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For University of Manitoba
Students Travelling Abroad For University of Manitoba
Students Travelling Abroad Prepared by the International Centre for Students 2009 Table of Contents

Chapter One: General Travel Advice
Your Responsibilities Understanding & Accepting Your Responsibilities Acknowledgement of Responsibility & Liability Waiver Out of Country Program Checklist Immigration Matters Canadian Passports Work, Study, or Visitor Visas Permanent Residents in Canada Registering with a Canadian Consular Office Financial Concerns Financing and Student Loans Money Matters & Banking Overseas Before You Travel While You Are Away After You Return to Canada Mental Health: Coping with Homesickness Personal Safety Matters Avoiding Injuries Precautions Against Theft Avoiding Assault, Harassment, Stalking, Etc. Emergency Response Health Insurance Property Insurance Travel Arrangements Getting to Your Destination Getting Around In Your Host Country Communicating While You're Abroad Computing Matters Documents You Should Have: A Checklist Cross-Cultural Adjustment Preparing To Live Cross-Culturally Understanding Your Own Culture Adjusting to Your Host Culture Dealing Effectively with Culture Shock Dr. Drewe's Tips for Surviving & Thriving Cross Culturally
Chapter Two: UM Student Exchange Details
Before you Leave Application to Your Host University and Acceptance Process Course Selection & Letter of Permission Tuition & Student Fee Payment Applying for Residence Registering for Courses While At Your Host Institution Settling In: Accommodations & Airport Pick-Up Settling In: Campus Orientation Connecting to Host & Home Exchange Offices Course Confirmation Adjusting to a New Academic System Transcripts and Grade Transfers Things to Do Before You Leave Acknowledgement of Responsibility and Liability Waiver Out of Country Program Checklist for University of Manitoba Students Personal Budget Sheet – Study Abroad List of Possible Funding Sources for UM Exchange Programs Abroad Permission to View Student Loan Documents: Manitoba Student Aid Important Questions to Ask About Insurance Policies List of Foreign Diplomatic Web Sites for Canadian Students to Obtain Work or Study Visas 61 Information in Case of Emergency Introduction
WHO Should Read This Handbook?
If you are a registered University of Manitoba student who is planning to go abroad in the near future,
then this booklet is for you! It doesn't matter what you are planning to do overseas, why you are going, or where. If you are traveling outside of Canada, then you will find useful information here to help your travel plans succeed. WHY Should You Read This Guide?
International travel is an exciting opportunity to learn about and experience the world. It will prob-
ably change your life! The UM offers this service to assist you in your preparations to help make your overseas experience safe, healthy and full of positive learning experiences. While stepping outside of familiar territory can be extremely rewarding, it also requires you to discover new ways of handling everyday life. This inevitably puts you at risk. But risk, in and of itself, shouldn't be a deterrent to new experiences. What risk should do is motivate you to be well prepared, informed and ready to meet the challenges that will come your way. Reading through this Guide in detail (not just "skimming") will bring you a long way towards being prepared to take the risk—and the opportunity!—of going HOW Should You Read This Guide?
This handbook is broken down into many different sections. You will need to decide, as you read
through, which are the pages that will apply directly to you and your travel plans, and how you will best use them to prepare yourself adequately. As the information becomes specific to different types of overseas programs and/or situations, you will be able to choose the information that you will need Please keep in mind that if you have any questions that are not answered by this paper, you are always welcome to call the UM International Centre for Students (474-8501) and our staff will do our best to assist your unique situation.
Bon Voyage!

There are many, many questions that come to mind when preparing to live in another country for any length of time. How well you handle each of these challenges will likely depend a great deal on how well you have prepared yourself by thinking ahead.
Do you have a picture in your mind of what it will be lenges will likely depend a great deal on how well you like living abroad? Does this picture include how you have prepared yourself by thinking ahead. We have tried will be getting to your destination? What happens at to make your task easier and more effective by pulling the immigration checkpoints? How will you travel from together common information that is required for over- the airport? Where will you stay? Whom will you meet? seas living. We cannot emphasize enough the impor- What language will you be speaking? What will you tance of preparing yourself well before traveling.
be wearing? Where/what will you eat? Let's talk about some of the less obvious things…What happens if you The Pre-Departure handbook is divided into two larger get sick while abroad? Or are in an accident? What kind sections. Chapter One deals with preparation items and
of political unrest may occur in the area? Do you know advice that would apply to anyone going overseas, re- what is expected of you in terms of gender relationships? gardless of the type of experience they will have abroad. How will you cope with homesickness? Chapter Two will address the academic and administra-
There are many, many questions that come to mind tive concerns of students participating in a University when preparing to live in another country for any of Manitoba Exchange Program or students studying length of time. How well you handle each of these chal- independently abroad who wish to transfer credit back

decided to go abr necessar experience questions y requir you ahead, ST
plenty Tim
institution or emplo to Understanding & Accepting
UM file before you go abroad. (See Acknowledgment of Responsibility and Liability Waiver, p. 51).
The University of Manitoba is delighted that you have Out of Country Program Checklist
decided to broaden your experience and understanding through an educational experience abroad! One of our Part of accepting the responsibility outlined in the goals for our students is to help you become a world Acknowledgement of Responsibility and Liability Waiver citizen… and what better way to do this than by actually is knowing what your responsibilities are. As a general living in another country? rule, you are ultimately responsible for ensuring your own personal safety and well-being. You are also responsible, Opportunities are accompanied by responsibility. for as much as it is in your power to do so, to ensure the Ultimately, you are the best person to ensure that your safety and well-being of those traveling with you. experience abroad is safe, enjoyable and a positive learning experience. Ask questions, be informed, and don't rely on The Out of Country Program Checklist summarizes other people to do things for you unless you are clear that your areas of responsibility and the actions you should be they are prepared and willing to do so. taking to ensure a successful experience overseas. Reading through this list will help you in your preparation, but If you are participating in a program directly administered it should not replace going through a thorough pre- by the UM, you will need to sign an Acknowledgement departure orientation. (See Out of Country Program
of Responsibility and Liability Waiver before you are Checklist p. 52).
able to participate in the program. The waiver tells us (the UM) that you understand and accept your responsibilities Once you have read through the Checklist, you may want for your overseas program and hopefully clarifies these for to print it off for future reference. Take a copy with you you. (The responsibilities are summarized in the Overseas when you go overseas and keep it handy. Review it every Program Checklist). so often to make sure you are still "on top of things" that you are responsible to do. After reviewing the Checklist, Acknowledgement of Responsibility &
please proceed to the next section.
The Acknowledgement of Responsibility and Liability
Waiver is a legal document wherein you waive your
right to sue the University of Manitoba for problems, losses or injuries you may experience during or after the experience abroad. You must read the contract Acknowledgement of Responsibility and Liability Waiver carefully and make sure that your program coordinator has been given a signed, dated and witnessed copy of the form for your Centre, Commercial Level 2, 200 Promenade du Portage, Hull, PQ, J8X 4B7 • Processing times are posted on the internet and may be subject to change.
• For complete instructions and information on Citizenship is your primary level of personal identification supporting documentation, please see the passport when traveling to other countries. You must learn to see web site: http://www.ppt.gc.ca yourself first and foremost as a citizen of the country in which you were born, or of the country that you have Work, Study, or Visitor Visas
legally adopted. As a Canadian citizen, you have certain rights, privileges and responsibilities while you are living abroad. Do not assume that just because you were born The type of visa that you will require for entering here that you fully understand what these are. Make sure another country depends on your purpose for going you do a little research on Canada's history, politics and to that country, your length of stay, and that country's immigration requirements before going abroad… it will immigration requirements. Please check directly with likely prove helpful in your experience overseas.
your host country's Canadian embassy or consulate for details on how to apply for the appropriate visa. As visa You also cannot assume that other people will recognize requirements can change regularly, it is wise to request all your citizenship without documentation. A passport is visa information directly from the embassy/consulate just your primary means of identifying who you are outside of prior to submitting your application.
Canada. Be sure to apply for a passport well in advance of leaving the country. You will need your passport in order Visas are subject to fees set by the issuing consular office. to apply for and obtain other necessary travel documents, These can vary greatly. Keep in mind that you may be so this should be the first item that you take care of.
required to travel to another province to obtain your Other immigration matters that you will need to address are visas and registering with the Canadian embassy For a list of consulates and embassies in Canada see: abroad. Please review each of these sections carefully and http://webapps.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/Protocol/main-en.asp or follow-up on the recommended actions to take.

Canadian Passports
Permanent Residents in Canada
• You may obtain a Canadian passport if: As of December 31, 2003, Canadian permanent residents a) You were born in Canada and can provide a are required to have a Permanent Resident Card when Canadian birth certificate, or returning to Canada by commercial carrier (airplane, b) You can provide a certificate of Canadian boat, train or bus). The Permanent Resident Card replaces the paper IMM 1000 Record of Landing document and • Persons 16 years of age or older must apply for an will be the official proof of status document for Canadian adult passport, at a fee of $87.00. permanent residents. A permanent resident is someone • Passport applications can be picked up at any travel who has been allowed to enter Canada as an immigrant, agent, or downloaded from the Internet at: http:// but who has not become a Canadian citizen.
www.ppt.gc.ca • You may apply in person by taking your completed Existing permanent residents must be in Canada to application to the Passport Office at 400-433 apply for the Permanent Resident Card. Application Main Street (SE corner of Main and Bannatyne); and information kits are available on Citizenship and Hours 8:00 am to 4:00 pm; or you may send your Immigration Canada's Web site at http://www.cic.gc.ca or contact the call centre at 1-888-242-2100. The Passport Office, Ottawa ON, K1A 0G3, or b) By courier to: the Passport Office, Place due

Registering with a
UM International Students
Canadian Consular Office
For international students going abroad on a UM sponsored To find a list of Canadian consular offices abroad, visit: or sanctioned program (such as student exchange, travel study course, international field trip, etc…), please Click on the button (bottom right of page) that says note that the University of Manitoba cannot ensure "ROCA Registration of Canadians Abroad." (or, go direct or influence the granting of immigration documents required to enter and study in another country. You will need to contact both your home country's consulate or The Department of Foreign Affairs Canada (FAC) offers a embassy in Canada regarding your current status here registration service for Canadians who expect to be living in Canada, as well as your host country's consular office in a foreign country or are already living in a foreign regarding the requirements for entry and study that apply country for three months or more. Canadians spending to you. Also, don't forget to contact Canada Immigration less than three months visiting areas and countries with (CIC) to ensure that you meet all re-entry requirements potential for problems, or a developing crisis, should for your return to Canada.
also register. Please consult the Country Travel Reports at http://www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/intro-en.asp for country International students who are participating in an exchange program are not eligible for the off-campus work program for international students. For work permit The service is provided in the event there is a need to eligibility requirements please see the Off-Campus Work contact Canadians to offer urgent advice during a natural Permit Coordinator at the UM International Centre for disaster or civil unrest, or of a family emergency at home. Students Office, 541 University Centre.
The registration is voluntary and personal information provided on the registration form is protected and used in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act.
The service is offered for all countries. Financing your time abroad is a practical consideration that you need to address as early as possible. Consider The Department of Foreign Affairs and International carefully your sources of income and/or funding. Will Trade advises that if you register before your arrival to a any of these be jeopardized by your term abroad (i.e. foreign country, you must attend the Canadian Embassy / scholarships, bursaries, student loans)? How does the Office responsible for the country upon arrival to activate cost of living in your host country compare to Canada? your registration. Information on Canadian Government What is the currency exchange rate? Do you plan to work Offices in foreign countries can be found at: while you are abroad? If so, what kind of work visa or job qualifications do you require? view_client-en.asp (See also Documents Checklist p. 35) Take a few minutes to write out a personal budget for yourself. You may want to do this after you have read the following section on "Financing and Student Loans" so that you are aware of possible external sources of funding for which you could apply. To help you get started, there is a simple budget form for you to use (see Personal Budget Sheet p.56). Feel free to modify it to suit your needs.
If you are going abroad to study, be aware that some countries require a bank statement showing sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay in their country. Check with your host country's consulate or your host institution regarding their requirements. financing and Student loans
Awards office in setting up the terms of payment from Manitoba Student Aid.) Depending what you will be doing overseas, your length • Check to see if your host institution is willing to of stay, and your own personal qualifications, you may accept payment from Manitoba Student Aid, or be eligible to receive funding towards your experience whether you will need to pay cash up front and then be abroad (see List of Possible Funding Sources for UM reimbursed by Student Aid. (Exchange participants: Exchange Programs Abroad p. 58). For students studying in an approved designated 2) PERSONAL AFFAIRS institution, you are eligible to apply for a government student loan. [See their web pages for detailed information: Be sure to give a trusted family member or friend "power of attorney" over your personal affairs, or en.html]. For a list of approved institutions abroad contact submit a "permission to view" form to Manitoba Manitoba Student Aid [http://www.gov.mb.ca/educate/sfa/ Student Aid (see Permission to View Student Loan pages/institutions_en.html] (Phone: 945-6321). If your Documents p.59).
host institution is not on the pre-approved list, you may make an application to have it approved by Manitoba • "Permission to view" allows the person listed to access Student Aid by submitting a paper application. Allow information on your behalf.
additional time for this process. For students studying • "Power of attorney" allows them to negotiate the abroad on a UM exchange program, your institution of Canada Student Loan and Manitoba Student Loan study is "University of Manitoba," which has already pre- on your behalf.
approved by Manitoba Student Aid. • Having someone in Winnipeg to do this work for you greatly simplifies the student loan process and If you intend to apply for a Canada or Manitoba Student can allow you to obtain your student loan funding Loan, please review the following pages for some helpful more efficiently.
advice on filling out your application.
• Without your written consent (either through power of attorney or permission to view), Manitoba USING STUDENT LOANS FOR STUDYING AbROAD Student Aid is unable to give out any information or documentation pertaining to your student loan Three very important words of advice to keep in mind when applying for a student loan are: • If you wish, you may photocopy the suggested "Permission to View" form from the handbook, or just write this information on a separate piece of paper and give it to the Manitoba Student Aid Office at • It may take up to four months to complete the 409-1181 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0T3, assessment of your application if forms are missing, etc., so apply early. • The ‘Power of attorney' form for the Canadian • Remember that your host institution must sign the Student Loan is available at www.canlearn.ca. The student loan document after you have registered for ‘Power of attorney' form for Manitoba Student Loans classes so make sure you have sufficient funds to get is available at www.manitobastudentaid.ca.
you through your first month of school (min.).
