international student handbook 2015

Swift Current Campus 2015-16INTERNATIONAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTSCOLLEGE CALENDAR 2015-16 ........................................................................................ 3GREAT PLAINS COLLEGE - MISSION, VISION & VALUES ...................................... 5COLLEGE POLICIES .............................................................................................................. 7Academic Progress-Attendance Policy ..................................................................................... 7Bad Debts Policy ......................................................................................................................... 8Grading Policy ............................................................................................................................. 9Grade Appeal Policy ................................................................................................................... 9Respectful Learning and Working Environment Policy ........................................................ 10Student Harassment and Discrimination Complaint Procedure .......................................... 13Student Appeal Policy ................................................................................................................ 19Evaluation Policy ........................................................................................................................ 21Student Conduct Policy ............................................................................................................. 21COPYRIGHT ............................................................................................................................. 26Student Guidelines for Posting, Scanning or Copying .......................................................... 26STUDENT HEALTH ............................................................................................................... 28Saskatchewan Health Card ....................................................................................................... 28Student Health and Dental Plan .............................................................................................. 28Non-Smoking and Non-Tobacco Use ..................................................................................... 29INTERNATIONAL STUDENT APPLICATION PROCESS .......................................... 29How to apply .............................................................................................................................. 29Study Permits ............................................................................................................................. 31Federal and Provincial Study-in-Canada References ............................................................ 31International Student Advisor .................................................................................................. 32Foreign Credential Recognition .............................................................................................. 32Language Profi ciency Requirements ....................................................................................... 32English Language Profi ciency Requirements Chart .............................................................. 33College Contacts for Admissions ............................................................................................. 38FEES AND TUITION .............................................................................................................. 38Payment of Fees .......................................................................................................................... 38International Student Tuition Fee Policy (2015-16) ............................................................... 38Tuition Refund ............................................................................................................................ 38Student Association Fees ............................................................................................................ 39FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE ................................................................................................... 39Financial Emergencies ................................................................................................................ 39Great Plains College Scholarships ............................................................................................. 39STUDENT TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL PROCESS ............................................ 39Transfers ....................................................................................................................................... 39Withdrawals ................................................................................................................................. 40GREAT PLAINS COLLEGE SERVICES ............................................................................. 40Housing ......................................................................................................................................... 40Reserved Parking ......................................................................................................................... 41Student Lounge and Cafe ............................................................................................................ 41Student Study Area ...................................................................................................................... 41Exam Invigilation ........................................................................................................................ 41In Case of Emergency ................................................................................................................. 42Lockers ......................................................................................................................................... 42Visitors ......................................................................................................................................... 42Campus Hours ............................................................................................................................ 42Business Offi ce Hours ................................................................................................................ 42Phone Calls and Messages ......................................................................................................... 42Lost and Found ........................................................................................................................... 42Recreation .................................................................................................................................... 43Fitness - BodyFit ......................................................................................................................... 43SunDogs Athletics ...................................................................................................................... 43Computer Use ............................................................................................................................. 43Great Plains College Clothing ................................................................................................... 44Alumni ......................................................................................................................................... 44Program Orientation .................................................................................................................. 44Student Services .......................................................................................................................... 45COMMUNITY HELP ORGANIZATIONS (Emergency Numbers) ................................................... 45STUDENT CARD DISCOUNTS ................................................................................................................. 46COLLEGE CONTACTS .......................................................................................................... 47

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COLLEGE CALENDAR 2015-16NOTE: Dates are subject to change.

2015

JULY 1 College closure – Canada Day

AUGUST 3 College closure - Civic Holiday SEPTEMBER 1 Swift Current Campus orientation day and fi rst day of classes 7 College closure - Labour Day OCTOBER 12 College closure – Th anksgiving 16-23 Midterms – Business program

NOVEMBER 11 College closure - Remembrance Day 30 Last day to withdraw for 50% refund

DECEMBER 3-4 No classes 11-18 Final exams – Business program 21-31 College closure - Christmas break Swift Current Campus will be closed Dec. 21, 2014, to Jan. 3, 2014, inclusive.

