Page 10 - International Student Pre-Arrival Guide

Arriving on Campus
Visit the Student Engagement team
Student Engagement is the starting point for almost all international student questions. We will support you throughout your journey at Royal Roads. You can contact our team for support with immigration, housing, medical coverage, social and cultural activities and more.
Visit the International Study Centre
For students in Pathway Programs: English for Academic Purposes (EAP), Transfer Preparation Program (TPP), Pre-Master’s Program (PMP)
The International Study Centre (ISC) offers comprehensive English language courses to students taking part in pathway programs, as well as one-on-one tutoring to those needing additional assistance meeting the university’s English language requirement. Our friendly staff are here to help you achieve academic success and to support your cultural adjustment.
Sign up for MSP
If you plan to live in British Columbia for more than six months per year, you should enrol in the B.C. Medical Services Plan (MSP) as soon as you arrive. A student advisor can assist you through the application process. You will need your study permit, TRV
(if applicable) and acceptance documents.
Open a bank account
Purchase a mobile phone plan
A number of mobile telephone plans are available to students living in Victoria. Before committing, consider whether you are interested in a long-term contract, a pre-paid/pay-as-you-go plan, or a month- to-month plan. Be sure to shop around and compare promotions to nd a service plan that suits your needs:
· Bell
· Fido
· TELUS
· Rogers
· Phone Box
Drop-by University Reception
Here you will be able to pick up your RRU ID Card, bus pass or parking pass. You can also register for a locker, put credit on your print account or make payments, such as tuition.
Participate in Orientation
Orientation services are provided for all new students, and
consist of both online and in-person resources and sessions. The LaunchPad: Orientation to RRU is an online orientation program designed to familiarize you with resources, services, support networks and opportunities that are available to all Royal Roads students. It can be accessed through Moodle. For more information about Moodle see page 11.
A special face-to-face International Student Orientation will occur before your program starts, and focuses on helping students transition to life in Victoria and Canada. Attendance is required
by all international students, as information about immigration matters will be discussed.
Shopping
You can nd most things you need close to campus.
There are several stores and shopping malls in the Victoria area, where you can nd food, clothing and other items.
· Thrifty Foods – Walk out of the campus, turn right and walk for 5 minutes. · The Real Canadian Superstore – 835 Langford Parkway,
· 5 minute drive from campus.
Fairway Market – Located in Westshore Town Centre, this is a low · cost grocery store with a signi cant emphasis on ethnic foods.
· Uptown Shopping Centre
· The Bay Centre
Mayfair Shopping Centre
For convenience and safety reasons, Canadians do not typically carry large sums of cash, so it is wise to open a bank account. Some popular banks include BMO, CIBC, HSBC, RBC, Scotiabank, and
TD Canada Trust. You may be required to show your passport and student card to open a chequing and/or savings account. Be sure
to ask about student accounts with lower fees as service fees can add up quickly. You may also wish to apply for a credit card, which is often required for hotels, car rentals and remote purchases.
ATMs are available on campus, 24 hours/day on the rst oor of the Millward building, and in numerous locations throughout the city.
Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number you will need in order to work in Canada. You can apply for a SIN in person at a Service Canada Of ce. Your SIN will be issued the day you apply.
Royal Roads University
Pre-Arrival Student Guide 9