survival arrival

[a4architecture]

Education System

Elementary and Secondary Schools

Every child in Canada has a legal right to education. There is no tuition cost to attend publicly funded schools in Ontario. Generally, you have to pay to send your child to a private school.
Elementary schools in Canada provide kindergarten programs for children aged 4 and 5. They also provide instruction from grades 1 - 8. Generally, students begin elementary school at 6 years of age and graduate at 13.
Secondary schools, often called "high schools," provide instruction from grades 9 - 12. Generally, students begin high school at 14 years of age and graduate at 18.
Extracurricular Activities

Participating in extracurricular activities at school is a great way for newcomer students to make friends, practice their English and feel part of the school community. Many schools offer these types of programs, which can include ESL help, sports, clubs, music, theater, student government and many others. Sometimes these are called co-curricular activities. Sometimes they happen during the regular school but generally they take place before or after school.
The programs are usually open to all students and are supervised by a teacher.
As well, many universities and colleges consider a student's extracurricular activities and community involvement when evaluating the student's application for admission or for scholarships. For more information about extracurricular activities in your school, speak to a teacher or the guidance counselor.
For more information about schools in your area, contact your local school board. There are also lists of school newcomer reception centres where students get assessed before starting school and parents can get information. This can be found at here
Online Resources

Study in Ontario is an online publication that explains the educational system in Ontario including elementary schools, middle schools, secondary schools and colleges and universities. A brochure outlining every child's rights in terms of education can also be found at this website
For international post-secondary students, the province of Ontario offers great resources regarding the range of opportunities that our colleges and universities have to offer, plus information on how to apply and more.

 

[a4architecture]

English as a Foreign Language Test

English as a Foreign Language Testing Services

Depending upon which country you are coming from, you may have to take an English-language proficiency test called Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to demonstrate how well you can speak, write and read in English, before applying to a publicly-funded college or university.
Educational Testing Service (ETS) is an American company that offers language-testing assistance to students all over the world. ETS will explain what their TOEFL test is about, what documents to bring on test day and, before you write the actual test, you will have the chance to practise writing the test online.
There is also a branch office in Canada – ETS Canada. Through ETS Canada you can purchase a guide to further assist you with the TOEFL test. There are other English language tests that an educational institution may suggest that you take. However the TOEFL is usually the one accepted by all universities and colleges.
English Classes

Ontario Immigration has information to help you improve your English language skills. They also provide basic information about language training in 16 languages other than English.
The YMCA is a not-for-profit organization that offers English language classes through their LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) program.
Englishlink is an organization that delivers high-quality online English as a Second Language (ESL) courses at no charge anyone with access to a computer.

 

[a4architecture]

Applying to Colleges and Universities

Types of Students

Each school (college or university) has their own admission requirements and select which students to accept. Generally, you can apply to a college or university in 1 of these categories:
"Domestic" student - You are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
International or "Foreign" student - You are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You will need a study permit.
Some colleges and universities have different tuition rates for children and dependents of diplomats, and children or dependents of people with some kinds of work permit.

How to Apply

To apply to an Ontario university, you must submit your application to the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). The OUAC processes application for all Ontario universities.
The deadline to apply depends on whether you are currently in high school, and which kind of program you are applying to. For example, professional programs usually have different deadlines than undergraduate (Bachelor's) programs. You can find information about application deadlines on the OUAC website.
To apply to an Ontario college, you must submit your application to the Ontario College Application Service (OCAS). OCAS processes the applications for public colleges in Ontario. If you are accepted to a college, you also send your response to the OCAS. The OCAS will respond to the college for you.
Unlike universities, colleges do not have the same kind of final application deadline. Generally, colleges consider all applications that they receive by a certain date together; after that date, they consider applications on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can find out information about the application dates on the OCAS webpage - When to Apply.
You can also contact the Office of Admission at the school you are interested in for information about deadlines, application forms, and translation and visa requirements.
Study Permits

If you are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and you plan to study in a program for more than 6 months, you need a study permit.
To apply for a study permit, you need:
A letter of acceptance from the school you want to attend;
Proof of identity (such as a passport or travel document) for you and any family members who come with you to Canada;
Proof that you have enough money to pay school fees and support yourself and any family members who come with you while you study; and
To demonstrate that you and any family members who come with you will leave after you complete your studies.
Depending on your citizenship, you might also need:
To pass a medical exam; and/or
To get a temporary resident visa (or "entry visa").
You have to apply through Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

 

[a4architecture]

Student Life and Accommodations

Choosing a school is important but getting to know more about your campus and your city is also vital to have a successful educational experience. On this page you can learn about the types of housing available, Toronto’s varied neighbourhoods, campus safety and health services, and the Toronto Public Library.

