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Updates | Events | Tips | Community
January-February 2024 | Edition 7
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The International Centre Student Newsletter is delivered in the last week of each month.
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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 website or click here. For more information on our drop-in advising schedule, please contact our front desk by email at international@umanitoba.ca or call us at 204-474-8501.
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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.
Our Health and Wellness services include the recently opened Student Wellness Centre at 162 Extended Education where you can drop by to rest, recharge or connect with other students. The Student Wellness Centre hosts our peer support program called Healthy U – a team of friendly student volunteers who are available to talk with about a variety of health topics.
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In this issue
- Immigration Updates | International Student Advising Team
- International Centre Events & Programs
- Tips & Reminders
- UM Community Updates
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Extending your study permit
Is your study permit expiring soon? If so, it’s important that you review information that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has on their website about when and how to apply to extend your study permit. There is also helpful information in their instruction guide for the study permit extension online application process. If you need to request documents about your enrolment status and academic history, then the Registrar’s Office has clear steps on their website on how to request official documentation from their office.
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Need a new visitor visa (temporary resident visa)?
If you are planning on travelling outside of Canada and need to apply for a new visitor visa, then IRCC has important information on their website about how to apply for a new visitor visa from inside of Canada. On this page IRCC recommends applying for a new visitor visa at least 2 months before you leave Canada, and not to leave Canada until you get your visitor visa.
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Working during the academic year
If you are considering looking for an on or off-campus job during the 2023-2024 academic year (Fall 2023 and Winter 2024 terms), then it’s important that you review, understand, and follow the strict requirements that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has for international students who would like the opportunity to work either on-campus
or off-campus
during their studies. You also may check out the eligibility requirements of the temporary public policy for working more than 20 hours per week off campus on IRCC website. It’s important that you review how the U of M defines full-time status for the purposes of IRCC to ensure that you understand how the institution defines full-time and part-time status at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
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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 January 18, 2024, the estimated processing times are as follows for online applications:
- Study Permit extension: 69 days
- Co-op Work Permit: 109 days
- Post-Graduation Work Permit: 109 days
- Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): 17 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.
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International Centre Events & Programs
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January 30
Study Permit Extension Info Session 3:30-4:30 PM | Virtual - Zoom
Learn about the process to extend your study permit, including: how to submit an application to IRCC, required documents, and creating an online MyCIC account. Registration in advance of the session is required. Please register here.
Registration will close on Monday, January 29th, 2024, at 8:30am.
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January 31- February 21
Weekly Wednesday Conversation Group, 2:30 - 3:30 pm
Join us to learn about Canadian culture and how to adapt to your new home, get tips for making connections with others on campus, and practice your Canadian “small talk”. Meet at 541 UMSU University Centre.
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February 14
Valentine Craft, 2:30 - 3:30
Student Wellness Centre, 162 Extended Education
Be kind this Valentine’s Day, visit the Student Wellness Centre to make a card at our Valentine’s Art Station. Make new connections or strengthen old ones! Make an affirmation for yourself or for someone else this Valentines Day. All supplies provided.
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February 21
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Pathways to Permanent Residency Information, 3:00pm – 4:00pm (CT) / Virtual – Zoom
Are you wondering about how to get permanent residence in Canada? Participants will receive an e-mail one week prior to the session, which will include instructions to log-in to the virtual session, as well as a link to a recording of the session which participants must watch before the session on February 21.
This information session is for current U of M students (Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses) and recently graduated students (October 2023, February 2024, and June 2024 graduates).
Registration in advance is required. Register by Wednesday February 14th at 8:30am. Learn more.
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February 22
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program Information Session, 10:30am – 11:30pm (CT) / Virtual – Zoom
The International Centre is organizing a virtual information session for international students on the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). The session will be led by representatives from the Manitoba Government.
This information session is for current U of M students (Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses) and recently graduated students (October 2023, February 2024, and June 2024 graduates).
Registration in advance is required. Register by Wednesday February 21st, at 8:30am. Learn more.
