COVID-19 U of T Engineering Graduate Students FAQs

August 25, 2022 - update on Health section, added procedures to "What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms or are otherwise feeling unwell?", added t Travel section, "I will be arriving later than expected due to unexpected delays due to in study permit processing. What should I do?"
July 29, 2022 - update on Vaccination requirement in Health section
June 16, 2022 - updates in Health section regarding mask, and vaccines
April 26, 2022 - added Provost message on mask policy, and updates in Health section
March 29, 2022 - Added Summary of recent updates to COVID measures for research space, added new Provost message on summer term changes
January 24, 2022 - Various updates made in Health, Course and Student Services/ St George Campus section, see questions that indicate updated Jan 24.
January 19, 2022 - Update on Dean's message regarding return to in-person classes for Feb 7, 2022.
January 06, 2022 - Update on Omicron variant and research operations added to "Can I still conduct graduate research on campus?" in Graduate Research Students section

The 2022-2023 Academic Year

To answer the questions you may have regarding the 2022 Fall Term, we have compiled a detailed frequently asked questions (FAQs) section. We will update the FAQs regularly as new information is confirmed. We encourage you to visit this page often for new updates.

If after reviewing the FAQs, you still have a question that is not addressed here, please email us at gradstudies@engineering.utoronto.ca.

Special Note

Ontario’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve. Changes will likely occur as the province and its municipalities adjust to new data about the virus. In these circumstances, please be advised that the manner of delivery of courses, co-curricular opportunities, programs and services is subject to change, in accordance with University policies. The University thanks its students, faculty, and staff for their flexibility during these challenging times as we work together to maintain the standards of excellence that are the hallmark of the University.

NEW: Information for students facing study permit delays can be found in the Travel section below.

Quick Links to Additional Resources

The Faculty’s Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Professionalism is dedicated to making U of T Engineering a place where all students, faculty and staff feel they belong and can thrive — but we recognize much work remains to be done. If you witness or experience an incident of discrimination, harassment or harmful unprofessionalism in the Faculty, you can now make a confidential disclosure through the new incident disclosure form. Next steps and supports will be pursued according to the wishes of the person making the disclosure. More information and answers to FAQs on the disclosure form page.

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Health

What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms or are otherwise feeling unwell? [Updated: August 25, 2022]

Please see https://ehs.utoronto.ca/symptomatic-or-confirmed/ for instructions if you are feeling unwell.

For the latest information about U of T’s COVID-19 response, please see the UTogether page. Please take the time to review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), the Human Resources & Equity COVID-19 webpage (e.g. Return to Work Processes during COVID-19 Response document), the HR COVID-19 Returning to Campus webpage, and the COVID-19 Information for University of Toronto Students webpage from the VP Provost, Students. For research-related information, please visit the COVID-19 Research and Innovations webpage. If you or members of your unit have a question that is not covered, please consider using the Contact Us button located at the top of the FAQ section to submit your question.

Public health paused contact tracing requirements in early 2022. Contact tracing is no longer conducted and the lifting of most restrictions across Ontario, most COVID-19 infections will not be work-related, but if a department/unit has reasonable cause to believe that an employee contracted COVID-19 at the workplace due to an increased risk greater than the risk to the general public, please contact OHS, (ehs.occhealth@utoronto.ca). Examples of workplace settings where there is an increased risk include healthcare workers or first responders providing interventions to those with COVID-19.

For workplace settings where there is NO increased risk but where employees/supervisors/academic leads, etc. have concerns about potential workplace transmission or multiple cases in their area can contact Occupational Health (ehs.occhealth@utoronto.ca) for assistance. Occupational Health will assess on a case-by-case basis and provide next steps.

What are symptoms of COVID-19?

For the most up-to-date information, please review the symptoms on the Ontario government website.

Health screening

Individuals can monitor their health using the provincial health screening tool. Completing a health screening before coming to campus is encouraged but not required, and we continue to ask members of our community to remain at home if they are ill.

Procedures related to COVID-19 symptoms/illness/exposure

In the event an individual requires immediate medical assistance (i.e. EMS or 911)

If you are symptomatic or tests positive for COVID-19

Sample communication template for symptomatic or confirmed cases (if applicable)

I am a household contact of someone who is symptomatic or who tested positive for COVID-19

I am a non-household contact/close contact of someone who is symptomatic or who tested positive for COVID-19

I have completed the isolation period. When can I return and do I need to be tested to return to campus?