Housing

Understanding the different neighborhoods will help you to decide where you would like to live in Toronto. However, deciding where to live can be difficult when you don’t know the city. Most schools have a housing office that will assist you in finding accommodation and giving you an idea of what the surrounding neighborhood has to offer.
You will find two types of housing:
Off-campus housing
Undergraduate and graduate residences (on-campus)
On-campus housing, also known as residences or dormitories, usually offer “meal plans” as part of your fees.
Toronto has many different neighbourhoods which contribute to this diverse and vibrant city. A look at our neighbourhood profiles will tell you more about our neighbourhoods. For example, you’ll find information about Toronto’s population by age group, types of dwellings (house, townhouse or apartment building), most commonly used language and household income.
Campus safety

The larger educational institutions usually offer a service to students who need to walk across the campus late at night. For example, the University of Toronto calls this the “Walksafer” program and it is offered by their Campus Police. Please note that the campus police are not part of the City of Toronto Police Services and only the University of Toronto has a campus police force.
All publicly-funded universities and campuses offer some sort of walking safe programs, although the hours and structure of the programs may vary. Two students and/or a security officer will escort you back to your dormitory or to a public transit area. York University, which happens to have a very large campus, offers goSafe. This service not only includes escorts when walking around the campus, but also transport by vehicle between buildings or campuses.
Walking safe programs are part of the school’s overall security service and are there to make your educational experience in Toronto a safe one. These security services provide protection for the school’s students and staff as well as monitoring the use of the school’s buildings and other property. Campus security can also assist you in an emergency.
Health Services on campus

Each university and college campus offers health services to their students. You can find out more by going to the school’s website and looking up “health services”. If you need a doctor or medical advice, these areas can assist you. These services are usually included with your tuition fees.
Toronto Public Library

The City of Toronto has an extensive public library system called the Toronto Public Library (TPL). Once you have registered with the library you will find many services. There are over 100 district branches that offer fiction & non-fiction books, CD’s and videos to borrow. You may also use their computers free of charge.
Your university or college library will probably be your first resource, but the public libraries also have extensive collections and may be useful to your studies. They provide a local place where you can study in quiet. There is also the Toronto Reference Library which is the headquarters of the Toronto public library system. The Reference Library focuses upon research and reference materials and includes a language lab on the top floor.
The Toronto Public Library has a newcomer section that provides many resources. For instance, computer applications are available in 147 non-western fonts on TPL computers. There are also 31 branches that provide wireless service.
The Toronto Public Library offers classes to help you use their computers and the internet. You can also read online newspapers in over 70 languages. There is a special portal for Multicultural Resources where you will find many more services.

 

[a4architecture]

311 Toronto

Not sure how to report a pothole? Need to order or exchange a Garbage/Recycling Bin? Looking for a program at your local community centre? Simply call or visit 311. Customer service representatives are available to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This service helps you access to a wide range of online services, including self-service requests and tracking.
311 vs. 911 and 211

311 is for non-emergency City services, programs and information. Call 311 or visit www.toronto.ca/311 for more information
For all emergencies call 911. This number connects you to EMS, Police and/or Fire in an emergency situation and service is provided in all languages. Learn more about Toronto emergency services.
211 is for social service and counselling referrals. You can also visit www.211toronto.ca.

 

[a4architecture]

Utilities and Services

Your City Services

Toronto Water delivers safe and clean drinking water through a network of water mains and local distribution systems, known as the "waterworks.
The City of Toronto’s Solid Waste Division is responsible for collecting, transporting, processing, composting and disposing of municipal and private sector solid waste and recyclables, as well as household hazardous waste. Not sure what should be recycled and what should be thrown out in the trash? You can ask the City of Toronto’s Waste Wizard.
Toronto Hydro ensures the safe and reliable delivery of electrical power to approximately 696,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers across the City of Toronto. This represents 18 per cent of electricity consumers in the province of Ontario. They plan, maintain and operate Toronto's electrical distribution system infrastructure safely, efficiently and in an environmentally responsible manner.

 

[a4architecture]

Community Events

With a mandate to develop and promote dynamic, innovative and accessible events and festivals, the City of Toronto's Special Events office celebrates the richness and diversity of this great city, enriching the quality of life for residents and attracting world-wide tourist audiences
Toronto Special Events produces more than 30 festivals and events and consults with hundreds more every year. This web page provides you with detailed information on all events produced by Toronto Special Events.

There's a lot going on in the city.