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February 28
Post-Graduation work Permit information session, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (CT) / Virtual – Zoom
The session will be conducted by one of the International Centre's Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIA) who is licensed by the College of Immigration & Citizenship Consultants (CICC) and remains in good standing.
Learn about the Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility requirements and program criteria including: how to submit an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), required documents, creating an online MyCIC account.
Information sessions are for current UM students (Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses).
Registration in advance is required. Register by Tuesday February 27, 2024, at 8:30am. Learn more.
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Winter Orientation
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We had an amazing turn out at our Winter Orientation on January 5, with 343 students in attendance!
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Important Dates
- February 7, 2024 - Winter term fee payment deadline.
- February 19, 2024
- Louis Riel Day - University is closed.
- February 19 - 23, 2024 - Winter Term Break, no classes. University is open.
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Prepare for the weather
As we see milder temperatures, icy conditions can become dangerous - Be aware of the melting snow and dress accordingly (wear water resistant boots with good tread to prevent icy falls).
- Be careful while walking or driving.
- Make sure to plan your arrival to university in advance as the melting snow can make the road conditions worse.
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Winter Clothing Library
The International Centre has a Winter Clothing Library at our office to provide free, donated winter clothing to new international and exchange students.
Wanting to shop?
The Winter clothing Library will be open every day from 10:00-3:00 pm. Due to available inventory and processing times the hours of operation are subject to change. Please stop by 541 UMSU University Centre, call us at 204-474-8501 or email us at international@umanitoba.ca to inquire more about clothing availability or hours of operation.
Donations Needed
We are in need of donations of good condition items. Please consider donating any items of clothing you are no longer using to help a new student in need. Check out our donation criteria.
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UMSU – Cultural Appreciation Days
Feb 5 & Feb 6, Campo UMSU University Centre
Looking for talent! Click here for more information and to apply to participate
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Academic English Support: ELC’s Part-Time Academic English Courses
Part-Time Academic English Courses (PTAEC) to all whose first language is not English. PTAEC are affordable, non-credit language courses.
Courses are delivered remotely and in-person. Starts Jan 23. Learn more.
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Charge Ahead Mentors Available
Student life inevitably contains a mix of successes and challenges. When you hit a roadblock, our team of trained peer mentors will be here to provide a listening ear. We will help you develop a personalized action plan for success and connect you with campus resources. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own! Learn more.
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Student Leadership Development Program
The Student Leadership Development Program (SLDP) is for any current UM student who is looking to make an impact as a leader. Through this multi-level program, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about themselves and their unique leadership style, develop and practice essential skills, and reflect on who they want to be as a leader. Sign up now.
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Immediate Housing Available at St. John's Residence
Are you looking for accommodations on campus? St John’s Residence is available!
A five-minute walk to anywhere on the UM campus, complete meal plan, and affordable rates, find your home at the College. Learn more.
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St. John's College Scholarships open Feb 1
Scholarships are open to all UM students. Students must be members of St John’s to apply. Read more.
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Healthy U Office Hours
Monday – Friday, 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Healthy U office hours have resumed and will remain until the end of winter term!
Check out the Healthy U website for information or to book an appointment.
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Career Workshops for International Students
Introduction to Working in Canada -
Thursday, Feb 8th - 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
474 UC, Career Services
- Understanding employment vocabulary/terminology
- Introduction to Career Management
- Considerations for job search and resumes/cover letters
- Introduction to work culture and employer expectations
Pre-registration is required: Register here
Succeeding in the Canadian Workplace -
Thursday, Feb. 15th - 1:30 PM- 3:00 PM 474 UC, Career Services
- Canadian workplace culture & etiquette
- Introduction to employment standards
- Your first 30 days on the job: personal management and positive practices
Pre-registration is required: Register here
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Pet Therapy
February 14 | 11 - 12:30 p.m.
UM’s Health and Wellness will be hosting pet therapy monthly.
Fort Garry Campus, Student Wellness Centre (162 Extended Education)
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To unsubscribe from the International Student Newsletter, please email Crystal Stewart, International Transitions Coordinator. International students cannot unsubscribe.
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