Despite the current pandemic, the University of Guelph is expecting a ‘consistent’ number of international students on campus.
According to an email from the university, more than 1,700 international students are enrolled in the upcoming semester. Around 200 international students will be living in residence or in student family housing.
When it comes to studying in Canada this year, EduCanada says international students who hold a valid study permit on or before March 18, 2020, are eligible to travel to Canada if they can prove is ‘non-discretionary.’
The Government of Canada website outlines multiple reasons for non-discretionary travel for international students, including if an online program is not a reasonable option at their school, or if their presence is necessary for their continued participation within the program.
Students who hold a valid study permit after March 18, 2020, have been advised they may not be given permission to travel into Canada.
For other decisions involving international students, EduCanada says each institution is in charge of mitigation measures for its students.
At U of G, all international students have been informed that when arriving from outside of Canada, they will be asked to self-isolate for 14 days. The university will provide students with transportation from the airport to their residence, regardless of whether it is on or off campus.
For international students living on campus, the East Village has been set up to provide a place for those to quarantine. During their self-isolation period, these students will be provided meal delivery and private washrooms.
During the isolation period, daily wellness checks will be conducted along with online programming to help international students transition into the campus community. COVID testing will also be provided as needed.
The email adds that all students at UofG have been told about new physical distancing policies, daily screenings and face covering initiatives happening on campus.
A new educational campaign is underway at the university to teach students about these new protocols, and provide information about supports in place to help students and staff follow Public Health guidelines.