• Remember that if you are applying your student 3) bE PREPARED FOR A CRISIS loan towards a study abroad experience that is not an exchange, it will take longer to process your You won't be certain of your student loan approval until after you start classes. What will you do if you • Check to see if your host institution is willing to receive less student aid funding than you were hoping defer fee payment until the student loan funding is for? Do you have any alternate source of funding secured. (Exchange participants: your student loan that you can use in the event that you are unable to will go towards paying UM tuition fees, therefore receive some or all of the student aid for which you you will need to deal with UM Financial Aid and

POINTS THAT bEAR SPECIAL CONSIDERATION 1. You will not receive your second disbursement of REGARDING STUDENT LOANS: 2. If you apply for student aid again in the future, • Remember that the student aid funding you will you will receive a warning receive will be calculated as if you were studying in 3. It will have a negative financial impact on any Canada. No special consideration will be given to an future application for student aid increased cost of living in your host country or to 4. You will be required to start repaying your student your significant travel costs.
loan 6 months from the date of your withdrawal • Part-time students (taking less than 60% of normal from your study program full-time course load) are still eligible for Canada • You may apply for Manitoba Student Aid from Student loans. The amount of aid awarded will be anywhere in the world using the on-line application considerably less than that given to full-time students system located on the Manitoba Student Aid web site and payments towards loan debt are required at: www.studentaid.gov.mb.ca throughout the year, while attending classes.
• When submitting an application for student aid from • Co-op students are still eligible for student loans abroad, please note that it is your responsibility to during their co-op work terms.
pay for courier fees. (Another reason why it's a good • Whenever a break between classes lasts longer than idea to give power of attorney or permission to view three weeks, you will be required to submit another, authority to a person in Winnipeg.) separate student loan application for the next study • If participating in a University of Manitoba student period. For this reason it is wise to check your class exchange program, you would deal directly with schedule at the host institution before you leave, UM Financial Aid and Awards office for all items so that you are prepared to file another student aid pertaining to your student aid application. If studying application if necessary. As long as the break between abroad independently, you would deal directly with classes does not exceed three weeks, you may apply the Manitoba Student Aid office: for student aid funding at any time of year, for the entire length of time you will be studying abroad. Manitoba Student Aid (i.e. Students going to Australia for their academic 409 - 1181 Portage Ave.
year can apply to Manitoba Student Aid for funding from February right through to November.) • If you withdraw from your study program abroad
prior to the end of your study period, you will need
to keep in mind the following consequences regarding your student aid funding: • Please remember to send updated mailing address and contact information to the Manitoba Student machine will give you the amount in local currency. Money Matters & Banking Overseas
This will be translated into the equivalent Canadian funds at your bank at home, using the currency It is important to keep your bank informed of your travel exchange rate for the day on which the transaction plans and ask them to advise you specifically on the kind of service they can provide or they can recommend regarding your travels abroad. A few general pieces of 2) Traveler's Cheques advice are offered here, but you should still check with your bank branch to see how their procedures may differ • Benefits: Easily recognized and accepted in most from the information given here. This information has places worldwide, can be used like cash for making been collected from the Canadian Imperial Bank of miscellaneous purchases (i.e. food, souvenirs, etc.) Commerce, but any one of the five major Canadian banks replaceable (i.e. if lost or stolen can have replacements (CIBC, Bank of Montreal, Royal Bank, Scotiabank, sent out to you).
Toronto Dominion) should offer the same or similar • Drawbacks: Not accepted in some places, will be services. Services of other banks (credit unions, PC charged a fee for purchasing traveler's cheques banks, etc.) can vary considerably so be sure to check (approximately 1 to 2% of total amount purchased) with a service representative if you bank at one of these and often charged an additional fee for cashing them (usually a flat fee).
• Traveler's cheques can be purchased in several different OPTIONS FOR ACCESSING YOUR MONEY FROM 3) Personal Money Order or Bank Draft 1) Cash/ ATM Machines • Benefits: Large dollar values can be carried safely for • Benefits: Cash is a convenient, versatile way to deposit in your host country abroad, replaceable if purchase and/or pay for pretty much any expense lost or stolen.
overseas. It is always a good idea to carry at least a • Drawbacks: Can be difficult to negotiate into readily small amount of cash with you in case other methods available currency in your destination country. You of payment are not accepted. would need to open a bank account in your host • Drawbacks: Cash is susceptible to theft and cannot country and deposit the PMO or Bank Draft into be replaced. If you carry large amounts of cash, it can this account. The bank in your host country may pose a personal safety risk for you.
place a "hold funds" on your account for a significant • US Dollars (USD) are recognized and accepted for amount of time (up to 2 to 4 weeks). exchange pretty much anywhere in the world. • Be prepared to pay a fee for either a PMO or Bank • You are able to order the local currency of your host country through your bank in Canada prior to going overseas. Make sure that you allow a minimum of 4) Wire Transfer of Funds one (1) week for it to be ordered in from the central bank. Having local currency with you is a good idea, • Benefits: Large dollar values can be transferred especially for purchasing transportation from the directly from Canadian bank to your account in the airport to your place of lodging, paying any airport bank in your host country; Secure way to transfer terminal tax, etc.
money; Funds are immediately available for use.
• To check availability of your bank's ATM machines in • Drawbacks: Cost for wire transfers is substantial, your host country, call the telephone banking service making it an illogical choice for small amounts of number on the back of your ATM card (or look in money. Currently fees for wire transfers are around the phone book under your bank's listing). May need the $30.00 mark.
to have four-digit password for cards.
• Someone at the sending branch (i.e. your parents or • Remember, when you are withdrawing funds through someone to whom you have given power of attorney an ATM machine in your host country abroad, the over your account) must initiate the transaction.
GeneRAl AdvICe And BAnkInG TIpS
• Benefits: Easily recognized and accepted in most 1) Set up a "Power of Attorney" status for a person whom you places worldwide, can be used like cash for making trust to allow them to access your account information miscellaneous purchases (i.e. food, souvenirs, etc.) and make transactions on your behalf. Alternatively, you replaceable, secure could open a joint account with a person whom you trust where you would both have equal access rights to the • Drawbacks: Not accepted in some places, can be funds in that account.
susceptible to fraud, user fees charged (depending on • There is no cost for this procedure. Simply call your your credit provider).
bank and tell them you would like to do this. Set up an • Remember, when using your credit card abroad, your appointment with a service representative and go together credit card company will translate your purchase into with the person to whom you are giving Power of Attorney. Canadian funds based on the exchange rate on the Be sure that both of you bring sufficient I.D. (picture ID, day that the transaction goes through.
plus one other).
• Credit cards can be a good "safeguard" in case of an • If you have someone who can conduct banking transactions for you back in Manitoba, you will have a much easier • It's a good idea to have someone back home have time accessing your funds and taking care of your financial access to your account so that they are able to make responsibilities from abroad.
• The Power of Attorney set up through the bank only deposits to your credit card covers information pertaining to your bank accounts at • Most (if not all) major banks will issue a student that financial institution. If you want to set up a Power of credit card if you are able to show a bit of income Attorney for someone to handle all of your personal legal from a part-time or summer job. Remember to apply affairs, you would need to see a lawyer or notary public.
for a credit card well in advance of your trip abroad so that you can demonstrate earnings. Credit card 2) Notify both your bank and your credit card company (if applications will take approximately two weeks to applicable) of your travel plans. Both banks and credit card companies may block transactions if they notice • Applying for a credit as a student can be a good idea, something unusual happening with your accounts in order since the card is easier to get while you're a student, to prevent fraud and theft. If they would suddenly notice it builds your credit rating (important for later on a withdrawal on your funds from a different continent they may suspect foul play and put a block on any further in life), and it gives you the opportunity to begin withdrawals. If they know that you will be traveling, budgeting your credit account with a smaller credit they will not take action to block funds if they notice withdrawals occurring from your destination country.
• An alternative to having your own credit card would be to ask a parent or other trusted person to apply to 3) Inquire at your bank about on-line banking options. have you listed as an authorized user on their credit Most banks in Canada now offer access to accounts and card. There is no additional fee for this, but the banking information through the Internet. Through cardholder is responsible for all purchases (including secure web pages, you are able to pay bills and monitor yours) that are charged to that card.
your accounts. If you do not currently have web-access • Be sure to keep a list of all toll free "hotline" numbers to your bank account, you would need to apply for this for accessing your credit card account/ company in service ahead of time, prior to leaving the country. Check with your bank about their policy/procedure. This same the event that your card is lost or stolen.
service is also generally available for credit cards. Check with your credit card company about how to gain access to your account on-line.
4) On-line currency converters: XE Converter: www.xe.com/ucc

Don't forget to file your Canadian income tax! As a the new location. A full explanation of your eligibility Canadian citizen with residential ties to Canada, you are to claim moving expenses is included with the T1-M tax still required to pay income tax and file your tax claim by form you will need to complete in order to claim these the April 30th deadline. "Residential ties" apply to you deductions. You may request the T1-M form from the if your permanent home address is in Canada, if your Canadian Customs and Revenue Agency by calling spouse or common-law partner and dependents stay in 1-800-959-2221, or download it from their site at: http:// Canada while you're abroad, or if your personal property www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca/forms/.
(i.e. car, furniture, etc.) remains in Canada while you're As a student you are eligible for further income tax abroad (other ties can include a Canadian driver's deductions by claiming the tuition and education license, Canadian bank accounts and Canadian health amounts for the year of your study abroad. Complete a insurance). For further information about determining Schedule 11, "Federal Tuition and Education Amounts". your residential status while abroad consult the Canadian If you are an exchange student, paying tuition fees to Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) brochure the University of Manitoba, you will receive a Form "Canadian Residents Abroad" or visit their web site at: T2202A from the UM to attach to this Schedule. If you are studying abroad outside of the exchange program, you will need to ask your host University to complete If you are a full-time student (taking at least 60% course and give you Form TL11A, "Tuition Fees Certificate— load) you are eligible to claim moving expenses to your University Outside Canada." Further details on eligible new home abroad as a deduction on your Canadian claims and deductions for Students can be found in the income tax. However, you can only deduct these expenses CCRA booklet, "Students and Income Tax." from award income (scholarships, fellowships, bursaries, prizes and research grants). You can also deduct moving For Canadians moving to a country abroad and wishing expenses if you moved to take a job, including summer to claim non-resident status for the purpose of Canadian employment, or to start a business. However, you can income tax, be sure to read carefully the CCRA booklet, only deduct these expenses from income you earned at "Canadian Residents Abroad." In particular this booklet lists countries (approximately 75 of them) with whom Canada has signed a tax treaty. Tax treaties are designed to avoid double taxation for those who would otherwise have to pay tax in two countries on the same income. Again to order this publication, call 1-800-959-2221, or visit the CCRA web site at: http://www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca/

It is very important that you do everything possible both before you leave Canada, and while you are away, to both ensure and maintain your good health. This brief overview will provide an outline of what you will need to consider prior to and during your travels.
Staying healthy overseas can "make or break" the overall outcome of your time abroad. Obviously, you will want to stay as healthy, strong and active as possible. Don't assume that you will stay healthy without taking active steps towards maintaining good health. Be proactive, be informed and develop habits and activities that lead to a healthy, safe lifestyle.
This section on Health Matters has been written by Dr. Wade Glew, Director of the University Health Service of the University of Manitoba. Updates provided by Dr. Gary Podolsky of Skylark Medical Clinic.
Before You Travel
HEALTH INSURANCE: As obtaining medical care can be very expensive outside Canada, it is important to know exactly what health insur- Travelers may visit a travel health clinic although ance you have before you travel and what benefits your services are not covered by Provincial health plans but health plan will provide when you travel abroad. Part of may be covered by private insurance policies.
ensuring a healthy and safe experience abroad is being pre- pared when things go wrong. Be sure to carefully review the When attending a travel clinic bring the following section on health insurance abroad (see Insurance p. 24).
information: your past immunization and medical his- tory, where you plan to visit, how long you plan to be OTHeR THinGS TO COnSideR:
there, what activities (work and pleasure) you plan to pursue, what kind of accommodation you will be stay- ing in and whether you plan to travel in rural, urban, ‰ Have an eye examination and take an extra pair of glasses/ contact lenses as well as your eyeglass prescription. Don't or both areas. Having as much information about forget your sunglasses for protection from ultraviolet light.
your trip will help the doctor know what issues are most important to discuss.
‰ Take some first aid supplies.
A travel clinic will determine the need for immuniza- ‰ Have a medical alert bracelet if you have allergies or tions or medications to keep travelers healthy based on significant medical illness.
an individualized review of that traveler's medical his- ‰ Be sure to take any medications necessary (in their original tory, allergies, prior immunizations, and planned trip. containers) and a note from your doctor confirming your Travel doctors will advise on how to prevent illnesses need to carry your medications.
as well as administer appropriate immunizations. A physician may also prescribe medications to prevent ‰ Optional medications and supplies, which your travel diseases (Chemoprophylaxis). health physician can discuss with you, include (often very expensive abroad): sunscreen, insect repellant (with The choice of antimalarial medication recommended DEET), anti-diarrhea pills (Imodium), anti-nausea pills will depend on that areas known malaria resistance, (gravol etc.), allergy medications, ant-acids, pain relievers, individual past experiences with antimalarials, costs, antibiotics and condoms.
medication side effects, and known outbreaks of ma- ‰ Take a copy of your personal medical history for your Other medications to prevent altitude illnesses, sea ‰ Take a supply of sterile syringes if you plan to travel to sickness, and the prompt treatment of diarrhea are also ‰ Learn how to indicate you have chronic illness or allergies in the languages of the countries you plan to travel within. Travel clinics will also see sick returned travelers, Carry an epi-pen if you have severe allergies.
although it is better to emphasize ways to stay healthy pre-trip than to see people sick after they return.
‰ Know the political/civil climate (war, terrorism etc.) of the country you plan to visit. Most recent updates can For a list of Travel Health Clinics in Manitoba see be obtained from the Department of Foreign Affairs and www.istm.org. This website will also locate travel clin- International Trade (www.voyage.gc.ca).
ics in other countries if you need help abroad.
‰ For females, menstrual hygiene products may be difficult to obtain; be prepared to carry your own depending on your destination. Will you need to be prepared for urinary tract infections or yeast infections? Discuss these with your doctor.
Any food can be a source of disease so it is important to be prudent (but not paranoid) about where you eat. Eating in restaurants with open kitchens, using fresh in- gredients and well-cooked food greatly helps.