If you require further assistance, please contact Occupational Health (ehs.occhealth@utoronto.ca).

A Verification of Illness (also known as a “doctor’s note”) is temporarily not required.

Students who are absent from academic participation for any reason (e.g., COVID-19, cold, flu and other illness or injury, family situation) and require consideration for missed academic work should report their absence through the online absence declaration. The declaration is available in ACORN under the Profile and Settings menu.

Additionally, if term work, including participation grades, are affected by your illness/absence, please connect with your home graduate administrator.

Where can I find updated information on COVID-19 and how to stay healthy?

Do I have to wear a mask on campus? [Updated July 8, 2022]

The University's mask requirements have been lifted as of July 1, 2022. Some members of our community may choose to continue to wear a mask. We ask everyone to respect each other's decisions, comfort levels and health needs.

Please see the latest U of T COVID-19 planning update. Please note this requirement may be reinstated on short notice should public health conditions or guidance change.

Although masking indoors will no longer be mandatory as of July 1, 2022, we encourage you to wear a well-fitting medical mask indoors including instructional spaces, especially in more crowded areas, to help protect yourself and others.

Some individuals may be required to mask if they have been recently exposed to COVID-19 or someone with symptoms, or have recently returned to Canada, or if the nature of their work requires them to wear personal protective equipment.

For more information on what type of mask to wear as well as exemptions, visit the masking section of the UTogether FAQs.

More info can be found here: https://www.utoronto.ca/utogether/faqs#health

Do I need a vaccine to come to campus? [Updated: July 29, 2022]

The University has paused the requirement for all members of our community to be fully vaccinated in order to come to campus. Please note that this requirement may be reinstated on short notice if public health conditions or guidance change.

Indeed, although students and employees who are unvaccinated may enrol in classes with in-person components or attend University premises for work activities, vaccination requirements may be reinstated with little notice, which could result in de-enrolment or ineligibility to work.

However, the University will require students living in residence for the 2022-23 academic year to be vaccinated against COVID-19, including at least one booster dose. More information on this requirement can be found on the the Vice-Provost Students' website.

Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations is strongly encouraged, and UCheck continues to be available for uploading proof of vaccination. Those seeking vaccination appointments can refer to the provincial vaccination portal or visit the UTogether vaccine site.

Click here for more information on the efficiency and effectiveness of vaccines.

Will I need to be vaccinated if I am living on UofT residence? [July 29, 2022]

Click here for more information on the efficiency and effectiveness of vaccines.

Are there vaccine clinics at U of T? [Updated, August 25, 2022]

Yes! The University has supported the province’s vaccination efforts by supplying space and volunteers for COVID-19 vaccine clinics on its three campuses, in partnership with local hospitals. So far, more than 400,000 doses have been administered at the U of T-hosted vaccination sites and pop-ups.

More information on how to book a vaccination on campus is available via the Discovery Pharmacy.

This situation has caused anxiety/stress. I do not think I can perform academically in any remaining course work/exams, but I don’t think it’s fair to have to drop the class. What do I do?

What mental health supports are available to U of T Engineering students? [Updated August 26, 2021]

We know that this year has been difficult for many. The Faculty is committed to fostering a culture of care and support. The Faculty’s new Mental Health Programs Officer put together a web page of the mental health resources and supports that are available to all U of T Engineering students.

For the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on mental health, you might find the following helpful:

My Student Support Program (MY SSP)

U of T’s My SSP provides students with immediate and/or ongoing confidential, 24-hour counselling support in 146 languages.

Navi: Your Mental Health Wayfinder

U of T students now have a more streamlined way to discover mental health resources and supports. Navi, short for navigator, is a chat-based service that acts as a virtual assistant for students who want to learn more about the mental health supports available to them at the University of Toronto.

U of T Engineering’s Talk to Someone Right Now Page
The Talk to Someone Right Now page lists support services that are available 24/7 for U of T Engineering students. Resources for ongoing support are also provided.

Wellness Together Canada

Wellness Together Canada was recently funded by the Government of Canada in response to the spike in incidences of mental distress since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The site provides online support for mental health and addiction by providing customized wellness programs and provides self-guided courses and apps, an online community of coaching and support, and one-to-one counselling.