2016J JANUARY 1 College closure – New Year’s Day 4 College reopens and classes begin FEBRUARY 15 College closure – Family Day 15-19 School break – Administrative Assistant program 19-26 Mid-term exams 29 School break – Business program

MARCH 1-4 School break – Business program 25-31 School break – Administrative Assistant program 25 College closure – Good Friday 28 College closure – Easter Monday

APRIL 1 School break – Administrative Assistant program 22-29 Final exams – Business program MAY 23 College closure – Victoria Day 27 Last day of classes – Administrative Assistant program

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Optimize Student Success

Provide Program Growth through Partnerships &

Investments

Deliver Education & Training to

Support Regional Labour Market Development

Value Employees

Strategic Directions

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GREAT PLAINS COLLEGE - MISSION, VISION & VALUES MISSIONTo focus our energy and innovation on building careers, partnerships and communities. VISIONEconomic prosperity and quality of life through education and training. VALUESAccessible—Th e college’s programs and services are accessible to learners in ways that overcome barriers of time, location, and personal circum-stances. Ambitious—Th e college values excellence in services and a quality experi-ence for students. Th e college strives to be known for excellence in pro-gramming that addresses the needs of industry and students. Collaborative—Th e college supports and engages in authentic partner-ships to advance the opportunities for the students, employers, and com-munities it serves.

Innovative—Th e college demonstrates an individualized approach to learning that considers the needs, skills, and experiences of the student, and the particular requirements of employers. Th e college is agile in its response to changing community, public policy and labour market needs. Responsive—Th e college responds to economic and social change and adapts its programs to meet the needs of employers, the labour market, individuals, communities, and public policy direction throughout the region. Supportive—Th e college recognizes and respects a diversity of needs, cul-tures, values, and contributions in all of its stakeholder groups. It strives to provide a supportive and stimulating environment for students and employees.

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Make sure you “like” us at Facebook.com and “follow” @gpcollege to stay on top of information news and events.

CONNECTe

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COLLEGE POLICIES

Th e nature of college policies is consistent with the purpose and the mis-sion of the college and aim to foster the style of administration, teaching, and learning that is mandated in the mission statement. Generally speak-ing, policies are a philosophically-based, goal-directed, rational guideline for future discretionary action. Th e relevant student policies listed below can be discussed and referred to at any point in the year. Th ese policies are subject to review and change.

ACADEMIC PROGRESS-ATTENDANCE POLICY

PURPOSE-PHILOSOPHY Great Plains College promotes learning within a supportive environment for all students. Students will be provided with instruction, support and opportunity to achieve their academic goals. Academic goals will be iden-tifi ed by the student and the instructor. Students are responsible for their individual academic progress.

Th e monitoring of student progress is an important enabling and proac-tive strategy to assist students to achieve their learning potential by:

- Allowing for the early identifi cation of students whose academic progress is less than satisfactory and who may need appropriate learning supports - Utilizing internal and external resources and supports - Identifying, intervening and possibly discontinuing students who con-tinue to make unsatisfactory progress or fail to meet academic require-ments

POLICY Students who are not achieving minimal academic requirements or not progressing towards their identifi ed academic goals will receive timely assistance to address the issue.

Students who do not meet the expected performance standards may be: 1. Identifi ed and notifi ed of their lack of academic progress 2. Placed on academic probation 3. Required to discontinue

Academic progress refers to the student’s movement within a course of study. Progress is not reliant on attendance.

However, lack of attendance may be identifi ed as a barrier impacting the student’s ability to progress in their course of study.

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Specifi c conditions in each program will be identifi ed that must be met by the student. If these conditions are not met the student may be required to discontinue from the program and/or the institution.

BAD DEBTS POLICY

PURPOSEAs a trustee of public funds, the Board intends that the college will make a reasonable eff ort to collect outstanding debts while remaining sensitive to the circumstances of particular situations.

POLICY1. Personal contact should always be the fi rst step in dealing with per-sons or agencies that have overdue accounts with the college. 2. Th e college should employ an “escalating penalty” approach to en-courage payment of accounts that are in arrears. 3. When normal collection attempts have been unsuccessful, the Board should approve write-off s of uncollectable accounts. 4. In the case of large debts that could not be recovered by usual means (short of court action), the Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO) should not initiate court action without fi rst advising the board. 5. Th e consequences in this policy which apply to students who acquire outstanding debts to the college should be published in a student hand-book or some other suitable document.

