Student Safety and Support Services in Canada

Knowing your emergency contacts

Before anything else, save the numbers you would need in an emergency so they are ready when it matters. In Canada, 911 is the number to call for police, fire, or medical emergencies. Campuses also run their own security service you can reach for on-campus help.

• 911 — police, fire, and medical emergencies anywhere in Canada
• Your campus security or safety line (often available 24/7)
• Your institution's international-student office for non-emergency support
• A trusted friend or family contact who knows your address

Campus safety services

Most Canadian institutions invest in keeping students safe and offer practical services you can use day to day. Familiarise yourself with what your campus provides during orientation.

• Campus security teams and emergency call points around campus
• Safe-walk or accompaniment programs for getting across campus at night
• Emergency alert systems that notify students of incidents
• Lost-and-found, building access, and incident-reporting support
• Safety information sessions for new and international students

Health and wellness support

Looking after your physical and mental health is part of doing well academically. Canadian institutions commonly provide health and wellness services, and using them early is a sign of good self-care, not weakness.

This page signposts where to find help — it is not medical or clinical advice. If you have a health concern, speak with a qualified professional or your campus health service.

• Campus health clinics or partnered medical services
• Counselling and mental-health support services
• Information on your provincial or institution-arranged health coverage and what it includes
• Peer-support groups and wellness workshops

Mental-health and crisis support

Moving to a new country is a big adjustment, and it is normal to feel stressed, homesick, or overwhelmed at times. Reaching out for support early helps. Your campus counselling service is a good first point of contact for non-urgent concerns.

For urgent help, Canada has a national suicide-crisis helpline reachable by calling or texting 9-8-8, available across the country. In any immediate, life-threatening emergency, call 911.

• 9-8-8 — Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text), available across Canada
• Campus counselling and wellness services for ongoing support
• 911 for any immediate, life-threatening emergency

Everyday safety habits

Canada is generally regarded as a safe place to study, and common-sense habits help you stay that way. The goal is simple awareness, not anxiety.

• Keep your important documents and copies secure
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night, and use safe-walk programs
• Protect yourself from scams — verify any request for money or personal information through official channels
• Keep emergency contacts saved and share your address with someone you trust
• Learn the safe, reliable transit options for your routes