Going away to post-secondary is What’s in this Guide? exciting, but we know that you may also feel a little anxious about leaving AUARTS: A Good Choice for your family, friends and the comfort of International Students familiar surroundings and practices. Diversity on Campus We have developed this international Staff + Services students’ guide to help you prepare for AUArts Academic Resources your arrival in , and to introduce you to our city and our post- Studying in secondary. Once you have arrived, we Study Permit International Students’ Guide will be here to offer support and Medical Coverage + Services assistance to ensure a smooth and successful transition into your new Calgary: What to Expect environment and post-secondary life. Welcome to Canada Living in Calgary AUArts attracts visually talented art Keeping Connected to Home and design applicants from across Banking Canada and around the world. Accommodations Whether you’re from the local area, or Culture, Entertainment + Recreation traveling to AUArts from a great Health + Safety distance, you’ll find a global Employment perspective and an invigorating mix of Post-secondary Life + Expectations people and ideas. If you’re new Welcome to AUArts! We are glad that to Canada, our International Student Checklists you’ve chosen to study with us at Advisor will help you adjust to your Before You Leave Home University of the Arts. new environment and assist you with Upon Your Arrival your transition into the AUArts We look forward to your arrival and we community. are confident that you will enjoy your stay in Calgary and your time at AUArts – meeting new friends and immersing yourself in the practice and culture of art and design. 1 | P a g e

AUArts: A Good Diversity on Campus Staff and Services Choice For AUArts provides an intimate learning AUArts provides assistance to environment with a diverse faculty and international students through a International Students student body. We foster that diversity dedicated support team within the by welcoming international students Student Resource Centre. Services AUArts has been educating artists and from around the world. In recent years include the following: pre-arrival designers since 1926 and is a leader in the post-secondary has hosted communications, advice on Study visual art and design education in students from many countries Permit regulations, on- and off- Canada. Today, AUArts provides the including: Australia, China, Colombia, campus work permits, while studying most diverse programming in the Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and post-graduation work permits, visual arts and design in the country, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, housing assistance, and medical offering four-year degree programs in Norway, the Philippines, Poland, insurance information. We offer eleven disciplines. Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, opportunities for social interaction and AUArts faculty members are practicing Thailand, Turkey, the United Kingdom, field trips to places of interest, and professional artists and designers who UEA and the United States. pre-departure assistance. bring a wealth of professional experience into classrooms and The university has an active student We also provide connections to other studios. Through the achievements of exchange program and is a member AUArts programs, including referrals our faculty, alumni, students and staff, of the International Student Mobility for AUArts academic assistance, AUArts is an active and influential Program. AUArts hosts international writing center, tutorial and study skill participant in local, national and students while AUArts students have support services. We encourage all international cultural communities. The an opportunity to spend their third international students to check depth and breadth of AUArts’ year studying at other art post- regularly with the Student Resource approach to teaching AUArts secondaries and institutions in North Centre for details about workshops, academic courses and a rigorous America, Australia, the Czech Republic, gatherings, trips and services studio practice has established our England, Finland, France, Germany, designed especially for you. reputation for educational excellence Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Spain, and innovation. Sweden and many other countries. Upon arrival at AUArts, international AUArts is committed to ensuring that AUArts expresses a welcoming students are encouraged to drop by its reputation for excellence continues attitude toward students from around the Student Resource Centre located into the future by integrating the best the world. in the Registrar’s Office area. of new media technology into our art practices. 2 | P a g e

The Student Resource Centre is open Drop-In Tutoring Program/Study Monday to Friday from Counselling Services Groups and the Writing Centre 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. A Counsellor is available in AUArts The Drop-in Tutoring/Study Groups Program inquiries can be directed to: Student Resource Centre for personal Program and the Writing Centre are [email protected] and AUArts academic counselling. The available to all students. or call 403.338.5513. counsellor also supports students in All students have the opportunity to their career development using receive tutoring or participate in the AUArts Student Resource Centre also personality and interest assessment study groups if they experience provides information, resources and tools. Appointments can be made in difficulties with their classes. events for students including the person, or by calling 403.2847666 These services are available to following: or by email at: students experiencing learning New Students’ Orientation, personal [email protected]. problems and students whose first and career counselling, financial aid language is not English. Students who and awards information, admissions AUArts Academic Assistance excel in their courses at AUArts have and registration information, AUArts Academic Assistance support the opportunity to work as peer tutors. convocation, health services liaison, is available to students who are Please contact: employment and housing postings, experiencing AUArts academic [email protected] aboriginal liaison services, as well as difficulties or require learning or call 403.338.5513. volunteer activities. Student Resource assistance to be successful in their Centre can also provide referrals to studies. Assistance services include: Library Resources outside agencies and resources, as advising and assistance to The AUARTS Luke Lindoe Library necessary. International Students, support maintains an Online Public Access services and AUArts academic Catalogue (OPAC). All catalogued accommodations for students with library materials are available online AUArts academic Resources disabilities, and the tutoring program and this service accesses other In addition to the support offered by for all students experiencing difficulties Calgary Library OPACS, (University of your instructors, AUArts provides a with AUArts academic expectations or Calgary, Mount Royal University and variety of services to ensure your course content. AUArts academic SAIT). AUArts students may use AUArts academic success. Below you Assistance can be located by facilities at the , will find a brief overview of the services contacting: Mount Royal University and Calgary offered. If you have any questions [email protected] Public Library. Access to out-of-town about services offered, please contact or call 403.338.5513. sources is available through the us and we’ll gladly answer your interlibrary loan service. questions. 3 | P a g e