While You Are Away
Washing you hands with soap and water before eating is one of the most important ways to avoid traveler's diar- The most common reason for medical illness and death rhea! in travelers is trauma. The main causes are motor vehicle accidents, fire, sporting and other outdoor injuries, and TRAvELER'S DIARRHEA: violent theft. All of these means of trauma are increased with the addition of alcohol and other drugs. You can do Many people do develop diarrhea while traveling but it a lot toward ensuring your health abroad by staying alert, will generally resolve on its own after a couple of days. avoiding high-risk activities and being cautious with al- The best way to avoid traveler's diarrhea is to pay strict attention to the food and water precautions outlined above. Should you develop diarrhea, drink lots of water or rehydration fluids (available as pre-packaged powders (ORS- oral rehydration salts) in most countries, or take Another major cause of illness (i.e. diarrhea, hepatitis) a supply with you).
while traveling includes contaminated food and water. Here are some precautions that you should take to mini- There are well done studies that show that taking 2 tab- mize your exposure when traveling in countries where lets of pepto bismo four times per day decreases the in- food and water contamination is a know problem.
cidence of traveler's diarrhea by 65%! Travelers may try this on short trips of up to 3 weeks length. Pepto bismo Water: in areas of questionable water purity, beverages, will also give a black tongue and black stools. Immo- which are safe, include: boiled drinks such as tea or cof- dium may also be used to relieve symptoms.
fee, carbonated drinks from unopened bottles or cans, beer and wine. Any other water may be contaminated There is no well proven evidence to date that yoghurt so do not use ice and wipe the surface of drink contain- protects against travelers diarrhea but it does no harm ers dry. Do not brush your teeth with tap water. When to try this.
necessary to use local water, boil for a few minutes, or use disinfection tablets, or water filters.
There is no effective traveler's diarrhea vaccine yet, al- though one product (Dukoral) makes that claim. Studies Food: all raw foods including fruits, vegetables, and meet have shown it 7-20% effective against travelers diarrhea! may be contaminated. Foods generally safe include raw fruits that can be peeled as well as all freshly cooked Doctors may prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic (such foods. Be aware that inadequately cooked foods are not as ciprofloxacin or azithromycin) with specific instruc- safe. Avoid ice cream and unpasteurized dairy products. tions on how to take these. If your diarrhea is associated Fish (including shellfish) may be toxic even after cooked. with severe abdominal cramps, fever, blood, or dehydra- Avoid food with flies on it.
tion you should seek medical attention.
DISEASES FROM INSECTS: Be aware that the sharing or use of non-sterile needles and syringes (for medical or recreational drug use) can Insects such as mosquitoes and ticks, carry a wide range result in the transmission of both AIDS and Hepatitis of disease in many countries. Many of these illnesses are B ,C & D. Presently 2 vaccines exist to protect against caused by viruses, which are not curable with antibiot- sexually transmitted diseases: vaccines against hepatitis ics and most have no effective vaccines to prevent the B, and Gardasil the vaccine against human papilloma illness. Some cannot be vaccinated against but can be treated with antibiotics. The use of latex condoms and latex dental dams (for oral Basic precautions should be taken to avoid insect bites sex) can significantly reduce (though not eliminate) these since many of these diseases are not vaccine preventable illnesses. Remember that outside of developed countries, and not easy to treat. both condoms and birth control pills can be very difficult to obtain so you should carry your own supply. The only Insect Precautions: guaranteed protection though is abstinence.
• Use insect repellent with DEET • Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when many (but not all) insects are most active • Use mosquito netting at night All medical and dental procedures as well as acupuncture, • Use Permethrin* spray on bedding, mosquito nets, piercing, and tattooing have the potential for disease clothing, and hats transmission if non-sterile equipment is used. Try to • Use long sleeved shirts, pants, and shoes with socks avoid receiving blood products/transfusions of any kind rather than sandals.
unless advised that it is absolutely necessary. Diseases that could be transmitted from any of these procedures Permethrin* is a natural insecticide made from Chrysanthemum include AIDS and Hepatitis. In addition, complicated flowers and will either kill insects or stun them. It is safe to use and wound infections can result from tattooing, piercing, may be sprayed on clothing to deter ticks, mosquitoes and other and acupuncture.
biting insects.
FURTHER INFORMATION: Other insect born diseases, which can be prevented by medication or vaccination, include Malaria, Yellow Fever, Leptosporosis, and Japanese Encephalitis. You • Centre for Disease Control: a site that includes an should discuss with your doctor whether or not these abundance of information on travel and other health diseases are of concern in the areas that you plan to visit.
issues. www.cdc.gov • International association for medical assistance for travelers: includes up to date travel information as well as a worldwide listing of English speaking doc- Be aware that sunburn, heatstroke, hypothermia, high tors. www.iamat.org altitude and frostbite can all result in significant medical • Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has information consequences. Ensure that you have adequate clothing, on outbreaks and detailed discussion on diseases www.
a hat, sunglasses, and that you use sunscreen regularly. Adequate hydration is essential under both warm and • Canadian Government, Department of Foreign Af- cold weather conditions so drink plenty of fluids.
fairs and International Trade: a site for up to date travel warnings and advisories. www.voyage.gc.ca SExUAL ACTIvITY & DRUG USE: • Winnipeg's Skylark Travel Health Clinic has informa- Sexual activity (both heterosexual and homosexual) can tion on prevention of diseases www.skylarkmedical- result in the transmission of many diseases including: clinic.com. Their phone line for travelers 453 9107 AIDS, Hepatitis B & C, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, will inform travelers of the approximate costs for Syphilis, and Genital Warts.
travelers needing immunizations. They will also see returned sick travelers on an urgent basis during office After You Return to Canada
they don't feel so "foreign".
• Try to balance studying with social activities and If you have taken any anti-Malaria medications be sure to physical exercise.
take them for the period prescribed by your doctor after • Ensure you get adequate sleep and nutrition.
you return to Canada. See a physician if you develop • Explore student organizations or groups in which any unusual illness or fever within the first three months you might become involved to create a sense of after your return. Travelers returning from malarious "community" for yourself.
countries who develop fevers must seek medical attention • Keep in touch with people at home but do not over- immediately as malaria can kill people quickly so it must do it, since over dependence can actually increase be diagnosed and treated correctly early. • Use e-mail and letters more than the telephone mental Health: Coping with Homesickness
when contacting people back home since these methods are less likely to foster over dependence.
Just as important as, and often closely related to, physi- • Plan trips back home well in advance, and organize cal health is the concern about mental health. This is a yourself around these dates, which will minimize subtler, harder to define area that can often have enor- the impulse to return home when difficulties arise.
mous consequences if not dealt with appropriately. We • Try to maintain perspective – it took you a lifetime encourage you to treat this topic seriously prior to going to learn how to successfully function in your home abroad, so that you are equipped and prepared to deal environment, so you can't expect to be an instant with problems and potential problems quickly before expert and function at the same level in your new they grow into something more.
• Be active, engaged, and adventurous – you sought This section on Homesickness has been written by Dr. out this new experience, now do your best to make Donald Stewart, Director of the Student Counselling & Career Centre, University of Manitoba. (In many cases • Give yourself some time to adjust, but if home- homesickness is really a form of culture shock so please sickness or other problems persist, find out about see also the section on Cross-Cultural Adjustment, p. professional help from a counselor or a health care facility associated with your place of study.
HOW CAN YOU COPE WITH HOMESICkNESS? See University of Manitoba Student Counselling & Career Centre, 474 University Centre, Tel: 474-8592 for Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that more information on the following topics: homesickness isn't a sickness per se, but represents part of • dealing with Stress
our normal psychological process to adjusting to a new • Routine
environment. For most students, homesickness will be • maintaining Good mental Health
a short-lived, however, homesickness can become more serious. Here are some examples of ways you might cope • Social Relationships
with homesickness: • Time management
• keeping a Journal
• Acknowledge the feelings of homesickness and recognize that they are a natural response to your • Remember that other students are feeling the same way, even if they aren't talking about it.
• Talk about the situation with others, particularly those who have gone successfully through a similar • Bring selected items with you from home to give you a sense of comfort and continuity.
• Familiarize yourself with your new surroundings so injury. To avoid alcohol-related injuries, if you want to drink, drink responsibly.
precautions Against Theft
This section on Personal Safety has been written together If you cannot afford to lose it, do not pack it. Leave ex- with Constable Naomi Green, University of Manitoba pensive jewellery, clothing and equipment at home if you Security Services.
can. These are items that identify a traveler as a good tar- Life involves risk. There is no situation where you can avoid risk altogether. Being safe means being aware of • PICkPOCkETS: A good pickpocket can take valuable your risk and being proactive about how to handle the risk items out of your pockets, bags or purses and you will to the best of your ability. Traveling abroad does increase not have felt a thing. As much as possible, try to avoid your personal safety risks because it removes your famil- crowded areas, which are common venues for pick- iarity with basic support systems and requires you to learn pockets. When you walk through the crowds brushing new behaviour codes. This is part of the overall learning up against people you will likely not feel anyone take experience of going abroad. Being informed of your host your belongings. Be aware of people who attempt to culture/country, and of your personal safety risks within distract you in some way, come close up against you, that country and then exercising appropriate precautions or ask you questions on the street. Maintain your dis- will help to ensure your positive experience abroad.
tance and keep your guard up. If you need to carry money or valuables with you, here are some tips for keeping them safe: • HIGH RISk ACTIvITIES: When traveling within a 1. CARRYING CASH: If you are carrying cash while country you should research your intended destina- traveling, do not store it in one place. Cash should be tion areas, familiarizing yourself with what areas may hidden in several different locations of your lodgings expose you to a higher risk of injury. For instance, if or dispersed among several pockets (better if these are you intend to participate in some adventure activities, hidden pockets) of clothing. This way if at any point find out what the conditions are like, what some of you are pick-pocketed, there is still a good chance that the risks are and consider other travel options if the you did not lose all of your funds. Consider carrying risk is too high. Your best defense against injury is your traveler's cheques in the same manner. • DRIvING A vEHICLE: Driving in some countries can 2. CARRY A FALSE WALLET: A false wallet is an in- be a high-risk activity for injury. This is due to road expensive wallet that should contain minimal funds regulations, local driving habits, road conditions or (funds for the day) and easily replaceable cards or other environmental conditions. Be sure that you do identification. Do not place important documents / some research on driving issues in your host country. ID or cards in this wallet. This wallet can be used for The FAC Travel Advisory Page will often indicate if daily spending and activities. If a pickpocket removes driving within a country can be a risk. [See: http:// it from your person it will not be a major crisis situa- • ALCOHOL: There are many types of alcohol related in- juries, from emotional/psychological injuries (stem- 3. MONEY bELTS: There are several different kinds of ming from regret or fears of one's actions after an money belts made out of varying types of materials. alcohol related incident) to many types of physical The types of belts/pouches are, to name a few, a neck injuries. The average person requires one hour to money pouch, a hidden waist money belt and a hid- break down 1 ounce of alcohol in their system. Other den thigh money belt. Money belts are meant to be factors that can affect the breakdown of alcohol in hidden and should be used to carry important docu- the system are a person's weight, gender, food intake ments/funds/cards. Some travellers recommend that and other drugs. When you are away from home and you wear two money belts (ex: one hidden at the waist the things you know, stay safe and lower your risk of and one hidden at the thigh), so that things can be dispersed among the two and you avoid having an gates several people ahead of you, person #2 is just go- obvious bulkiness under your clothing. If you are us- ing through the gate right in front of you. Like most ing a money belt, do not use it as your regular wallet people you have already put your luggage on the x-ray by pulling funds from it to pay for items, keep the belt and are waiting to be allowed through. However, belt out of sight. Thieves look for these kinds of things the person in front of you (part of the scam team) and if they are aware that you are wearing a money causes the security personnel to have to hold up the belt around your waist, some may attempt to cut the line to clarify some kind of problem, drawing every- belt off of you. You may not notice that it is gone un- one's attention to them. Meanwhile, person #1 has til later. Consider placing documents in a waterproof taken your luggage and left.
document pouch (obtained at travel or luggage stores) before placing it in the money belt. If your passport / To prevent this kind of thing from happening, try to hold documents are damaged by water or perspiration you on to your luggage until the person ahead of you has gone may have difficulties at customs.
through the gate without incident. To ensure that you do not get stopped, do not pack anything that may look sus- • LODGINGS/TRANSPORTATION: Prearrange your picious and when going through the security gate empty lodgings if possible. It is good to know ahead of time all your pockets of any items that may set off the metal so that you can research the area that you will be stay- detectors. ing in, the route that you should take to get to your lodgings and be able to research the types of transpor- 2. On The Street – Be wary of individuals who are eager to tation available. Be sure to book your transportation be your guide, offer a deal that is too good to be true or and lodgings with reliable and accredited companies even get too close to you. Some travellers have reported (check with travel bureau). Some transportation com- about scams where a mother comes to talk to you and panies in particular have a reputation for charging her children run around you. What you don't realize until more than they should or taking tourists on a scenic later is that the children have taken the opportunity to and more costly route that they did not ask for. If you relieve you of some of your belongings.
are staying at a hotel or hostel here are some things to 3. Be Aware – As mentioned above the best way to avoid 1. Do not leave valuables in your room while you are a scam is to keep your guard up and be aware of your sur- away. It is better to leave your valuables in a safety roundings. deposit box or other secure place provided at the hotel for this purpose. • HIGH CRIME AREAS: Do your research about the cit- 2. Do not invite people into your room. ies that you will be visiting. All cities have an area that 3. When away do not use the "Please clean my room" has a higher crime rate or a reputation for being un- sign. This will alert thieves that someone is staying in safe, particularly after dark. Knowledge is your best the room but is not there at the moment. Hotel staff defense, once you have this information you will know should clean your room whether you have that sign to stay out of those areas if possible. If you have to be in those areas, you can try to be out of those areas after dark. Many of the more detailed travel books/guides, • SCAMS: The best way to avoid scams is to stay aware tourist bureaus or consulates will have this informa- of your surroundings, including the people around tion. You could also talk to local people whom you you. There are many types of scams and anyone can trust (your hosts, classmates, friends, or the police) for be a scam artist. You can find information on the In- their opinion and advice.
ternet about scams that are commonly used. FAC and travel web sites are good resources for this informa- tion (Note: FAC may advise travellers of scams in the Travel Advisory Section). Some examples of scams that travellers talk about are: 1. At the Airport – Two or more people working togeth- er at the Security Gates. Person #1 goes through the Avoiding Assault, Harassment, Stalking, etc.
24-hours a day, seven days a week. An experienced officer is always available to respond to emergency calls from • Dress in casual, neutral clothing. If you dress too anywhere in the world. You can access this service in flashy or look too out place you will be targeted as various ways: a tourist and find yourself dealing with harassing 1. Canadian citizens outside Canada can call collect to • Try to fit in with the community, with dress, 2. For calls originating in Canada and the U.S., call mannerisms, behaviours. Some cultures have very 1-800-267-6788 or (613) 944-6788 strong views about what is acceptable behaviour 3. In a number of countries, you can call the Operations in public. This is particularly the case in countries Centre toll free. See the FAC web site (#5 below) for where there are definitive gender roles, and women a list of 60 countries and their toll free numbers in travellers should be aware that in order to avoid harassment they should try to behave in public as the 4. Contact FAC directly via their online e-mail form at: local women behave and/or dress.
