Information Hub COVID-19
Overview
As the public health situation evolves with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the health and safety of all students, instructors, and staff at UWinnipeg PACE continues to be our top priority.
We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to follow the directives of federal, provincial, and municipal health authorities.
Our May 2021 programs will start in an online blended learning format, which combines live virtual meeting/lecture times with independent study. This allows students to embark on their educational journey without being physically present in the beginning. PACE will transition to in-person delivery once it is deemed safe to do so by public health authorities and safety protocols can be implemented.
The University of Winnipeg has an approved COVID-19 readiness plan allowing our students to make travel plans to come to Canada if they have a confirmed seat in their program. This is effective October 20, 2020. Students with a confirmed seat in a program will be contacted directly by email with more information.
Information for Prospective Students
Start dates
We are accepting applications for our August/September 2021 and January 2022 programs via our online application portal. Please note some programs may close for applications early due to overwhelming demand.
Next Application Deadlines
- May 15, 2021 (August/September 2021 start dates)
- September 15, 2021 (January/February 2022 start dates)
Program Delivery Format
While no one knows exactly what the world will look like in a couple of months, we are preparing a number of scenarios so that we can continue to offer our exceptional, industry-aligned certificates and diplomas that prepare our graduates for success.
Study Permits & Travel
The University of Winnipeg has an approved COVID-19 readiness plan allowing our students to make travel plans to come to Canada if they have a confirmed seat in their program.
- UWinnipeg students with the required documentation will be able to begin or continue their studies from within Canada.
- Students DO NOT need to be in Canada to start their programs in May 2021.
If you choose to travel:
- You must have a valid study permit or a letter of introduction that shows you were approved for a study permit prior to travel to Canada.
- If you were issued a Stage 1 Approval (AIP) you must wait to clear Stage 2 prior to travel
- For more information visit the Government of Canada website
- If you were issued a Stage 1 Approval (AIP) you must wait to clear Stage 2 prior to travel
- Travel support letter
- Proof of quarantine plans
For more information about how COVID-19 is affecting study permits and post-graduate work permits issued by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), please refer directly to IRCC and their pandemic information website.
There are several border control measures in place, including a mandatory 3-night hotel quarantine at the port of arrival, 14 quarantine period, and pre- and arrival COVID-19 testing which students must consider when making plans to arrive in Canada.
Please ensure you are familiar with the University's Travel, Arrival & Quarantine Protocol for PACE students. Note this is subject to change as the public health sitution evolves, please check this frequently.
Next Application Deadlines
- May 15, 2021 (August/September 2021 start dates)
- September 15, 2021 (January/February 2022 start dates)
We strongly advise applicants to apply early as space is limited and demand for our full-time programs is extremely high.
NOTE: Programs may reach capacity prior to application deadline and close to applications. Our online application portal shows real-time information about which programs are accepting applications. If you do not see a program, we are no longer accepting applications in that intake.
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose previous education was completed outside of Canada and where English may or may not have been the medium of instruction, must submit proof of English language proficiency.
There are a number of ways to meet your English language requirements for PACE programs during the current public health crisis.
- TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test
- We will accept the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test as a measure of English language proficiency for the January 2021 intake to our post-degree diplomas.
- The test is available everywhere that TOEFL iBT testing is normally available, with the exception of Mainland China and Iran.
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- A minimum score of 86 with no less than 19 in each component is needed to fulfill the PACE English language requirement.
- TOEFT MyBestScore may also be considered with a minimum score of 20 on each individual component.
- IELTS Indicator
- We will accept the IELTS Indicator Test with as a measure of English language proficiency for the January 2021 intake to our post-degree diplomas.
- A minimum overall band score of 6.5 and a minimum score of 6.0 for the writing and reading categories is needed to fulfill the PACE English language requirement.
- We will accept the IELTS Indicator Test with as a measure of English language proficiency for the January 2021 intake to our post-degree diplomas.
- Duolingo English Test
- We will accept the Duolingo English Test with a minimum test score of 120, with at least a Production score of 100, as a measure of English language proficiency for the 2021 and 2022 intake to our post-degree diplomas.
For more information about meeting English language proficiency requirements with other tests, please visit out Admission Requirements page.
How to Apply
To begin the admission process please start your application. You may return to your application at any time to add documents, however, once submitted you are unable to change your application. Please note a non-refundable application fee is due at the time you submit your application.
You will need to provide scanned or digital copies of the following documents to submit your application for review:
- All post-secondary transcripts (original(s) must be submitted at a later date for verification)
- Proof of graduation (original(s) must be submitted at a later date for verification)
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Proof of citizenship (if applicable)
- Copy of passport picture page (if applicable)
- Resume
Your application is not considered complete until documents have been submitted and your non-refundable application fee has been paid.