POLICY PROCEDURES1. Personal contact shall be attempted by the college immediately when the Director of Finance and Administration determines that any account is in arrears; when a student account is in arrears, the contact must be made through Program Coordinators. 2. Th e Director of Finance and Administration shall arrange for a “Re-quest for Payment Letter” to be issued when an account becomes more than 30 days overdue (60 days is current). 3. For balances in excess of $500 which are not paid in response to “Request for Payment Letters”, the Director may, at his-her discretion, secure the services of a local collection agency (if there is one). 4. For balances in excess of $10,000 which are more than 60 days in arrears, the CEO shall be notifi ed. 5. Th e CEO shall notify the Board whenever the college’s solicitor is directed to issue a “Demand for Payment Letter”. 6. Th e CEO shall ensure the Board is appropriately advised of outstand-ing debts and that recommendations concerning write-off s and other actions are provided to the Board on a timely basis in accordance with this policy.

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7. Any outstanding balance in excess of $2,000 must not be written off until all available avenues for collection as specifi ed above have been exhausted. 8. Debts shall be written off by means of a Board resolution when the Board is satisfi ed that every reasonable step has been taken to collect an outstanding debt. 9. Th e college shall withhold grades and transcripts of students with accounts in arrears. 10. Files of students with arrears in excess of $100 shall be fl agged and these students may be refused admission to the same or another pro-gram until outstanding debts are paid in full.

GRADING POLICYGreat Plains College follows the grading policies of the institutions from which it brokers its programs. Please refer to the following sites for cur-rent information:

Administrative Assistant program: http://public.assiniboine.net/Con-tent/Images/uploaded/Policies/AcademicPolicyHandbook.pdf

Business Certifi cate program: http://saskpolytech.ca/about/about-us/documents/policies/gradingsystemandstudentpromotion1208.pdf

GRADE APPEAL POLICY

PURPOSE-PHILOSOPHY Th e purpose of this policy is to assure that grades represent a fair and consistent evaluation of student performance and to provide students with a systematic process to follow relating to the appeal of a grade. Th e grade appeal process strives to resolve a dispute between the student and instructor in the assignment of a grade in a collegial and timely manner. Great Plains College supports open communication as the best means to resolve concerns about grades.

POLICY A registered student may appeal a fi nal grade or grades for work that contributes to a fi nal grade. Students are required to follow an informal resolution process fi rst by discussing the matter with the instructor. If agreement cannot be reached, a formal grade appeal may be fi led accord-ing to the brokering institutions grade appeal process. In the case where a brokering institution may not have a grade appeal process or the program or course is not brokered, the following procedure should be applied.

PROCEDURE If the informal appeal process does not resolve the matter to the satisfac-

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tion of the student, the student may fi le a formal grade appeal in writing.

Th e appeal should be submitted within 30 days of receipt of grade to the Program Coordinator who will then forward the appeal to the Region Manager. Th e Region Manager will undertake required consultations with the instructor, Program Coordinator and other relevant parties and present all information to the Director or Programs within fi ve business days of receipt of the appeal for fi nal decision. A grade may stay the same, be adjusted downward or be adjusted upward. Th e Director of Programs’ decision will be fi nal.

Th e Director of Programs will ensure all relevant parties (student, instruc-tor, Program Coordinator and Region Manager) are notifi ed in writing within ten business days of receipt of the appeal.

Although maximum timelines are defi ned, every attempt shall be made to shorten the process. In complex cases the appeal process may continue beyond these deadlines. However, the review shall be initiated within the timelines of this procedure.

RESPECTFUL LEARNING AND WORKINGENVIRONMENT POLICY

PHILOSOPHY Great Plains College is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, respectful, inclusive, productive and healthy learning and working envi-ronment that is free from harassment and discrimination.

PURPOSE Great Plains College will take every reasonable step to create an environ-ment that is free of harassment and discrimination and to take appropriate measures to stop occurrences when informed of the existence of such behavior.

SCOPE Th e provisions of this policy apply to all students, staff , visitors, manage-ment and the Board of Governors.

Th is policy applies to behaviors that occur in the context of college related activities, whether or not the behavior occurs on or off college premises, during or outside formal working hours. College related activities are organized under the college’s direction. Examples of activities that would not be college related could include: union/staff association meetings or a social event that is not organized by the college.

