Attending Durham College has been an enriching journey. Initially nervous as a mature student, I quickly found my place thanks to the incredible support from the college. The transition for me, from the workforce back to school, was rather smooth. Whenever I faced challenges—whether in my career path, with difficult assignments, or navigating immigration matters—Durham College was there for me. The online workshops were particularly helpful; I gained valuable knowledge about finding housing, managing taxes, and extending my study permit. The professors in my program were not just accommodating but also approachable, meeting student needs effectively. Moreover, attending workshops led by industry professionals further enriched my practical learning experience. The diverse student community provided ample opportunities for cultural exchange, broadening my understanding of various backgrounds and lifestyles. Additionally, I had the privilege of working on campus with the International Education Office first under the Summer Employment program and then as a work-study student. I also got to complete my placement with them, where I gained valuable insights. Lisa Sequeira Student from India Interactive Media Design HOUSING From the outset, I knew my decision to study in Canada was going to be demanding. However, Durham College has made me feel at home away from home, an educational journey of unparalleled significance. One of the standout features of the College is its eminent faculty. The professors are not exclusively educators; they are mentors, guides, and experts in their fields. Their passion for teaching is evident in every lecture and interaction, providing a holistic understanding of the subjects. The college fosters an environment where intellectual curiosity knows no bounds. In addition to classroom experiences, Durham College provides a wealth of resources to support academic growth that has been instrumental in my academic life. The unwavering support and encouragement from the international student advisory office whenever I reached out, is incredibly valuable. I have been offered valuable advice, guided and reassured that my education is a priority for the college. OWEN JIE International Student from Uganda Supply Chain & Operations Finding a place to live is a top priority when starting your academic journey in Canada, and we understand the search for a home away from home can be intimidating or confusing. Fortunately, at Durham College and in Durham Region, there is a wide range of housing options available to suit every budget and lifestyle. By using the resources and advice below you will have a detailed guide on finding your future home in Canada! Note: For new international students arriving in Canada, the International Education Office can assist you with your arrival at the airport. You can explore arrival packages available to you by registering through Arrival Services. View the Housing guide TYPES OF HOUSING ON-CAMPUS RESIDENCE Durham College residences are located on the Oshawa and Whitby campuses, and are open to all students. All rooms include: Internet access; Cable TV; On-site laundry; Bi-weekly housekeeping services; Twenty-four-hour security; Common lounges and games rooms; and Evening events for you and your new friends. OFF-CAMPUS RESIDENCE These residences are run by private companies, are available only to students and are located near the Oshawa campus. Foundry 1805 – Located on Simcoe Street, just a short walk from the Oshawa campus. These are un-furnished or furnished units, with laundry located on every floor, and group or quiet study spaces. (Requires a 12-month lease.) Foundry Simcoe – Directly across the street from the Oshawa campus. There are three-bedroom and five-bedroom suites available. Each room has its own bathroom. Kitchen, and living space is shared. Bi-monthly cleaning service. Utilities are extra – automatically split between tenants and bill sent directly by Varsity. Apply online or visit a model unit at their showroom. (Requires a lease term of September to August.) 17Hundred – Five-minute walk from the Oshawa campus on Simcoe Street. There are two- to five-bedroom apartments available (Depending on the move-in date, the lease term varies). These are furnished or unfurnished units that include: Wi-Fi/Internet; Group and private study spaces; Yoga room; Theatre room; and Recreation room with billiards, foosball and ping pong. HOMESTAY Homestay places students in Canadian homes with families. There are a variety of options for types of stay, ranging from just a room to full room and board with three meals per day. Options come furnished or unfurnished. Unfurnished student accommodations are very common, so it is important to clarify if you require furniture. Interested students can apply through Canada Homestay Network. OFF-CAMPUS APARTMENTS If you are looking to find an apartment within the Durham Region then the following websites cater to a wide range of budgets: Walk Score Rent Seeker Gottarent ViewIt Kijiji Padmapper Places 4 Students – Oshawa campus Places 4 Students – Whitby campus Airbnb (short-term stay) OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER If you are thinking about renting an apartment, here are some questions you should ask: How much is the rent per month? Does the rent include utilities like electricity, water, cable or Internet? Is the heat centrally controlled? Is smoking allowed? Do you