Find out about events produced by other City departments and check out Toronto's Festivals & Events calendar for city-wide event listings. The 10 historic museums operated by the City of Toronto work collectively to inspire passion for our city. Our museum professionals have researched the history of Toronto and present this knowledge in ways that engage residents, visitors and community groups alike. Don't just read about history - taste it, touch it, hear it and explore it!
Tourism Toronto is the official destination marketing organization for Toronto’s tourism industry. Tourism Toronto ( also know as Toronto Convention and Visitors Association) focuses on promoting and selling the greater Toronto region as a remarkable destination for tourists, convention delegates and business travellers.
Officially operating as a not-for-profit agency, Tourism Toronto has over 1,200 members and is a partnership of public and private sectors. They provide a wealth of services so that travellers can plan a great Toronto experience tailored to their needs.

 

[a4architecture]

Toronto Public Library

The public library is free for anyone who lives, works, goes to school or owns land in the city of Toronto. At the library you can borrow books, movies, CDs and much more for fun, study or self-interest. The library also has many free programs and services for everyone. You can also come to the library to meet with a settlement worker who can help you get started in Toronto and Canada. Find out, for free, how to:
get free help finding a job
learn English and where to get free classes
get a driver's
Adults can Learn English at the library

The Toronto Public Library offers many free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. You can also take home ESL books, videos, CDs and more to practice. ESL teachers can also bring classes for library tours; ask at your local branch for details. Learn about the Toronto Public Library in your own language.

 

[a4architecture]

Canada Post

Canada Post handles our mail. Mail is distributed daily from Monday to Friday, except on official holidays. This includes home delivery, and delivery to post office boxes and community mail boxes. To send a letter you'll need a postage stamp. Postage stamps are sold at any post office and are available at many drug stores, hotels and airports.
The cost of the stamp is based on the weight and size of the letter or package, and where your mail is going. When you mail a letter or package to an address in Canada you must include the six-digit postal code for that address, and also a return address. This will speed up delivery. If you are sending something overseas, you must use the special code for that country. You can find these at a post office.
To mail your letter or small package you can take it post office or put it in the red Canada Post mail boxes located on streets and in shopping malls all across Canada. Take large parcels to a post office. There are also private special delivery or courier services available.

 

[a4architecture]

Health Care for Newcomers

Free Health Services

Toronto Public Health wants you to stay healthy. These free health services are available to you and your family no matter how long you've been in Canada. You don't need a health card to use the following free services:
Dental Care
If you cannot afford to pay for dental care, you may be eligible for free dental care. To find out if you are eligible, call 311 and ask for a dental appointment. Interpretation provided.
Advice for Pregnant and New Mothers
Having a baby and raising children isn't easy. Get advice on the phone about: having a healthy pregnancy, giving birth, breastfeeding, child growth and behaviour, toilet training and other questions. Call 416 338-7600 and ask for new parent advice. Interpretation provided.
Vaccination Services for Children
Did you know every time your child receives a vaccination you need to report it to Toronto Public Health? Doctors do not report vaccinations. Your children may be suspended from school, if they have an incomplete record or do not have a valid exemption on file. Toronto Public Health can translate your immunization record. Free immunizations are available if you don't have a health card.
Healthy Eating
Preparing healthy food in a new country can be challenging. Contact us to get advice about children's nutrition, shopping for groceries, community gardens, cooking programs and healthy low cost meals from many cultures. Call 416-338-7600 and ask for healthy eating advice or cooking programs. Interpretation provided.
Family Planning and Sexual Health
Toronto Public Health Clinics provide free and anonymous advice about sexual health issues. The clinics also provide confidential services such as:
free or low cost birth control
pregnancy tests and options
free testing for and treatment of sexually transmitted infections
free testing for HIV
For more information call 416 392 2437. Interpretation provided.
Services available with an Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) Card

Know Your Health Care Options
Once you have your OHIP Card there are many more health care options available. Knowing your health care options will help you to make better choices for you and your family's health care needs. The Ontario Health's website can help you explore the different health care choices available to you.
Are you looking for a doctor?
Health Care Connect helps Ontarians who are without a family doctor or nurse to find one. If you do not have one this service refers you to a family doctor or a nurse who is accepting new patients in their community. Find out more about the program
More Health Information and Resources from Settlement.org

Whether you have your Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card or not it is important to take care of your health. The health section of Settlement.org is also filled with information, links and valuable resources about newcomer health care including info on health insurance, how to find a doctor or other medical professional, and health services for you and your family during this transition and long after.

 

[a4architecture]

DONOT FORGET TO RATE THE POSTS YOU LIKE

 

[bajegirl100]

Good info

 

[famzahid]

Good info

Indeed great effort a4architecture....

 

[basmalahh]

Thanks
I gave you a +1

 

[a4architecture]

Thanks
I gave you a +1

Thanks