VIU International Student Handbook 2016-2017

This Book Belongs to:

Future VIU Grad!

Contents Pages 4-7

Topics Getting Settled Housing Options Off-Campus Housing

8 - 15

Getting Connected Connection at your Fingertip Cultural Adjustment & Culture Shock WorldVIU Activities & Events VIU Campus & Outdoor Recreation Student Life Adjustment Tips

16 - 23

Staying Safe & Healthy Safety@VIU App Top 10 Safety Tips Medical Insurance Staying Healthy

2

24 - 29

Study, Work & Travel Working & Volunteering Study Permits & Visas Work Permits

30 - 39

Student Success Library Resources VIU Basics VIU Advising Services Resources on Campus Student ID

40 - 47

Around Town WorldVIU Community Top 5 Under $5 Culture & Religion Living in Canada Grocery Shopping Important Contact Information

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4

Getting Settled

Nanaimo is a diverse community with many different types of housing options. It is important to find an option that works best for you, so that you can feel settled and comfortable before starting your studies.

Options VIU On-Campus Residence

Off-Campus Housing

VIU Homestay

VIU Peerstay

Features    

Convenient location Social atmosphere Access to ResLife events Reminder: First Year Guarantee applies

Rent & Info Ranges from: $3,100- $5,500 for 2 semesters + application fee & refundable damage deposit residences.viu.ca

 Choice of living independently or with a roommate  Choice of location & price  Review rental listings through  Reminder: Know your rights before signing agreements and making payments.

Ranges from:

 Experience the local culture by living with a Canadian family  Share meals & some chores  Reminder: Apply 6 weeks before your arrival to Canada

$780* per month (*increases to $850 in January 2016) + placement fee & refundable damage deposit

 Experience the local culture by living with a Canadian family  Purchase & prepare your own meals  Share some chores  Best for mature students  Cooking experience is required

$450* per month (*increases to $500 in January 2017)+ placement fee & refundable damage deposit

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$700 - $1200 per month + refundable damage deposit & utilities Check out Places4Students for listings residences.viu.ca/content/ campus-housing

viu.ca/homestay

viu.ca/homestay

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Off-Campus Housing

Know Your Rights & Responsibilities As a tenant, you will have many rights and responsibilities in British Columbia. It is important that you know what they are and the responsibilities you have before making an agreement with a potential landlord.

“LANDLORD” Owns or Manages the house or apartment

“TENANT” Rents & Lives in the house or apartment

The BC Residential Agreement Act is a provincial government law that defines the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, in order to protect both parties.

Review Quick Tips for Landlords & Tenants: www.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies The Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre also has legal information for BC Tenants and useful resources.

Use the roommate question check list, references worksheet & tenancy agreement checklist: www.rentingitright.ca/content/resources

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Some questions to ask a potential landlord:  What is included in the rent (heat/water/internet/electricity)?  What furniture or appliances are included (fridge/stove/bed/washer)?  Where is the closest bus stop or is there free parking?  Can I rent “month-to-month” rather than signing a lease?

Many landlords will require a one year lease [minimum term]. Lease terms might be negotiable. If you break a lease, you could lose your deposit.

Some responsibilities of the tenant: Deposit:

Pay a refundable security / damage deposit (usually half a month’s rent).

Paying Rent:

Pay rent before the first day of the month.

Moving:

Give notice in writing one month BEFORE moving (ie. before July 1st, in order to move out on August 1st).

Insurance:

Buy ‘tenant’ or ‘content’ insurance.

Additional tips: Take pictures before you move in, so you have proof of any previous damages.

Read agreements carefully before signing and make sure you understand what your responsibilities are. Canada is a writing-based culture, and you can be held responsible (legally and financially) for any document that you sign.