Learning Skills Centre form. This document, issued by if they have a letter of acceptance All AUArts students have free access Citizenship and Immigration Canada from a Canadian educational institution to all SAIT Learning Skills Centre (LSC) (CIC), allows you to study in Canada at and are: services which include the following: a designated school, within a specified nationals or permanent residents subject tutoring, AUArts academic period. CIC officers in Canada and of the United States, residents of advising, study skills seminars abroad are responsible for issuing Greenland or residents of Saint- (organize your life, study tips, note- Study Permits. Pierre-et-Miquelon; or People whose taking, textbook attack skills, preparing More information is available at: Study Permits have been approved for and writing exams, multiple choice http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/stu in writing by officers outside of exam strategies, learning styles, brain dy.asp Canada, but to whom the permits gym, etc.). The LSC is located on SAIT have not been issued. campus and can be reached by phone You must apply to a CIC officer for NOTE: Despite these exceptions it is at 403.284.7050. The LSC’s bottom changes in your student status, such highly recommended that you apply line is student success! as transfer to another school or for your Study Permit before arriving program and for the renewal of your in Canada. Study Permit. Changes are illegal More information is available at: without permission from CIC. The http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/stu Study Permit is a very important dy.asp Studying In Canada document and you should be aware of the expiry date. It is impossible to change immigration status from Visitor How do I get a Study Permit? To study in Canada, you will have to to Student from within Canada. You must meet certain requirements gain approval to enter the country as to receive a Study Permit. an international student. The Those who come to Canada with a You must present a letter of Canadian government requires that visitor’s visa cannot get a Study Permit acceptance from the educational international students have a valid unless they apply from outside of institution where you intend to study Study Permit, and upon arrival, they Canada. You must apply for the Study and demonstrate that you are able to: must subscribe to the Alberta Health Permit at visa offices abroad before pay the tuition fees for the course Care Insurance Plan. arriving in Canada. or program of studies that you intend to pursue; and financially What is a Study Permit? *Please note: There are few support yourself and any family As an international student you should exceptions: Some students may apply members (if applicable) who are with become familiar with the Study Permit for Study Permit at the port of entry you during your time of study. You (i.e. at the airport, border crossing, etc.) should budget about $10,000 4 | P a g e

Canadian for living expenses in The CIC officer must also be satisfied and not a dependent of a diplomat addition to the cost of tuition and that, for whatever reason, you are not accredited to Canada), you must have books; and cover the cost of inadmissible to Canada and that you a Study Permit before beginning transportation for yourself and any will leave Canada at the end of the formal education in Canada. family members (if applicable) to and period for which you have been from Canada. approved to stay. You may also need Q What do I need to do to apply for an You must also provide proof of to obtain a valid extension, renewal or change to the financial support while studying conditions of my Student Permit? in Canada including: Temporary Resident Visa A You need to fill out the application a letter from a bank confirming The TRV is for persons from form on-line, at: funds available in your account designated countries, who wish to visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/stu (NOTE: the letter must indicate your Canada for a temporary purpose, such dy-extend.asp name and account number); or as tourism, study, visiting family or This application is for temporary a copy of the letter giving the friends, or business trips. To find out if residents who are already in Canada details about your scholarship you need a temporary resident visa, as visitors, students or workers, and or Canadian-funded educational check the list of countries and wish to extend their stay, change the program; or a letter from the person territories whose citizens need a visa conditions of their stay, change their (specify their relationship to you) who to enter Canada to visit, study or work type of temporary status, or correct provides financial assistance, temporarily at: problems with their status. It is explaining the arrangements made for http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas. important to apply for the extension your expenses. asp before the expiry of your status. It is You may also be required to pass a You should make copies of important recommended that foreign students, CIC medical examination. A medical documents including your passport, who wish to renew their Study Permits, examination is required if an applicant Temporary Resident Visa, and Study apply as early as 90 days before the has resided or sojourned for 6 months Permit just in case the originals are expiry date of their permit. In addition, or more in a “designated country or lost or destroyed. you must have observed all the territory” in the one year immediately conditions of that permit and not before entry into Canada. Please see be in breach of the Act. the Designated Country / Territory Frequently Asked Questions If your Study Permit expires and you Lists at: Q Do I need a Study Permit before did NOT renew it within 90 days of http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas. I begin studies in Canada? the expiry date, you can apply for asp A If you are an international student a “Restoration of Status”. You may to determine whether your country or (not a Canadian citizen, not a apply for restoration of status only territory is designated. permanent resident of Canada, if you have respected all of the 5 | P a g e

other conditions of your permit. The following links contain visa The application for restoration Q May I work during my stay in application requirements information You may also be required to pass a Canada? specific to students’ country of CIC medical examination. A medical A Yes! origin, including fees, examination is required if an applicant In order to be eligible for the program, has resided or sojourned for 6 months you must have a valid Study Permit, locations/contact information and or more in a “designated country or and you must have studied full time processing times. territory” in the one year immediately at an eligible public, post-secondary (Visa Application Centres are before entry into Canada. Please see institution for at least six months independently operated agencies, the Designated Country / Territory out of the 12 months preceding your which are authorized by the Lists at: application. For more information, Government of Canada to assist http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informatio please consult the CIC Website: applicants in processing their visa n/medical/ http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/wor Applications can be found at: k.asp applications. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/stu and contact the International Student Please note: *Only the VAC’s listed dy-extend.asp Advisor at 403.338.5513 or by e-mail: on www.canadainternational.gc.ca [email protected] Web site are authorized to provide Q May I leave Canada before my visa-assistance services* Beware of request for an extension has been un-authorized so-called ‘immigration finalized? Additional Study Permit agents’ – if in doubt, consult Website A If you leave Canada temporarily and Information snd Contacts listed here or contact AUARTS) do not have a valid student All international students must Mexico: authorization, you may not be able to obtain a valid Study Permit to study http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/ come back. It is your responsibility to in Canada. mexico-mexique/study- make sure that your request for an etudie/index.aspx?lang=eng&menu_id extension has been approved; and The following is a link to Citizenship =4&menu=L and you meet all Canada Immigration and Immigration Canada (CIC) http://www.cicmex.com.mx/es- MX/selfservice/CAN_application_centr requirements for return to Canada. clarifying requirements for obtaining es Study Permit and Temporary Q What do I do if my passport expires China: http://www.vfs- during my stay in Canada? Resident Visa for students who wish canada.com.cn/index.aspx and A To renew your passport while you to study in Canada: http://www.vfs- are in Canada, contact your embassy, http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/ind canada.com.cn/contactus.aspx high commission or consulate. ex.asp 6 | P a g e

India: http://www.vfs- at: 403.338.5513 or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan canada.co.in/index.html and [email protected] (AHCIP) http://www.vfs- Many health care costs are covered by canada.co.in/wheretoapply.html AHCIP when you pay your health care For Canadian Consular services (i.e. Health Insurance premiums. Single, self-supporting Canadian High It is important to take all medication adults receive “single coverage” and Commission/Canadian Consulate) prescribed by a doctor. If you start those who have family dependents please contact: feeling better and quit taking your receive “family coverage”. China: (Beijing) prescription before it is finished, your Frequently Asked Questions http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informatio illness may return. It is also important n/offices/missions/beijing.asp and to take medication as prescribed to Q Who is qualified to participate (Hong Kong) prevent problems such as an upset in AHCIP? http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informatio stomach. A As an international student, your n/offices/missions/hong-kong.asp AHCIP registration protects you Mexico: It is important that you subscribe to against unexpected medical expenses. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informatio the Alberta Health Care Insurance Students authorized to stay n/offices/missions/mexico.asp Plan as soon as you arrive in Canada. in Canada for 12 months or longer India: (New Delhi) As an Alberta resident, your AHCIP is are eligible to register with AHCIP. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informati free of charge. You cannot apply for an AHCIP until on/offices/missions/new-delhi.asp and You will need an Alberta Health Care you move to Alberta. You will be (Chandigarh) Identification Card to access the eligible for coverage on the date http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informatio health care system, hospital or to visit of your arrival and you must register n/offices/missions/chandigarh.asp a doctor. within 3 months of your arrival. You For all other Canadian Consular You will also need an Extended Health will be required to present a copy services’ locations, around the world: Care Benefit Plan – provided by of your Study Permit and / or your http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/informatio AUArts Student Association (not extra Temporary Resident Visa. n/offices/apply-where.asp#i charge – the cost is included in your SA fees). Below you will find more Q Do I have to register with AHCIP? If you require more information or have information about the Alberta Health A Yes, all residents of Alberta must questions related to the Study Permit, Care Insurance Plan, the AUARTSSA register themselves and their TRV or Work Permit applications, Health and Dental Coverage Plan and dependents with the Alberta Health please contact: Paul M. Szymanowski on-campus medical services. Care Insurance Plan. International Student Advisor at AUArts