CAMH Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic

It is normal to feel anxious and afraid while we deal with the effects of this pandemic. We know this situation is stressful for everyone; people living with mental illness and addictions may be finding it especially difficult to cope. If you or someone you know is struggling, the resources on the CAMH Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic site are there to support you. Remember: no matter where you are or what you’re going through, you don’t have to go through it alone.

General

I have a question that’s not addressed by current University or Faculty updates. Who can I ask?

Student Services / St. George Campus

How do I obtain my first TCard / UTORid? [Updated: August 25, 2022]

To access the University and Faculty online services, you must convert your JOINid to a UTORid before classes begin. Your JOINid can be found on your Offer of Acceptance letter along with your student number. Then, you will need to pick up your actual TCard when you arrive on campus.

For step-by-step instructions, please visit Get Your UTORid & TCard. For all incoming first-year students, you can also watch a video on how to get your UTORid and TCard here.

Travel

I will be arriving later than expected due to unexpected delays due to in study permit processing. What should I do? [August 25, 2022]

If your travel plans have been unexpectedly delayed due to study permit processing, please obtain your UTORID remotely as soon as possible. If you have not already, please notify your graduate administrator of your home department or institute.

Accommodations may be provided until Sept 30, 2022 and may include conferring access to course materials and assessments; however, online course delivery during that period is not guaranteed. Research-stream students should contact their supervisors directly. Students with an accommodation issue due to a disability should contact Accessibility Services as soon as possible to discuss their individual situations: accessibility.services@utoronto.ca.

We have some course offerings that are online that may have space, here is a list of courses that are offered online in the Fall.

It is possible for you activate your UTORIDs remotely prior to getting their study permit, although the study permit is required to pick up their TCards once they have arrived in Canada. You can visit here to activate your UTORID.

If you are unable to obtain your study permit by Sept 30, 2022 we recommend you contact your home department or institute on deferring your studies.

For other information related to international students please visit https://www.viceprovoststudents.utoronto.ca/covid-19/#international

I have applied for a study permit and am waiting for a decision on my application. What can I do to expedite things? [August 30, 2022]

Waiting for your study permit can be stressful, but it’s important to wait until you have all your documents ready before coming to Canada. While the University cannot directly intervene in the processing of individual study permit applications we share your concern regarding long processing times and University officials are reaching out to Visa Offices and the IRCC to continue to advocate for rapid processing of study permits. While you wait for a response, please follow the instructions below.

If your study permit application was submitted and complete (including medical exams and/or biometrics, if required), AND has exceeded the current estimated processing time (approximately 12 weeks), you can send a request for information and urgent processing through an IRCC web form. You should include:

a simple explanation that your application has taken longer than their estimated processing time and that your studies are scheduled to start soon; along with,
- documents supporting your request for urgent consideration, like:
- confirmation of enrollment (available from ACORN or your Registrar’s Office);
- confirmation of course start dates (available from your faculty’s academic calendar); and,
- flight tickets or rental contacts (only if already booked).

Please note: We do not recommend booking a flight if you have not already done so. If you feel it is necessary to do so before your study permit has been approved, we recommend that you book a refundable ticket.

It is important to wait until your study permit application has been approved before entering Canada. We do not recommend that you enter Canada as a visitor as you cannot begin your studies in Canada until you have a study permit. Only citizens and permanent residents of the United States or residents of Greenland or St. Pierre and Miquelon are eligible to apply for a study permit upon entry to Canada.

1. Reach out to your Registrar’s Office (or your academic department, if you are a grad student) to discuss your academic options in case of a delayed arrival. They will be best able to advise on what is possible for students in your program who may not be able to be in Toronto in time for the start of classes.
2. If you have been offered a place at U of T Residence, please contact the your residence to speak with them about the potential of a delayed arrival.
If you have further questions regarding your immigration status and ability to enter Canada, you can consult your campus’ immigration advising resources:
U of T Mississauga
U of T Scarborough
U of T St. George

Retrieve from: https://www.viceprovoststudents.utoronto.ca/covid-19/#international

I am an entering first year student. What if I don't receive my study permit in time for the start of classes? [August 30, 2022]

We have heard from a number of our students and families that receipt of study permits have been delayed for many, despite having applied for them several months ago. We know that waiting for your study permit is very stressful, and we share your concerns regarding these delays. The University has reached out to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regarding delays. We understand that IRCC has experienced significant challenges due to a high volume of study permit and visa applications this year but that they are doing everything in their power to prioritize applications for studies starting in September.