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Getting Connected Getting Connected

Connection at your Fingertips

The VIUSU app provides four new ways to stay connected with your campus, by allowing you to: Access all campus information on the go Keep your classes, assignments and events organized

Connect with your peers Chat with friends and see their timetable

To download the app and find out more visit: viu.campusapp.com

VIU Join One: u.viu.ca Students participating in at least 1 extracurricular activity enjoy a more fulfilling university experience. We’ve created this site as a place to learn about all of the opportunities for students to get connected, in one place.

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Cultural Adjustment & Culture Shock

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 Influence how you interact with other cultures  Help you better understand your own cultural values  Feel more confident in yourself  Inspire greater maturity

Infographic adapted from: Work The World “Why Culture Shock is good for You” worktheworld.com/infographics/why-culture-shock-is-good-for-you

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WorldVIU Activities & Events Cultural Connections Activities & Day Trips Weekly (mostly Saturdays), Ongoing all year Join our Cultural Connections Activities & Day Trips and discover Vancouver Island's vibrant communities, local cultural events and attractions.

For more information about Cultural Connections activities, including what’s happening and where to sign up visit: international.viu.ca/cc

World VIU Days First week of November, Annually The purpose of the week is to raise awareness and build appreciation for the cultural diversity that we have on our campuses. It is an opportunity to celebrate culture and to recognize the richness that diverse perspectives bring to our campus and community. Keep your eyes open for upcoming information and ways to get involved!

Find out more: international.viu.ca/worldviu-days

Cultural Couch Series Tuesday 5pm - 6pm (September-April) The Cultural Couch Series is a student-led weekly event. Each week is different, often consisting of sampling traditional foods, sharing music, and engaging in conversation. Check here to find this month’s schedule and to get involved as a Global Ambassador to share your culture: international.viu.ca/cultural-couch

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VIU Campus & Outdoor Recreation Building 190 (Gym) Sign up in the Building 190 (Gym) or online at: viu.ca/campusrec Complete the gym waiver and check-in with your student card to use gym facilities.

VIU Campus Recreation, Building 190 (Gym) 

Yoga, pilates & tai chi classes



Belly dance, hip hop, latin & zumba dance classes



Spin, core, kickboxing & circuit training classes



Intramural & drop-in volleyball, basketball, soccer & more

VIU Outdoor Recreation, Building 190 (Gym) 

Kayaking, skiing, caving, rock climbing, river rafting and more!

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Student Life VIU Student Pub Head to the Students’ Union Pub to meet up with friends for lunch, dinner, drinks, or to play a friendly game of billiards. From September to April, visit on Thursdays for Open Mic Night, where your fellow students showcase their talents on stage.

Remember the legal drinking age in BC is 19!

Join Student Clubs Students who join at least one club often have a better university experience.

Visit www.viusu.ca and www.facebook.com/VIUSU/ for updates about clubs or visit the Students’ Union in Building 193.

VIU Mariners - Cheer on your Team!

Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Golf and Badminton Watch our award-winning basketball and volleyball teams play on Fridays and Saturdays in the VIU gym throughout the year. The atmosphere in the gym is full of loud, enthusiastic and passionate fans called the VIU Nation. All home games are FREE to attend for VIU students! You can find the schedule online at www.gomariners.ca

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Adjustment Tips

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Staying Safe & Healthy

Safety @VIU Safety@VIU is a free application to allow quick and easy access to Campus Security and many useful resources such as a campus map.

Safety @VIU is available on the Apple and Android App stores.

Campus is also equipped with blue Assistance Phones, to provide help the event of an emergency.

To use the Assistance Phone simply push the help button and you will be assisted shortly. Examples of some reasons to use the phones: Personal Security:

 Request a "Safe Walk" (ie. when on campus at night)  Assistance accessing buildings and offices Emergencies:

      

Medical / First-aid / Fire Vehicle / Building break-in Report a suspicious activity or person Theft / Vandalism Natural gas or propane leaks / smells Anything that causes you concern Any other event of an urgent nature

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Top 10 Safety Tips

Call 911 If you need emergency assistance ANYTIME. Call 911 for Police, Fire, or Ambulance services.

