Once You Arrive | Dominican University College

DUC Students

Once You Arrive

Scroll down to see a list that explains different areas to consider when studying in Canada as an international student. Our advisors are happy to help you with practical questions you might have. 

 

Life in Ottawa

Ottawa is a vibrant, modern, city with both the charms of nature and the energy of urban life. It is very bicycle-friendly and the beautiful Gatineau Park is only minutes away. A dynamic student culture thrives within the city as the bilingual National Capital region is home to five universities and two colleges.

DUC, being nestled in a corner of downtown, is close to plenty of nightlife, restaurants, museums, concerts and plays. The National Arts Center (NAC) offers Live Rush tickets for students which allows them to see some of the world’s best performers at very reasonable prices. Along with shops, cafés, pubs and malls, DUC is within walking distance from Parliament Hill, four national museums, the famous Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River. Ottawa has been voted Canada’s Best Place to Live several years running.

 

Arriving in Canada

If your program begins in the fall, we suggest that you arrive in Canada by mid-August. If your program begins in the winter, we suggest that you arrive in Canada by the last week in December.

DUC is closed for the Christmas Holidays for two weeks, from the end of the examination period until the beginning of the new semester. If you want to stay at DUC when you arrive while securing your off-campus housing, you can contact hotellerieopo@hotmail.com to book a room for 2-6 days ($60/night, meals included).

 

PLEASE NOTE: After you arrive at the airport, you need to meet an officer from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to present your passport and documents to validate yourself as an international student.

 

Cell Phone/Calling Card Info

There are several carriers providing mobile network services in Ottawa. You may find this webpage useful as a comparison tool when choosing phones and plans.

You can also find details of phones and plans at the nearest store or online.

 

Banking Info

Banking in Canada can be done online or in-person. Most banks have no-fee student bank accounts. President’s Choice financial does not charge fees. The following are a list of banks situated close to DUC:

SCOTIABANK

661 Somerset Street West

Ottawa, ON K1R 5K3

P: (613)564-5160

To find more locations, please click here.

TD BANK

180 Kent St. Unit 100

Ottawa, ON K1P 0B6

(613)783-6200

To find more locations, please click here.

CIBC

84 Bank St.

Ottawa, ON K1P 5N4

(613)564-8713

To find more locations, please click here.

Desjardins
147, rue Rideau 
Ottawa, ON
K1N 5X4 

(613)241-1316 

To find more locations, click here.

Royal Bank of Canada

99 Bank St.

Ottawa, ON K1P 6B9

(613) 564-4563

To find more locations, please click here.

National Bank of Canada

50 O'Connor St.

Ottawa, ON K1P 6L2

P: (613) 236-7966

To find more locations, please click here.

Bank of Montreal

340 Albert St.

Ottawa, ON K1R 7Y6

(613) 564-6029

To find more locations, please click here.

Laurentian Bank

332 Bank St., ON
K2P 1Y1  

1 800 252-1846

To find more locations, please click here.

 

Working in Canada

Work permit

It is recommended that you arrive in Canada with enough money to support yourself throughout your studies without working. In some cases, it is possible to work while studying.

The following links will direct you to information regarding eligibility criteria and conditions that need to be met for students who want to work in Canada:

 

Social Insurance Number (SIN)

In order to work in Canada, you MUST also have a SIN. In order to apply for a SIN, you must provide either:

  • a study permit that indicates the permit holder “may accept employment” or “may work” in Canada; or
  • a study permit and a “confirmation to work off campus” letter issued by CIC.

Note: Your SIN will carry a maturity date corresponding to the expiry date of your study permit. You will need an extension if you want to stay in Canada longer and continue working.

 

Life in Canada

Multiculturalism

Cultural diversity and multiculturalism are strong Canadian values. Internationally, Canada is recognized for welcoming foreigners for short stays, for study experiences, or on more permanently. For more information on multiculturalism and cultural diversity, please visit the Canadian Heritage website.

Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression, opinion and association are recognized in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.  Various cultures develop community initiatives and freely practice their religion within our city. 

Cultural Differences

In Canada, our goal is that the entire population be equally respected. Women are entitled to assume the same responsibilities as men and can hold positions of importance. Mothers often work outside the home and share family tasks with fathers. The student-teacher relationship may be more informal than you are you used to. For more information about Canada, please visit: