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.
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.
We are optimistic that we can offer in-person instruction for our programs in January 2022. Any changes to delivery plans will be communicated directly with students offered admission into our programs. We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to follow the directives of federal, provincial, and municipal health authorities.
Effective August 2021, all students, instructors, faculty, and staff will be required to be fully vaccinated to gain access to campus facilities. For more information please review UWinnipeg's vaccination mandate FAQ.
Please take a few minutes to read this letter to current and incoming international students, as well as alumni, on behalf of the Government of Manitoba. Should you have questions or concerns related to COVID-19, please visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19 or call Health Links–Info Santé in Winnipeg at 204.788.8200; toll free elsewhere in Manitoba 1.888.315.9257.
Information for Prospective Students
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.
Next Application Deadlines
We are accepting applications for our May and September 2022 programs via our online application portal. Please note some programs may close for applications early due to overwhelming demand.
- January 15, 2021 (May 2022 start dates)
- May 15, 2022 (September 2022 start dates)
Applications for January 2023 programs opens January 14, 2022.
We strongly advise applicants to apply early as space is limited and demand for our full-time programs is extremely high.
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.
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.
We are optimistic that we can offer in-person instruction for our programs in January 2022. Any changes to delivery plans will be communicated directly with students offered admission into our programs. All individuals attending campus will be required to be fully immunized against COVID-19 in order to gain access to campus facilities.
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
Winter Term 2022 Courses
All part time courses will continue to be offered in an online format. To plan your fall schedule, please visit our timetable.
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
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 travelers entering Canada, even for people with no symptoms. Under changes announced June 5, 2021, you may be exempt from quarantine under some conditions, however all travelers must prepare a quarantine plan for the 14-days after they arrive in Canada.
Can I travel?
Travel and border restrictions are determined by the Government of Canada.
To be able to enter Canada as an international student, you must meet 2 requirements:
- Attend a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with an approved Covid-19 readiness plan
- The University of Winnipeg is on the Approved DLI list, and is eligible to welcome international students.
AND
- Must have a valid study permit, or have been approved for study permit (applies to all students, including those coming from the US).
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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. You may also be asked by airlines to show proof that you are exempt from travel restrictions.
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PACE students are advised to request a travel support letter from 2-3 weeks before departure by contacting applytopace@uwinnipeg.ca. You must submit a quarantine plan with your request form in order for our team to process the request.
You must have a confirmed seat in a program starting in the upcoming term to travel to Canada at this time. If you have deferred your start date, do not make any travel plans yet.
Please ensure you are familiar with the University's Travel, Arrival & Quarantine Protocol for PACE students. Note this information is subject to change as the public health situation evolves, please check this frequently.
What are the requirements for COVID testing and quarantine for students who are travelling?
If you arrive in Canada under an travel exemption, you will be subject to a mandatory 14 day quarantine or self-isolation. A border officer at port of entry to Canada will ask you for your plan for quarantine. It is important travelers are aware of guidelines provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). Failure to follow quarantine procedures can result in imprisonment and/or fines.
As of October 30, 2021
All travellers flying within Canada must be fully vaccinated.
- This includes connecting flights, like Toronto to Winnipeg
- This new requirement comes into effect October 30
- Travellers have a grace period until November 30 where they can present a valid COVID-19 molecular test within 72 hours of travel as an alternative to providing proof of full vaccination.
- If you are planning to travel after November 30 and you, or any of your family members travelling with you (age 12+), are not fully vaccinated with a Canadian-approved vaccine, please contact applytopace@uwinnipeg.ca.
As of August 9, 2021
Randomly selected fully vaccinted travellers will be required to take an arrival COVID-19 test.
Unvaccinated travellers are required undergo pre-testing, arrival, and Day 8 testing and to adhere to the 14-day quaratine requirements.
As of July 5, 2021
You may qualify for certain exemptions if you:
- are eligible to enter Canada and are asymptomatic
- meet the Government of Canada requirements of fully vaccinated travellers
- meet all entry requirements, including entering information in ArriveCAN before arrival
Fully vaccinated travellers will be provided a take home test and will not be required to quarantine
Fully vaccinated travellers will still be required to submit a suitable quarantine/isolation plan, so that they can enter quarantine should they receive a positive test.
Download the FAQ on quarantine and isolation for international students prepared by IRCC on July 15, 2021.
Students who have have full vaccinated (i.e.: received two doses of a Canadian-approved vaccine more than 14 days before their arrival date) do not have to quarantine for 14-days upon arrival in Manitoba, if they have been granted the quarantine exemption at the border.