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Medical Coverage + Services surgeons (dentists but not all their Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan Alberta has one of the finest health services) in their offices or at hospitals. Box 1360 care systems in the world. If you are AHCIP also pays a portion of the cost Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2N3 ill or injured, you should seek treatment of treatment provided by optometrists, as soon as possible. If you have a chiropractors, podiatrists, and physical Q Where can I get more information health problem, you may go to one of therapists. It does not pay for about AHCIP? the many walk-in medical clinics treatment by acupuncturists or A To call toll free in Alberta, dial around the city – no appointment is naturopaths, or for medication or 403.310.0000 and then necessary. After being examined by a ambulance services. When you apply, dial 780.427.1432 doctor, you might receive a you will be given a brochure about the or visit http://www.health.alberta.ca/ prescription, a recommendation for a services that are covered. for more information. non-prescription medication, or other If you need to take medication health care advice. frequently, you are advised to join the AUArts Students’ Association To find a clinic near you, please Alberta Blue Cross Plan via AHCIP. Benefits Plan consult the Calgary Yellow Pages Additional coverage will pay all or part This benefits plan is facilitated by the telephone directory and review the of the costs for prescribed medication, AUArts Students’ Association. It covers information under the heading ambulances and private facilities at approximately 80 percent of “CLINICS”. hospitals. prescription costs, dentist check-ups, some chiropractic care, naturopathic Prescribed medication cannot be Q How do I register with AHCIP? care, acupuncture and massage purchased without a doctor’s written A You can get the registration forms therapy. During New Students’ order. Both prescribed and non- (form # AHC 102) on line at: Orientation you will be given a prescribed medications are available in http://easweb.eas.ualberta.ca/downloa brochure detailing the benefits pharmacies or the wellness d/file/grad/Alberta_Health_Care_Applic provided by this plan. For more department of supermarkets in the ation.pdf information on this plan please contact city. Pharmacists can answer Apply in person - bring all required the AUARTS Students’ Association. questions you might have about documents to the following address: medication. There is a pharmacy close Main Floor Campus Health Services to AUARTS at the North Hill Centre. 727 - 7 Ave. SW Health services are provided through Calgary, Alberta the SAIT Campus Health Office Q What services are covered by For inquiry, phone: 403.297.6411 located at the east end of the Senator AHCIP? , room R41. A AHCIP pays for services provided Apply by mail - send all required Call 403.284.8666 to book by physicians (doctors) and oral documents to the following address: an appointment. 8 | P a g e

Off-Campus Emergencies attendants, police officers or Emergencies are health problems firefighters. that require immediate care – such as a broken arm or a heart attack. On-Campus Accidents and Some hospitals have become Emergencies community health centres and may In the unlikely circumstance that you not have emergency departments. are involved in an accident of any kind Should an emergency arise, dial 9-1-1 on campus, contact AUArts Security and the emergency medical staff will immediately. A comprehensive dispatch an ambulance or, if Accident Program in effect covers all appropriate, they will direct you to the students at AUArts for the current nearest emergency department. school year. Hospital expenses, including meals and a bed in a ward are paid by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan. Emergency unit doctors and nurses are on duty 24 hours a day. Ambulance costs are not paid by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (see Health and Wellness website for details), however, payment is not required at the time of the trip and no one will be refused ambulance service if he / she cannot afford to pay. Individuals are sent a bill afterwards. Except in emergency situations, no one is admitted to hospital as an in- patient unless referred by a physician. Hospital addresses are listed under “HOSPITALS” in the Yellow Pages telephone directory. Do not call the 9-1-1 emergency number unless your situation requires the immediate attention of ambulance 9 | P a g e

