Exchange Student

Handbook

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Table of ContentsWelcome to Capilano University .................... 2How to use this Handbook .............................. 3

about capilanoWho Are We ....................................................... 6Centre for International Experience .............. 7Study Abroad Office .......................................... 8Academic Schedule ........................................... 8

ExchangEs to capilano univErsityApplication Deadlines ....................................... 10How to Apply ...................................................... 10Course Selection ................................................ 11Course Registration ........................................... 11English Language Requirement ....................... 11Costs and Fees .................................................... 11Permits and Visas .............................................. 12Medical Insurance .............................................. 12Arrival ................................................................... 12

living in canadaHousing Accommodation ................................ 14Transportation .................................................... 14Laws and Regulations ........................................ 15Financial and Banking Services ....................... 15What to Pack ....................................................... 16Canadian Holidays ............................................ 17Checklist .............................................................. 18

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Welcome to Capilano University

Capilano University is excited that you have chosen our university for your study abroad experience. You will find a beautiful campus nestled in the trees across the harbor from the centre of Vancouver. More importantly, you will find a welcoming international office staff, faculty who love to teach and Canadian students who are looking forward to meeting and studying with you.

Canada as a whole and Vancouver in particular is home to people from around the world and the Canadian culture of inclusion and respect for diversity can be found throughout Capilano. Whether it is the number of cultures represented by the food offerings in our cafeteria or the clubs and activities available for students you will see evidence everywhere that Canadians are interested in the world beyond their borders. By having you stay with us for a while Canadian students get an opportunity to learn about you and your culture.

In addition to classroom based learning programs Capilano is home to programs in music, theatre and film, making it a very lively place. Most programs also incorporate working with clients and business leaders taking learning beyond lectures and textbooks. At Cap you will find the classes dynamic and full of discussion. We enjoy exploring our differences as much as we value the sense that we are all in this together.

Capilano is a place that celebrates the beauty of nature while at the same time benefiting from a great city that reflects the cultural richness of the world. We are committed to graduating students who want to contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable planet in the future. We are so pleased that you will be part of this process.

Sincerely,

Catherine Vertesi, Vice-President, International Programs, External Relations and New Initiatives

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How to use this Handbook

Please let me be the first to congratulate you on your acceptance as an exchange student to our lovely campus and one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Vancouver! The Centre for International Experience warmly welcomes you to Capilano University and hopes that this Exchange Student Handbook will assist you in your successful semester abroad.

We have received exchange students from over 25 countries and have compiled their frequently asked questions to create this Handbook. Please take some time to read through it carefully! Most of the information will assist you with your pre arrival preparations but we recommend that you use it as a small reference guide throughout your stay.

We look forward to welcoming you to Capilano University and wish you a safe and pleasant trip!

Sincerely,

Yvonne Leung, International Partnership Officer

About Capilano

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Who Are We? /////////////////////////////////////////Founded in 1968, Capilano University is one of the oldest publicly funded post-secondary institutions in British Columbia. With more than 7,000 students, the university welcomes over 700 international students from over 52 countries. Known for its reputation for teaching excellence and innovation, Capilano University has distinguished itself by its commitment to student success. The University offers bachelor degree, arts & science transfer, associate degrees, career/vocation programs and English as a second language (ESL). Credentials awarded from Capilano University are widely recognized throughout Canadian and credits are easily transferred to schools in Canada and overseas. The University’s main campus is situation in North Vancouver, just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver.

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Centre for International Experience ////////////Capilano University offers many services for international students. We can help students with study permits, Canada’s immigration regulations and policies, medical insurance, living in Vancouver and much more.

Front oFFicE support staFF: visit Kozue or Viera first for help or to make an appointment to see the Director of the Centre for International Experience or an Academic Advisor.

KozueMatsumoto,Divisional Departmental Assistant Birch 339 Tel: 604.990.7914 E-mail: IntEd@capilanou.ca

VieraAdamec,Divisional Departmental Assistant Birch 339 Tel: 604.990.7863 E-mail: IntEd@capilanou.ca

intErnational outrEach & EvEnts oFFicEr: see Roger for answers to many of your questions about student events, helpful programs, volunteering, etc.

RogerSum,International Outreach & Events Officer Birch 331 E-mail: rogersum@capilanou.ca

MarkEting: Lana is responsible for marketing the CIE and the recruitment of international students.

LanaVanVelthuizen,Manager Birch 326 E-mail: lvanvelt@capilanou.ca

dirEctor: Donna oversees the Centre for International Experience. To consult Donna, please check with Kozue or Viera for an available time.