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Th is policy shall be interpreted in such a way as to balance the rights of all members of the Great Plains College community to function in an environment that allows open discussion, with the right to function in an inclusive environment free from harassment and discrimination. It is not intended to detract from the rights and obligations of those who manage employees and students in accordance with collective agreements, college policies and procedures.

DEFINITIONS Harassment as defi ned by the Occupational Health and Safety Act, is: Any inappropriate conduct, comment, display, action or gesture by a per-son that: a) is either based on race, creed, religion, colour, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability, physical size or weight, age, nation-ality, ancestry or place of origin; or b) adversely aff ects the worker’s psychological or physical well-being and that the person knows or ought reasonably to know would cause a worker to be humiliated or intimidated; and constitutes a threat to the health or safety of the worker.

Th e Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Act further clarifi es that for behavior to create a negative psychological or physical state:

- repeated conduct, comments, displays, actions or gestures must be established; or - a single, serious occurrence of conduct, or a single, serious comment, display, action or gesture, that has a lasting, harmful eff ect on the work-er, must be established.

Discrimination as described by the Canadian Human Rights Commis-sion is:

- an action or decision that treats a person or a group negatively for rea-sons known as ‘grounds of discrimination’.

Th e eleven grounds of discrimination, protected under the Canadian Hu-man Rights Act, are: race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability, or a convic-tion for which a pardon has been granted or a record suspended.

College Community Any person who provides a service for or receives a service from Great Plains College, or any person who interacts with the college in the context of its role as a public post-secondary institution.

Reasonable Person Standard Th ose responsible for interpreting, administering and applying this policy

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will use a ‘reasonable person’ standard. Th is standard is used to determine whether a reasonable person in a similar position as the complainant would judge harassment or discrimination to have occurred.

POLICY All members of the college community share responsibility for creating and maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. Th is means that we all have a responsibil-ity not to engage in, allow or condone behavior contrary to this policy. As well, we have the responsibility to take immediate and appropriate action to report or deal with incidents of harassment and discrimination of any type.

Great Plains College strongly supports education as the most proactive measure for achieving a learning and working environment that is inclu-sive and free from harassment and discrimination. Th is education will include, but not be limited to:

- informing the college community of their rights and obligations; - training students, staff , management and the Board of Governors on: - their roles and responsibilities as it relates to creating and maintaining a healthy learning and working environment; - this policy and corresponding procedures for dealing with harassment or discrimination complaints.

Although our fi rst goal is to prevent behaviors that are contrary to this policy, Great Plains College is committed to responding promptly and tak-ing appropriate corrective action to deal with individuals who engage in harassing or discriminatory behaviors. Great Plains College’s Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Procedures outline the process for submitting a complaint as well as the process that Great Plains College will use to address the complaint.

Th e college also commits to protect students and employees, acting in good faith, from reprisal for trying to stop or prevent harassment and dis-crimination. All complaints will be held in the strictest confi dence except where disclosure is necessary for investigation or corrective action or as required by law.

REPRESENTATION Any person involved in the complaint process may seek assistance, sup-port or representation from another person of his/her choice such as a student advocate or an association/union representative.

FALSE CLAIMS It is a violation of this policy for anyone to knowingly make a false com-

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plaint or to provide false information about a complaint.

STUDENT HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

SCOPETh ese procedures apply to harassment and discrimination complaints which involve students. DEFINITIONSComplainant - An individual who is bringing forth an allegation of one or more incidents of harassment or discrimination.

Respondent - Th e person or persons named in a harassment/discrimi-nation complaint. Th e term does not in any way imply guilt when cited throughout these procedures.

REPRESENTATIONAny person involved in the complaint process may seek assistance, sup-port or representation from an individual of his/her choice.

PROCEDUREComplainant = studentRespondent = student

1. A student who feels that he or she has been the victim of, or witnessed harassment or discrimination is encouraged to fi rst make it known to the individual that the behavior is off ensive, unwelcome and needs to stop.

2. Where this cannot be done or is unsuccessful, the student should meet with a Student Adviser to discuss the details of the behavior and any attempts made to stop it. Th e Student Adviser will work with the student to develop and implement a plan to stop the unwanted behavior. Th e Student Adviser will also review the harassment/discrimination complaint procedure with the student.