Drinking & Driving It is a criminal offence to dink alcohol and drive in Canada. If you are caught, you may face criminal charges, jail, fines, and expulsion form Canada.

Be Street Smart When you are out, know where you are going, tell someone your schedule and always walk with another person.

Love & Dating Take it slow and always keep yourself safe by using condoms - they’re available for free at the Student Union in Building 193!

Party, Party, Party Don’t accept a drink from someone you don’t know, or if you didn’t see it being poured. Hold your drink at all times!

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Campus Safewalk: Don’t walk alone at night. A security guard will escort you anywhere on campus, anytime of day or night! Call 250-740-6600. First aid: Call 250-7406600 for emergencies or go to the Gym (Building 190) or Parking & Security Office (Building 315) for minor treatments.

Drinking Laws Driving laws are different around the world. Before you drive in Canada, read the “Tuning up for Drivers” Guide: icbc.com/driver-licensing/driving-guides/Pages/ default.aspx

Personal Information Protect your bank and credit card numbers, PIN numbers, driver’s license, social insurance number and all personal information.

Bus Safety To stop the bus, pull the string to ring the bell. At night, sit near the front of the bus and use the “request stop” service at night. The driver will stop closer to your home.

Protect Your Belongings Hold onto your phone, camera, bag, or laptop when in a public area.

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Medical Insurance VIU requires all international students to maintain adequate medical insurance while enrolled in studies.

Temporary Basic Coverage - Your first 4 Months The Faculty of International Education has signed you up for your first four months of Basic Medical Coverage through Allianz Global Assistance - Island Savings Insurance.

What you need to do: Print your wallet card from the e-mail sent to you by Allianz Global Assistance - Island Savings Insurance and keep it in your wallet. If you did not receive an email, check your junk folder, then contact: cedarinsurance@islandsaving.ca What it covers: Visits to the doctor, clinic, or hospital. You will need to pay for your visit, then submit a ‘claim form.’ See international.viu.ca/medical-insurance for the full coverage details.

Baisic Coverage - Eligible After 3 Months If you will study more than 1 semester and have a valid study permit, you must apply for BC MSP (public health care).

How to apply: Deliver your completed MSP Application Form to Service Canada (460 Selby Street) 4 weeks before your insurance expires.

 Bring your study permit, passport & TIC-IS Ins insurance policy & address.  Request for your MSP to start when your private insurance (TIC-IS Ins) expires.

Ask for a dated photocopy of your application and keep this with you until your card arrives. You will be mailed your card and a monthly bill ($75.00 per month for one person).

What it covers: Visits to the doctor, clinic or hospital. You will not have to submit a claim form as it is automatic. See www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/ health-drug-coverage/msp for full coverage details.

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Extended Coverage - Undergraduate & Graduate Students Green Shield Extended Health and Dental Plan (VIUSU) The plan is mandatory for all full-time academic & most vocational students. The cost is $275 for one year and is automatically added to your student record. Your coverage includes varying amounts for:



Basic Dental Care



Physiotherapy



Massage Therapy



Prescription Medication



Chiropractic Care



Naturopathic Care



Vision Care and many more medical items and services

For more information on the plan, and for specific coverage details, visit: student.greenshield.ca.

Opting Out: Students with comparable extended coverage can apply to opt-out of the Green Shield Extended Health and Dental Plan. Check your emails and student record for information on how to opt-out and the opt-out deadline. Questions? Contact: healthanddental@viusu.ca.

Note to English Language Centre (ELC) Students: ELC students are not eligible for the VIUSU Extended Health and Dental plan. However, ELC students can choose to buy extended medical through Allianz or another private insurance provider.

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Staying Healthy Feeling Sick or Hurt?