• If you are taking in some of the social life and attending 5. You can also reach the Operations Centre by E-mail local bars, clubs, restaurants, etc. Be cautious about accepting food and drink from people. Do not leave 6. FAC Fax: (613) 943-1054 drinks unattended, if you do don't consume it. There are some drugs on the market (illegal and legal) that Remember to keep the UM informed of any changes to when placed in a liquid (beverage) are colourless, your contact information. Complete the "Information in odourless, and tasteless. These drugs can be dangerous Case of Emergencies" form (see p. 63) and give it to your when mixed with alcohol and are often referred to as UM Exchange Coordinator before you go. Leave a copy "Date rape" drugs. of your complete itinerary (addresses of all the places • If there are set curfews in a country, be sure to adhere you will be, dates of your stay, contact number) with a to them. You may be a foreigner and tourist, but you friend or family member (i.e. emergency contact person) are expected to follow the laws and regulations that at home. Make sure the UM has the name and contact are set in place. information of this person. Emergency Response InsuranceIn the event of an emergency overseas, you need to be None of us want to think about the possibility of getting aware of the resources available to you and the appropriate sick or injured or being robbed or any other "worst case lines of action. Your 24-hour access to the UM in cases of scenario." And, chances are, you will be just fine while emergency is either by phone (collect) 1-204-474-9312 you're abroad. However, if something does happen to
or e-mail: [email protected] you, having the proper insurance can keep a bad situation from getting worse. In fact, it can be downright critical Your first course of action, in the event of an emergency to your ability to handle tough circumstances well. The should always be to seek immediate help from local UM urges you to think seriously about your insurance authorities. This includes contacting the program coverage while abroad and to make absolutely sure that
coordinator of your host institution or agency. Note that you are covered adequately for the type of experience in "911" is not necessarily an emergency call number in which you will be participating.
other countries. Upon arrival in your destination country, determine if an emergency call number is available and NOTE: All insurance plans will be deemed null and void if what this is.
you enter an area considered to be a war zone, as specified by the Canadian Dept. of Foreign Affairs. You can check You may also contact the Department of Foreign Affairs this on their web site: www.voyage.gc.ca. Current issues Canada (FAC) for help and advice for your situation. The are also highlighted on the FAC web site.
Operations Centre of Foreign Affairs Canada operates The information in this section on Insurance was put together with assistance from the Campus Insurance Centre and Manitoba Health.
• Prescriptions: Normally Manitoba Health will cover prescriptions issued to a maximum of 100 days. You may request an additional 100 day supply coverage Notify Manitoba Health about your travel plans as soon from Manitoba Health by picking up a letter from as they are confirmed. You can do this by phone (786- their Carlton Street (Wpg.) office and bringing it to 7101 or 1-800-392-1207) or by visiting their office at the pharmacist prior to having the prescription filled 300 Carlton Street in Winnipeg. Manitoba Health will out. Manitoba Health does not cover prescriptions be the first payer on any medical claims you will make purchased outside of Canada, so bringing a large while out of country, so it is imperative that they know enough supply with you for the duration of your stay about your travel plans before you go.
can be a good idea.
• Manitoba Health will cover you for health related • Once Manitoba Health has been notified of your expenses abroad according to what they would plans to go abroad, they will issue a special card that normally pay if the treatment/expense would have you are able to take with you. You must allow two (2) occurred in Manitoba. (i.e. ambulance expenses are weeks for the card to be issued. not covered by Manitoba Health here, therefore they • Additional information on Manitoba Health will not cover them abroad.) This means that if your coverage for persons traveling abroad can be obtained expense is greater in your host country than the same by calling their office at phone: 786-7101 or 1-800- procedure costs in Manitoba, you are responsible for 392-1207 or visiting www.gov.mb.ca/health/mhsip the balance of the funds.
• Manitoba Health does not cover you for: GROUP INSURANCE PLANS 1. The difference between what Manitoba rates Your parents may have coverage that can be extended to are and the actual rate charged for a medical you through a group insurance plan through their place of treatment out of country employment. There can often be a number of limitations 2. The cost of an ambulance or air ambulance through these insurance plans that you will want to know 3. The cost of returning you home if you are medically before you leave. A few questions you could ask are: unable to return by regular transportation • Will coverage extend out of country? 4. The cost to have a family member fly to your • Are there any age restrictions? assistance if you are hospitalized • Are there restrictions on the length of your trip? 5. Extra expenses incurred because you cannot • Are there restrictions on any pre-existing medical return home when planned as a result of • If you are a full-time student while abroad, you are UMSU STUDENT HEALTH & DENTAL INSURANCE PLAN eligible to remain covered by Manitoba Health for the duration of your time overseas. You must confirm As a full-time University of Manitoba student, you will your full-time student status by having the University automatically be charged for the purchase of the UMSU in which you are registered (for exchange students this Student Health & Dental Insurance Plan on your tuition. would be the UM) issue a letter from the registrar's The travel portion of the UMSU plan is for a total of 60 office confirming your full-time status. Or, you may days. If you will be out of the country for more than 60 pick up a form from Manitoba Health, take it with days you have the option of purchasing extra days on you and simply have your host University confirm your plan. For more information on this option, contact your full-time status on the space provided on the UMSU's Service Coordinator at [email protected]. • If you are going abroad for a reason other than to A copy of the UMSU plan, what it covers and what it study, or will be a part-time student while abroad, doesn't cover, is available from the UMSU Health & you may remain covered by Manitoba Health for Dental Office, 110 University Centre, University of a period of up to one (1) year. After returning to Manitoba, 474-6666 or on the UMSU website at www.
Manitoba, you must be present in the province for umsu.ca Once again, be sure to ask plenty of questions, a minimum of 6 months each year over the period review the ‘exclusions' section carefully, or have the policy of the next two years in order to remain covered by reviewed by an independent insurance agent before Manitoba Health.
relying completely on this coverage.
ExCESS MEDICAL PLANS • Consider where you plan to live while you are abroad: If you plan to rent an apartment, you may want to Additional health insurance coverage, such as a travel inquire about an in-country tenant's insurance policy. health insurance plan is strongly recommended for all If you plan to live in school residence, you may be students traveling outside of Canada. The benefits of able to still use your parents' plan.
purchasing this additional insurance coverage are: • Consider third party liability issues: These may be • Excess plans generally cover the above-noted covered by homeowner's or tenant's insurance plans. points (under group insurance)—subject to some Be sure to check with the agent.
• Purchase additional travel insurance to cover your • Most medical plans provide a 24-hour emergency belongings if they should happen to be lost or assistance telephone line. These assistance numbers damaged in the course of travel to or from your can become very important to you if you are ill or injured in a foreign country. Not only do they assist you with medical matters, they will also help • A note regarding insurance coverage offered through with language difficulties and even legal advice if credit card companies: Be very careful to read and be aware of what these policies will NOT cover. You can request a list of exclusions from the company if you • Please note: There are different plans available from are not sure.
different companies. These plans all provide excess medical insurance but all have different policy limits. • Car insurance: AutoPac will not cover you outside of It is very important that you review the policy limits Canada and/or the United States. If you plan to be and exclusions so that you understand what is or isn't driving a car in your host country, be sure to purchase covered and what limits will apply. You may download in-country collision coverage.
a list of important questions to ask your insurance agent prior to purchasing any excess medical plan. • Always remember that your insurance policies (See Important Questions to Ask Insurance Policies, p. 60). from Canada will be deemed null and void if you are traveling to a destination considered to be a war zone by the Canadian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs.
As a student, traveling with a minimal amount of baggage, the total value of your property while overseas may not be extravagant. However, how would you replace your belongings if something should happen to them while you are abroad? Here are some points to consider carefully before you go overseas: • Will a homeowner's insurance policy here in Manitoba (either yours or your parents') cover your personal belongings abroad? If you are a full-time student still living in your parents' home, you may be eligible for coverage under their plan. Be sure to speak to your parent's insurance agent about this.
• Consider any policy limitations: Are there any monetary limitations? Is amount given enough coverage for you? Is there an age restriction? Are there any limitations stipulated for students who are living away from home for school purposes? Making travel arrangements for your journey abroad can be exciting, confusing and—at times—frustrating. A good travel agent will be able to guide you through the many detailed tasks required as well as answer your questions pertaining to international travel. This site will provide you with some basic information about international travel so that you are better prepared to ask your travel agent pertinent questions to help him/her make the best arrangements for your situation.
The following pages on Travel Arrangements have been put together in consultation with the University of Manitoba Travel Cuts and information from Transport Canada.
Getting To Your destination
As air travel is the most popular mode of transportation • Flexibility: The less flexible you are in setting the terms to an international destination, this site deals primarily of your ticket, the more you can expect to pay for your within this context. The following pages contain valuable ticket. For instance, if you require a ticket that allows information that will help you (together with your travel you to change your departure or return dates and has agent) make the right travel arrangements for your no cancellation penalty, your ticket price will likely particular needs. be higher than if you do no have these requirements.
• Stopovers: Tickets that include the price of stopovers can provide some cost-saving benefit.
One of the biggest factors considered for most students is • Frequent Flyer Cards/Plans: Most major airlines these the ticket price. Factors affecting air ticket prices are: days have a plan that allows you to accumulate • Departure Date: Depending on your destination, points based on either the cost of your ticket or the prices may be cheaper if you plan to fly in what is distance travelled, or both. You may then redeem considered "off-season" for that route/carrier. For these points for free or reduced-fare airline tickets on any subsequent travel plans. To obtain a card, either • Day Of Travel: Traveling mid-week can save you call the airline directly or submit an application money with most carriers. Mid-week travel means through their web site. There is generally no charge you depart Canada from Sunday through Thursday for obtaining a frequent flyer card. To gain points, and return to Canada Monday through Friday. you must present your card or plan # to your travel Weekend travel means departing Friday or Saturday agent at the time of booking, or to the check-in and returning Saturday or Sunday.
agent at the airport. Each traveller must have their • Length Of Stay: Prices can vary according to your own card/plan # in order to collect points. However, length of stay. Ask about any age restrictions.
points may be transferred between immediate family • Student, Youth Or Senior Status: Reduced airfares members to redeem for a future flight. Always keep a are available if you fall into one of these categories, copy of your boarding pass and ticket until you have although sometimes it is even cheaper to take a seat received your frequent flyer statement! If points have sale (if you don't require any flexibility). You may want not been registered, you can claim them retroactively to consider purchasing a student or other discount with most airlines by showing your boarding pass and card. (See Discount Cards, p. 32) airline ticket. This you must do as soon as possible.
bOOkING YOUR AIR TICkET • Charter airlines tend to be more restrictive on luggage than major airlines. Charter airlines will allow Although booking an airline ticket may seem like a approximately 20 kgs total, while major airlines could straight-forward process, you will need to pay careful be more like 23 kgs or 50 lbs (Air Canada: See their attention to several important details.
• Your Name: The name on your ticket must match exactly baggage.html for further details).
the name printed in your passport. Consequently, it is • Baggage allowance varies significantly between airlines a good idea to present your passport to the travel agent and destinations. CAUTION: Baggage allowance at the time of making your booking. If the names do heading out of Canada may be considerably higher not match between your ticket and your passport, you than that allowed in other countries. Don't be caught may expect difficulty when checking in at the airport, in a stopover discovering when you attempt to board going through customs and other check-points. Your your next flight that only half of your luggage is name, as presented on your passport, should also be allowed on the plane! Check this ahead of time with the one that appears on your frequent flyer card, or the travel agent or airline company.
you may have difficulty accruing your points. • Special Meal Requests: Any special meal requests (i.e. CANADA CUSTOMS Vegetarian, religious restrictions, allergy restrictions) should be given to the travel agent at the time of your If you are carrying valuables (i.e. computer, video recorder, camera, etc.) with you when you go abroad, it is • Seat Requests: Any preferred seating arrangement advisable for you to register these with Canada Customs should be given to the travel agent at the time of prior to leaving the country. This service is available free booking. This is not a guaranteed service, but if the of charge. You will need to show your valuable to the airline allows pre-booking of seats, your travel agent customs officer and state that you got them in Canada can ask to accommodate your requests.
or lawfully imported them. The officer will then list your • "Open Jaws" Option: Depending on your travel plans valuables with their serial numbers (or other unique before or after your study period overseas, you may markings) on a wallet-sized card that you can carry with want to consider requesting a ticket that allows you you. If you are questioned about your valuables when to fly into one city and return home from another. As returning to Canada, you can show your card in order to long as your city of arrival and city of departure are avoid paying duty on them.
served by the same airline carrier, an Open Jaw ticket may not cost you much more than a regular ticket Jewelry can be very difficult to identify and therefore and you will save time and added expense if you don't cannot be listed on the customs card. For this reason, it have to backtrack.
is a good idea to travel with as little jewelry as possible. If • "Around The World" Option: This ticket allows you to you must take a valuable piece of jewelry with you, take select you own stopover points as you travel around the following precautions: the world in a continuous direction. If traveling to a destination on the other side of the world (i.e. • Get an appraisal report from a gemologist, jeweler Australia), this may be an interesting option.
or insurance agent as well as a signed and dated LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS • Get written certification that photograph is a true It is important to fully explore your luggage limitations • Carry these along with your bill of sale or previous before you board the plane. This is especially true if you customs receipt when you leave the country. For will be changing planes en route as the luggage restrictions further information on Canada Customs regulations, may be different for the second leg of your journey than please visit their web site: cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/agency-agence/ the ones set when you left home. Be sure to ask your travel agent or call the airline directly so that you know the luggage restrictions for your entire trip before you start packing. Some general tips are: asked to remove shoes, jackets, etc. And your carry- on luggage may be singled out for detailed searching. Last, but certainly not least, here are some helpful hints Always be courteous and polite, but refrain from to reduce your travel stress and help ensure an enjoyable humorous remarks. This is not a time for making jokes… especially anything that includes words like • Call the airline that you have booked with at least 3 "bomb" "terrorism" "hijacking" and the like… it's days in advance of your departure to check for any against the law.
flight schedule changes. Call again the day of your • Never leave your bags unattended flight to reconfirm.
• Never accept parcels or letters from strangers for • Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight's delivery at your point of destination.
scheduled departure time: at least 2 to 3 hours for • Label all luggage clearly. Do not use your home address or business title. Luggage tags with flaps to • Photocopy all of your tickets in case the original is hide your name are a good idea to help protect your lost. A reissuing fee of approximately $100.00 may anonymity and thwart thieves.
be charged if you do not have a copy. This does not • Make an inventory of your luggage contents and apply to e-tickets, however not all airlines will issue carry this on you.
e-tickets. This is something to check with your travel • Wear comfortable, practical clothing and footwear.
• Always keep a small amount of local currency in order • When going through the Customs and Duties to pay a departure tax at the airport. Some taxes are portals remember to have your passport, ticket, calculated into the price of your ticket while others duty declaration and other i.d. ready to show to are charged at the airport. To be sure, call ahead to the customs agent. Be patient with line-ups and be the airline to inquire about the tax and the amount prepared to wait quite a while. Remember: they don't you'll be expected to pay.
have to let you into their country! They are doing More information can be obtained through the you a favour, not the other way around. You may be Transport Canada web site: www.tc.gc.ca When pACkInG YOUR BAGGAGe:
1. Make sure there are no sharp objects 4. Never wrap or package gifts. Security (like scissors) packed in your carry-on. may require you to open the packages Pack them in your checked in luggage for inspection.