3. Where this cannot be done or is unsuccessful, the Program Coordina-tor and the student will meet to discuss the situation and to formally fi le a complaint. Th e Program Coordinator will review the harassment/dis-crimination complaint procedure with the student and provide the Ha-rassment/Discrimination Complaint Form to the student for completion.

a. When possible, the student should keep detailed records of the incidents leading up to the complaint as well as any actions taken to stop the unwanted behavior. Th ese records should in clude dates, times, locations, circumstances, witnesses and the

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nature of the behavior. Th is information will be critical to the resolution process.

b. Th e completed Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form must be forwarded to the Region Manager, who will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within ten working days.

4. Complaints received will be kept confi dential to the extent possible. Complaints alleging another student will be investigated by a team led by the Region Manager and the Program Coordinator.

a. Depending on the nature of the complaint, a third party may be used. When this occurs, the College will appoint the third party.

5. Th e investigative team will investigate the complaint and take all nec-essary steps to resolve the issue. Th e complainant and respondent will be kept informed during the process.

6. Both the complainant and the respondent will be interviewed, as well as individuals who may be able to provide relevant information. To the extent possible, all information will be kept confi dential.

7. Where harassment/discrimination has been substantiated, the college will take appropriate disciplinary and corrective actions. Documentation of the corrective actions will be placed in the respondent’s student fi le. Investigation documents will be scanned and saved in a designated, secure electronic location; original investigation documents shall be shredded by the Region Manager. No documentation will be placed in the com-plainant’s student fi le.

a. Aft er the actions are implemented, the Region Manager or des ignate, will follow up with the complainant to ensure the agreed resolution was eff ective in stopping and preventing further harass ment/discrimination.

b. Where the complainant indicates that the inappropriate be havior has ended, documentation of such will be fi led and the complaint closed.

c. Where the complainant indicates that the inappropriate behavior has not ended, the Region Manager or designate, will document the result and then work with the investigative team to pursue alternative actions.

8. Where harassment/discrimination has not been substantiated, no action

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will be taken against a student who made a complaint in good faith or against the respondent. In this case, no documentation of the incident will be placed in either of the student’s fi les. Th e investigation documents will be scanned and saved in a designated, secure electronic location.

9. If the complainant or respondent is not satisfi ed with the outcome of the in-vestigation, an appeal can be made, in writing, to the Director of Planning, who will provide a formal, written response within ten working days.

PROCEDUREComplainant = studentRespondent = employee

1. A student who feels that he or she has been the victim of, or witnessed harassment or discrimination is encouraged to fi rst make it known to the employee that the behavior is off ensive, unwelcome and needs to stop.

2. Where this cannot be done or is unsuccessful, the student should meet with the Manager of Human Resources to discuss the details of the behav-ior and any attempts made to stop it. Th e Manager of Human Resources will work with the student to develop and implement a plan to stop the unwanted behavior. Th e Manager of Human Resources will also review the harassment/discrimination complaint procedure with the student.

3. Where this cannot be done or is unsuccessful, the Manager of Human Resources and the student will meet to discuss the situation and to formal-ly fi le a complaint. Th e Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form will be provided to the student for completion.

a. When possible, the student should keep detailed records of the incidents leading up to the complaint as well as any actions taken to stop the unwanted behavior. Th ese records should include dates, times, locations, circumstances, witnesses and the nature of the behavior. Th is information will be critical to the resolution process. b. Th e completed Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form must be forwarded to the Manager of Human Resources, who will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within ten working days. 4. Complaints received will be kept confi dential to the extent possible. Th e Manager of Human Resources will contact the respondent’s director to form the investigative team. Where the Director or Manager of Human Resources is involved in the allegations, the President or designate shall be engaged to form the investigative team.

a. Depending on the nature of the complaint, a third party may be

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used. When this occurs, the College will appoint the third party in consultation with the Union or the Staff Association.



7. Where harassment/discrimination has been substantiated, the college will take appropriate disciplinary and corrective actions. Documentation of the corrective actions will be placed in the employee’s personnel fi le. Investigation documents will be placed in a separate fi le and retained, in a secure location, by Human Resources or a designate. No documentation will be placed in the complainant’s student fi le.

a. Aft er the actions are implemented, the Manager of Human Resources or designate, will follow up with the complainant to en sure the agreed resolution was eff ective in stopping and preventing further harassment/discrimination.


c. Where the complainant indicates that the inappropriate behavior has not ended, the Manager of Human Resources will document the result and then work with the investigative team to pursue alternative actions.