Visit the VIU HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTRE in Building 200: You will be assessed by a Nurse Practitioner. Drop-ins are welcome anytime between 9 AM and 3:30 PM. Phone 250-740-6620 to make an appointment. See their website for more details: viu.ca/health See a DOCTOR (walk-in clinic) if you have symptoms like: Flu, cough, sore throat, upset stomach or if you are in mild pain. If it is severe, the doctor will send you to the hospital.

Go to the HOSPITAL for emergencies, like: Broken bones, serious accidents, or life threatening illness.

Nanaimo Regional Hospital, 1200 Dufferin Crescent Phone 250-755-7691 or 911 in emergencies

What to bring to the clinic or hospital?  Proof of Medical Insurance (Alliaz Policy # or BC Medical Card)  Passport or BC ID & Study Permit  VIU Student ID Reminder: All international students must have medical insurance.

Carry a copy of your insurance policy.

Walk-In Clinics For a full list of walk-in clinics in your area, visit: international.viu.ca/medical-insurance-information Caledonia Clinic 340 Campbell Street, Nanaimo Tel: (250) 753-320 Monday-Friday: Daytime and Evening Walk-In Hours Saturday - Sunday: Daytime Walk-In Hours (Statutory Holidays: Open Mornings)

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You are responsible for communicating with your instructors, especially if you will be missing a class. For example, you may choose to email them something like:

To:

Save

Subject: Name, Student Number - Missing class, Date

Send

To Professors Name “I will not be attending class today because I am sick with the flu.

I will ask my friend what I missed in class today so that I do not fall behind in my studies.

Thank you.” - Name, Student Number

If you miss more than one class or you are sick on the day of a test, your instructor might ask you for a note from your doctor.

If you are sick and unsure what to do: DIAL 811 to talk to a nurse for free, through Healthlink BC.  24 hours a day, 7 days a week  Translators available

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Study, Work & Travel

Working & Volunteering Job Searching The VIU Campus Career Centre is a free service for all VIU students.

Search their website for job opportunities on and off-campus, or make an appointment for help with your job search, resume writing and interviews skill development.

For more information: Phone: 250-740-6420 Email: career@viu.ca Visit Building 310, Room 109 or career.viu.ca WorkBC is also a great resource to search for job opportunities all over the province of British Columbia. Visit www.workbc.ca for more information.

Volunteering Volunteering is an excellent way to gain Canadian work experience while getting involved in the community. Search online listings for volunteer opportunities through local community non-profit organizations, such as Volunteer Nanaimo, the Immigrant Welcome Centre and the Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association (DNBIA).

WorldVIU has resources online for planning your volunteering goals: international.viu.ca/volunteering-and-community-engagement

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Study Permits & Visas All students studying in Canada for longer than 6 months must have a valid study permit. It is the student’s responsibility to keep it valid.

Study Permit Tips:       

Renew your study permit three months before it expires.

Submit a copy of your new study permit to the main reception desk in Building 255.

Ensure you are enrolled as full-time student (9 or more credits) and achieve a “reasonable progress.”

Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) if you change institutions, even if it is in the same study level.

IRCC recommends that you stay in Canada while your study permit is being processed.

Make sure your passport, study permit & temporary resident visa (if applicable) are still valid before you travel outside Canada.

Reminder: Your study permit will be invalid after 90 days of program completion.

Study Permit & Visa Support: 1) Visit the main reception desk of Building 255 for helpful resources like brochures, manuals and CDs. 2) Visit the Immigration Drop-in Sessions, offered every week in Building 255.

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Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) 

If you are planning to leave Canada, and come back, make sure you have a valid Multiple Entry Visa.



Usually, the TRV expiry date will be the same as the expiry on your study permit.



REMEMBER: If you want to renew your TRV, your study permit must be valid.

Put a pop-up reminder in your phone three months prior to the expiry dates of your study permit and visa and please ask your parent to do the same.