Originally founded by the British and A booming economy along with the French, Canada’s laws, excellent transportation links enables Welcome to Canada. government structures and common Calgary to continue to rank as customs have been influenced by the Canada’s fastest growing city with a Canada is the second largest country first European settlers. Canada also population quickly surpassing one in the world, covering six time zones uses the metric system which means million. Our city’s youthful energy can and stretching from the Pacific Ocean that automobile speed limits are be attributed to having the youngest in the west to the Atlantic Ocean in the posted in kilometers per hour and and most highly educated residents of east and to the Arctic Ocean in the temperatures are recorded in Celsius. all Canadian cities. And because north. Smoking cigarettes is prohibited in Calgarians are of diverse heritage, many public areas and, in Alberta, the you’ll enjoy a rich variety of cultures, Canada became an independent consumption of alcoholic beverages is cuisines, religions and celebrations. It’s nation in 1867 and currently has a legal only for persons over 18 years of a wonderful blend of urban energy population of over 32 million people. age. Canada also has its own currency, with a good dose of the outdoors Canada has a greater mix of people the Canadian Dollar (CAD), and you thrown In. Live opera and theatre, from different backgrounds than can exchange foreign currency at the international festivals, some of the almost any other place on earth. We’re Calgary International Airport or at other finest restaurants anywhere – proud of our multicultural backgrounds banks and financial agencies. Although Calgary has the best of big-city living and we celebrate this diversity. you’ll hear many languages throughout with the Rocky Mountains at our the city, English is the most commonly doorstep. spoken language in Alberta, and it is the language of all instruction at Just a short drive and you can be AUArts. in the wide open prairies, the canyons of Drumheller or Banff National Park – skiing, hiking, cycling or just enjoying CALGARY: WHAT TO EXPECT the charms of the town. For more information visit these Living in Calgary online resources. Known for its western hospitality, www.travelalberta.com entrepreneurial spirit, clean air and big www.calgaryplus.ca blue skies, Calgary is one of Canada’s www.tourismcalgary.com most dynamic and prosperous cities. www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.c om

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In the summer temperatures can soar need only be shown to a Calgary Getting Here to over 30 degrees Celsius, and in the Transit representative upon request. Positioned at the junction of Canada’s winter temperatures can fall below -20 Failure to produce proof of payment major east-west national TransCanada degrees Celsius. can result in a fine. highway and Alberta’s primary north- If you want to hire a cab, phone south highway, the Queen Elizabeth II, Getting Around numbers are listed in the Yellow Pages Calgary is easily accessed from all Calgary is a big city, but getting from phone directory under the heading directions. The city is also a major place to place is relatively easy. Many “TAXICABS.” transportation hub for both rail and air people own and drive cars, but many It is necessary to phone a taxi for travel. Just 17 kilometers from the others carpool, cycle, walk or use service, unless you are downtown (you downtown, the Calgary International public transportation. may wave or flag down a taxi in the Airport serves 27 airlines with direct With over 35 stations, including one city centre). Cash or major credit cards flights to many North American, right at AUArts’ door, Calgary’s light rail are accepted for taxicab fare which is European and Asian cities. For more C-Train makes travel throughout the calculated by a time meter. The driver information regarding airport city quick and convenient. When you will expect a tip of 10% to 15%, based schedules and services visit pay your AUArts tuition and fees, your on the fare shown on the meter. www.calgaryairport.com AUArts ID card will become your transit pass for the period of study allowing Streets + Avenues Weather for unlimited travel on Finding where you’re going in Calgary Canada is a northern nation, but it’s buses and trains. and locating a specific address is easy not cold and snowy here all the time. City and transit maps are available when you know the system, but it can Calgary enjoys more days of sunshine from the Calgary Convention and be confusing for visitors and per year than any other major Visitors Bureau located at 9th Avenue newcomers. The city is neatly divided Canadian city and benefits from its and . The bureau is open into four quadrants: position just east of the Rocky 8 am to 8 pm, seven days a week. Pick North West Mountains. The mountains can cause up a free “Get Around Guide” or North East weather to change quickly and we individual bus schedule for further South West often experience chinooks (warm details. Phone 403.263.8510 for more South East mountain winds) in the winter. Our information or visit the Calgary Transit The quadrants are included at the end climate is also quite dry because the website at www.calgarytransit.com for of every address as NW, NE, SE, or mountains, which push moist Pacific extensive schedule and fare SW. coast air upward, allowing the majority information. The downtown core is mostly in the of rain and snow to fall in the Tickets can be purchased at all C- SW quadrant. Centre Street divides mountains to our west. Train platforms and proof of payment the east and west, and Centre Avenue 11 | P a g e