DonnaHooker,Director Birch 333 E-mail: dhooker@capilanou.ca

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Study Abroad Office ////////////////////////////////The Study Abroad Office offers support services to all exchange students to Capilano University. We will correspond with the international coordinators at your home institution, assist you in your pre departure tasks and provide you with the resources for integration into Capilano University’s academic culture.

intErnational partnErships oFFicEr: Yvonne oversees the incoming and outgoing student mobility program. Please do not hesitate to contact her directly if you have any questions.

YvonneLeung,International Partnership Officer Cedar 335 E-mail: studyabroad@capilanou.ca

Academic Schedule ///////////////////////////////// Capilano University operates on a system of three academic terms each year but will only accept exchange students during the Fall and Spring term. You will be able to spend one or two terms at Capilano University depending on approval from your home university. For exact dates please see

wwww.capilanou.ca/current/academic-schedule

Fallterm: early September to mid DecemberSpringterm: early January to mid April

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Exchanges to Capilano University

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Application Deadlines //////////////////////////////For studies in the Fall Semester (September - December) May 31st

For studies in the Spring Semester (January - April) October 15th

How to Apply ////////////////////////////////////////Capilano University only accepts exchange students from its Partner Universities (official nomination required). Only complete applications with required documentation will be processed.

All applications must be completed in full, including the following supporting documents:

1 . capilano univErsity application For adMission/ rEadMission

This is a general application form for all students seeking admission to Capilano University.

2. ExchangE studEnt inForMation ForMThis form needs to be completed by the student and their home institution.

3. prEliMinary coursE sElEction ForMA course guide is included in our application package. Students can only take courses in the approved programs for which each partner institution is particularly well suited for.

4. oFFicial transcript oF acadEMic rEcordsThe Official Transcript of Academic Records must be an original document that is certified with the institution stamp or seal to prove authenticity. Photocopies will not be accepted — originals must be sent by mail.

5. lEttEr oF rEFErEncE stating studEnt’s lEvEl oF EnglishStudent’s English aptitude needs to be sufficient to participate in course work conducted in English. This letter can be written by the International Exchange Coordinator, institution instructor or English professor.

coMplEtEd applications can bE MailEd to:Study Abroad Office Capilano University 2055 Purcell Way North Vancouver, British Columbia V7J 3H5, Canada

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Course Selection /////////////////////////////////////We recommend that as an exchange student you plan to take 9 to 12 credits per term at Capilano University (about 3 or 4 courses). Full-time status at Capilano University is normally a minimum of 9 credits. Please note that your home institution may require you to enroll in a specific number of credits or courses at Capilano University, which may be higher than our recommendations.

For more information, please visit www.capilanou.ca/programs/study-abroad/exchangestocap/course-selection

Please note that access to courses for exchange students is limited, and is restricted to students from universities with whom Capilano University has a specific program exchange agreement. To find out whether your university qualifies, please speak with your home university co-ordinator or study abroad advisor.

Course Registration ////////////////////////////////Registration for classes for exchange students is done by the Capilano University Study Abroad Office on your behalf. You will be required to submit a preliminary Course Selection Form with your application package. Once your application has been processed, an Approved Course Selection Form will be emailed to you along with instructions on how to complete the form. Once completed, please sign the Approved Course Selection Form and submit to studyabroad@capilanou.ca.

English Language Requirement /////////////////English is the language of instruction at Capilano University. Student’s English aptitude needs to be sufficient to participate in course work conducted in English

Costs and Fees /////////////////////////////////////// If you are an exchange student, you will normally pay tuition and student fees to your home institution for each term you attend Capilano University. If you are a study abroad student, you will normally pay tuition and student fees (normally at international rates) directly to Capilano University for each term you attend Capilano University.

All Capilano University students pay a mandatory U-Pass fee (public transit pass) as well as library, lab, and similar fees (depending on program). You are responsible for covering the costs of course material and books, residence and other living expenses.

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Permits and Visas ///////////////////////////////////onE-tErM studEntsIf you are studying at Capilano University for only one term (less than 6 months), you are not required to have a study permit. Citizens from certain countries will, however, be required to have a Temporary Resident Visa. For details visit: www.cic.gc.ca.

tWo-tErM studEntsIf you are studying at Capilano University for more than 6 months you must have a study permit. In addition to a study permit, citizens from certain countries will also be required to have a Temporary Resident Visa. For details visit: www.cic.gc.ca.

Working in canadaIf you obtain a study permit you will normally be eligible to apply for part-time on-campus work. Exchange and study abroad students are not normally eligible to work off -campus.

