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Welcome to the ISSO Student Newsletter!
In this edition you will find important updates regarding UHIP coverage, immigration support, the exchange program, social programming, and our upcoming events.
UHIP Updates
Registered as a Special Student for Winter 2020?
If so, your UHIP medical health insurance expired April 30, 2020. If you are still in Canada but not enrolled in summer classes you should consider getting private medical health insurance.
Immigration Updates
NEW: An International Student Specific Covid-19 FAQ
The ISSO recognizes that the uncertainty of this evolving situation is particularly difficult for our international student community. We’ve prepared a COVID-19 FAQ to provide with the latest answers and information to address your concerns.
Step-by-Step Application Guides Now Available!
Questions about applying for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) or your Study Permit Renewal? The ISSO’s immigration advisors have created this step-by-step PGWP Application Guide (PDF, 239 KB) and Study Permit Renewal Guide (PDF, 1,327 KB) to assist you in the process.
Immigration Advisors Remain Available for Personalized Support
Many study and work permit applications are a little more complicated than usual due to COVID-19. We want to remind you that the ISSO’s immigration advisors are available to assist you. If you need a personal consultation with an immigration advisor, please contact us via email at isso@carleton.ca.
Immigration Webinars, Workshops, and Q&As Online
Our advisors will be providing webinars and Q & A sessions over the course of the summer on topics like Post-Graduation Work Permits, Study Permit Secrets, and Express Entry. For more information on how and when these will be taking place check out the ISSO Events page.
Exchange Updates
All Fall 2020 Incoming & Outgoing Exchanges Postponed
Considering the challenges and uncertainties posed by COVID-19, Carleton University has made the difficult decision to postpone the Incoming & Outgoing Exchange Programs for the upcoming Fall 2020 term. Students who were nominated by their home institution to study on exchange in the Fall 2020 term are encouraged to contact their home institutions’ exchange coordinator for further details and guidance on next steps if they would like to postpone their exchange to the Winter 2021 term or withdraw from the exchange program. Outgoing exchange students will have received an email from the ISSO with further details and guidance on next steps. For questions and additional support, please contact the ISSO at exchange@carleton.ca.
Social Programming Updates
Introducing the Global PALS
The Global PALS (Peer Advisors Lending Support) Program provides incoming and current international students with the opportunity to connect with an upper year student who can provide insights and support as you navigate social, cultural, and academic life at Carleton University and in Ottawa. Global PALS can support you in navigating Ottawa and Carleton resources, student support services, involvement opportunities, Canadian culture, and much more. They are available via email and Microsoft Teams video chat. To find out more and connect with the Global PALS, visit here.
Join us for Canadian Tea Time Online
Every Friday, the ISSO hosts a virtual social hour to keep students connected during this unprecedented time. Drop in to meet other students, play games, discuss our latest Netflix obsessions, and – of course – drink tea! Join us on Microsoft Teams every Friday at 3:30 pm EDT by clicking here.
Virtual Programming with the SEO
Are you looking for ways to keep connected with the Carleton community during social distancing? Follow the Student Experience Office on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CarletonSEO for contests, concerts and up-to-date details programs and activities from Athletics, Residence, the ISSO and other departments on campus.
Upcoming Events
Stay informed, Keep Connected.
The International Student Newsletter will be sent out every second Wednesday.