divides the north and south (this line Calgary International Airport For more information, location and continues along River and Home is just a short flight away. hours of operation please Memorial Drive NE). The Calgary International Airport offers see http://calgarypubliclibrary.com “Streets” run north-south, and convenient connections to cities “avenues” run east-west. across North America, Europe and Banking Most of Calgary’s streets Asia. The airport is served by 27 When you arrive in Calgary, you will and avenues are numbered beginning airlines and accommodates over 10 probably want to have a small amount at Centre and Centre. Those closest million passengers a year. For more of Canadian money with you. Or you to the core have the lowest numbers. information, please visit can visit the currency exchange www.calgaryairport.com service at the airport to exchange your local currency to Canadian funds upon Keeping Connected to Home Sending / Receiving Mail + Packages arrival. Some stores and services may If it’s your first time away from home You may also enjoy sending letters accept US currency but probably not for an extended period, you might feel and postcards or receiving packages at a competitive exchange rate. a little homesick for your family and from home. As a branch of the friends until you’re settled. There are Canadian government, Canada Post Opening a Bank Account many convenient, economical and fun provides many postal related services You will need to open a bank account ways that you can keep in touch with including letter and parcel delivery, after arrival in order to cash your bank your family and friends. courier services, post office box rental drafts or to deposit any cheques. and money orders. Financial institutions in Calgary include Email + Instant Messaging www.canadapost.ca banks, trust companies and credit When you become an AUARTS unions. Having a branch office located student, you’ll automatically receive The Calgary Public Library near your housing can be very your own AUArts email account and If keeping informed about news and convenient. have access to general-use events at home is important, you may These are the four major banks computers in our library and computer wish to access the services of the closest to AUArts: labs making communication with your Calgary Public Library. Foreign Bank of Montreal (www4.bmo.com) family and friends by email and Instant language newspapers, magazines, Closest location to AUARTS: 410 - 10 Messaging easy and convenient. books and tapes are available in the Street NW Calgary is one of the most wired Humanities Section of the WR Castell CIBC - Canadian Imperial Bank of regions in North America and many Central Library. For more information Commerce (www.cibc.com) coffee shops and lounges also offer on how to obtain free access/free Closest location to AUARTS: wireless networks that can be library card please contact AUArts 2015 - 16 Avenue NW accessed with a laptop. Luke Lindoe Library, at: 403.284.7631 12 | P a g e

Royal Bank of Canada account withdrawals to pay for students so you should do some (www.royalbank.com) purchases. ATM / Bank machines can research and make some plans before Closest location to AUARTS: be commonly found at bank branches, arriving in the city. 417 - 10 Street NW shopping malls, restaurants, pubs and Toronto Dominion Bank public entertainment venues. Service SAIT Polytechnic Residence (www.tdcanadatrust.com) fees can be applied to your account in (SAIT Campus) Closest location to AUARTS: addition to the amount of the cash The SAIT Residence is conveniently Inside the North Hill Centre withdrawn if you use a privately located in the northeast corner of the There are also private check cashing operated ATM or an ATM managed by SAIT campus and accommodates 456 services in Calgary but such services a different banking institution. To avoid students. The units are fully furnished can be expensive and should be additional service charges you should and available in one bedroom or four avoided and used only in emergencies. try to use ATMs operated by the bedroom suites. The facilities are Listings of financial institutions and banking institution that holds your equipped with common area study their addresses can be found in the bank account. lounges, vending, laundry facilities, Yellow Pages telephone directory. 24-hour security, IP phone with free Phone the bank to confirm the Accommodations local calling and free high-speed services and operating hours, since AUArts recommends that during your internet access. For more detailed these can vary. first year of study you make information including rates, floor plans, accommodation arrangements with and residence life, etc. please visit Carrying Cash SAIT Residence - until you have a On Campus Housing at It is uncommon in Canada to carry a good sense of what Calgary has to www.sait.ca/residence lot of cash; most people choose to offer. There are a number of housing or call 403.284.8013. carry debit and credit cards as an options available for students coming Other accommodation arrangements alternative. It is not easy for to AUArts. can be made by consulting off- international visitors to obtain credit campus housing: cards in Canada, so you will usually We offer on-campus housing through http://www.rentboard.ca/rentals/index. pay by cash, debit card or cheque. SAIT Polytechnic (located on the same aspx?locid=110 When paying with cheques, it is campus as AUArts), and there are or necessary to show identification, such plenty of other options including http://calgary.kijiji.ca/f-housing- as an International Driving Permit apartments, shared accommodations apartments-for-rent-W0QQCatIdZ37 or passport. Cash can be withdrawn and basement suites in the or directly from ATM / Bank machines. neighborhoods surrounding AUArts. http://calgary.en.craigslist.ca/apa/ Many stores and restaurants will also Finding suitable housing may be the and accept your debit card for instant first concern for most international http://www.lowcostrent.org/ 13 | P a g e