5. Substances capable of posing risk to 2. Make sure electronic devices such as health or property are not allowed (i.e. cell phones, laptop computers, cam- solvents, aerosols, etc.) eras have charged batteries and are ready for working order inspection. 6. Pack your own bags, you may need to You will not be allowed to bring them be able to give an account of every- if they are not functioning.
3. Pack prescription medication in its 7. Check airline restrictions and guide- original labeled container (more about lines for packing liquids.
this under Health Matters, p.17) carrier to see about any restrictions applied to carry-on luggage in terms of weight, size and number of bags. As a "If you can't afford to lose it, don't bring it." This is a general rule, you are allowed one "purse" and one carry- good maxim to remember when packing to go overseas. on luggage piece than must be small enough to fit either It is very important to give ample fore-thought to the under the airplane seat or in the overhead compartments. subject of packing—at least a week or two. Don't leave Restrictions now apply to liquids, gels and aerosols. Please it until the last minute, or you are bound to be stressed, refer to www.tc.gc.ca for current information.
forgetful, or both. LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION Always keep in mind any luggage restrictions [see above] • Climate: Knowing the climate of your destination (weight, size, number) that may be imposed on you at any country/region is important so that you can pack an time in your journey. Pack as lightly as possible. Know appropriate variety of clothes. Usually it's a good idea where your things are within your luggage so that if you to pack things that can easily be layered.
need to transfer items to carry-on, or discard them, you • Culture/Social Norms: Certain cultures have strong can do so quickly without upsetting your whole bag.
norms on the type of dress that is appropriate in given social situations. Be respectful and pack clothing that Getting Around In Your host Country
will allow you to blend in with the culture. Be care- ful to consider where you will be going within your Thinking ahead of time about how you will travel and destination country/culture and the types of activities where you will stay once you are in your destination you anticipate. (i.e. Religious monuments, sporting country can save you time, money and stress after your activities, etc.) This is an especially important consid- plane touches down. We strongly recommend that you eration for women traveling alone.
plan to take a basic city tour shortly after you arrive, • Product Availability: If at all possible, talk with people just to "get your bearings" and become acquainted with from your destination city/region and find out what your new "home." For other, more extensive tours you kinds of consumer products are available to purchase may want to consider the following few options. These once you get there. Chances are, you will be able to are just a sampling of the kinds of products and services get virtually everything you need at your destination. available to you. For full information, consult with your However, if you have certain products that you are travel agent.
particular about, you may want to bring a supply INTERNATIONAL DRIvER'S LICENSE • Electrical Appliances: Visit www.kropla.com for a world electric guide, or speak with someone from If you plan to drive a car during your time overseas, ob- your destination country to see if electrical appliances taining an International Driver's License is a must. This is in your host country require either 220 volts or 110 a standard travel document that is recognized worldwide. volts (Canadian standard). If your host country is on If you are over 18 years of age, you can purchase an In- a different electrical system, you will require a trans- ternational Driver's License at any CAA (Canadian Auto- former as well as an adapter. Not only do the voltages mobile Association) office. To do so, bring along three (3) differ, the shape of the plug outlet is different as well. pieces of identification, one of which must be a current, These should be available in hardware stores or travel valid Driver's License. You may also want to bring along two (2) passport pictures, although these may be taken at the CAA office for free if you are a member. The fee CARRY-ON vS. CHECk-IN? for the International Driver's Permit is (as of 01/2009) $15.00, which is a non-member rate. Members receive Your carry-on baggage can be a life-saver in the event a discounted rate, depending on the type of CAA mem- that your checked-in baggage is delayed or lost. It is wise bership you have purchased. No written test is required. to pack a change of clothes, a few toiletries and other es- Your International Driver's License card will be issued sentials that can get you through at least one or two days "on the spot." For further information, you may consult without the rest of your luggage. Check with your airline the CAA Manitoba web site at: www.caamanitoba.com RENTING/LEASING/PURCHASING A CAR route and length of stay. For more information, you This may be an option if you need/desire a great amount can visit the web site at: www.raileurope.com/canada. of flexibility. Some things that you will want to research Eurail Passes can be purchased through any travel and know about before choosing this option are: agent, although Travel Cuts offers the feature of be- ing able to issue these "on the spot." • Places to park / parking fines • National Rail Passes: If you are planning to travel • Minimum age requirements mostly in one country, or region, you may want to • Cost and requirements of auto insurance (not cov- check into the possibility of a national rail pass. These ered by Manitoba Public Insurance outside of US are available for most individual countries in Europe. A few passes are issued for a particular region such • Must have major credit card as the European East Pass, or the Scandinavian Pass. Again, for more information consult the web site at: TRAvEL OPTIONS IN EUROPE • Bus Passes: "Busabout" operates from April through • Eurail Pass: Because of the extensive rail system October and follows a set route around Europe. You through most of Europe, purchasing a Eurail Pass is have the option of hopping on and off the bus when a convenient, cost-effective way to travel when travel- you want. Cost depends on your route and length of ing through many countries. These passes must be purchased from outside of Europe, so it is important • Bus in Britain: "National Express" is similar to a to consider this option before you leave. There are Greyhound Pass. It is very extensive—you can travel several variations on the standard Eurail Pass, so be virtually anywhere in the country. This pass can be sure to explore your options and choose one that suits purchased at any time of year. Cost depends on route your needs. The cost of the pass will depend on your and length of stay.
TRAvEL OPTIONS IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW zEALAND are available on the Travel Cuts web site: • Oz/Kiwi Experience: This outfit allows you to purchase different bus passes that follow a pre-determined • International Student Identity Card (ISIC): This is the route. You can hop on and off at any location along most widely accepted form of student identification the route. They also offer you assistance with booking around the world. You must be able to prove full- budget accommodations. Includes a variety of site- time student status when purchasing this card. There seeing activities. For more info, check out their web is no maximum age limit, but there is a minimum site at: www.ozexperience.com or www.kiwiexperience. age requirement of 12 years. The card allows you discounts on airfares, some ground transportation, • Greyhound Pioneer Bus Passes: A variety of options and attractions worldwide. An added benefit is a are available on an extensive network of scheduled toll free phone line should you require emergency express coach routes throughout Australia. Discounts medical, legal or financial assistance while overseas. for students available. This option gives you a high Applications available at Travel Cuts. UM Students degree of flexibility and is good for traveling from are eligible for ISIC cards free of charge.
point to point quickly.
• International Youth Card: Available to anyone 25 years • Rail Australia: Offers service between most major of age or younger. You do not need to be a student to cities, but has relatively limited routes to smaller obtain this card. It provides similar discounts to the ISIC, but not as many. Proof of age required when • Air Passes: For flights within Australia the cheapest purchasing this card. Applications available at Travel way to fly is on their discount airline called Virgin Cuts for $16.00 (prices subject to change).
Blue (similar to Westjet here in Canada). They offer • International Teacher's Card: Available to certified various fare levels depending on travel day, time and teachers. Provides discounts on airfares and other advance booking). forms of transportation, attractions, etc. Proof of professional status required. Applications available at TRAvEL OPTIONS IN SOUTH AMERICA Travel Cuts for $16.00 (prices subject to change).
• Hosteling International Membership: Anyone can • Gap Adventures: Offers a flexible travel pass within purchase this discount card. Offers discounts on South America. Assistance given with booking budget hostels worldwide. Applications are available at either accommodation. You are able to hop off and on at Travel Cuts or at the Hosteling Association office in locations on your route. Cost depends on destinations Winnipeg (943-5581) for $35 plus tax (prices subject and length of stay. For more information see: www. • Unfortunately, not much exists for advance train/bus A NOTE ON HOSTELS passes for the rest of South America. Check with your travel agent about group trips.
Hostels are defined as budget shared accommodations, usually with dormitory style rooms. Hostels can offer a TRAvEL OPTIONS IN ASIA very unique experience, often being located in unusual buildings. They can be an excellent place to meet fellow • Japan Rail Pass: Check out the information at www. travellers and make good short-term accommodations japanrail.com, or see Travel Cuts for details.
while looking for a permanent residence. Some offer kitchens, laundry facilities and lockers. Be prepared to bring a "sleep sheet" (two single sheets sewn together… or can purchase from the Hosteling Assoc.). You may Depending on your student status, your age, and your be able to book a hostel ahead of time, on-line, as long specific travel needs, you may be eligible for some great as you hold a major credit card. For more information discounts if you purchase one or more discount cards see Hosteling International- Canada at www.hihostels. before going abroad. Be sure to check out your options ca/ or Hosteling International central www.hihostels.com/ and don't miss out! Information and application forms openHome.do There are good reasons to have a UM e-mail account. While You're
One advantage is that while you're away, people at home can easily find your e-mail address simply by looking up your name in the UM online People directory. All they have to do is type your last name in the "People" search on the UofM home page at www.umanitoba.ca. The People directory is structured to protect against address harvesting by spammers, and all UM e-mail is filtered for spam and viruses.
You can create your own UM web page to make a journal of your travel experiences, and people looking in the directory will find that easily too.
If you prefer another e-mail account, like Hotmail, it's easy to have your UofM mail forwarded to it.
FORGOT YOUR PASSWORD? GUARD AGAINST COMPUTER vIRUSES Check before you leave the country. If you have a CCU account but you don't know your password, you can If you have your own computer be sure it's protected bring photo ID to the Computer Accounts Office in against viruses. Keep your antivirus software and Room 628 Engineering.
Windows operating system patches up to date. The UM NOT SURE IF YOU HAvE A UM E-MAIL ACCOUNT? has a site licence for Trend antivirus software that includes student's computers. Even so, don't click on unexpected Use ‘claimid' at http://umanitoba.ca/claimid to find out if you already have a CCU account for e-mail and internet. need HelP?
If you don't have a CCU account already, claimid will automatically create one (along with an ‘ins' account for using the campus PC labs). Write down your user id and Computer Accounts Office: password. If claimid says you are not eligible, contact the [email protected] International Centre for Students. In order for others to find you, be sure there's a checkmark Computer Support Desk: in the box at the bottom of the claimid page to "Include [email protected] me in the UofM's public e-mail address book" before you (204)474-8600 click on "Finish". To find more about UM accounts, creating your own [email protected] web page, and other computer information, start from (204)474-9793 HOW TO USE THE CANADA DIRECT SERvICE:In the Canada Direct list, find the access number for This information has been taken from the Canada Direct the country you are in and follow the instructions. In web site: www.infocanadadirect.com. Please access this web some countries, some restrictions apply concerning the site, or call 1-800-561-8868 for additional information.
use of Canada Direct from a phone booth. Check the restrictions applying to each country.
WHAT IS THE CANADA DIRECT SERvICE?Canada Direct is an automated international access WHAT ARE THE RATES? service that allows you, from abroad, to call Canada, Calls from Canada to another country are not priced at the another country or to call within the other country and same rate as calls from another country to Canada. Be sure pay Canadian international long distance rates instead of to clarify your calling location and destination countries the rates of the country you are in. Canada Direct service when you speak to the Canada Direct operator.
is convenient because it gives you the possibility to call Canada from over 130 countries, and to call 240 other HOW TO FIND A COUNTRY AND ITS CANADA DIRECT countries around the world from 70 countries.
SERvICE ACCESS NUMbER:The section Access Numbers contains the numbers you WHY USE THE CANADA DIRECT SERvICE? need. Our information regarding countries and access Because it gives you access to bilingual operators (English numbers is regularly updated.
or French) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Canada Direct also offers services in Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese HOW TO ObTAIN A CANADA DIRECT WALLET GUIDE: and Tagalog. The operators offer the usual services; they For a free Canada Direct Wallet Guide, call 1-800-561- can also set up conference calls and obtain Canadian 8868. You can also ask your travel agent or one of the telephone number information. Your calls will be charged Canadian companies listed above.
according to Canadian international long distance rates. By using a calling card from one of the Canadian companies listed below and the Canada Direct service, you can more effectively control your expenses since you receive an itemized phone bill confirming the calls that you made. This service also allows you to avoid paying expensive surcharges in hotels.
WHICH CALLING CARDS ARE COMPATIbLE WITH THE CANADA DIRECT SERvICE?Only the calling cards from designated Canadian companies are accepted. These are: Bell, MTS, SaskTel, Alliant and Telus. To be on the safe side, be careful when using your calling card. Treat it as a credit card. Never give out your personal identification number (PIN).
HOW MUCH DOES THE CANADA DIRECT SERvICE COST?Using Canada Direct is free, although it is possible that some communications companies may apply a surcharge. You pay only the Canadian international long distance rate associated with the calling card of the Canadian company you are using.
Documents You Should Have: A Checklist
In summary, you should ou like, and carr as a final checklist r Canadian Passport r Birth Certificate r Visa (study, work, visitors… depends on purpose/ Health insurance r Travel insurance r International Student I (and/or other discount car r Tuition payment r eceipts (exchange students) Letter of acceptance / letter of offer fr University, agency or emplo r Written prescriptions r Canadian customs cer r Emergency contact car d/Canada Direct card Every group grows up with a particular set of beliefs and Adjustment
values. These values and beliefs help determine the way we live. They are usually so routine that we don't often think about what they are. We only know the way we This section on Cross-cultural Adjustment has been live, and we normally regard that way as the right way. written by Dr. Fred Drewe, the former Interim Director Ask a Canadian what are the main characteristics of their of the International Centre for Students, University of culture and many seem confused. There may be several reasons for this reaction. Canada is a diverse country. We are a multicultural country and, because we mostly Preparing To live Cross-Culturally
live within a few miles of the U.S. border, we are heavily influenced by the most dominant culture in the world. Most aspects of preparing to live in another culture come We are not clear about who we are. A few months in a quite naturally. We all jump on the Internet or go to the new country will clarify that point. As you observe the library to find out about this new country, its climate, values and customs in your new host culture you will be its culture, its holidays and a myriad of other items that forced to face your own values and beliefs and hopefully form as questions in our minds. The most determined better understand yourself and Canadians in general.
will also search out people from that country living in our own community. The most likely source is fellow Adjusting to Your host Culture
University students. Meeting with several such people over coffee or a beer can be a terrific learning experience. It is a good idea to learn as much about your new culture They will tell you what to expect and will give you a as possible before you arrive. Many find it helpful to sense of how at least some people from that country see read the history of the country and to learn about the
the world. An even better source is students from your political system. Reading some of the major novels or
own country who have studied at the University you poetry of the country can be even more meaningful by
are planning to attend. They can relate their experiences adding a human dimension to the picture. The Dept of good and bad and tell you what to bring and what to Foreign Affairs has developed profiles on every country in avoid. However, remember that everyone experiences a the world. Take a couple of minutes to review your host new culture differently and you may not have exactly the country on their web site: www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_ same reaction as those who preceded you.