VIU is a designated institution by the Ministry of Education and Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

VIU’s Designation Number is: 019395299688 Information provided in this guide reflects the rules and regulations for international students as set out by the IRCC. For further details visit: www.cic.gc.ca

What to do if you loose your passport?

1)

Contact the nearest Police Office and report the lost items.

Obtain an Incident Report number.

2)

Contact your country’s Consulate or Embassy and apply for the renewal of your passport.

3)

As soon as you receive your new passport apply for the replacement of your Study Permit.

4)

Once you receive your replacement Study Permit apply for a Temporary Resident Visa.

If you need support with steps 2-4 you should make an appointment with an international advisor.

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Working in Canada

Social Insurance Number (SIN) 

You need to apply for a social insurance number (SIN) from Service Canada in order to work in Canada, and you must be in:  Full-time academic studies (9 or more credits), 

A program leading to a certificate, diploma or degree,

 Good academic standing (at least a GPA of 2.0).



You are eligible for a SIN if one of the following conditions or remarks are listed on your study permit: 1) May accept employment on the campus of the institution at which registered in full-time studies 2) May accept employment on or off campus if meeting eligibility criteria as per R186(f), (v) or (w).



You do not need a work permit to work on campus if you have a valid study permit and SIN.

For more information, visit cic.gc.ca/english/study and servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/sc/sin

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Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP) Your study program must be a minimum of 8 months in length to be eligible for a PGWP. 

You can apply for a PGWP as soon as your academic credentials are granted.



A PGWP may be issued for the length of your study program, up to a maximum of 3 years.

For more information: cic.gc.ca/english/study/work-postgrad.asp

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Student Success

There are a host of useful resources and study spots on campus to help you achieve your best during your time at VIU, whether working quietly alone or with a group.

Library Resources Silent Study On the main floor of the library there are two separate areas dedicated to silent study, where you can work on your own with worrying about any distractions.

Reference Librarians Need help with research? There are a number of online and in-person resources to help you find the perfect material for your paper or project.

To find out more and view the drop in timetable visit: library.viu.ca/library/research-assistance Group Study Rooms The perfect place for a group study session, these rooms allow a small group of people to work uninterrupted without worrying about disturbing others. There are 6 group study rooms in the library for 4-8 people each.

Pick up markers and erasers for the white boards from the front desk.

To book a room visit: library.viu.ca

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VIU Basics

Course Load 

At VIU 1 course = 3 credits (some exceptions apply).



A normal “course load” ranges from 3 - 5 courses or 9 - 15 credits, although there are exceptions in some programs.



Course fees increase if an international student increases their course load to more than 5 courses or 15 credits.



Students are encouraged to see an advisor if they have questions in regards to programs or courses, or if they need advice on how to best manage their course load.

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Attendance Attend: Attend the first day of all classes! If there is a serious reason why you cannot attend, email your instructor to advise them that you will be absent but would like to remain in the class. If you do not attend / communicate with the instructor, you may be withdrawn from the course.

Waitlist: Attend class even if you are waitlisted. Introduce yourself to the instructor and notify them that you are on the waitlist.

Hold/Claim Seat: If you are on a waitlist and a seat becomes available, you will need to “claim” the seat the same day by 3pm (in person—in B200 - Registration Centre) or 11pm (online). If you do not claim the seat by the deadline, you will lose your spot and miss your chance to enrol in the course.

Academic Misconduct Academic misconduct is taken very seriously at VIU and could result in failing an assignment, failing an exam or failing the course. In serious instances, students can be expelled from VIU. Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to: 

Cheating



Plagiarism



Fabrication



Facilitation of academic misconduct



Non-Attendance

Review the policies and ask your instructors or advisor if you need clarification on the above terms, or if you have questions: viu.ca/facultyhelp/CodeOfConduct.asp

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International Student Advising & Counseling Services Meet your International Student Advisors:

What can I talk to an International Student Advisor about?  Program and course selection

 Scholarships and awards

 Class scheduling and registration  Study skills  Personal advising and counseling  Referrals to resources

 Educational goals

 Living in Canada

 Medical insurance

How can I make an appointment with an International Student Advisor?