As of February 15, 2021
Whether you are flying or driving to Canada, a proof of negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before departure (by air) or entering Canada (by land) is mandatory (with few exemptions). Test should be of an approved type (e.g. PCR/LAMP) from a reputable laboratory recognized by the government authority in your country.
What if I am a fully vaccinated traveller?
Travel changes announced on July 5, 2021 may exempt you from mandatory 14 day quarantine or self-isolation if you have received the full series of a vaccine — or combination of vaccines — accepted by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada.
As of November 26, 2021 the approved vaccines for travel are:
- AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD (ChAdOx1-S, Vaxzevria, AZD1222)
- Bharat Biotech (Covaxin, BBV152 A, B, C)
- Janssen/Johnson & Johnson
- Moderna (mRNA-1273)
- Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty, tozinameran, BNT162b2)
- Sinopharm BIBP (BBIBP-CorV)
- Sinovac (CoronaVac, PiCoVacc)
To qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller, you must have received, at least 14 full days prior to the day you travel:
- at least 2 doses of a vaccine accepted by the Government of Canada for the purpose of travel
- or a mix of 2 accepted vaccines
- or at least 1 dose of the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine
- Click here to see more about vaccination requirements.
Travellers can receive their vaccine in any country, and must provide documentation supporting their vaccination in English, French or with a certified translation.
Fully vaccinated travellers must also be asymptomatic, have a paper or digital copy of their vaccination documentation, and provide COVID-19-related information electronically through ArriveCAN prior to arrival in Canada.
They must still present a suitable quarantine plan, and be prepared to quarantine, in case it is determined at the border that they do not meet all of the conditions required to be exempt from quarantine.
Use ArriveCAN app, online at Canada.ca/ArriveCAN or call 1-833-641-0343 to enter travel information / quarantine plan / COIVD-19 symptoms within 48 hours of entering Canada. This is mandatory as screening officer designated by PHAC will be checking your compliance with quarantine throughout the 14 days.
Use the Flying to Canada checklist or Driving to Canada checklist to plan your trip.
I am arriving direct from India what are the rules that apply to me?
As of September 26, 2021 passengers travelling on direct flights from India will need to:
- Obtain a pre-departure negative COVID-19 molecular test result from the Genestrings Laboratory, located above the metro station in the Airport Connect Building (ACB) at the Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Perform this test within 18 hours before their scheduled departure
- Present the test report with a QR code issued by this laboratory to the air operator before boarding
Alternatively, travellers who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 can present a positive molecular test issued by a certified laboratory in India. The date of collection must have been between 14 and 180 days before their scheduled departure to Canada.
Students arriving on an indirect route from India must provide a pre-departure negative COVID-19 molecular test result from a third country before continuing their journey to Canada.
For more details, see: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/india
Vaccination Information
I heard I need to be fully vaccinated to attend campus, is this tue?
Yes, all students, staff, and instructors must be fully vaccinated to make use of campus services. The vaccination mandate applies to all UWinnipeg students, faculty and instructors, and staff who attend campus for learning, studying, teaching, research, or work.
Faculty, staff and students who are fully vaccinated will be required to present the following one-time proof of vaccination at the campus vaccination validation centre:
- Manitoba Immunization QR Codes
- Manitoba Immunization Cards
- Manitoba Immunization Records
- Proof from other jurisdictions
Who is eligible to be vaccinated in Manitoba?
Anyone under 18 years of age should receive the Pfizer vaccine.
NEW: Manitoba is now recommending that individuals receive their second dose of vaccine 56 days (eight weeks) after their first dose. Previously, the recommendation was 28 days (four weeks). The longer time period between doses has been shown to provide a stronger immune response over time. However, the minimum time frame remains at 28 days, so individuals will be able to choose the timing of vaccine schedule based on their own circumstances.
Third doses: All adults aged 18 or older can receive a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. These are available at any location that offers the COVID-19 vaccine.
For most people, the third dose must be given a minimum of six months after their second dose, except in very limited circumstances. Individuals who are unsure of the date of their last immunization can check their recordhere.
For more information about where to get your vaccine, visit the Vaccine Shot Finder.
Are international students eligible to be vaccinated in Manitoba?
Yes. International students can book vaccination appointments immediately after arrival, as long as your stay is at least 30 days. The Government of Manitoba will administer vaccines to non-Manitoba residents who have been isolating in Manitoba for at least 15 days, and who will remain in Manitoba for a further 15 days minimum, resulting in a total stay of no less than 30 days.