8. Where harassment/discrimination has not been substantiated, no action will be taken against a student who made a complaint in good faith or against the respondent. In this case, no documentation of the incident will be placed in either the employee or the student fi le. Investigation doc-uments will be placed in a separate fi le and retained, in a secure location, by Human Resources or a designate.

9. If the complainant or respondent is not satisfi ed with the outcome of the investigation, an appeal can be made, in writing, to the President and CEO of the college, who will provide a formal, written response within ten working days.

PROCEDUREComplainant = employee

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Respondent = student

1. An employee who feels that he or she has been the victim of, or wit-nessed harassment or discrimination is encouraged to fi rst make it known to the student that the behavior is off ensive, unwelcome and needs to stop.

2. Where this cannot be done or is unsuccessful, the employee should meet with the Manager of Human Resources to discuss the details of the behavior and any attempts made to stop it. Th e Manager of Human Resources will work with the employee to develop and implement a plan to stop the unwanted behavior. Th e Manager of Human Resources will also review the harassment/discrimination complaint procedure with the employee.

3. Where this cannot be done or is unsuccessful, the Manager of Human Resources and the employee will meet to discuss the situation and to for-mally fi le a complaint. Th e Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form will be provided to the employee for completion.

a. When possible, the employee should keep detailed records of the incidents leading up to the complaint as well as any actions taken to stop the unwanted behavior. Th ese records should include dates, times, locations, circumstances, witnesses and the nature of the behavior. Th is information will be critical to the resolution process.

b. Th e completed Harassment/Discrimination Complaint Form must be forwarded to the Manager of Human Resources, who will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within ten working days.

4. Complaints received will be kept confi dential to the extent possible. Th e Manager of Human Resources will contact the complainant’s director to form the investigative team. Where the Director or Manager of Human Resources is involved in the allegations, the President or designate shall be engaged to form the investigative team.

a. Depending on the nature of the complaint, a third party may be used. When this occurs, the College will appoint the third party in consultation with the Union or the Staff Association.



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7. Where harassment/discrimination has been substantiated, the college will take appropriate disciplinary and corrective actions. Documentation of the corrective actions will be placed in the respondent’s student fi le. Investigation documents will be placed in a separate fi le and retained, in a secure location, by Human Resources or a designate. No documentation will be placed in the complainant’s personnel fi le.

a. Aft er the actions are implemented, the Manager of Human Resources or designate, will follow up with the complainant to en sure the agreed resolution was eff ective in stopping and preventing further harassment/discrimination.


c. Where the complainant indicates that the inappropriate behavior has not ended, the Manager of Human Resources will document the result and then work with the investigative team to pursue alternative actions.

8. Where harassment/discrimination has not been substantiated, no action will be taken against an employee who made a complaint in good faith or against the respondent. In this case, no documentation of the incident will be placed in either the employee or the student fi le. Investigation doc-uments will be placed in a separate fi le and retained, in a secure location, by Human Resources or a designate.

9. If the complainant or respondent is not satisfi ed with the outcome of the investigation, an appeal can be made, in writing, to the President and CEO of the college, who will provide a formal, written response within ten working days.

Disclosure of investigation documentsAll documents and statements obtained during the course of the investi-gation, including the names and copies of witness statements, shall not be disclosed to any person outside of the investigative team and the individu-al responsible for the appeal, unless required by law.

Th e College or anyone acting on its behalf will not disclose the name of the complainant or the respondent, as well as any information that may identify the complainant or respondent. Beyond what is necessary to conduct the investigation, implement actions, or pursue legal remedies, all information pertaining to any harassment or discrimination case will remain confi dential.

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Other OptionsNothing in the Respectful Learning and Working Environment policy or the corresponding procedures prevents or discourages an individual from referring a harassment or discrimination complaint to the Occupational Health and Safety Division under: Th e Occupational Health and Safety Act. Individuals may also fi le a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission under Th e Saskatchewan Human Rights Code. Crisis ResponseCanada’s Criminal Code deals with matters such as violent acts, threats and behaviors such as stalking. Th e police should be contacted immedi-ately when an act of violence has occurred within the institution or when someone in the institution is threatened with violence. In cases of alleged sexual assault, law enforcement agencies will be contacted immediately. Th e College will make every eff ort to support the transition of such cases to the legal authorities and to assist in their investigation and resolution.