require first- and last-month’s rent or security deposit? When is the move-in date? What furnishings and appliances are included? What day is rent due and how do you pay? (Cheque, email, money transfer, etc.) Is there laundry on site? Does it cost extra? How to pay for it? Where does the mail go? Who maintains the driveway/path when it snows? Are garbage and recycle bins provided? Where do they go? TIP! Try to make several appointments on one day, so that you can compare your options. STARTING THE SEARCH FOR ACCOMMODATIONS When looking for a place to live, you should ask yourself the following questions. Should I live by myself or with roommates? What things can I live without and what things do I absolutely need? (For example, can I live without laundry on site?) What is the maximum amount per month I can afford to pay in rent, including utilities (heat, electricity, water)? By answering these questions, you can create your search parameters and set initial expectations for your future home. During your search you can expect: To look at more than one place; To have to make an appointment to view an accommodation; To go on a tour with other potential tenants; and To receive an application to take home with you. When you find an accommodation you like, you will likely have to fill out an application. Applications will often ask for: Your previous addresses; The contact information of your current landlord and your current address; The contact information of your current employer and your employment history; and Your Social Insurance Number, which is needed to perform a credit check. Your Social Insurance Number is personal information that should be protected. If you do not feel comfortable sharing this information or are not sure if you should provide it, you can speak to someone in the International Education office for advice. Once you have applied and it has been approved, you will likely have to sign a lease. Leases are important for many reasons: They protect you legally under the Landlord Tenant Act; They establish the responsibilities of the landlord as well as the tenant; and They act as a contract guaranteeing the cost of rent per month and how long you may live in that accommodation. Some things to note about leases: You should not expect to be able to negotiate the cost of the rent; and In most instances, once you have lived somewhere for 12 months on a lease, you can go month-to-month under the same conditions as on the lease. Speak to the International Education office or Service Oshawa for more information. TIME TO MOVE IN: SETTING EXPECTATIONS FOR YOUR NEW Once you have signed your lease and agreed to the terms with your landlord, you will be able to move into your new home. There will be some adjustments to the new living situation. When settling in, here are some points to keep in mind: Your landlord is expected to maintain the property so that it is safe and functional, but it is not their responsibility to make aesthetic changes for you that were not previously agreed to. For example, paint the walls a different colour; Your landlord may need to enter the unit or send in maintenance staff. Once you have officially moved in, the landlord is required to give you 24 hours’ notice before entering the apartment; and Your landlord must ensure the apartment has working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Your landlord is not allowed to take any of your personal belongings, including luggage or personal documents, like passports. Students often choose to live with roommates or housemates. If this is your situation, remember: You may be sharing living spaces, like the kitchen or bathrooms; You are entitled to respect and privacy, as are any other people living in the same unit. This includes from the landlord; and You do not have to share a bedroom or bed without your consent or prior knowledge. PAYMENTS It is important to have a record of your rent payments. Common ways to pay are: E-transfer (email money transfer, EMT) – you can send monthly payments using a banking website or app. Most banks do not charge a fee for EMTs and you will have an electronic record of the payment; Cheque – you are able to post-date your cheques and they provide a paper record of paying rent; and Cash – cash is insecure and untraceable, and there is no guaranteed record of payment. If you pay cash, you must get a receipt. SCAM ALERT We always encourage students to view every potential accommodation before agreeing to pay money or sign a lease. Paying rent with gift cards is never a good idea. COMMUNITY INSIGHTS City of Oshawa Living in Whitby City of Pickering Community Links Town of Ajax Disclaimer The online housing listings information has been submitted by individuals not associated with Durham College.The accommodations listed have not been inspected by Durham College and the college makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information posted, the worthiness of the landlord or the suitability of the accommodation for student use. Durham College assumes no responsibility in regard to any lease made with the landlord or any arrangements made by students sharing the accommodation. Students are advised to meet with the owner and inspect the premises before signing a lease. Further, students seeking housing in the area immediately surrounding the Durham College campus (view map) [PDF – 199 KB] should ensure prospective landlords have current