The non-refundable application fee is as follows
- $150 CAD for international students
- $50 CAD for Canadian students
Information for part time students
Spring Term 2021 Courses
All part time courses will continue to be offered in an online format. We look forward to being able to offering in-person instruction again at a later date.
We continue to offer our regularly scheduled online certificates and diplomas. For more information about taking an online course at UWinnipeg PACE, please visit our Online Learning page.
Bookstore
The Bookstore is currently offering free shipping on all online orders. At this time, UWinnipeg Booksore is still open but has reduced operating hours (9AM-3PM).
Resources for using Nexus
Student Advising
Student advising services are available remotely to all full-time and part-time students. Your advisor will be accessible during regular work hours via email.
We will be using Zoom or other online meeting tools for meetings/questions that cannot be answered via email.
To set up an appointment
- Email your advisor
- They will set up a time to connect via online messaging tools
- Download Zoom app in advance through the App Store or Google Play
Learning Remotely
During the Winter and Spring 2021 terms, all PACE courses will be offered via remote learning, making use of UWinnipeg's online learning platform Nexus. PACE has a proven history in delivering exceptional, industry-aligned certificates and diplomas in an online format.
Courses that are a part of our our full-time diploma programs will use an online blended format, combining mandatory live virtual meeting and lecture times with independent study.
PACE also offers a range of online courses delivered in an asynchornous format, which means you will not be expected to be online for any live lectures. You are free to work on these course when you want, providing you meet assignment due dates. Most courses have video lectures (less than 10 minutes), readings, and group work.
UWinnipeg Library has developed a site with resources to help manage the transition to learning remotely that might be helpful when adjusting to the change.
Resources for learning online
Download our Tips for Learning Remotely (PDF)
Download our Online Learning Guide (PDF)
Nexus Resources
Health & Wellness
If you are ill and have recently traveled internationally or, you are ill and have been in close contact (within 2 meters/6 feet) with an individual who has tested postive for COVID-19, or been identified as a close contact, you should call Health Links - Info Santé (204.788.8200 or toll-free 1.888.315.9257) who will provide advice on where to go to be assessed.
Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba establishes support line in response to COVID-19. You can reach the support line by calling 204.925.0040. The line will be checked regularly between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends. People are asked to leave their name, phone number or email address and an ADAM representative will get in touch with them within a short period of time
Health & Wellbeing
Protecting the health and well-being of our community is at the forefront of decisions to temporarily suspend in-person classes. The academics are one aspect of the University’s comprehensive contingency planning, and we are acting on the recommendations of local and national health officials. We understand these major changes and uncertainty can create difficult decisions and anxiety for you. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
- Practice and promote good, basic hygiene.
- Know when and how to wash your hands and use sanitizer.
- Practice physical distancing. Universal physical distancing is critical to protecting everyone.
- Follow local public health guidelines regarding the use of non-medical masks when physical distancing is not possible.
- Stay up-to-date on your vaccine eligibility via the Province of Manitoba's vaccine portal. Any person living in Manitoba, regardless of immigration status is eligible to be vaccinated, including international students.
- Stay connected with friends and family via emails, phone calls, and video calls.
- Stay active (while observing social distancing recommendations) - see below for suggestions.
- The Wellness Centre is home to all counselling services for students, you can email them or call 204.988.7611 for more information on how to access services during this time.
guard.me has recorded a webinar with key information about insurance for new international students.
Health Insurance for International Students
Visit Guard.me's page for UWinnipeg's international students for more information about your insurance coverage. International students can also use the Guard.Me Find a Clinic function if they do not have a doctor. Please call any clinic you plan to visit in advance.
Acute mental health resources
Klinic Crisis Line (24-hour): 204.786.8686 or 1.888.322.3019
Mobile Crisis Service (24-hour): 204.786.7631 or 1.888.292.7565
Crisis Response Centre (24-hour): 204.940.1781
Manitoba Suicide Line (24-hour): 1.877.435.7170
Manitoba Addictions Help Line: 1.855.332.6605
Klinic Community Drop-in Counselling: 204.784.4067
keep.meSAFE (International Students): 1.844.451.9700
Stay Active
Look for health and fitness options you can do from home to keep yourself moving and healthy.
UWinnipeg Recreation Services is offering free virtual fitness classes. Fall classes start Tuesday, September 8.
Our Student Life team has created two yoga practices for PACE students. Scan the QR codes with your phone camera to access the Energize or Relax flows.