STUDENT APPEAL POLICY

PURPOSE-PHILOSOPHY Th e Student Appeal policy is designed to ensure such decisions made by staff are held to standards of procedural fairness and allow for due process. Students have a right to be fully informed, to be heard and to have the op-portunity to appeal decisions that have a negative impact on their standing as a student. Great Plains College shall respond to student appeals in a fair and systematic manner.

POLICY A student at Great Plains College may appeal any college disciplinary or academic ruling in which the student feels that he/she has been treated unjustly, unfairly or in a prejudicial manner and which has a negative im-pact on his/her academic career. Decisions related to grade appeals are not subject to this policy and procedure. (See Grade Appeal Policy.)

Disciplinary or performance rulings that impact the academic standing of a student may be subject to appeal by the student. Th is would typically involve rulings made through the application of the Student Conduct and Academic Progress/Attendance policies.

Th e rendering of a decision that impacts the academic standing of a stu-dent is not in itself grounds for appeal. Reasonable grounds for hearing an appeal would normally be restricted to:

- Alleged misapplication of procedural regulations or policy - Alleged inconsistent or discriminatory determination of a penalty

Rulings, decisions, policies and procedures of partner institutions are not

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subject to this policy unless specifi cally described in formal agreements.

Th e application of principles of procedural fairness at the time of initial investigation and ruling by the original decision maker will reduce the number of subsequent appeals. In making a ruling or decision that nega-tively impacts the academic standing of a student, it is the decision mak-er’s responsibility to ensure the circumstances of the decision have been fully discussed with the student and that he/she has been informed in writing as to:

- Th e decision and impact on the student’s status - Th e grounds for the decision - Applicable policy or regulation governing the decision - Th e student’s recourse for resolution and appeal

Ideally the decision maker will have taken the following steps before arriv-ing at his or her decision:

- Th e student was made aware at the earliest possible moment of the cir-cumstances that led up to the decision and what intervention, if appro-priate, was applied - All documents pertaining to the matter were shared with the student including witness statements, attendance records, etc. - Th e student was given the opportunity to be heard with a student ad-vocate present and to respond before the decision was rendered

PROCEDURE Level One - Original Decision MakerWhen a student feels he/she has been treated unjustly, unfairly or in a prejudicial manner when receiving a ruling, they may appeal the decision with the original decision maker. Th e student must approach the decision maker to discuss the decision within fi ve business days of being offi cially informed of the ruling. It is expected the parties involved will make every eff ort for resolution before a level two appeal is fi led.

It is the student’s responsibility to provide grounds, evidence or documen-tation that supports an appeal. Students and decision makers are encour-aged to enlist the advice of a student advocate to assist in fi nding an early resolution or in subsequently fi ling a level two formal appeal.

Level Two - Director of ProgramsIf the student and original decision maker have thoroughly discussed the issues and have been unable to come to a mutual resolution, the student may fi le a formal appeal at level two. Th e Director of Programs or desig-nate will determine within fi ve business days of notifi cation of appeal if the student is presenting grounds for appeal in accordance with the previ-ously stated criteria.

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If it is determined there are grounds for an appeal, the Director or desig-nate will consult with appropriate personnel and render a decision within ten business days of receipt of appeal. In circumstances where the Director of Programs is the original decision maker, the appeal will be made direct-ly to the President.

Th e decision or determination reached at level two shall be fi nal. Th e stu-dent fi ling the appeal will be notifi ed in writing of the decision. Th e result of the appeal will become part of the student’s fi le.