It is normal to have doubts about leaving your home and The education system and the procedures at your new
friends for an extended period. You should have some University are of special importance. Explore ahead of fears. Nevertheless, your overwhelming emotion should time whether the classroom culture is formal or informal, be the excitement and enthusiasm for an adventure that whether learning is the student's responsibility or teacher's. could change the way you view the world. Another student who has studied at your host University is your best source of information for this.
understanding Your Own Culture
You may want to work in your new country to support
Ironically by understanding your own culture you can yourself or to gain work experience. As the rules are better adapt to a new a new culture. Culture (the habits, different in each country it is vital to learn what the customs and values that define how we live) is difficult to regulations are and what procedures you must follow see from within any cultural group but that self-awareness in obtaining a job. There is usually an embassy of each seems especially difficult for Canadians. Many Canadians country in Ottawa where you can get the information learn about their new culture and their own culture at the you require or you can contact your new University directly (the Foreign Student office). Canadians are well aware of the importance of geography that as far as possible. No one expects you to abandon
and climate when researching another country. Climate who you are; you should retain what is vital in your
is a key component of how we dress. We are somewhat lifestyle as far as possible.
fortunate in Canada as we have four seasons and clothes for all occasions. It is likely that you will be able to wear There will be times when the new patterns are confusing many of the same things in your new setting that you or upsetting. It can be difficult to be tolerant and wear here, however it is important to find out. Some understanding when under strain or pressure. Too often Universities may have somewhat stricter dress codes, or North Americans are inflexible, and too often we judge the dress in the community at large may be more formal the ways of others through our own cultural glasses or more modest than here in Winnipeg. Students who (ethnocentrism). We have all heard the stories of the have been at that University are your best source of "ugly North American" who gets off the plane talking and seldom stops, who expects everything to be as it was at home – "they all ought to do things like we do" (the Gender relationships can be critical as you get to right way). If English is not the language of the country
know people. It may take some time to understand how they ought to be able to speak it - for our convenience. people relate in your new setting. It may be that you as a foreigner are regarded differently. In some settings you We have to avoid becoming the stereotype. If you are may be sought after as a friend in others you may always patient, understanding, accepting of different procedures be somewhat of an outsider. It is important to be sensitive and customs, if you are not defensive about your own to the habits and customs in your new country—what country and values, if you are ready to try some new ways was appropriate at home may now be offensive.
of doing things, you will do well. There is no need to memorize all the habits and customs of the new country; You will especially want to learn any major cultural they will be upon you quickly enough. It is your response differences in gesture or language that could be insulting to them that is crucial.
or embarrassing. For example, you would like to know if people generally stand closer when they talk so that As Canadians, we like to think of ourselves as fair- you know what to expect and are not offended by the minded and tolerant. Canadians have a good reputation closeness. This information is valuable but there is a around the world so obviously we do reasonably well at danger in going too far.
adjusting to new cultures. Nevertheless, living in another culture will put Canadian values of tolerance and fair- Your hosts know you are from Canada, they don't expect mindedness values to the test.
you to know all their customs and habits, they only want you to be kind, courteous and patient. They do want you to try to understand their way of living and to adjust to dealing effectively with
whether you have done the right thing in taking this travel program. The values you see in the new culture may force you to reexamine the values or your own culture. Your reaction to this experience in another culture will in All these challenges can lead to a crisis.
part depend on your values and your past experience. If you have previously spent time away from home living in For those that do experience shock there are clear signs. another culture you will have some idea what to expect It is important to discuss the signs because usually those even if this new experience is entirely different.
going through the stage have no clear sense that they are in culture shock. Denial is the norm. One of the most Although everyone is unique and no two people have obvious signs is the disappearance of your sense of humor. exactly the same reaction, most go through several You may sleep too much, worry about little things, you predictable stages in their path of adjustment. Writers may groom too much or too little, you may eat too much sometimes give these stages of adjustment different names or too little, and you may organize and reorganize. You but most agree on the likely pattern of adjustment. may write and phone home at prodigious rates, you may meet with those from your own country to talk about Before leaving Canada most students will attempt to find "them" (i.e. people from your host culture). You may out about the new country and setting. There are many feel homesickness, unhappiness, frustration, anxiety and ways of doing this. You have probably looked at books sense of worthlessness.
and travel brochures; you have possibly visited sites on the Internet. One can learn everything from the climate What can you do to counter culture shock? First, be to the ethnic makeup of the country from such research. ready and watch for signs in your own behaviour. If you Often students will go further by trying to locate and are beginning to experience the feelings described, talk to interview someone who is a resident of the country or people from your own country, and those from your new speak to students who have been in that setting before. culture. Sharing your experiences is vitally important. All of these sources are useful. During this phase students Get involved in the kinds of activities you practiced at are usually excited about going and feel very positive. The home or look for new outlets in the new culture. There negatives are likely to be some fear about the new setting are probably counselors at your host institution trained and the uneasiness about leaving family and friends for a to assist you as you go through this stage and it would long period of time.
be wise to talk to them. Remember, for the vast majority this is but a stage that will pass, hopefully quickly.
Upon arriving in their host country, most students, despite the weariness of travel, are enthusiastic to meet Soon you will feel better about what you are doing as you new people, see new places and discover the customs of get more involved and more used to the new situation. a new culture. There is an excitement and curiosity that For many, much of the remaining time is spent in learning hopefully will last through your whole stay. However, it new patterns and experiencing new customs. You will doesn't take long before most experience some irritations: gradually feel a sense of accomplishment at learning a new possibly the food is not what you expected, or you language or in joining new groups. You may well develop miss little things from home. You may be experiencing friendships that are truly meaningful. You may begin to difficulties communicating because of the language, or take a great interest in the issues and problems of your because you have not learned the body language in the new country. A few will develop a sense of congruence new culture. The thrill of a new setting and culture may with the new culture and have a shared sense of "we". In be enough to overcome these difficulties, but for some any case, just as you sense you have become well adjusted, there is a period of "culture shock" that can set in days or it will likely be time to return home. weeks after arrival.
One final note: When you return home, you will likely
Culture shock results when all the challenges or difficulties go through all these stages again in a more rapid sequence. you are facing cause a state of mild depression. There For most, this second culture shock is unexpected and for may also be a crisis of values. You may begin to wonder many more severe.
dr. drewe's Tips for Surviving & Thriving Cross Culturally
Talk to people who have been there or who live there.
Act like this is a chance of a lifetime – this is the chance of a lifetime.
When in Rome etc. etc Damn I miss Hockey Night In Canada.
Culture shock, what culture shock? I am involved, meeting people, joining groups, having fun.
Learn a new language.
Promise I will not swear in my new language – I can make these new procedures work.
Enough about Canada already! Travel, ok you traveled to get here, travel some more, see the country.
Oh yeah, the courses, I almost forgot about the courses.
Phases of Cultural Adjustment
Months in a new culture [source for diagram: Nancy J. Adler, International Dimensions of Organizational Behavior, 2002] Useful Web Sites: Center for Global Education Handbook: http://www.studentsabroad.com CBIE On-Line Pre-Departure Orientation http://www2.cstudies.ubc.ca/ cbie/intro.htm Chapter Two
UM Student
exchange details
Once you have been selected to participate in a UM Student Exchange Program, whether this
is coordinated centrally through the International Centre for Students, or through your specific
faculty, you will have a number of responsibilities unique to this program experience. Read
carefully through the following sections to make sure that you are informed and prepared to
deal with these things as they come up.
Before you leave
Application to Your host
university & Acceptance Process
One of the first things that you will want to take care as the student that is being nominated for exchange to of following your selection into the exchange program this partner University and will send your application to is your application to your host University. Even the Exchange Coordinator at your host institution. Most though you have applied and been accepted into the exchange partner Universities will waive the admission UM Exchange Program, you will still need to submit application fee but some do require one. Check with an application to be accepted at your host institution. your Exchange Coordinator.
This application, however, does not go through the regular admission channels. Be sure to obtain your host Your host institution will require some time to process
University's admission application form directly from
your application. Once it has been approved, you will be your UM Exchange Coordinator. Many Universities sent an official acceptance letter from your host institution.
have a completely different application form for exchange This letter is a very important document for you because students from the regular admission application form it is your "invitation" into your host institution's country. required of new students. Printing your host University's You will need to submit this letter along with your visa admission application form from their web site may be application (if a student visa is required for you to study a waste of your time—be sure to ask your Exchange in your host country) in order for you to obtain a student Coordinator first.
visa. Many Universities will also provide you with an information or welcome package of material.
Once you have filled out the admission application form for exchange students for your host University, bring If your host University sends the acceptance letter directly it, along with any required supporting documents (i.e. to your home address, please bring a copy to your UM transcripts, reference letters, health insurance forms) Exchange Coordinator so that they can keep a copy to your UM Exchange Coordinator. Do not send the for your file. Some Universities may send this letter to application form directly to your host institution. Your your UM Exchange Coordinator, so check with him/her Exchange Coordinator will ensure that your application regularly.
package is complete, will write a letter identifying you Course Selection &
trying to transfer credits back into) for evaluation. letter of permission
Once the professors have submitted their evaluations, either granting or denying credit transfer for the courses Another item that you will want to take care of early after you want to take abroad, Registrar's Office will send a your selection to the exchange program is to select the statement of the evaluation outcomes to your home courses you would like to take at your host institution address. Please direct any questions about your credit and submit a "Letter of Permission" or LoP form.
transfer evaluations back to your Exchange Coordinator.
In making your courses selection, consult the latest course The LoP process can take anywhere from a few weeks to catalogue available through your UM exchange office, several months, so be prepared for a wait! This is why it or your host University's web page. Based on your best is a good idea to take care of this task early rather than interpretation of the material, make a selection that you waiting till the last minute.
feel will complement your program and your interests. It is advisable to see your faculty student advisor at this time Tuition & Student Fee payment
to get a clear picture of your program course requirements and to receive any advice available in advance on which As a general rule (again, there are always "exceptions"), courses may or may not transfer credit back to the UM. student exchange agreement contracts state that participating exchange students must pay tuition fees to Once you have made your course selection, obtain a LoP their home University. In your case, you must pay tuition form from either the Registrar's Office (400 University for the courses you are taking at your host University Centre) or your UM Exchange Coordinator. List the abroad to the University of Manitoba. In doing so, you courses on the back of this form and attach printed course are paying the cost of instruction for students from your descriptions. Be sure to list several more courses than host University to come to the UM as exchange students.
what you actually plan to take at your host institution. Unless your UM Exchange Coordinator tells you
The reason for this is so that you have pre-evaluated otherwise, assume that you are paying tuition fees to
courses to choose from should one or more of your first- the University of Manitoba.
choice courses not be available to you once you get to your host institution (due to timetable conflicts, course The tuition fees assessed you will be determined by the cancellations, etc.). Clearly identify which courses you number of courses you take abroad that will transfer actually wish to take while abroad, and which courses are credit back to the UM. This is another reason why it is the alternates.
important to submit your LoP early. Take your completed LoP to your UM Exchange You should pay your tuition fees at the UM prior to Coordinator, not to the Registrar's Office. Your going abroad to study. As you are still subject to the UM coordinator will forward the LoP to Registrar's Office fee payment schedule, late fees could be applied if you along with a cover letter. This helps you in two ways: do not pay these fees on time. If the Registrar's Office 1) Registrar's Office will not charge you the standard fee does not yet have a fee statement for you, check with for processing the LoP; 2) If a problem should arise with your UM Exchange Coordinator to make sure the LoP your LoP, Registrar's Office will contact your Exchange has been submitted and that there are no difficulties in Coordinator first. This is beneficial because often your processing it.
Exchange Coordinator will be able to clarify problems quickly through their direct contact links to the exchange Be aware of the fact that you will be charged UM Student office at your host institution.
Organization fees as well as tuition fees for your time abroad on exchange. Also, as long as you remain a full- The LoP is then sent from Registrar's Office to various time UM student, you will be charged (and receive the UM department heads (heads of units that you are benefits of) the UMSU health insurance plan. You may be able to opt out of this plan. See the UMSU Health Office for more details.
Applying for Residence
You will likely want to talk with other UM students who have been to your host institution (if possible) or with Ask your UM Exchange Coordinator about applying for an exchange student currently here at the UM from your residence at your host University. Many Universities will host institution to find out what it is really like to live at accept residence applications along with your admission your host institution. Is University residence preferable to application. Residence applications may be available living on your own off-campus? Is Homestay (living with on-line or in pdf format. Each partner University will a local family, paying room and board) an option? Are have its own unique way of handling residence spots and there any "extra" costs connected to any of these options applications for exchange students, so it is best to check (i.e. local transportation, "key" deposits, etc.)? If it is first with your Exchange Coordinator. not possible to speak with another student about these things, try to contact your host institution's Exchange Every exchange partner institution will offer different Coordinator, or their housing office.
options and possibilities when it comes to deciding on where to live in your host country. It may be that Many University residences fill up quickly, so send your UM Exchange Coordinator will put you in touch your application for residence in early. Be prepared for directly with the host institution's Exchange Coordinator not getting your first option. What else will you try? to arrange details surrounding your living arrangements Remember to utilize the help and advice of your host in the host country. institution's Exchange Coordinator.
Registering for Courses
Transportation from the airport: Some institutions will offer airport pick-up service. Be sure to inquire about this Host institutions handle course registration in many directly to your host institution Exchange Coordinator if different ways. It is best to be in touch directly with your you feel this would help. Once you have made contact host Exchange Coordinator (obtain contact info from with the party who will be picking you up, be sure to keep your UM Exchange Coordinator) regarding the system them informed about your latest flight arrival information. used at your host University. If at all possible, see if you It would also be a good idea to communicate with them can be registered for courses prior to arriving in your about how they can distinguish you (or you them) when host country. This may not be possible, so be prepared to first meeting. Another good idea is to bring along some take care of this immediately after arriving. Remember kind of "thank you" gift or token of appreciation for their
to confirm your course list (i.e. the courses that you
kindness to you.
actually end up taking) with your UM Exchange
Coordinator! This is the main factor in setting the right If no airport pick-up service is available through your
amount of tuition fees that will be charged to you. Since host institution, be sure to inquire ahead of time about you will have paid tuition to the UM based on your normal costs for public transportation or taxi service to proposed course list (which may be significantly different the host institution. Your host Exchange Coordinator from your actual course list), your UM account will be should be able to provide you with this information along credited or debited (can be paid upon your return—no with any directions or instructions about where to find late fees) accordingly.
transportation from the airport and any local customs that will make it easier for you to get around immediately upon arrival. It's a good idea to carry a small amount of local currency with you (if possible) for when you arrive in the airport.