Non-residents must meet the minimum age requirement for each drug as listed in its eligibility criteria. Temporary residents must provide proof of date of entry to Manitoba, as well as documentation to support the reason and anticipated length of their stay (ie: student visa, work visa, immigration documents, etc.).
When attending their appointment, non-Manitoba residents (who live in Canada) must present valid photo ID and a Health Card issued by their home province/territory.
Non-Canadians must present a valid Passport ID.
All persons must complete the required consent form prior to their appointment, and bring it with them; Please note that certain areas of the form will not apply to non-residents, and should be left blank.
Immunization staff will collect alternate information as required, during the appointment.
Learn more about Manitoba’s vaccination program.
If students have received one dose in their home country, will they be eligible for a second dose in Canada, and then obtain an immunization record?
Students who have received their first dose in their home country are eligible to receive a second dose in Manitoba after isolating for at least 14 days.
Upon arrival, students should contact a local public health office to have their first dose recorded. Click here for a list of public health offices.
Healthcare professionals will advise them as to their vaccination schedule in Manitoba. Documentation would be proof of vaccination from their public health office or equivalent in their home country.
What if the vaccine I received is not recognized in Canada?
Currently Canada has approved Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, or Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) for use in Canada.
As per Public Health Agency of Canada guidance, those coming to Manitoba with one or two doses of a non-Health Canada approved COVID-19 vaccine (regardless of WHO authorized status), require one additional mRNA dose to be considered fully vaccinated.
The minimum interval between the preceding dose and the additional dose should be a minimum of 28 days. If an individual has three non-Health Canada approved COVID vaccine doses, they do not require further doses at this time.
International students can book an appointment for their third dose at any supercenter or vaccination clinic in Manitoba.
Which vaccine should I get?
Always follow the advice from your local health authority regarding vaccine eligibility, availability and timing, to choose the vaccine that is most suitable for your personal circumstances.
However, for travel purposes, travel changes announced on July 5, 2021 may exempt you from some travel and quarantine requirements if you have received the full series of a vaccine — or combination of vaccines — approved for travel by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada.
As of November 26, 2021 the approved vaccines for travel are:
- AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD (ChAdOx1-S, Vaxzevria, AZD1222) (2 doses)
- Bharat Biotech (Covaxin, BBV152 A, B, C) (2 doses)
- Janssen/Johnson & Johnson (1 dose)
- Moderna (mRNA-1273) (2 doses)
- Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty, tozinameran, BNT162b2) (2 doses)
- Sinopharm BIBP (BBIBP-CorV) (2 doses)
- Sinovac (CoronaVac, PiCoVacc) (2 doses)
To qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller, you must have received, at least 14 full days prior to the day you travel:
- at least 2 doses of a vaccine accepted by the Government of Canada for the purpose of travel
- or a mix of 2 accepted vaccines
- or at least 1 dose of the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine
- Click here to see more about vaccination requirements.
Travellers can receive their vaccine in any country, and must provide documentation supporting their vaccination in English, French or with a certified translation.
Currently, those vaccines are manufactured by Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson).
I have received one or two doses of a non-WHO approved vaccine, can I access campus?
As per Public Health Agency of Canada, those coming to Manitoba with one or two doses of a non-Health Canada approved COVID-19 vaccine (regardless of WHO authorized status), require one additional mRNA dose to be complete/valid.
For full details vist Health Canada.
How do I get proof of being COVID-19 immunized if I was vaccinated in Manitoba?
The Province of Manitoba is now offering an immunization card for people who are fully immunized.
To be eligible to request your immunization card:
- you must have a Manitoba health card
- you must have received all required doses of a vaccine (that means for Pfizer, Moderna or AstraZeneca, you require two doses.)
- you must wait 14 days after getting your last dose of vaccine
Individuals who do not have a Manitoba health card can now request a Manitoba immunization card if they meet the following requirements:
- have received two doses of Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or a single dose of Johnson & Johnson vaccine, with the final dose more than 14 days ago; OR
- have received a third dose of Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, in addition to their non-Health Canada approved vaccines; AND
- have submitted proof of any COVID vaccination(s) received outside of Manitoba to public health, and the data has been recorded in the system.
Individuals can call 1-844-MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222) to speak with an agent, who will provide a client identification number for the digital version of the card. The agent can also request a physical card on behalf of callers.
For more information visit the Province of Manitoba's Vaccine Information hub.
Residents of Manitoba have two options for proof of immunization - the Manitoba immunization card and the pan-Canadian proof of vaccination credential (PVC).
Click here to see a chart that explains the differences between them, and where each should be used.
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 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 positive 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.
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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