Please note it is important to wait until you have received your “Letter of Introduction” (study permit approval letter) from IRCC before travelling. The Letter of Introduction is what you present to the officer at the airport or border in Canada to get your study permit.

We hope we are able to welcome you to U of T this fall. If there continue to be delays in study permit processing, here are some things to consider:

The University of Toronto is preparing for mostly in-person course delivery this fall. Details of how courses will be delivered will vary by Faculty, and by campus, according to local needs and program requirements. Please check directly with your Faculty regarding options to study remotely until you receive your study permit or whether they are offering other accommodations to support your late arrival.
For engineering graduate courses, we have some course offerings that are online that may have space, here is a list of courses that are offered online in the Fall.
If you are not able to get to the University of Toronto by the late arrival date (September 30th for engineering graduate studies) due to study permit delays, you may wish to defer your studies to September 2023. Please reach out to your home department or institute for help.

I'm an international student in Toronto and need advice on returning to my home country. [April 7, 2022]

If you have an essential reason to leave Canada, please review your study permit and other immigration documents for the expiry date before you leave the country.

Should you have to travel, for your return to Canada OR if you have to cancel your travel and now remain in Canada, please see the related FAQ for entry to Canada and the Canadian Government Site

Cross-posted from Office of the Vice-Provost, Students

I have plans to learn abroad in the coming academic year. Will I be able to do so? [April 7, 2022]

Global Affairs Canada lifted the worldwide advisory to avoid non-essential travel anywhere outside of Canada as of Feb. 28, 2022. As a result, all students are now able to travel internationally on University sanctioned activities. Please note that travel will still not be allowed for undergraduate students for regions with Global Affairs Canada travel advisories of “avoid non-essential travel” and “avoid all travel,” as was the case pre-pandemic.

For all students travelling on University sanctioned activity, you must complete all safety abroad pre-departure requirements including checking travel advisories, completing safety abroad online workshops, securing travel health insurance and completing the safety abroad registry. More information on the safety pre-departure requirements for university activity abroad is available on the Safety Abroad website.

Cross-posted from UTogether.

I'm currently outside of Canada for 6 months or longer and would like to return to Canada, What do I need to do? [updated August 30, 2022]

If you have been living outside of Canada for 6 months or longer you might be required to show evidence that they have completed a valid Immigration Medical Exam. You may be required to do so if you:

- Have been living in a designated country for at least 6 of the past 12 months;
- Or, regardless of the country where you have been living, you are:
  - A medical student;
  - A student in a health sciences field who will have work placements in health-care or home-care settings;
  - An education student who will have work placements in primary or secondary schools; or teaching small children.

To check whether you need a valid Immigration Medical Exam and for more information on how to book a medical exam, please visit this Immigration Canada website about medical exams.

Posted on https://www.viceprovoststudents.utoronto.ca/covid-19/#international

I’m an international student who is planning to return to Toronto. Is the University providing quarantine accommodations for incoming international students?

Is it safe to travel right now? Does Canada have travel restrictions in place?

Technology

What kind of computers does the University recommend students have for remote access for learning?

I live in mainland China and I’m experiencing internet connectivity issues. Can the University of Toronto do anything to assist?

The University of Toronto is pleased to announce the availability of a new network service – Alibaba Cloud Enterprise Network (CEN). It is a free service available to all students.

Alibaba Cloud Enterprise Network is located in the People’s Republic of China and will allow for a fast, reliable and consistent connection to U of T’s network and in turn its online learning resources such as Quercus, Piazza and more.

To learn more, and for installation instructions, please visit here. If you are a new student, please note you will need to activate your UTORid, and can do so by following instructions for receiving a Tcard.

Exams

If I'm registered with Accessibility Services, how will my accessibility-related academic accommodations be accommodated for final assessments?

Accessibility Services (AS) has created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for students registered with them to answer questions you may have regarding your accommodations. AS is committed to providing students with the most up-to-date information, as it becomes available. They will continue to update students registered with Accessibility Services regarding next steps for your final exams.

Courses

How can I enroll in courses outside of University of Toronto and obtain credit for them?

Graduate Research Students

[April 30, 2021] I wish to conduct Face-to Face or Off-Campus (F2FOC) Research, where can I get more information on this?

How can I plan or maintain my academic progress?