Phone: Email: Website: Drop-in:

250-740-6315 advising.international@viu.ca international.viu.ca/advising B255 Main Reception Monday - Friday, 10:30am-3:00pm

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Where else can I go for Help & Support?

Advising Center, Building 200 In addition to the International Student Advisors, VIU also has a general Advising Centre, which is available for all students.

Phone:

Toll Free at 1-888-920 2221ext.

6410 or 250-740-6410

Email:

advising@viu.ca

Website:

viu.ca/advising/

Location: Building 200 (Top Floor)

Help

Assistance

VIU Degree Advisors, by Faculty Students who are completing the first year of an academic program and are intending to complete a bachelor degree at VIU should speak to a degree advisor.

Visit the website to find the degree advisors for your Faculty or Program area:

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Resources on Campus Writing Centre Building 305 (Library), Room 474 If you need help with your assignments, the Writing Centre offers writing assistance

by VIU faculty tutors. viu.ca/writingcentre VIU International Academic Support

Building 305 (Library) Students in degree, diploma, and certificate can receive help with English language skills: writing, reading, speaking, listening, pronunciation and vocabulary, as well as STEM subjects (Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology) through this service. international.viu.ca/internationalacademic-support Math Centre Building 360, Room 303 The Math Centre offers help to students that have any problems in any of their math classes: viu.ca/mathcentre Student Tech Tutors Building 305 (Library), IT Help Desk If you need help with a course assignment that requires technology (MS Word, PowerPoint, VIULearn), the Student Tech Tutors can help. For more information visit the IT Help Desk.

Tutors If you need more help in your classes, ask your instructor if they can refer you to a paid tutor for help. You can also go to B200 and check the bulletin board by Student Services for posts by private tutors.

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Classroom Top Tips!  Attend: Go to every class! Most teachers give marks for attendance.  Ask Questions: Instructors at VIU encourage students to ask questions in class. Often there are participation marks associated with how much you contribute to the discussion via questions or comments, so raise your hand!  Use Office Hours: If you feel like you need help with an assignment or further explanation about a lecture or topic, visit your instructor during office hours!

Textbooks VIU Campus Store You can purchase all of your textbooks as well as VIU merchandise such as clothing and souvenirs.

Instructors post the textbooks needed at the beginning of the semester on the bookstore website viubookstore.ca

VIUSU Used Book Service You may buy and sell used textbooks at the Student Union, in B190. Make sure that they are the correct edition based on your course outline, or ask your instructor if you may use an older edition.

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Student ID & ISIC Student Card Student ID What do I need?

To get your student card you will need to bring photo identification, such as your passport or driver’s license. You will also need to know your student number.

Where do I go?

You can get your student card from the Library Service Desk (Building 305).

What time should I go?

The photo ID desk works the same hours as the library hours. These hours sometimes change, so go to this website to confirm: viu.ca/library/smartcard/. Make sure to keep you student card with you while you are on campus, and take it to ALL your exams. *You will get your student card during the orientation group tour.*

Intentional Student Identity Card - ISCI To get your ISCI card you will need two pieces of photo identification, and your VIU Student card.

With the free ISCI card you can get student discounts and much more anywhere you are in the world. For more information and to get your ISCI card please visit the Student Union (Building 193).

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What Can I do with my Student Card?

Gym Memberships Use your student card to get free access on the gym and fitness facilities on campus! Head over to the gym (B180) to start working out!

Dining Dollars Use your student card at the upper or lower cafeteria to buy food and drinks. If you put $100 on the card, you get 5% added on ($100 = $105)! Go to the upper cafeteria office (building 300), load money on your student card and save!