licences, according to the City of Oshawa By-Law 20-2008 [PDF – 545 KB] regarding Residential Rental Housing Licensing. Contact the International Education office if you have any questions regarding housing or are having issues with your landlord. HEALTH INSURANCE AND HEALTH CARE Arriving at Durham College from another country was a big leap, but it quickly felt like the right decision. The college's welcoming atmosphere and the array of support groups helped ease the transition, making it less overwhelming. It was comforting to meet others who were also navigating this new chapter in their lives. Every event, every interaction at DC, added to a sense of community that's hard to find elsewhere. Durham College isn't just about academics; it's about people coming together, making it not just a great institution, but a genuinely supportive environment. For anyone considering DC, I can honestly say it's a place where you'll find more than just education – you'll find a community that understands and supports you. Mauricio Escalante Biotechnology Advanced program International student from El Salvador As an international student in Canada, you have access to health insurance. If you ever fall ill or get into an accident and need medical aid, you will be covered for most services. Durham College international students have two types of health insurance and you will have a health benefits card to use at the doctor, pharmacy or dentist office. INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL PLAN The International Student Health Plan provides basic (primary) health insurance to cover expenses like: Doctor’s visits Emergency Room Visits / Hospitalization X-rays & Lab Tests Emergency Surgery Pregnancy & Maternity Early Arrival Coverage: This plan provides up to 30 days of coverage prior to the start of your semester if you arrive to Canada early. For example, August 1st for students who begin in September and December 1st for students who begin in January. DRUG & DENTAL PLAN The Drug & Dental Plan provides supplemental health insurance benefits to cover expenses like: Prescription Medication Dental Care (Exams, Cleanings, X-rays, Fillings, Extractions) Vision Care including Eye Exams, Glasses, Contact Lenses Mental Health Counselling Paramedical (Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy and more) Travel Accidents MENTAL WELLNESS The DCSA in partnership with Student VIP provides all students with free counselling support 24/7 through the I.M. Well program. Students are encouraged to download the Student VIP mobile app to connect with a counsellor by live-chat or telephone. ASSISTANCE & SUPPORT For more information about your health insurance, connect with Durham College Student Association. For coverage information, to add family to your plan or to live-chat with a Student VIP agent, please visit www.studentvip.ca/DCSA WORKING IN CANADA WORK PART-TIME To be able to work in Canada, you must be enrolled full-time and have a valid study permit with specific wording on your study permit that allows you to work. You will also need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This can be obtained at a Service Canada location. The SIN does not authorize you to work; it allows you to be paid. All you need to know about finding a part time job in Canada. ON-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT You can work on campus! As an international student, you can work on campus as part of iWorks, a program that provides international students with opportunities for part-time employment. Find out more information, how to apply and the eligibility criteria here. To search and apply for jobs, go to the Hired Portal at hired.durhamcollege.ca. OFF-CAMPUS EMPLOYMENT You can work off-campus! As an international student, you can work up to 24 hours per week off campus without a work permit, if you meet all of these requirements: Hold a valid study permit that includes a condition saying you can work off campus; Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN); Full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI) (Durham College is a DLI); Enrolled in a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program; Currently studying; Study program is at least six months long, and leads to a degree, diploma or certificate. For more information on working while studying, read our handout and visit the Career Development office. STAY AND WORK IN CANADA If you plan to remain in Canada to work, you may wish to apply for a Post- Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). A PGWP is a document that gives you permission to remain in Canada and work full‐time for up to three years (depending on the length of your program) after you graduate from a Canadian post‐secondary institution. You need to have completed all requirements to graduate from a program of at least eight months’ duration to be eligible. For information about applying for a PGWP, visit the IRCC PGWP website. At Durham College, my educational and professional journey has been a comprehensive blend of academics, work, and volunteerism, weaving together experiences that foster growth and community engagement. As a student progressing through a Graduate Certificate in Project Management after completing a foundation in Data Analytics, I've sharpened my skills in data analysis, project management, and strategic planning. Volunteering with ISL has enabled me to practically apply these skills, notably