Travelling to UNB

Best Time to Arrive at UNB

If you don't already have permanent accommodations arranged, it is recommended that you arrive at least two weeks before the start of classes. This will also enable you to find accommodations before orientation activities begin, and to become adjusted to your surroundings before classes start.

University offices are closed Saturdays, Sundays and on public holidays. Students arriving for the September sessions should be aware that the University is closed on Labour Day (the first Monday in September). Students arriving for the January session should be aware that the University is closed on Christmas Eve (December 24), Christmas Day (December 25), Boxing Day (December 26), New Year's Eve (December 31), and New Year's Day (January 1).

Coming to UNB

You cannot get to Fredericton or Saint John directly from an international flight. Your first arrival in Canada will most likely be either Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal or Halifax. You will have to get a connecting flight to Fredericton or Saint John. The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) has an international student reception service in the Vancouver, Toronto and Halifax airports. The reception desk operates from mid-August to mid-September and is usually located in the immigration area. This service assists students in making connections for flights to other Canadian cities. Make sure before you leave home to purchase your ticket directly to Fredericton or Saint John. If you wait until you arrive in Canada you will pay a high rate to fly the same day you purchase the ticket.

There is also train and bus service to New Brunswick. The train arrives in Moncton (2 hours from Fredericton - 1 hour 30 minutes from Saint John) and there is a bus service to Fredericton and Saint John. The train or bus may be an option if you land in Toronto, Montreal or Halifax. However, the distance from Vancouver would require close to a week travelling by bus or train.

When making travel plans to come to UNB Saint John, make sure your final destination is Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada and not St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada. This is a very common mistake made by travel agents and airlines. Double check your tickets to make sure you will arrive in the correct city.

Arriving at UNB

UNB provides a reception service for new international students. When you have finalized your travel plans and would like to be met at the airport or bus station, fill out the following arrival information form for Fredericton or Saint John.

Temporary Accommodations

If you arrive before classes start you may be able to stay in residence on campus if there is space available. The cost is $18 per night or $85 per week. There are also hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts near both University campuses.