Check out local gyms and fitness or yoga studios that are offering online instruction at this time (some may be free or they may run virtual programming and charge a small fee to support their business). Many online fitness apps and sites are offering free or discounted access to their services at this time.
Stay Informed
Remember to stay informed about the developing situation through trustworthy sources, like the Public Health Agency of Canada, Manitoba Communicable Disease Control, and the World Health Organization.
Vaccinations
Eligibility requirements to be vaccinated in Manitoba are changing on a regular basis. Please keep yourself informed about whether you meet current eligibility requirements on the province's vaccination portal.
Are international students eligible to be vaccinated in Manitoba?
Yes. According to the Province of Manitoba Vaccine FAQ, "anyone residing in Manitoba, regardless of immigration status: refugee claimants, migrant workers, international students, dependent children of temporary residents, and undocumented residents. These individuals should bring some form of government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, in order to get the vaccine."
Travel Information
You are responsible for ensuring compliance to all Canadian federal and Manitoban provincial health regulations and quarantine guidelines when traveling to Canada. Quarantine is mandatory for all travelers entering Canada, even for people with no symptoms. Travelers must prepare a quarantine plan for the 14-days after they arrive in Canada.
Effective February 22, 2021
Air travellers arriving in Canada, must reserve a room in a Government of Canada-approved hotel for three nights at their own cost, and take a COVID-19 molecular test on arrival at their own cost, before being permitted to continue to their final destination to complete the remainder of a mandatory 14-day quarantine period. Booking must be made in advance of travel.
Effective January 21, 2021
All travelers coming to Manitoba, including those coming from other Canadian provinces, must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Click to read full details.
Effective January 7, 2021
Effective January 7, 2021 travelers to Canada are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result to airlines before boarding. Please contact an accredited lab in your country to take a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test no earlier than 72 hours before departure. Travellers crossing a landborder (ie US/Canada) must also present negative COVID-19 test results to enter Canada. Read more.
For full details about COVID-19 pre-departure testing and air transport, see Transport Canada.
For the most up-to-date information on border crossing, please visit the Canada Border Services Agency and Government of Canada Immigration and Citizenship websites.
Currently both the Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba strongly advise people to avoid non-essential international travel. If you have urgent travel needs, please check with Immigrant and Refugee Student Services (IIRSS) to ensure you have the necessary permit to travel, and contact the airline you have booked your ticket with for the latest updates on border closings.
I Just travelled, what do I do?
Currently everyone who has travelled internationally, including to the USA, is required, by law, to follow the following protocols:
- Self-isolate for 14 days after your return from travel outside of Canada, or jurisdictions within Canada from which Manitoba requires self-quarantine measures
- Monitor your health for fever, cough or difficulty breathing
- Wash your hands often for 20 seconds and cover your mouth and nose with your arm when coughing or sneezing
What You Can Do
Wear a Mask
Wear a non-medical mask or face covering:
- when you're in shared indoor spaces
- when you can't maintain a 2-metre physical distance from others
- as advised by your local public health authority
Please visit the Health Canada website for more information on how to wear a mask properly. You can also visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website for posters and guidelines for how to safely use a non-medical mask.
For addition information on masks, see the Additional Guidance on masks.
Practice Physical Distancing
Physical distancing works by limiting the number of people that you, and your family, come into close contact (within two metres/six feet). Physical distancing should be practiced with people from outside your household at all times.
Practice physical distancing by staying away from public gatherings or crowded places. If you are in public, ensure you avoid close contact with others.
Stay connected with friends and family via telephone, email, an/or net-based meetings.
Practice good basic hygiene
People are encouraged to take common prevention measures, including regular handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to dry your hands thoroughly. Or, you can use an alcohol-based hand cleanser if your hands are not visibly dirty. It is especially important to clean your hands:
- after coughing or sneezing
- when caring for a sick person
- before, during and after you prepare food
- before eating
- after toilet use
- when hands are visibly dirty
You should also cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, or you can cough or sneeze into your sleeve. Throw used tissues in the garbage and immediately wash your hands, or use an alcohol-based hand cleanser.
Get vaccinated
Eligibility requirements to be vaccinated in Manitoba are changing on a regular basis. Please keep yourself informed about whether you meet current eligibility requirements on the province's vaccination portal.
Are international students eligible to be vaccinated in Manitoba?
Yes. According to the Province of Manitoba Vaccine FAQ, "anyone residing in Manitoba, regardless of immigration status: refugee claimants, migrant workers, international students, dependent children of temporary residents, and undocumented residents. These individuals should bring some form of government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, in order to get the vaccine."
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