Culture, Entertainment Details and schedules are available at Calgary Folk Music Festival + Recreation the Student Activities Centre Office www.calgaryfolkfest.com A balanced lifestyle that includes in the Campus Centre, V205. Artcity: Art, Architecture & Design study, exercise and social activities is The Gateway Lounge (SAIT Campus www.art-city.ca important. Outside the classroom, Centre) The Gateway, the only on- Calgary International Film Festival you’ll find that Calgary offers plenty to campus lounge, is located on the main www.calgaryfilm.com discover and enjoy including live level of the Campus Centre. It offers Wordfest theatre, art galleries, restaurants, live music events, 8-ball pool, darts, a www.wordfest.com cycling, skiing and more. large-screen TV, and several small High Performance Rodeo screen TVs. Drop by and check it out! www.oyr.org On-Campus Athletic Facilities For information on Calgary Parks and Playrites (SAIT Campus Centre) various programs offered by the City www.atplive.com Located on the SAIT Campus, the of Calgary you can consult: C-Jazz Campus Centre offers excellent http://www.calgary.ca/portal/server.pt? www.calgaryjazz.com athletic and physical recreation facilities, conference meeting rooms, Provincial Parks Provincial parks are Sports Calgary offers great and a 341-seat theatre. Students may much larger than community parks. opportunities for those interested in access SAIT Campus Centre facilities They are designed to protect nature sports. The city is home to the National on presentation of their validated and wildlife as well as provide Hockey League’s Calgary Flames AUArts student ID card. enjoyment for Canadians and hockey team and also the Canadian visitors. For more details consult: Football League’s Calgary Stampeders Athletic facilities include a 35-metre http://www.albertaparks.ca/ football team. There are excellent salt water swimming pool and diving facilities for winter sports, partly as a area, a multi-purpose gymnasium, Calgary cultural activities result of Calgary’s 1988 Winter a hockey rink, four racquetball and Museums, the ballet, the zoo, Olympic Games. Calgarians enjoy four squash courts, a weight training symphony orchestra, theatres, art physical activities of all types including room, an aerobics / dance studio, plus galleries, historical sites, libraries, skating, skiing, jogging, golfing, tennis, men’s and women’s locker and steam operas, and ethno-cultural events. bowling, downhill skiing, rock climbing, rooms. The Campus Centre Throughout the summer months, hiking, swimming, hockey, football, coordinates intramural and open rodeos, fairs, farmers’ markets, soccer baseball and curling. recreational activities, as well as a full outdoor and indoor concerts, program of activity classes and sports celebrations and festivals are clubs. advertised in newspapers and on radio and television shows. 14 | P a g e

MC 107-Heart Building, occupation in Canada. Health + Safety SAIT Campus For information on Off-Campus Work Calgary is a safe place to live and Permits, Post-Graduation Work study. But it is a big city, so it’s Permits and permanent residency important that you are aware of your Employment status in Canada for AUARTS students, surroundings and that you don’t International Students can work while please contact unnecessarily put yourself into studying in Canada. [email protected] situations of risk. You do not require a Work Permit if or call 403.338.5513 working on-campus. Resources: Personal Safety On April 27, 2006 the Canadian http://www.AUArts.ca/international_stu In Calgary, the telephone number for government announced that foreign dents.html emergency services is 9-1-1. You students studying in Canada can should call this number if you are apply for Off-campus Work Permits. involved with, or are witness to, any The work permit is valid for the Post-secondary Life / Expectations medical emergency, crime or fire. The duration of their Study Permit. Post-secondary is more than what 9-1-1 operator will dispatch the happens in the classroom – it’s appropriate public safety or medical In order to be eligible for the program, important to find a healthy balance personnel immediately. foreign students must have a valid that includes study, social activities Study Permit, and they must have and relaxation. When you enter AUArts Campus Safewalk studied full-time at an eligible public, you’ll be treated as an adult and will Safewalk offers a free service provided post-secondary institution for at least enjoy the freedom of making decisions by SAIT Students’ Association to all six months out of the 12 months with the awareness of their associated students, faculty, and guests to both preceding their application. responsibilities. You will be expected SAIT and AUArts campuses. Whether Foreign students must also maintain to familiarize yourself with the general you need a walk to your car, your an acceptable AUArtsemic standing. information contained in the AUArts apartment, or the nearby mall, the Acceptable AUArtsemic standing, as Calendar and adhere to Post- Safewalk program will make sure you defined by Alberta Post-secondary of secondary regulations and policies. get to where you are going safely Art + Design, is a status of “Clear You can consult AUArtsemic Calendar anywhere within a 10 block Standing” for the most recent at: http://AUArts.ab.ca/calendar.html radius around campus. Call Campus AUArtsemic term. Safewalk at (403) 284-SAFE (7233). Safewalk Hours of Service: An Off-Campus Work Permit will be AUArts Students’ Association Monday to Friday valid to match your Study Permit and Governed by executive officers and 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm be open for any employer and any the Students’ Legislative Council (SLC), 15 | P a g e