Library Account Use your library account to access millions of online articles, ebooks and online videos, and to borrow books, DVDs, CDs and equipment.

Printing & Photocopying Use your student card to print and photocopy documents on the printers all over campus. Go to the library and ask to load money on your print account!

-$

Student Discounts You can use your student card to show student status so you can receive student discounts on bus passes, seaplane tickets and many other student discounts and deals in Nanaimo!

Lockers The Campus Store rents lockers to students throughout the Nanaimo campus. Visit the Bookstore for more information.

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Daily Living

WorldVIU Community A campus group, for students by students facilitated by Peer Helpers.

The WorldVIU Community is here to create an environment for students to come together and build a welcoming, friendly, and caring network of friends.

Look for notices about these fun community events throughout the year!

To find out more about the World VIU Community, visit the Join One Expo and find us online at: international.viu.ca/student-life-and-activities

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Top 5 Under $5

Go on a hike. Nanaimo has many great hiking trails for all levels of hikers. Visit Sugarloaf Mountain and Westwood Lake for easier hikes, then try Ammonite Falls before you tackle Mount Benson! Cost: FREE

Try a Nanaimo Bar. This world famous dessert is the perfect combination of chocolate, custard and coconut flavours. You can try a Nanaimo bar at most coffee shops in downtown Nanaimo or join the Nanaimo Bar Trail Tour! Cost: $3 - $5

Go Bowling. Visit Splitsville Bowling Lanes on Tuesday evenings for a great time of bowling and fun with friends. Price includes one game and a shoe rental. Cost: $2

Explore the Nanaimo Museum. Visit the Nanaimo Museum to learn about the history of Nanaimo and what the community is famous for. Cost: $2 Skating at the NIC. The Nanaimo Ice Centre is located within walking distance from the VIU campus. Skating is a very popular sport in Canada. Dress warm and have fun!

Cost: $5

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Culture & Religion

Connecting with your culture and community are important aspects to your cultural adjustment. There are many cultural and religious communities in Nanaimo to explore: German Cultural Centre 71 Caledonia Avenue

Nanaimo Islamic Centre 905 Hecate Street

Gurdwara Sahib Miri Piri Darbar (Sikh)

Nanaimo Hindu Cultural Society nanaimohinduculturalsociety.com

305 Prideaux Street Hope Lutheran Church 2174 Departure Bay Hungarian Cultural Centre 4840 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo African Heritage Society nanaimoafricanheritagesociety.com Nanaimo Bahá'í nanaimobahais.org

Nanaimo Buddhist Group - Chùa Hài Ân 587-7th Street

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Korean & Vietnamese Alliance Church 1609 Meredith Road St Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church 4016 Victoria Ave St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church 301 Machleary Street St. Andrew’s United Church 311 Firzwilliam Street St. Pauls Anglican Church 29 Church Street

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Living in Canada Mobile Phones: There are two main options for cell phone service:

Pre-paid service This option is best for students who will be in Canada for a short period of time: Pay for a set amount of data, minutes, and texts

 

When out of credit, you can simply add more



You do not sign a contract

Contract service This option is best for students who will be in Canada for a longer period of time: 

You must sign a contract, usually 1 or 2 years



You have a certain amount of data, minutes, and texts every month



You choose a plan that caters to your needs

Calling Cards: You can purchase calling cards from almost any drugstore, gas station or grocery store in Nanaimo. Calling cards allow you to call long distance from any phone for a very low price.

Calling Card 1234 - 0589 - 7895 - 45

$50

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Banking: Students should open a bank account in Canada if their home banking institutions are not compatible overseas. In Canada, most payments are made via debit or credit payments.

How do I open a bank account? 

Browse the internet for branches that are close to your home.



Search bank websites to view the services they offer.



When choosing a bank in Canada, search for additional services for university students.



Call the bank to make an appointment.

What do I need to bring to my bank appointment? 