Medical Insurance ////////////////////////////////// Medical coverage is compulsory for every international student at Capilano University for the duration of their study period in British Columbia. All exchange students who cannot produce proof of sufficient coverage will be automatically enrolled in Capilano University’s basic medical insurance plan for international students. The cost of coverage is $2 per day starting from your date of arrival to departure. Medical coverage for students studying for a 4 month semester will be approximately $240 CAD and will cover medical physicians, hospital visits, some extended health benefits and emergency dental. For more information on this coverage please go to www.guard.me

All students residing in British Columbia for more than six months are required to purchase BC provincial health insurance, which is called MSP.

Arrival ///////////////////////////////////////////////// We recommend that you arrive at least one week before the first day of classes. This will give you enough time to settle in, become familiar with the campus and university community, and visit the Study Abroad Office. This is where you will submit your Emergency Contact Information and obtain information on:

• Course Schedules• Obtaining a Capilano University Student Identity Card• Obtaining a UPass• Registering for basic health insurance for international students• International Student Orientation Programming and Activities

It is very important that you attend the NewStudentOrientation.

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Living in Canada

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Housing Accommodation /////////////////////////Please note that it is your responsibility to secure accommodations in Vancouver. Neither your exchange coordinator nor the Capilano University Study Abroad Office is able to secure a place to live on your behalf. It is highly recommended that all exchange students secure accommodation well in advance of their arrival in Vancouver.

While private accommodation may be found in Vancouver upon arrival, appropriate and affordable options can be very difficult to come by, particularly during the late August/early September ‘Back to School’ period. Also keep in mind that, in Vancouver, a standard private residential lease is one year in length — inexpensive, short-term (4-6 months) accommodation is generally difficult and/or expensive to arrange.

Homestays: First Choice International Placement and Vancouver Central Homestay are the companies that arrange all our homestays. Homestay includes a private, furnished room, three meals per day (optional), and access to laundry facilities in a Canadian family environment. We have had a great partnership with them so we trust that they will accommodate to your needs. This is their website:

www.fciplacement.com

www.vancouvercentralhomestay.com

Fully Furnished: Bell Accommodation Services arranges suites, apartments, and rooms that are rented for a fee each month including all furnishings and utilities. This accommodation is usually shared with other students.

www.bellacc.com

Transportation //////////////////////////////////////Public Transportation in Vancouver is generally comfortable and reliable. A network of buses, trains, Skytrains, and Seabuses (ferries) link all parts of the city. The Vancouver Regional Transit System (Translink) is divided into three fare zones.

The U-Pass program at Capilano University provides eligible students with lower transit fares during their school terms. A U-Pass gives students unlimited access to bus, SeaBus and SkyTrain services within Metro Vancouver, as well as discounts on West Coast Express.

You will be able to obtain your U-Pass on Orientation Day.

For full details on Lower Mainland public transport, fares and timetable see: www.translink.ca

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Laws and Regulations //////////////////////////////Even though you are only in Canada for a short period of time, you are expected to respect and obey all the laws. Your are responsible for being aware of all the laws. As an international students, any law-breaking activity could have serious consequences and could even result in deportation. Some of the laws you should be award of are as follows:

alcoholIt is illegal in British Columbia to drink alcohol if you are under 19 years of age.

• you cannot carry open alcohol in a car or walking in public• you cannot drink in a public place if there is no alcohol license• you cannot drink and drive any type of motorized vehicle. Drinking and

driving (or “driving under the influence of alcohol”) is a very serious criminal offence. International students can be fined, imprisoned, or deported if convicted.

drugsDrugs are dangerous and additive. It is illegal to possess, buy or sell drugs such as marijuana, ecstasy, methamphetamines (speed or crystal meth), LSD, cocaine, heroin, and many other drugs. Any person who violates these laws could face prosecution, which could lead to fines, a jail term and deportation.

sMoking and tobacco laWsYou cannot purchase tobacco products if you are under 19 years of age. Picture identification may be required when purchasing cigarettes and other tobacco products. It is both illegal and culturally unacceptable to smoking in a non-smoking area. You cannot smoke in any public places such as: bars, clubs, restaurants and government offices. Some outside spaces have designated smoking areas.

Financial and Banking Services /////////////////The Canadian dollar is the only currency commonly accepted across Canada. You can exchange most currencies for Canadian dollars at most commercial banks. Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard or American Express are widely accepted. Diner’s Club and JTB are not commonly used.

Remember to inquire about the service fees and length of time required for each transaction. Some foreign banks have branches in Vancouver but they may focus on corporate business and may not provide an appropriate range of personal financial services. Check if your home bank has a special linkage agreement with one of the banks listed on the next page.