in guiding new students. In my role as an International Activities and Social Media Assistant, I've devised content strategies and helped organizing events that boost student engagement, effectively using the competencies developed through my studies and volunteer efforts. The international department's support, my active participation in diverse on-campus events, and my dedication to volunteerism have significantly enriched my college experience, collectively preparing me for future challenges and underscoring my readiness to make a meaningful impact. Komalpreet Kaur Chauhan Student from India, Project Management and Data Analytics for Business Decision Making Work-while-studying.pdf Renew Your Study Permit - Updated in 202502 (1).pdf (6.5 x 9.5 in) GRADUATION When I initially arrived in Canada, I was filled with uncertainties regarding the rules and regulations for off-campus work. My first course of action was to contact the International Student Services at Durham College. They proved to be an invaluable resource, offering me comprehensive guidance that effectively resolved my doubts. What made the experience even more remarkable was the exceptional patience they exhibited, especially considering that my situation was somewhat unique. I want to extend a special acknowledgment to Dandan Shi, who went above and beyond to assist me by presenting a range of options tailored to my specific needs. The team's swift and informative responses played a crucial role in putting my anxieties to rest and ensuring that I remained fully compliant with all off-campus working restrictions. I can't express enough gratitude for the expertise and support I received from this exceptional team. Kushal Nishad Cloud Computing ARE YOU GRADUATING? CONGRATULATIONS! When you are in your last semester, you will need to apply to graduate through MyDC. Please see here for more information. After your semester is finished and your final marks are in the system, Enrolment Services will make sure that you have all of the courses you need to graduate. This process takes 4 – 6 weeks from the date your marks are submitted to Enrolment Services. Once this verification is done, you will receive a Verification of Graduation Letter in your MyDC, under Student Records. If you plan to apply for a PGWP, you will need this letter to include in your application. Please read our PGWP-Handout. Invite-your-relatives-or-friends-to-visit-you-in-Canada.pdf TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL OPTIONS TRANSFERS & PROGRAM PROGRAM CHANGES If you have decided that you want to attend a different program than the one you have been accepted into at Durham College, you should do it as soon as possible as it depends on seat availability and your admissibility into that program. Programs can fill up weeks or months before the start date. You can email contact us with your name, student number and the program you’d like to change to. TRANSFERRING TO ANOTHER INSTITUTION Refunds will be processed only if you will be attending an institution in the same semester as you were accepted to attend Durham. In addition, the program level must be the same or higher (for example, post-graduate to post-graduate or post- secondary to post-graduate). A valid offer letter from the institution indicating the start date of studies will be required. Durham will not approve tuition refund for a first semester to transfer to the following Partner Institutions – Algonquin College Cambrian and Hanson International Canadore and Stanford International Centennial College Conestoga College Fanshawe College Fleming College Georgian College Lambton, Queen’s College of Business Loyalist College Niagara College Northern College and Pures College Sault College St. Lawrence St. Clair WITHDRAWALS AND REFUNDS International students must complete the International Withdrawal Request Form to request a withdrawal/refund. REFUND INFORMATION Please view our refund policy and procedure. International students must complete the International Withdrawal Request form to request a withdrawal/refund. For detailed information on withdrawals & refunds, please see information found on MyDC. INTAKE DEFERRALS Please see information found on MyDC. TAX INFORMATION INCOME TAX In Canada, completing an income tax form and sending it to the government is referred to as ‘filing a tax return’. You must file a tax return if you: Earned income from employment (on-campus and/or off-campus) Received a scholarship/bursary while in Canada. In Canada, income tax is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The Canadian income tax year is from January 1 to December 31. By filing your tax return, students are often eligible for a refund if you have had any of the following income or expenses during the tax year: Rent expenses for off-campus housing Hourly pay Scholarships/bursaries Tuition (T2202 and T4A tax forms from Durham College are available to download as of the last business day of February at 4 p.m. for the previous year – i.e. 2024 T2202 tax forms will be available as of 4 p.m. on February 28, 2025) INCOME TAX DEADLINE The tax year in Canada is from January 1 to December 31. Income tax forms must be completed and submitted by April 30 of the following year. For example, you must mail your completed tax forms for the 2021 tax year (January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021) by April 30, 2022. Information about filing a tax return as