Settling In: Accommodations
& Airport Pick-up
Accommodations: Your host University's Exchange Coordinator will be able to advise you on the best way to look after arranging accommodations (both immediate upon arrival as well as long term) and travel to your residence upon arrival in your host country. Remember, it is your responsibility to take care of these details, but your Exchange Coordinator can provide you with contact You may want to ask whether your host institution provides any sort of short-term host family assistance. It can be helpful to stay with a local family for the first night or two while you adjust to jet-lag and get your bearings. This is especially helpful if you are not planning to live in University residence as it gives you a bit of time to find long-term lodgings. If no such assistance is available you could inquire about local hostel locations (see the Travel Arrangements section under "Preparing to Travel" in Chapter One of this document.) Settling In: Campus Orientation
Most host institutions will offer some kind of welcome and orientation to their campus / city for newly arrived international students. This is a very valuable service and you would be wise to inquire into it prior to leaving Canada. Know the dates, times and places that the orientation will be given. Is there a fee required? Do you need to register ahead of time? An orientation at your host institution will give you a good base knowledge on which to build in the coming months. Connecting to host &
home exchange Offices
It's a good idea to send a quick e-mail to your UM Exchange Coordinator shortly after your arrival in your host country. This way, your UM coordinator knows your whereabouts and your contact information in case they need to be in touch with you. Be in touch with your UM Exchange Coordinator regularly through your study term and contact her/him if ever a problem or question emerges about your exchange.
It's also a very good idea to visit your host Exchange Coordinator as soon as possible when you arrive at your host institution. They will be valuable resource for you during your stay—if you let them. Make sure they know your address, phone number and e-mail in your host country (remember you didn't send that in with the application form!). Your host Exchange Coordinator is the UM's primary link to you (aside from direct contact with you), so make sure they have accurate and up-to- date information for you. Remember that you are an ambassador from the University of Manitoba to your host institution. You will represent the UM to any potential exchange students wanting to come here on the exchange program. Your attitude and actions can go a long way towards enhancing a better relationship between the UM and your host institution.
It is very important to communicate your final, actual a course outline (with as much detail as possible) for course list to your UM Exchange Coordinator once each of the courses needing credit transfer evaluation. you are enrolled in your classes. It is quite common for Fax or e-mail this to your UM Exchange Coordinator as your course list to change after your arrival at your host soon as possible. Enlist the help of your host Exchange institution. This can be for a number of reasons: courses Coordinator if needed.
are cancelled, course time-tables conflict, courses are not offered in the semester for which you are there, you do Also, when you confirm your actual course list to the UM, not meet pre-requisite qualifications, etc. your UM financial account can be adjusted to accurately reflect the tuition fees owing to the UM. You will not be When you confirm your actual course list with your charged tuition fees for any courses for which you do not UM Exchange Coordinator, s/he can help you file a receive UM credit. LoP for any courses not previously evaluated for credit transfer. You can greatly assist this process by obtaining Adjusting to a new
records: one for yourself and one for the UM. Deliver one transcript to your UM Exchange Coordinator as soon as possible following the end of your study term.
An often forgotten piece of preparation is thinking ahead to how you will have to adjust yourself to a The UM Registrar's Office will translate the marks you different culture's academic system. Having grown up in received at your host institution according to current grade the Canadian school system, you are likely so familiar equivalency practices. These marks will then become part with Canadian pedagogy that it is hard to imagine how of your overall UM GPA and transcript. Bear in mind different it can be in another country. Preparing yourself that if your host University assigns a percentage grade, for this change can often be a "key to success" in terms of this will be translated to the UM letter grade system. your academics while abroad.
If your host University assigns both a percentage grade and a letter grade, the letter grade will be taken over the Your best source of information about your host percentage grade in transferring to your UM academic institution's academic system are your classmates or other record.
students from that University. Ask this person about the classroom "culture": Is it formal or informal? How are professors addressed? How is course performance assessed? PleASe nOTe:
Through examinations? Papers? Participation? Lab work? Are academic marks tallied regularly through the term, 1. In some cases when the host University does not or is it all assessed in the final week? What are the out-of- utilize a "plus (+)" system, you will not be able to class expectations for students (i.e. homework)? Are these transfer "plus (+) grades" back to the UM.
clearly spelled out, or just assumed? 2. In some cases when your host University would Too many Canadian students fall into the trap of thinking standardly issue only a "pass-fail" assessment, you that their host institutions will instruct and assess course must request letter grade assessment at the start of work in the same way it is done in Canada. Many assume your exchange.
that just because homework expectations are not clearly laid out, or because no mid-term assignments are graded, 3. One unfortunate result of the automated mailing that they do not need to put effort into the course until system generated through the SRO database is a the final examination. Too late, they realize that they have letter announcing the fact that you will be failed for under-estimated their responsibility and carry a failing your term abroad if a transcript is not delivered to the grade back to their UM degree program. SRO within a certain amount of time. As study terms at host institutions often differ significantly from the If you are serious about your UM academic program, UM academic schedule, exchange students receive then you need to be serious about your studies while these notices on a regular basis. on exchange. Be alert, be prepared and be diligent. The wealth of learning you will gain both in and outside of If you, or your parents, receive a notice of this nature the classroom will be well worth your effort! from the UM, please disregard it. As much as possible,
these letters are pulled from the UM mailings before Transcripts and Grade Transfers
they are sent out, but occasionally one is missed. The UM is working to rectify the situation. For Remember to check with your Exchange Coordinator at confirmation or further information about this, please your host institution about the procedure for obtaining call your UM Exchange Coordinator. Be assured an academic record or transcript of the courses you have that nothing will be done to an exchange student's taken while abroad. If you are responsible for ordering academic record without ample warning, discussion the transcripts yourself, be sure to obtain two original and mediation through the Exchange Coordinator's Coming Home: Things to do
Before You leave
‰ btain a copy of y host institution E our transcript. Check with y automatically issued to y request it in person.
dinator to see if this is ‰ eep copies of all y eading assignments, etc. This is especially im portant for any courses for which y k: examinations, UM credit transfer r ake a list of all contact information (phone, mail, e-mail, fax) of all y office personnel. our course instr our host institution tor to see if ther e any unpaid fees for which y ver, or whether ther ou need to clear up befor Consider leaving " e is anything else spent time and effor tion: homestay family " for people who hav our behalf at the host institu , counselors, etc. , professors, E return home flight details and dates. P your return. Likely y dinator as soon as possible after evaluation form, and, of course, r ou will be asked to complete an elay all the inter egistration for UM courses. D elation to the star , you may want to consider r epending on when advisor for mor oad. Contact y egistering for UM e information about this pr's student Back at the um
Wow! You made it back to Manitoba! Here are Here are a few tips for you to think about as some of the things you will want to take care you re-acclimatize to Manitoba life:of as soon as possible following your arrival.
r Don't expect others to relate fully to your experiences r Visit your UM Exchange Coordinator. Bring lots of abroad. Your friends and family back home can appreciate pictures along with you and be prepared to share the some of your excitement and enthusiasm, but will be highlights of your experience abroad. We love stories! limited in how well they can understand and engage you in conversation about your experiences. Try to see r Settle any outstanding UM fees. Visit the Registrar's yourself from their perspective and be patient with their Office (400 University Centre) to pay any amount still response to your stories. owing, or discuss how to handle any credit on your UM r Start a journal (if you haven't already) to process some of your thoughts and feelings about coming back.
r Finalize your credit transfer. Make sure UM has your transcript from your host institution (this may take a r Search out ways to stay involved internationally. little while to reach them following your return). Discuss There are plenty of opportunities for you to continue any outstanding credit transfer issues. Enlist the help and your international experience here at home. Consider support of your UM Exchange Coordinator if necessary.
volunteering for the International Centre for Students as a language tutor with the Volunteer English Practice r Be prepared to help out. Your experience may be the Program, help out with our orientations for new key to motivating another UM student to explore the international students, or the pre-departure orientations world through a UM student exchange opportunity. for outgoing exchange students. And, don't forget about Also, don't underestimate the significance of adjusting WOW (World Opportunities Week) where you can back into life in Manitoba. Your experience has likely encourage other UM students to go abroad. Contact ICS changed a lot of how you look at the world, approach for more information.
daily tasks and problems, and how you make friends and relate to people. Give yourself time to think through the r Be in touch with others who have gone abroad, either differences and similarities between the community you with a University exchange program or another kinds of just left and the one you have now returned to. It may program. Often these connections can be formed through be helpful for you to write these thoughts down into a the International Centre for Students. Consider starting journal, or send a letter to a good friend. a student club if you're ambitious! r Enter your photos in the World W.I.S.E. Global r Consider participating in another program abroad! Colours Photo Contest held annually. This is a great way Once bitten by the "travel bug" many students find it to share your experience and maybe even win a prize! hard to stay at home. There are many opportunities that will help you explore the world. Just ask someone at the World WISE Resource Centre about options that would suit your plans. Acknowledgement of Responsibility and liability Waiver
University of Manitoba Study/Work Abroad & Exchange Program
Assumption of Risks, Responsibility and Liability Waiver ATTenTIOn: BY SIGnInG ThIS leGAl dOCUMenT, YOU GIve Up CeRTAIn leGAl RIGhTS,
inCludinG THe RiGHT TO Sue. PleASe ReAd CARefullY.
In consideration of the University of Manitoba (the University) making arrangements for me to study/receive training at (host institution name/name of country), for a period beginning on (the Program), I agree as follows: ASSUMPTION OF RISkS: I understand that the Program will take me away from campus for an extended period of time. During this period, I understand that I will be in an unfamiliar surrounding and will be exposed to risks to my person and possessions. I understand that I may suffer physical injury, disease, sickness or death, or damage to my property as a result of my participation in the Program; and that there is a possibility of violence and crime, civil unrest, homesickness and loneliness. I freely and voluntarily accept and assume all such risks, dangers and hazards. I understand that despite its efforts, the University may not be able to ensure my complete safety at all times from such risks and dangers. I further acknowledge that I had other options, other than to participate in the Program, but selected to do so freely and ASSUMPTION OF RESPONSIbILITY: I understand that it is my responsibility to abide by all applicable policies and laws of the University and each of the Destinations from time to time while I am in the various countries, and to ensure that I have adequate medical, personal health, dental and accident insurance coverage, as well as protection of my personal possessions. More particularly, I appreciate the University does not carry accident or injury insurance for my benefit and I acknowledge that I have been advised by the University of such risks and dangers as well as the need to act in a responsible manner at all times. My signature below is given freely in order to indicate my understanding of the acceptance of these realities and in consideration for being permitted by the University to participate in the above-mentioned Program. I recognize that the University will not supervise any portion of the Program while I am attending at the Destinations. Further, I recognize that the University will not arrange any living accommodations or extracurricular activities during my participation in the Program.
LIABILITY WAIVER: I release and hold harmless the University, its employees, students and agents from any and all liability for any loss, damage, injury or expense that I or my next of kin may suffer as a result of my participation in this Program, including, but not limited to, accidents, acts of God, war, civil unrest, sickness, disease, transportation, scheduling, government restrictions or regulations, and any and all expenses which I may incur while participating in the Program. I understand that this waiver cannot be modified or interpreted except in writing by the University and that no oral modification or interpretation shall be valid. This waiver shall be effective and binding upon my heirs, next of kin, executors, administrators and assigns, in the event of death.
OvERSEAS PROGRAM CHECkLIST AND PRE-DEPARTURE ORIENTATION: I acknowledge and agree that I have been provided with the Overseas Program Checklist and hereby accept full responsibility for complying with all of the terms set forth therein.
I hAve ReAd ThIS dOCUMenT CAReFUllY And I ACknOWledGe MY ReSpOnSIBIlITIeS And
The eFFeCT OF ThIS lIABIlITY WAIveR On MY leGAl RIGhTS And ReSpOnSIBIlITIeS.
(Please Print) Student/Staff Name: Student/Staff Number: Permanent Address: Permanent Telephone: (Signature of Participant) (Witness as to Signature of Participant) Out of Country Program Checklist for university of manitoba Students
As a participant in a University of Manitoba (UM) sponsored or sanctioned out of country program (study, internship, research, practicum placement, cooperative program, etc), there are a number of issues that must be dealt with prior to your departure. It is your responsibility to see to these matters. For full information on preparing for your experience outside of Canada, you are advised to participate in a Pre-Departure Orientation offered by the International Centre for Students (ICS) . If it is impossible for you to participate in an orientation, then you should at least go through the ICS pre-departure booklet, Preparing for Overseas Travel: A Guide for UM Students. This is available through the ICS web site http://www.umanitoba.ca/student/ics as a pdf document. The following checklist and the attached waiver represent the absolute minimum in terms of the preparation you should undertake for your out of country program.
YOUR UM ACADEMIC & ADMINISTRATIvE RESPONSIbILITIES 1. All travel entails certain risks depending on its mode, timing, destination(s) and duration, among other things. Managing the risk associated with University funded or sponsored travel activity is a responsibility shared r Submit Liability Waiver to UM program coordinator by the University and the traveling individual. Students are responsible to research potential travel risks and to make an informed decision of whether to travel or not. Before going abroad on a UM program, all students must give a signed Acknowledgment of Responsibility and Liability Waiver to their UM program coordinator 2. If you are participating in an exchange program made possible through For Exchange Students: a formal agreement between the UM and a partner institution abroad, r Submit application for host you are not able to submit an admission application directly to your host University to UM exchange University abroad. Since the UM must nominate you to the host as our selected participant for this exchange, you must give your application to your UM exchange coordinator who will forward it to the host institution abroad. An acceptance letter from your host University is required for your visa application to that country. 3. As an exchange student, in most cases, particularly where courses are For Exchange Students: involved, you will be required to pay tuition and/or other fees to the UM. r Pay UM tuition fees These fees must be paid prior to the standard UM fee payment deadline for the term/session you will be abroad. If you are a UM international student, the differential fee still applies to the tuition fees you pay to the UM for your exchange period.
For Independent Study Abroad: 4. If you are studying at an institution where there is no formal UM exchange arrangement in place, or in some special cases even where there is, you r Submit application will be required to submit an admission application directly to your host to host institution University. You must also pay fees directly to the host University. In some r Pay tuition and other cases you will be required to pay an international student differential fee which can be quite high in some countries.
5. It is your responsibility to ensure that any courses you take while abroad will transfer back to the UM as credit. To this end, you must complete a Letter of Permission application and provide all supporting pieces r Submit Letter of Permission of information necessary for course assessment. The completed LOP application and supporting documents should be submitted to your UM exchange coordinator (if you're in the exchange program) or to the Registrar's Office (if you're studying abroad on your own). Even with complete documentation, it can take up to three months, or longer, for credit to be assessed.