the Alberta University of the Arts community, helping with Student if you have any questions or concerns. Students’ Association (AUARTSSA) Resource Centre workshops, manages the affairs of the student and assisting with Convocation. B Review admissions information body and serves as the students’ For more information on volunteer + pay the confirmation deposit official liaison with other groups. opportunities, drop by the Student Refer to your admissions package AUARTSSA provides students with an Life Office or call 403.284.7705. regarding the process for class opportunity to participate on a number registration as AUArts students of Post-secondary committees and to Attendance register for classes online (on a first- exhibit their work in the student-run At AUArts instructors will treat you as come first-served basis) well in Marion Nicoll Gallery. an adult and it is your responsibility advance of the first day of classes. To to attend classes and complete your avoid disappointment, please ensure AUARTSSA organizes the biannual assignments. Attendance represents that you are aware of the registration student “Show and Sale” of student an important aspect of your success, date and that you have access to a work, plus social events. The on- and in some classes attendance is networked computer at that time. campus cafeteria and your extended incorporated into your mark. Long health care plan are also under the periods of unreported absence may C Gather your documents direction of AUARTSSA cause you to be in violation of your Make sure you pack all necessary Student Authorization / Study Permit. documents including: Volunteer Opportunities Tardiness (coming to class late) is Letter of Acceptance issued by AUArts AUArts Student Resource Centre and considered an aspect of attendance. Your Passport Admissions provide volunteer Student Authorization / Study Permit opportunities within AUArts Student Temporary Resident Visa (If necessary) Resource Centre. Volunteering CHECKLIST #1 / English Translation of school provides the experience needed to Before You Leave Home certificates, diplomas, compete effectively in today’s job Before you leave home there are some or other AUArtsemic transcripts market, and is an excellent opportunity important things you should do. As Goods list ** to be more involved in the AUArts your classes draw closer and Airline Ticket community. excitement builds, it’s easy to forget Special medical information you may Some volunteer activities include important steps – so the following need participation in the AUArts Awards checklist will be helpful. * Make sure that the spelling and order Show, serving as tour guides for of your name is consistent on all AUArts’ Open House and weekly A Read this guide documents public tours, offering peer tutoring and Review this International Student ** A list of expensive goods you are support, representing AUArts in the Guide and let us know bringing into Canada (e.g. computer 16 | P a g e

equipment, cameras, jewelry, electrical to connect with other new and Once in Calgary, make certain that you appliances, and also any medication) returning international students. Your contact Student Resource Centre and It is a good idea to make photocopies fellow international students know let us know that you’ve arrived. We’re of these important documents to be exactly what you’re going through and always excited to put a face to a left at home, just in case you should can offer valuable insight, advice and name, so visit Student Resource lose the originals. friendship. Centre and introduce yourself. We can then assist you with any immediate D Arrange for short term E Register for the Alberta Health Care questions or concerns you may have. accommodations. Insurance Plan. Ensure that you have arranged It’s important that you register for the B Open a bank account. accommodations for your first few plan upon your arrival in Calgary so Paying for products and services will nights in Calgary if you have not that your coverage is ready should be more convenient if your funds are already found a place to live or are not you need it. drawn from a local bank account. For able to move immediately to your more information refer to section three accommodations upon arrival. There F Have a great semester! of this Guide. are many hotels in Calgary and several Enjoy your studies and the near our campus that can provide experiences that come with post- C Attend orientation events. economical accommodations while secondary life. If you need any New Students’ Orientation and the you locate long term assistance or have questions later on, Annual AUArts International accommodations. always feel welcome to visit us in Student Lunch + Reception will provide Hampton Inn & Suites – Northwest Student Resource Centre so that we you with an opportunity to learn more 2231 Banff Trail NW can offer assistance or refer you to the about the post-secondary. Phone: 403.289.9800 appropriate staff or services. www.hamptoncalgary.com Holiday Inn Express CHECKLIST #2 / Welcome to AUARTS! 2227 Banff Trail NW Upon Your Arrival Phone: 1.888.276.8666 Establishing yourself in a new city can If you have any questions or any http://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/ be a bit overwhelming for anyone. The issues, please contact: hotels/us/en/calgary/yyccg/hoteldetail following checklist will help ensure that [email protected] Econolodge Motel Village your first days and months in Calgary or call: 403.338.5513. 2440 – 16 Avenue NW are enjoyable and without stress. Av Phone: 403.289.2561 www.econolodgecalgary.com A Drop by AUArts and meet us.

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