an international student in Canada can be found on the Canada Revenue Agency’s website. SOCIAL INSURANCE NUMBER To submit your income tax form, you must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). To apply for a SIN, you must have a study permit which includes a condition or remark to work on and/or off campus. RESOURCES If you have any questions about your T2202 please contact Enrolment Services. HOW TO FILE YOUR TAXES ONLINE NETFILE is an electronic tax-filing option allowing you to file your income tax directly to the Canada Revenue Agency online. Tax returns filed via NETFILE must first be prepared using a NETFILE-certified product you can find on their website. BY PAPER Find the forms you need to submit your tax return by paper. TAX CLINICS Generally, students may access support on campus or from the community for free filing options. These resources have been impacted due to COVID-19 concerns and may have been cancelled or postponed. Please visit About Free Tax Clinics for more information regarding the resources available in your community. Some independent businesses that offer tax filing services for a fee are still open by appointment only. A Google search for ‘tax clinics’ in your area will provide you with more information about these businesses. Please call them directly for more information. VISAS & PERMITS I am incredibly grateful to the International Student Advisors (ISAs) for their invaluable support throughout my college years at Durham College as an international student from Thailand. From the very beginning, the ISAs have been there for me, offering unwavering assistance and guidance. One particular memory that stands out was the time I arrived in Canada for the first time during COVID. The ISAs played a crucial role in helping me acclimate to a new country and provided essential support during quarantine. Being an international student often entails managing a multitude of documents, which can be overwhelming. However, with the ISAs consistent support, I was able to navigate through numerous challenging situations and ensure my documents were in order. The ISAs’ dedication and expertise has been instrumental in making my journey smoother. I wholeheartedly recommend that fellow students never hesitate to reach out to an ISA for assistance with any challenges they may encounter. Remember, you are not alone— ISAs are always there to lend a helping hand. Thank you, ISAs, for your invaluable support and for making my college experience truly memorable. Skye (Bajika) Damrongwattanasuk International student from Thailand ENTERING CANADA To attend Durham College, you need a valid study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You must keep track of all of your immigration documentation expiry dates, including your study permit and passport expiry dates, to maintain your immigration status. It is your responsibility to ensure your documents remain valid during your studies in Canada. TRV or eTA Most students attending Durham College will need a TRV to enter Canada; some students will need an eTA to enter Canada. You can find out which one you need here http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp WHAT IS A TRV? A TRV or Temporary Entry Visa is a stamp, sticker or a counterfoil that is affixed to your passport. The expiry date on the TRV indicates the deadline date that you must enter Canada. You may need to apply for a new TRV if you are traveling to another country (except the United States) and need to re‐enter Canada. See our TRV handout for more information, including how to renew your TRV. STUDYING IN CANADA You must hold a valid study permit to study at Durham College if your program is more than 6 months in length. You can work off campus if you are registered as a full-time student at Durham College, and you have a condition on your study permit that authorizes working off campus. Your Study Permit needs to remain valid while you are studying in Canada. See our Renew Your Study Permit handout for more information. CO-OP/PLACEMENT/INTERNSHIPS DURING STUDIES CO-OP WORK PERMIT If your program has a co-op or placement or internship, you need to have a co-op work permit. You are required to have a co-op work permit before you start your work term. Read more about working as a co-op/placement/internship student here. If you were not issued a co-op work permit when you received your study permit, please visit the International Education office for a letter you will need to apply for a co-op work permit. You can then apply online on the IRCC website Check here to see if your program has co-op. To check if your program has a field placement or internship, review the program webpage. For further information, including detailed information on how to apply, read our Co-op Work Permit handout. POST-GRADUATION WORK PERMIT If you plan to remain in Canada to work, you may wish to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). A Post‐Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a document that gives you permission to remain in Canada and work full‐time for up to three years (depending on the length of your program) after you graduate from a Canadian post‐secondary institution. You need to have completed all requirements to graduate from a program of at least eight months’ duration to be eligible. For information about applying for a PGWP, read our PGWP-Handout.
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