6. If you are studying abroad, many host institutions and/or countries require that international students maintain full-time registration. Ensure that you know what constitutes full-time registration at your host intuition.
r Registered into full-time 7. Course credits taken while on a formal exchange and/or recognized in a letter of permission are to be used towards completing a UM degree program. Any decision to continue studies at the host institution beyond the time agreed to in the LOP could jeopardize your status as a UM 8. Withdrawal from the host institution while studying abroad on either a formal exchange program or on your own may constitute withdrawal from UM. Should you choose to withdraw while abroad, you may need to reapply to the UM for admission, with no guarantee of acceptance back r Notify RO of any drop/ into your program of study. As a participant in a formal exchange program, add course changes you should be registered at the UM and at the host institution. As a result you must observe all applicable host University add/drop dates and submit the necessary forms to the appropriate office at the host University. Notify the UM Registrar's Office immediately. Failure to do so may result in failing grades being recorded on your transcripts from both institutions.
9. Fee arrangements and recognition for practicum experience, research placements, cooperative programs and internships will differ. Just because you are not taking courses do not assume that you do not have to pay recognition for practicum any fees. If you want the experience to be recognized by UM or you want r Make required fee to maintain your status at UM while abroad, fees may be due to this institution. Fees may also be due to the institution in the home country that makes the experience possible. Find out what fees apply in your particular case and ensure that you observe all pertinent deadlines. You should also be aware of and obtain the necessary documentation to have your experience recognized by UM or in Canada.
10. Be sure to obtain official documentation of your academic experience r Submit transcript to RO abroad (i.e. a transcript). Submit your transcript to your Exchange Coordinator or the Registrar's Office (if not participating in an exchange program) as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in failing grades being recorded on your UM record.
TRAvEL PREPARATION RESPONSIbILITIES11. Immigration: Contact the Embassy or Consulate of the country where r Obtain a passport you plan to undertake your program in order to determine and obtain the type of official document that is required in your case. Visitors' visas are normally adequate for tourists only. Those who study or participate in an internship, practicum, cooperative program or research placement will probably be required to obtain a student or work visa. Each country has different regulations and different names for these documents so do not make any assumptions based on past experience with other countries. Furthermore, regulations in a given country may change without prior notice so ensure that your information is up to date. Fees for the necessary documents will vary considerably according to country. Failure to obtain the appropriate official documents can result in a number of penalties such as denial of entry, fines, deportation, denial of future entry, and even imprisonment. Contact information for foreign embassies and consulates in Canada is available at: w01.international.gc.ca/Protocol/ 12. Emergencies while outside Canada: Be sure to register with the Canadian r Register with the Canadian consulate consulate or embassy responsible for the region in which you will be studying and/or working. You may do this before you leave via the Internet at www.voyage.gc.ca Your Canadian Consulate may be a vitally important resource for you in the instance of an emergency overseas. Leave a copy of your itinerary (all places and dates where you expect to be going) with a contact person at home. Establish contact with family/ r Copy of itinerary with friends and the UM as soon as possible after arriving at your destination. Keep UM contacts informed of any changes to your address or contact r Obtain Emergency information. Note the UM 24-hour Emergency Response number in an accessible place: (Collect call) 1-204-474-9312; E-mail: emergency_ [email protected] or obtain an Emergency Contact Card from ICS.
13. While abroad, you should ensure that you provide your postal and e-mail r Current contact info with addresses, and telephone number in the host country to the appropriate UM program coordinator office at UM.
14. Financing: You are responsible for all costs incurred during your overseas program unless explicitly stated by UM or the host institution. These include, but are not limited to, tuition, student fees, program fees, r Create personal budget insurance, room and board, books and supplies, local and international travel, visa fees and all personal expenses.
Secure adequate funding to support you throughout your time away from home. Possible funding sources include personal savings, family contributions, Canada Student Loans [http://www.studentaid.gov.mb.ca], awards/scholarships. Make sure your source of funding will cover you r Investigate funding while abroad. Inform your bank of travel plans and discuss the best method for accessing your funds from outside Canada. Appoint a trusted person as "power of attorney" over your financial matters.
r Research banking options r Appoint power of attorney 15. Income tax: Research prior to leaving any particular forms you may need to include in your income tax submission. Make arrangements for filing your tax return from outside of Canada.
16. Health: Visit your doctor prior to leaving Canada for a full check-up. r Book medical appoint- Discuss any prescription requirements and/or medical supplies you may ments: Doctor, Dentist, need while abroad. Also book check-up appointments with your dentist and optometrist. 17. Students traveling to developing countries, or visiting developing r Attend a travel health countries during their time abroad, are encouraged to attend a travel health clinic well in advance of their departure date. [Winnipeg Regional Health Authority operates a travel health and tropical medicine clinic at r Obtain necessary 490 Hargrave. For appointments call 940-TRIP/8747.] Students going to a malaria endemic country must seek accurate malaria-prevention advice. Student returning to Canada from a malaria endemic country must seek prompt medical attention if they develop a fever within the first 6 to 12 months of their return. For further information please see: www.wrha. mb.ca/community/travel or the government web site: www.travelhealth.gc.ca 18. Insurance: You must purchase the necessary health, travel and property insurance in order to ensure that you have adequate coverage from the r Purchase adequate time you leave Canada, until you re-enter this country. Do not rely on health and property your Manitoba Health Insurance alone as it will not cover many expenses. insurance coverage When purchasing medical insurance, there are a number of things to LOOk FOR INSURANCE WHICH OFFERS: • Continuous coverage before departure and after return • Adequate hospitalization coverage for illness or accident • Coverage for prescription medicine • 24 hour emergency contact number in English • Direct payment of bill abroad so you need not pay and then wait for • Adequate medical evacuation coverage: costs for this may exceed $10,000 • Coverage for a family member to travel to be with you in case of serious accident or illness • Repatriation of remains: costs may exceed $12,000 • Coverage of pre-existing conditions such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, etc.
TRY TO AvOID INSURANCE WHICH HAS:• Any exclusions based on travel to particular countries • A deductible: quoted as a fixed rate in dollars or as a percentage of the total bill. Plans with 100% coverage may be more expensive to purchase but may help you avoid considerable costs in the long run.
• A lifetime or single event maximum for medical expenses due to accident and hospitalization or illness: some types of injuries may exceed $250,000 Contact Manitoba Health before you leave to inform them of your plans to go abroad. Review their web page at: www.gov.mb.ca/health/mhsip before moving r Notify Manitoba Health for answers to specific questions you may have or contact them directly (contact information is included in the above web site). 19. Unless informed otherwise by your UM program coordinator, it is your responsibility to arrange travel to, from and within your host destination. Consult a travel agent about your options and be sure to make your r Make travel arrangements bookings well in advance of your departure date.
20. Unless informed otherwise by your UM program coordinator, it is your responsibility to arrange accommodations at your destination. Many times your host country program coordinator/ employer will assist you in doing this. Be sure you know where you are going when you r Arrange accommodations arrive in the airport at your destination. Check ahead of time whether you will be met at the airport upon arrival, or whether you will need temporary accommodations prior to being able to move into your final 21. While abroad, you must observe the rules, regulations, and laws of your host institution and country. In some cases you will still be bound by the rules and regulations of UM. UM has the right to terminate or r Research your host not recognize your participation in an overseas program (particularly a culture: academic formal exchange program) if you fail to maintain minimum academic system, culture, current standards or if you are found in violation of the laws or regulations of events, etc.
the home/host country or institution. Whatever the case may be, you should remember that you represent the UM and Canada while you are abroad and your conduct should reflect well on your home University and 22. Finally, it is your responsibility to research the economic, social, political, and cultural situation of the country that you plan to visit. You should r Research host country's pay particular attention to any safety issues regarding that country. political, economic, social Travel Information and Advisory Reports are available through the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade site: www.voyage. gc.ca/countries_pays/menu-eng.asp The contact information for Canadian Embassies and Consulates overseas can be found at: www.voyage.gc.ca Additional information on how to handle emergency or crisis situations overseas can be found at: this same web site. Ultimately, the decision to participate in an overseas program is yours and you owe it to yourself to be well informed about the conditions you will face.
Personal Budget Sheet – Study Abroad In-Country Travel Program Participation Fee Housing or key deposit Medical Exam (if required) Student organization fees Health Insurance (required) Discount Cards (i.e. ISIC) $ Subtotal
$ Subtotal
Grand Total
Part-time / Summer Job earnings Government Student Loan UM Scholarship / award Host institution bursary Other scholarship / award Family contributions Other fundraising: List of Possible Funding Sources for um exchange Programs Abroad
1. UMSU Awards [www.umsu.ca] 2. Scholarships through faculties/various UM sources: Financial Aid & Awards: [www.umanitoba.ca/student/fin_awards] 3. Canadian Millennium Scholarships [www.millenniumscholarships.ca/en/main.html] 1. Awards offered by exchange partner institutions or in conjunction with these particular exchange host Universities (subject to change): Aalborg University (Denmark) Saga University (Japan) Aarhus University (Denmark) City University of Hong Kong University of Iceland University of Trier (Germany) Kokugakuin University (Japan) 2. Awards available through various UM Faculties for students of that faculty: IH Asper School of Business, Faculty of Arts 3. Some Student Mobility Projects offer government funding. Information is available through program NORTH 2 NORTH STUDENT ExCHANGE: Interdisciplinary, contact ICS Student Exchange Office at [email protected] 4. UM Awards offered to students participating in Exchange Programs: open to all exchange destinations. Contact ICS Exchange Program Office 474-7261, 541 University Centre.
OTHER AWARDS AND GRANTS: Open to all exchange participants: 1. CBIE International Learner Grants [www.cbie.ca/english/scholarship/canadians.htm] 2. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) [www.daad.org] Check with World W.I.S.E. Resource Centre ([email protected]) for more information on the above scholarships and other available financial supports.
Permission to View Student manitoba Student Aid
I give permission for Manitoba Student Aid to: 1) Share all information pertaining to my student loan application and status with my designate 2) Allow my designate to pick up all documentation including Canada Student Loans and Manitoba Student Loans.
The person I designate to act on my behalf is: (Please notify Manitoba Student Aid of any change of mailing address.) Social Insurance Number: Mail or bring in person to: manitoba Student Aid
409 – 1181 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB
Important Questions to Ask About insurance Policies
What is the overall policy limit? What are the sub-limits that will apply to some of the coverages? Does it cover pre-existing* medical conditions? *This is a condition of which you are aware and for which you have been treated by a doctor or hospital prior to your departure.
Does it cover controlled pre-existing conditions*? *This is an ongoing condition for which you have been treated and prescribed medication that you will take on an ongoing regular basis.
What are the main exclusions? There are exclusions for accidents that are a result of some types of sports or high-risk activities. These exclusions vary from company to company.
Can I come home during the time the policy is in force without voiding the policy? Most policies are voided if you return home during the policy term. If you know that you are going to be coming home for a visit during your time away, you should only take the policy to the date that you will return home. Then arrange another policy when you leave again.
Can I get a refund if I come home sooner than expected? Do I have to go to specified doctors or hospitals? Do I have to pay for medical expenses first and then wait to be reimbursed? Or, will the company pay direct to the hospitals in the event that I am hospitalized? Most plans will expect you to pay first for the smaller claims such as an examination by a doctor, and then you submit your receipts for reimbursement. Be sure to ask about policies for larger expenses like hospitalization.
How quickly do I have to report a claim? How do I report a claim and what will the company require from me to process the claim? What is the 24 hour emergency help line number? List of Foreign Diplomatic Web Sites
for Canadian Students to Obtain Work or Study Visas
Please note this is not a comprehensive list. Further information can be obtained through the Department of Foreign Affairs web site: www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca or www.embassyworld.com You can find many (if not all) of the following resources in the World WISE Resource Centre, 541 University Centre, University of Manitoba. Call 474-6842 to check for availability on these and any newly acquired resources.
The Canadian Guide to Working and Living Overseas, by Jean-Marc Hachey, 4th Edition, 2004.
Alternative Travel Directory: The Complete Guide to Travel, Study & Living Overseas, from the editors of Transitions Abroad magazine, 1999.
Studying Abroad/Learning Abroad: An Abridged Edition of The Whole World Guide To Culture Learning, by J. Daniel Hess, 1997.
Survival kit for Overseas Living: For Americans Planning to Live and Work Abroad, 3rd Edition, by L. Robert kohls, 1996.
Women's Guide to Overseas Living, 2nd Edition, by Nancy J. Piet-Pelon and barbara Hornby, 1992.
Do's and Don'ts Around the World: A Country Guide to Cultural and Social Taboos and Etiquette, Oceania & Japan, by Gladson I. Nwanna, 1998.
Health Advice For Living Overseas, by the Health Support Service, 1994.
Australia, beyond the Outback: A Pre-Departure Guide for North American Students, by the Australian Education Office, 1998.
Live & Work in Australia and New zealand, by Fiona McGregor and Charlotte Denny, 1995.
Live & Work in FRANCE, by victoria Pybus, 1998 Australia 2001: THE bUDGET TRAvEL GUIDE, by Garth Powell, 2001 The Rough Guide to Iceland, First Edition, by David Leffman and James Proctor Tasmania: a Lonely Planet Australia guide, 1st Edition, by John Chapman and Monica Chapman Let's Go 2000: Australia, First Edition The Whole World Guide To Culture Learning, by J. Daniel Hess Developing Intercultural Awareness, A Cross-Cultural Training Handbook, Second Edition, by I. Robert kohls and John M. knight Lonely Planet travel guides Photographs Courtesy of:Stock Website: pages: Cover, 11, 13, 16 , 17, 20, 23, 27, 31, 33, 34, 37, 40, 43, 44, 45, 49, 55Mike Berg: pages 7, 41Jeff Epp: pages 17, 19, 26, 39Maria klassen: p. 46 Information in Case of emergency
NOTE: The information provided here will be given to your Program Coordinator and kept in confidence in a
central file at the International Centre for Students – in both cases the information will be used only to respond to emergency situations.
1. Your Full Name: UM Student number: 2. Your Passport Number: Issuing Country: 3. Destination Country / Host Institution:4. Purpose of trip: r UM Student Exchange rUM sponsored practicum/internship r UM Approved elective r UM study research r Personal travel 5. Have you registered with the Foreign Affairs Canada (ROCA)?: 6. Health Insurance provider and policy number: 7. Your Family Doctor (Name, Address, Phone Number and E-mail): 8. Two contacts, in case of emergency, (family or friends): emergency Contact #1
emergency Contact #2
Name (first & last)RelationshipAddress (Street, City, Country, Postal Code)Telephone NumberCell phone NumberFax NumberE-mail Address 9. Institutional Contacts: UM Staff Contact
host Institution Contact
Name (first & last)TitleAddress (Street, City, Country, Postal Code)Telephone NumberFax NumberE-mail Address Please return to International Centre for Students, University of Manitoba, 541 University Centre, Winnipeg R3T 2N2 inTeRnATiOnAl CenTRe fOR STudenTS
541 University Centre, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Mb R3T 2N2

Source: http://biz.stu.edu.cn/files/file/vivicui/2012092003.pdf