Events | Updates | Tips | Community 

September-October 2024 | Edition 15

The International Centre Student Newsletter is delivered in the third week of each month.  

In this issue

• International Centre Events & Programs
• Immigration Updates
• Tips & Reminders
• UM Community Events

International Centre Events & Programs

Tony TK Lau Global Lounge

541 UMSU University Centre

Come visit our new Global Lounge in the IC Office, 541 UMSU University Centre. Available to hang out, study and connect. Take advantage of the nice weather and take a break on our rooftop patio!

Take a look at some events that were hosted in the space this past month!

Fall 2024 Orientation & Events

Welcome new international students!

We were happy to welcome many new international students to the UM at International Student Orientation on August 27 and our outdoor Movie Night on August 30! Take a look at some of the highlights! Special thank you to all our amazing volunteers!

Winter Clothing Library: Call for Volunteers

Are you passionate about sustainability, circularity or fashion and making a positive impact in our community? We need your help to grow the Winter Clothing Library that provides warm clothing items for international and exchange students while promoting eco-friendly practices!

What We’re Looking For: We’re seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our team! Whether you have skills in organizing, communication, community engagement, event planning, or simply a love for fashion, there’s a place for you in the winter clothing library community.

Why Volunteer with Us?

• Make a Difference: Help provide warm clothing to those new to the Winnipeg winter while promoting sustainable practices.
• Gain Experience: Build your skills in organization, communication, community engagement, and event planning while contributing to a meaningful cause.

How to Get Involved: If you’re interested in volunteering, please fill out our online sign-up form or contact us at international@umanitoba.ca. We’d love to have you on board!

Join us in making a positive impact this winter! Together, we can create a clothing library that not only keeps our community warm but also promotes a more sustainable future.

Immigration updates 

The International Centre

International Student Advisors (ISAs) are available for in person and virtual appointments. To book an appointment with one of our student advisors visit our Waitwell booking site. For more information on our drop-in advising schedule, please check our website.

Thinking about your course load for Fall 2024 & Winter 2025?

It’s very important for each study permit hold to stay in compliance with the study permit conditions listed on the IRCC website. To learn more about how UM defines full-time student status and the immigration impacts of part-time studies, review our Understanding your enrollment status page for details. Note that being on waitlist doesn’t mean you have already registered in the course!

Working during the academic year

If you are considering looking for an on or off-campus job during the 2024-2025 academic year (Fall 2024 and Winter 2025 term), ensure that you review, understand, and follow the strict requirements that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has for international students who would like work legally during their studies in Canada. Review our Working in Canada as an International Student page for details such as what is considered as work, who can work, how many hours you can work and when you need to stop working.

Application Processing Times

Estimated processing times for permits and visas are reported on the IRCC website. You can find the processing time for a specific application here. Processing time estimates are updated weekly. As of September 3, 2024, the estimated processing times are as follows for online applications:

• Study Permit extension: 89 days
• Work Permit (co-op work permit, post-graduation work permit): 119 days
• Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): 26 days

You may need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) with your application. The processing times do not include additional time to give your biometrics.

Tips and Reminders

Important Dates 

• Sept. 30, 2024 - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (UM Closed)
• Oct. 2, 2024 - Fall Term fee payment deadline
• Oct. 14, 2024 - Thanksgiving (UM Closed)
• Oct. 22, 2024 - Oct. 23, 2024 - Convocation Ceremony (Fort Garry Campus)
• Oct. 31, 2024 - Convocation Ceremony (Bannatyne Campus)
• Nov. 11, 2024 - Remembrance Day (UM Closed)
• Nov. 12, 2024 -Nov. 15, 2024 - Fall Term Break (UM still open)

View more dates online.

Things to do in Winnipeg

• Sunset Goose Flights - starts Sept 19 - Oct. 20, 2024, Take some time out on a crisp autumn evening to experience the magic of fall migration from a new vantage point at FortWhyte Alive.
• A Maze in Corn - Opens Sept 19 - Enjoy the country views while wandering through the corn maze, climb the giant bale pyramid, and visit the petting zoo.
• Dome@Home Planetarium Series, Sept 26, Oct 31 - 7-8 pm, Manitoba Museum - free. Join Planetarium Astronomer Scott Young as we identify constellations and planets in the real sky, discover upcoming celestial events, and look at trending space science and astronomy news.
• Nuit Blanche - Sept 28, 6:00 pm - One Saturday night each fall thousands of art enthusiasts, cultural animators and citizens of Winnipeg gather Downtown to celebrate and explore contemporary art. All events free.
• First Fridays in the Exchange On the 1st Friday of each month, Galleries, Artist-Run Centres, Studios, Shops + Museums stay open late at this free event in Winnipeg's Exchange District. Free tickets.
• Heebie Jeebies - visit top 3% of haunted attractions in North America! Opens October 3.
• Boo at the Zoo - starting October 4 - The Zoo's transformed for a spooky, spell-tacular spree, with eerie sights and a magical glee! Perfect for kids.
• Pineridge Hollow - Located just outside of Winnipeg - bordering on the natural beauty of Birds Hill Park, they have a restaurant, shops and events featured all year long. Check out one of their various Fall Markets.

Clearing out old winter clothing?

Winter is coming! If you have any gently used winter clothing that you would like to donate to a new international or exchange student, please drop off at International Centre office during office hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30-4:30 pm 541 UMSU University Centre.

Mental Health Supports for International Students

There are many supports available for international students, free of charge in a variety of options. Student Counselling and Wellness at the University of Manitoba is available to provide support and services to all University of Manitoba students, including international students. All of our services are free and international students can choose from a variety of options to receive help.

Community Updates

Regulation Station

Student Wellness Centre – 162 Extended Education.

Join other Autistic Students in an open space where you can feel like yourself! Come meet and connect in a place where you can be just as you are. Know that you are always welcome! Diagnosed, self-diagnosed, and questioning/curious are welcome.

Upcoming dates: 

• Wednesday, September 25, 1:00PM – 2:30 PM
• Wednesday, October 30, 1:00PM – 2:30 PM
• Monday, November 25, 1:00PM – 2:30 PM

Body Project

Health and Wellness

In-person, peer led, body-acceptance program designed for students who identify as female. Must attend all four sessions in-person. 
Fort Garry sessions: Sept. 25, Oct. 2, Oct. 9, Oct. 16, 2:30-3:30 pm, Women's Centre, 190 Helen Glass.

Bannatyne Sessions: Oct. 17, Oct. 24, Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 4:30-5:30 pm, 305 Pathology.

Tuesdays with TD Webinar Series: Home Ownership in Canada

October 15, 2024 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Virtual

Welcome to the Tuesdays with TD Webinar Series: Home Ownership in Canada

• Join us for an informative online event where we will discuss all things related to owning a home in Canada. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, this webinar is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about the Canadian real estate market.
• Our expert speakers will cover topics such as the home buying process, mortgage options, and tips for maintaining your property.
  
• Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to expand your knowledge and make informed decisions about home ownership in Canada.

Reserve your spot here.