To address the concerns of research-stream students and supervisors may have about graduate research and how it may impact a student's academic progress, SGS has shared guidelines with students and supervisors on research continuity planning. Please read the full message here.

SGS also shared Strategies for Graduate Mentoring and Supervision at a Distance.

Also recommend visiting: https://www.sgs.utoronto.ca/lookingahead/

Accessibility

I am registered with Accessibility Services. Can I still access accommodations for my class? 

How do I register with Accessibility Services?

Students seeking academic and practicum accommodations for the start of the 2021 Fall Term must submit a complete Student Intake Form before 5 p.m. (ET) on July 14, 2021.

Student intake packages received after the deadline will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for exceptional circumstances.

Have questions? Contact Accessibility Services at 416-978-8060 or accessibility.services@utoronto.ca.

I am a student who usually writes tests and exams with accessibility related accommodations. What are my next steps?

It is important you continue to register to receive accommodations for test/exams using the Clockwork Student Portal, even if you are intending to write an online evaluation with your class. Accommodated Testing Services (ATS) will contact your instructor to make arrangements for extra time accommodations on your behalf, but it is critical that you continue to officially register for each assessment with Accommodated Testing Services. Please ensure you register with ATS for each assessment by the deadline.

Accommodated Testing Services (ATS) will continue to open the Exam Centre on an as-needed basis. However, this service is only for students who cannot write their assessments remotely due to accessibility-related reasons. If you need to write an assessment in person, you must e-mail ATS to request this at least ten days in advance of the assessment date. We strongly encourage students to stay safe and stay home as much as possible during this time. If you have any questions about this, please contact ATS or your Accessibility Advisor to discuss (ats.info@utoronto.ca or 416-946-8584).

International Students

I will be arriving later than expected due to unexpected delays due to in study permit processing. What should I do? [August 25, 2022]

We have some course offerings that are online that may have space, here is a list of courses that are offered online in the Fall.

If you are unable to obtain your study permit by Sept 30, 2022 we recommend you contact your home department or institute on deferring your studies.

For more information related to international students please visit https://www.viceprovoststudents.utoronto.ca/covid-19/#international

How do I enter Canada as an international student?

Financial Aid

The COVID-19 situation has negatively affected my financial situation — what supports are available to me?

If you are experiencing immediate financial hardship, you can apply for an SGS emergency loan or emergency grant. We are usually able to pay out emergency loans within 24-hours and emergency grants within one week.

Faculty of Arts and Science has developed a comprehensive document that provides sources of government support for graduate students. You can view this document here.

The Office of the Vice-Provost, Students has also released resources regarding financial support and funding opportunities here.

CEWILL Canada may also have some resources as well.

Getting Involved with Student Community

How can I stay involved with the student community?

Resource List

Feeling Distressed?

A list of UofT and Community mental health resources and contacts.

My SSP | 1-844-451-9700. Outside of North America, call 001-416-380-6578.

My Student Support Program (MySSP). Culturally-competent 24-hr mental health and counselling services in 146 languages for all U of T students. Chat about school, health, general life concerns for free.

Good2Talk Student Helpline | 1-866-925-5454
Professional counseling, information and referrals helpline for mental health, addictions and student well-being.

Student Life

Many events/Workshops and services are available online or by phone:

Events include: Mindful Moments, productivity workshops, de-stress events
The Centre for International Experience - addressing the needs for International Students
Graduate Conflict Resolution Centre - Peer-to-peer chats, big or small!
Academic Success
Accessibility Services
And more!

Accessibility Services

Moving courses to an online format can affect students with accessibility needs. The Accessibility Services team is available via phone or email and is posting updates as they become available.

Canadian Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) - Canadian government financial support for students.

SGS Emergency Grant:

Emergency assistance grants are available for domestic and international students impacted by COVID-19 and who need immediate short-term financial relief because of unexpected expenses.

GECoS Mental Wellness Commission

The Engineering Graduate Student Mental Wellness Commission Facebook Group shares resources, tips, and events (in the future) for UofT engineering grad students.

UofT Central Hub

For most up to date information and resources on COVID-19.

School of Graduate Studies website

Updated information relevant to the graduate community during the COVID-19 outbreak. Information on academic activities, final oral examinations and more can be found on this site.

Faculty of Arts and Science - Sources of Government Support

A document developed by Faculty of Arts and Science. Information found on their document may be helpful for engineering graduate students as well.

Incident Disclosure Form