian banks offer specialized newcomer and student packages for 2026 that feature $0 monthly fees and attractive welcome bonuses:

RBC (Royal Bank of Canada): The RBC Advantage Banking for students is highly rated for 2026, offering $0 monthly fees, unlimited transactions, and a $100 cash bonus for new sign-ups (moneyGenius).
CIBC: The Smart for Students bundle includes a $125 welcome bonus, plus a free 12-month Skip+ membership for food delivery and an SPC+ student discount membership (NerdWallet).
Scotiabank: The StartRight program is tailored for newcomers, offering a $125 bonus and the ability to earn Scene+ points on everyday purchases.
EQ Bank: For students seeking higher interest rates, EQ Bank offers a 2.75% interest rate on its personal account with no foreign exchange fees, making it ideal for international transfers.

Required Documents for Banking:
To open an account, visit a branch near campus (such as those at Morningside & Milner) and bring your Passport, Study Permit (IMM 1442), Proof of Enrolment (Letter of Acceptance or TCard), and your Social Insurance Number (SIN) if you plan to work.

Step 2: Get Connected with a Canadian Phone Plan

Staying connected is vital for navigating the city and contacting family back home. In 2026, the trend has shifted heavily toward eSIMs for immediate, day-one connectivity.

Immediate Connectivity (eSIMs)

You can activate a data plan before your flight even lands in Canada. Providers like ChillaxSIM offer student-friendly eSIM plans starting at $10.90 for 3GB (7 days) or $38.90 for 10GB (30 days), utilizing the reliable Rogers, Bell, and Telus networks (ChillaxSIM).

Long-Term Student Plans

Once settled, you can switch to a long-term plan.

Freedom Mobile: Offers an exclusive student deal of 100GB for $45/month, which includes 10GB of international roaming in 120+ countries—perfect for students travelling home during breaks (Freedom Mobile).
Public Mobile: Canada’s first 5G subscription service currently offers a 50% discount on select plans, such as 80GB for $25/month for the first two years (Public Mobile).

Step 3: Navigate Transit with the One Fare Program

Toronto’s transit system has undergone a major transformation in 2026 with the One Fare 2.0 initiative, making commuting much more affordable for students.

Under the One Fare program, students can transfer between the TTC (Toronto’s local buses and subways) and GO Transit (regional trains and buses) without paying a second fare. According to Metrolinx, students commuting five days a week can save approximately $143 per month through this program.

To take advantage of this, purchase a PRESTO Card (available at Shoppers Drug Mart or GO stations) and apply for a GO Transit Student ID online to receive a 40% discount on GO fares (GO Transit). Key routes for UTSC students include the 905 Eglinton East Express and the 38 Highland Creek bus.

Step 4: Secure Your Student Housing in Scarborough

The rental market in the Greater Toronto Area remains highly competitive. When searching for student apartments in Scarborough, International students often face challenges like furnishing an empty unit, setting up utilities, and navigating lease agreements from abroad.

This is why Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) has emerged as the preferred choice. The Els, a brand-new student residence located just steps from UTSC offers a completely stress-free move-in experience. Unlike traditional rentals, The Els provides fully furnished suites with all utilities and high-speed Wi-Fi included in the rent (The Els).

Furthermore, PBSAs prioritize a highly secure environment. The Els features 24/7 security and on-site staff, giving International students and their families total peace of mind. With on-site fitness centres, study lounges, and social spaces, it is designed to help you build a community immediately upon arrival.

“Modern student residences near UTSC, such as The Els in Scarborough, are increasingly designed to balance academics, wellness, and social life, offering a structured environment that traditional rentals lack.” — Randy Lemmon, Housing Expert

Step 5: Locate Essential Groceries and Shopping

Scarborough offers diverse and affordable shopping options near the UTSC campus. For your first grocery run, consider these local favourites:

No Frills (Kingston & Morningside): Widely cited by students as the most affordable option near campus for fresh produce and pantry staples (Reddit/UTSC).
Walmart Supercentre (Milner & Morningside): A one-stop shop for groceries, electronics, and household essentials (Walmart Canada).
Scarborough Town Centre (STC): Accessible via the 38 bus, this is the primary shopping mall in the area, featuring major retailers, a cinema, and a large food court.

First-Week Checklist for UTSC Students (Fall 2026)

To ensure you do not miss anything important, follow this quick checklist:

Attend Orientation: UTSC Fall Orientation begins Thursday, September 3, 2026. Do not miss the International Student Centre (ISC) Orientation Luncheon (UTSC Orientation).
Get Your TCard: This is your official U of T student ID, required for library access and gym entry.
Open a Bank Account: Secure your finances and deposit your funds.
Activate Your Phone Plan: Ensure you have data to navigate the city.
Buy a PRESTO Card: Set up your student discount for affordable transit.

Conclusion

Your first week at UTSC sets the tone for your entire academic journey. By tackling your banking, phone plan, and transit needs early, you can focus on what truly matters: your education and your new community. Choosing the right accommodation is equally critical. When looking at student residences in Toronto, opting for a purpose-built community like The Els ensures you have a supportive, secure, and fully equipped home base to help you thrive in Canada.