YoukuInternational Updates
The following is an update for Fall 2020 semester intake students regarding admissions and semester-related topics as well as visas and FAQ regarding travel to Canada. Please see below a list of questions and answers compiled for your quick reference. If you have a question that is not found on this page, please message us using the form at the bottom of this page and we will respond as quickly as we can.
Fall 2020 Admissions-Related FAQ
Q: Does TRU accept Duolingo as an alternative English proficiency test for admission purpose?
A: TRU is now accepting Duolingo as an English language test for most programs [see details here]. Duolingo is not yet acceptable for MBA, Master of Environmental Economics and Master of Nursing programs at this time. Visit International Admissions page for future updates.
Q: What can students do to verify their English language proficiency since IELTS and TOEFL test centers are closed?
TRU is now accepting Duolingo as an English language test for most programs.Students who live and study in an English-speaking country are not required to provide proof of English language proficiency test.TRU may process and issue Conditional Offer Letters to applicants for open admission programs without a language proficiency test. In some cases, they may ask students to submit proof, prior to receiving a Conditional Offer Letter. Students who have test scores are strongly encouraged to submit them before August 1st. If students cannot submit test scores prior to arrival, they will take the TRU English Placement Test. Based on the results, students may need to take additional ESL courses.
Q: Due to COVID-19 some universities (or high schools) will not be able to release final grades on time, would student’s application still be processed? When should the official transcripts should be submitted?
TRU would prefer to have complete documentation, including English proficiency test scores, to be provided at the time of making the application. However, due to the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in, TRU will process applications for all open programs without program completion certificates, transcripts or degrees or final semester mark sheets provided that: A: Students must ensure that they will meet or exceed the minimum requirements for the program applied to, and provide documents at least one week before the start of orientation week. Students who fail to provide final transcripts and completion certificates that meet the minimum requirements will not be allowed to attend classes, and their admission will be deferred to the next available intake. B. All fees due as prescribed in the Conditional Letter of Acceptance must be paid on or before the stipulated fee payment deadline.
Q: What if students cannot get their official transcript because their school is closed? Can students receive final acceptance?
A: Students must notify the admissions team that their transcript is unavailable. Upon receipt of payment, they can issue the final acceptance letter and mention in the letter that TRU will allow official transcripts to be submitted by August 1st. Note: official transcripts must be submitted before students can register for courses.
Q: Can I make partial payment of the required tuition deposit and still get final letter of acceptance to apply for my study permit during COVID-19?
A: Applicants must still pay the required fees as described in the CLOA n order to receive a final offer letter. Students wishing to make partial payments may do so, but should keep in mind that TRU’s refund policy applies for all payments made to TRU. Should students be unable to make the complete payment required on or before the deadline, they will be required to request a deferral to the next available intake.
Q: What if a student cannot make the payment deadline to apply and receive a study permit by August 1st?
A: Students can request a deferral to the next semester for no additional charge.
Q: When can students expect their offer letter for Fall 2020?
A: Due to the situation, some processing can be expected to be delayed. Students who have applied to Master programs can expect a decision in about 6 weeks from the time their completed application is received. For all other programs, processing times may take up to 4 weeks. Specialized programs such as Bachelor of Engineering Software and Practical Nursing may take longer, because a selection committee will make a decision after all applications are received.
Q: Would TRU Fall 2020 academic semester start as scheduled? Would the courses be delivered face-to-face?
A: TRU is planning a fall intake, and applications are currently open for most programs. TRU is following the provincial health authority’s guidelines on whether university should be open for face-to-face classes. At the COVID-19 pandemic is still evolving globally, TRU cannot as yet confirm the Fall courses delivery model. We will, however, keep you notified as and when there is any update on this. Meanwhile please check tru.ca/covid19 for all COVID-19 related updates.
Q: If the Fall 2020 courses are delivered through the internet, How will the university manage the differences in time zones while conducting online courses? How do I face the potential communcation challenges due to network connectivity.
A: As the COVID-19 pandemic is still evolving globally, TRU is unable to finalise the course delivery model for the Fall 2020 intake. TRU typically schedules classes during regular business hours. Some programs also offer many courses later in the evenings. In case of online delivery, students will be guided to consider selecting courses that best fit their schedule. Some courses may also offer downloadable lecture videos or other learning materials for students to review. Students are encouraged to gain access to a stable internet connection. Should challenges still exist, students have the option to defer their admission to the next available intake. Updates to the Fall 2020 delivery model will be shared as they become available.
Q: If the Fall 2020 courses are delivered through the internet, how do students communicate with their professors when they have questions and need clarification? How do I access library materials remotely?
As the COVID-19 pandemic is still evolving globally, TRU Fall course delivery model is not confirmed. In case of online delivery, Modern technology would allow communications with TRU faculty and many other student services through the internet. Even during the unprecedented global pandemic, our instructors and campus service staff are still available to students through video conferencing, email or other modes of communications. Through TRU library’s online portals, students can access endless digital academic documents, research papers, reference books and other materials.
Q: If a student does not pass the semester, will they have to pay the tuition fee again?
A: Given the difficult circumstances some students are finding themselves in as a result of COVID-19, we are extending the option to withdraw from courses with no academic penalty to include after students have received their final grades. Students can elect to receive a W (Withdrawal) in place of final grades they feel have been impacted by the COVID-19 situation. Please note this withdrawal provision does not apply to any students who receive a final grade of F due to a finding under the Student Academic Integrity Policy. Please visit Withdrawals for more information. There, you’ll find a section for Withdrawals during the COVID-19 crisis.
Q: If Fall 2020 semester is delivered through the internet, Will TRU reduce tuition fees for online studying?
A: Programs that might be delivered on-line based on policy decisions yet to be made would not be the regular online courses delivered through TRU Open Learning. They would be face-to-face courses that have had to be adapted by individual faculty to best be delivered in a virtual manner. Hence there is currently no changes expected to tuition fees in the case of COVID-19 alternative delivery.
Visa and Travel to Canada-Related FAQ
Q: How will the university be helping students who land in Canada and then have to self-quarantine?
A: TRU is currently requesting individuals returning from travel to follow the recommendations made by health officials, which include a 14-day period of self-quarantine. Should these restrictions still be in place by the time students begin to arrive for the Fall 2020 intake, TRU will prepare and publish a set of guidelines for students to follow upon arrival.
Q: How will students be notified of updates going on at TRU due to COVID-19?
A: TRU will email students when there are updates. If there is no communication from TRU since applying, make sure TRU has the correct email address. Please also visit TRU’s COVID-19 page for more information and updates on the situation
Q: What if I have more questions in the future, whom should I contact?
A: Besides regular TRU contacts, you can submit your question through this form.