Home address and local address in Canada.



Two forms of identification (passport, drivers license, etc) & Study Permit.



VIU Acceptance Letter.



SIN number if you have one

Identification: One of the most common pieces of photo ID used in British Columbia is a driver’s license. If you do not have one, you can apply for a BC identification (BCID) card or a BC Services Card.

 Visit the Service BC office at 460 Selby Street, Nanaimo. Bring 2 pieces of ID, including your passport.

 Pay the BCID fee and get your photo taken.

Your new ID card will be mailed to you within 4 to 6 weeks.

More information: welcomebc.ca/Start-Your-Life-in-B-C/First-Few-Days

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Grocery Shopping Finding Comfort Food There are many grocery stores in Nanaimo where you might find some familiar foods. The following are a few grocery stores that specialize in different ethnic foods:

Superstore Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Middle Eastern & Halal Location: 6435 Metral Drive

Man Lee Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai and Indian grocery store. Location: 385 Terminal Ave

Fairway Market Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, South American and more! Location: 4750 Rutherford Road

Alpha African-Caribbean Food Store African and Caribbean cupboard essentials Location: 1601 Bowen Road, Number 20

VIU Grocery Shuttle Departs Mondays & Wednesdays from VIU Residences A free round-trip shuttle is provided on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:25pm to local grocery stores.

Space is limited so sign up in advance at the Cedar Centre office (Building 4).

Check the activity calendar for the Grocery Shuttle schedule: international.viu.ca/calendar-events/viu-grocery-shuttle

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Important Contact Information Emergency: Dial 911 Fire/Police/Ambulance

Campus Security: 250-740-6600 If you are in an emergency on campus, call Campus Security FIRST, they will then contact 911 and report your location.

Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 1-888-494-3888 For support by phone, chat or text, go to www.vicrisis.ca

Non-Emergency Numbers: Police Hospital Fire Rescue Healthlink BC

250-754-2345 250-755-7691 250-753-7311 811

Useful Numbers: AC Taxi Swiftsure Taxi BC Ferries Seair Seaplanes* Harbour Air*

250-753-1231 250-751-1111 1-888-223-3779 1-866-692-6440 1-800-665-0212

*ask for your student discount!

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New Student Checklist  

Safe Place to Live

Talk to an international student advisor as soon as possible if you do not have secure long-term living arrangements.

B255



Passport & Study Permit Submitted

Hand in copies of your passport & study permit for your student file (completed during orientation check-in for most students).

B255 Front Desk



Student ID Card

Bring your passport & student number to the Library desk. Keep your card in your wallet - for discounts and access to services on campus (p. 56).



Discovery Computer Account

Create your account and update your password, Use this account to access for Wi-Fi VIU-Secure



Student Record

Update your password, address, email and contact information. Hint: Keep your information up to date.



Medical Insurance Policy Card

Print your Allianz Medical Insurance Policy Card to keep in your wallet. Hint: If you have not received it, check your junk mail or ask for help at Main Reception in B255.

Your email



Blue/Yellow Emergency Card

Complete 2 cards, with your name & address in Canada and keep them in your wallet & backpack.

B255



Textbooks

Check out what books you need on the Campus Store website and purchase early to skip the lineups (p. 35).

B305 & B193



Student Bus Pass

Get your discounted student bus pass from VIUSU Semester: $176; Month: $55; Book of 10 tickets: $22.50

B193



Campus Parking Pass

Have a car? Get your student parking pass!

Year: #300; 4 Months: $150; 1 Month: $45

B315



VIU Apps

Download the Safety@ VIU and VIUSU Apps!

App Store



Gym & Recreation

Complete your gym waiver form and sign up for gym programs and outdoor rec activities (p. 11).

B190



Cultural Connections Activities

Visit the Activity Sign Up Booth, check out the Activity Calendar and VIU Cultural Connections Facebook page (p. 10).

B255

B305

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