Moving to a new country to begin a new life experience, university, or college, is an exciting time. You want to be well prepared ahead of time to ensure you can enjoy every step of the way.

"We recommend that students create a budget check list in order to get a better understanding of how much it costs to complete higher education in Canada," advises Camon Mark, director, Multicultural Markets, Royal Bank of Canada. "A budget is one of the most effective ways to alleviate financial stress upon arrival."

Mak offers the following pre-arrival tips and suggestions:

• Order Canadian dollars -- prior to arrival, ensure you have enough Canadian cash to cover any unexpected out--of--pocket costs.
• Check how much money you will be bringing -- all forms of Canadian currency must be reported to Canada Border Services Agency when you enter Canada.
• Photocopy all important documents -- for precautionary measures, make copies of your original documents, in case they are misplaced.
• Pre--order a six--month supply of medications -- the cost for medications is often higher in Canada for students.
• Ensure adequate medical insurance coverage -- medical insurance is often a requirement at university or college and can be obtained through private insurance coverage. Even if your college or university extends coverage to you under its insurance plan, you may not be covered until the first day of school.

For further information, RBC has resources and tools at http://www.betterstudentlife.ca/ to offer you tips on studying, living and banking as a student in Canada.

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