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Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) www.rbc.com

Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Company www.hsbc.ca

Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) tdcanadatrust.com

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) www.cibc.com

Bank of Montreal (BMO) www.bmo.com

Some banks offer special student accounts and student packages. You should research all options and select a bank that best suits your needs. It is advisable to arrive in Canada with at least $200 in Canadian currency and immediate access to about $500 - $1000 to cover initial expenses. Remember, if you choose private residence, that it is standard practice for landlords to request two months rent in advance of moving in.

What to Pack /////////////////////////////////////////Vancouver is a casual city for fashion. Due to unpredictable weather, it is recommended you bring warm and cool clothes. The dress code on campus is casual. You will find that people in Vancouver are very active and enjoy the outdoors. North Vancouver is a hiking Mecca! Some extra clothing tips include:

❒ Hiking boots if you want to explore the local mountains or go camping

❒ Exercise clothes and bathing suit if you want to use the recreation facilities

❒ Good walking shoes

❒ Ski pants and jacket if you plan on snowboarding or skiing at our world class winter sport destinations

❒ Formal business attire for exchange students in the Business Administration Program. Business students will be required to dress professionally during class presentations or activities (usually once or twice per course). One pair of suit pants/trousers, a long sleeved collared shirt, tie, or skirt will be sufficed. Suit jacket not required but highly recommended.

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Canadian Holidays /////////////////////////////////The following are days of celebration or public holidays in Canada. Statutory Holidays are days when employees are legally entitled to a day off with pay, hence many businesses remain closed. All statutory holidays marked with an asterisk (*).

New Year’s Day * January 1

BC Family Day * Second Monday in February

Saint Valentine’s Day February 14

Saint Patrick’s Day March 17

Good Friday * Friday after the first full moon in springtime

Easter Sunday Sunday after Good Friday

April Fool’s Day April 1

Victoria Day * Monday before May 24

Canada Day * July 1

BC Day * First Monday in August

Labour Day * First Monday in September

Thanksgiving * Second Monday in October

Halloween October 31

Remembrance Day * November 11

Christmas Eve December 24

Christmas Day * December 25

Boxing Day December 26

New Year’s Eve December 31

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Checklist //////////////////////////////////////////////bEForE arrival

❒ I have gathered information on studying at Capilano University at my home institution and on Capilano University’s website www.capilanou.ca/studyabroad

❒ I have completed Capilano University’s application package and submitted to the international co-ordinator at my home institution. Applications need to be received by the Study Abroad Office by May 31st (fall term) or October 15th (spring term)

❒ I have found accommodation

❒ I have made sure my passport is valid throughout my stay in Vancouver

❒ I have contacted my Capilano University buddy (An email will be sent to you a month prior to the start of term with your buddy’s contact information)

❒ I have completed, signed and submitted the Approved Course Selection Form to studyabroad@capilanou.ca

❒ I have paid all fees owing on my Capilano University student account by the fee payment deadline

to bring along

❒ Valid passport and visa (if required)

❒ Proof of valid health insurance (please bring a copy)

❒ Letters of Acceptance from Capilano University

❒ Credit / debit card

❒ Cash for the first days in Vancouver

❒ Some items that represent my country, culture and university. These items will help me share information about my home with students, faculty and others I meet here who may be interested in learning more about my country and the exchange program

First stEps in vancouvEr

❒ I have moved into my accommodation

❒ I have visited the Study Abroad Office (Cedar 335) to submit my Emergency Contact Form and obtain any additional information

❒ I have brought my passport, study permit (if required) and proof of medical insurance to the New Student Orientation

❒ I have participated in the New Student Orientation Program

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bEForE dEparturE

❒ I have paid all remaining fees on my Capilano University student account

❒ I have signed a Student Records Release Form and Request for Official Transcript of Academic Record. My official Capilano University Transcript will be sent directly to the international coordinators at your home institution

❒ I have submitted to the Study Abroad Office my Evaluation/Feedback Form

❒ I have checked whether I have all of the necessary documents regarding my study program at Capilano University

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Notes

University pay parking is strictly

enforced at all times and applies to the

parking spaces/areas inside the dotted line

After 5:00 pm and on weekends all zonesexcept short-term lots 7&10 are $3 flatrate until 6:00 am the next day

Nat & Flora Bosa Centrefor Film & Animation

Parking Lot 4

Parking Lot 2

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First Aid/Security

Purcell Way

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ParkingLot 3

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Parking Lot 3

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Book Store

(BC)

#255 #28#130

Transit Exchange

Short TermPay Parking

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Parking/Access

North Vancouver Campus

NORRevised 2012/01

Take Exit 22a off Highway 1

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Lillooet Road

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Capilano UniversityCentre for International Experience2055 Purcell Way North Vancouver, B.C.Canada V7J 3H5Tel: 604.990.7914

www.capilanou.ca