PrintableStudying in Canada
We are here to support you, so if you have problems or difficulties adjusting to life in Canada or in Canadian classrooms, be sure to ask us for help. Welcome to Vancouver Island University!
What new ESL students to VIU English Language Centre need to know about…
Your first week at VIU:
You will meet:
- Your home-stay parents or new roommates as you move into your new house, residence or apartment
- New friends, classmates and peer helpers during Orientation activities
- Your new teachers and advisors during Orientation and Language Assessment
You will learn:
- How to adapt to your new surroundings
- How to safely get around Nanaimo and the campus
- How to get study help and become an active learner
- What Canadian classrooms are like
- What program is the best choice for you - Academic Preparation Programs or Communications Programs
Your language skills will be assessed:
- Teachers will give you 3 tests:
- Computer test for reading and grammar skills
- Oral interview to see how well you speak and listen
- Writing test to see how well you can write in English
- Teams of teachers look at all your test results
- Teachers place you in the level where you will be successful
- Class lists will be posted and you will know which level and section you are in
Your second week at VIU:
You will begin classes:
- Now you meet your new teachers and new classmates
- Course outlines will give you important information
- You will go to the bookstore and buy the required materials
- Teachers will come and explain the Learning Centres and other support services that are available to you
- You will begin to learn the study skills which lead to success
The first days for Academic Students at VIU
Studying in a foreign institution is a challenging and rewarding educational experience. At Vancouver Island University International Student Advisors (ISAs) are available to provide international students with the support necessary for a successful study experience.
Advisors provide:
- information and advice about programs and courses
- help with class scheduling
- guidance about career goals and objectives
- information about study permit renewals, visas, working in Canada and medical insurance
- workshops to help students adapt to life in Canada
- personal advising
- referrals to VIU and community resources
It will be helpful if you can be in Nanaimo a week before your classes start. This will give you time to adjust to the new environment. In the meantime, if you want to start preparing for university, you can read the study skills online.
Don't forget to attend Orientation. Depending on which program you are in, you may need to attend several Orientation sessions as different topics will be addressed in separate sessions.
Please do not make any return travel plans until you know your final exam schedule.
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