A student who has initiated the appeal process will continue in their pro-gram studies until the conclusion of the appeal process, unless:

- Th e Director of Programs or designate decides the student’s presence is detrimental to the learning environment, the student’s personal safety or the safety of others - Th e Director of Programs or designate decides the student’s presence is detrimental to the campus community, the student’s personal safety or the safety of others

EVALUATION POLICYGreat Plains College will follow the evaluation policies set by the institu-tions from which it brokers its programs:

• Saskatchewan Polytechnic for Business Certifi cate: http://saskpolytech.ca/about/about-us/documents/policies/gradingsystemandstudentpromo-tion1208.pdf

• Assiniboine Community College for Administrative Assistant Certifi cate: http://public.assiniboine.net/Content/Images/uploaded/Poli-cies/AcademicPolicyHandbook.pdf

Please refer to brokering institutions for details.

STUDENT CONDUCT POLICY

PURPOSE-PHILOSOPHY Consideration for others and respect for each person is a principle way of life within Great Plains College. Great Plains College believes that all students and staff must be able to work and study in an environment that is free from harassment, discrimination and intimidation. All are entitled to fair and humane treatment and will conduct themselves appropriately, respectfully and responsibly. To this end, students have an obligation to act in a fair and respectful manner toward their peers, faculty, support staff , administration and the physical property of the college and others.

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Great Plains College students are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that maintains a respectful, safe, healthy and educationally condu-cive environment. Such conduct is expected of all students at all Great Plains College campuses, training facilities, events, programs (including practicum placements and cooperative work placements) and student activities. Stu-dents whose actions are inappropriate or contrary to these principles may be directed to change behaviour, abide by restrictions, have their privileges suspended, or be expelled.

POLICY Th e list below gives a general idea of some examples of misconduct. Th is list is not limited to the following:

1) Academic Misconduct

Lack of Academic Integrity Assignments, tests and examinations are designed for students to show the instructor how well they have mastered the course material. When the in-structor evaluates the student’s work, it must therefore be clear which ideas and words are the student’s own. Th e general principle of academic integrity for students doing course work is that they are to do their original, individ-ual work, unless told otherwise by the instructor, and are to give credit for other people’s own ideas or words.

Cheating Cheating constitutes academic misconduct. Cheating is dishonest behaviour or the attempt to behave dishonestly. It includes:

- Unless explicitly authorized by the instructor using books, notes, dia-grams, electronic devices, or any other aids during an examination, either in the room itself or when permitted to leave temporarily - Copying from the work of another student - Communicating with others during an examination to give or receive information, either in the examination room or outside of it - Commissioning or allowing another person to write an examination on one’s behalf - Not following the rules of an examination - Using for personal advantage, or communicating to other students, ad-vance knowledge of the content of an examination - Altering answers on an assignment or examination that has been re-turned - Taking an examination out of the examination room unless authorized by the instructor

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Plagiarism Plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty in which one person submits or presents the work of another person as his or her own, whether from intent to deceive, lack of understanding, or carelessness. It is allowable and expected that students will examine and refer to the ideas of others, but these ideas must be incorporated into the student’s own analysis and must be clearly acknowledged through citations, references or other practices accepted by the academic community.

A student’s use of others’ expression of ideas, whether quoted verbatim or paraphrased, must also be clearly acknowledged according to acceptable academic practice. It is the responsibility of each student to learn what constitutes acceptable academic practice. Students who are uncertain of what plagiarism is should discuss their methodology with their instructors.

In addition to the matters described above, academic misconduct subject to discipline also includes, but is not limited to, the following:

- Padding a bibliography with works not read or used - Helping another student in an act of academic dishonesty such as writ-ing a test or paper for someone else - Providing false or incomplete information or supporting documents/materials on an application for admission, readmission, or transfer - Providing false information to obtain a deferral of work or examina-tion - Altering or falsifying, or attempting to alter or falsify, grade informa-tion or other records of academic performance whether they be one’s own or someone else’s

Penalties Th e possible penalties for an act of academic misconduct may include one or more of the following:

- Reduction of a grade on an assignment, essay, report or examination - Zero credit on an assignment, essay, report or examination - Zero credit in a course - Disciplinary action (see Procedure)

2) Disrespect - Subjecting of any person(s) to indignity, injury, threat of violence or degradation - Abusive or vulgar language, gestures, etc. - Any form of discrimination because of race, colour, age, disability, reli-gion, sex, national origin, political affi liation, sexual orientation - Harassment (see Harassment/Discrimination Policy)

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3) Educationally or Socially Disruptive Behaviour - Disturbing, disrupting or otherwise interfering with the educational activities (studies, laboratory/shop/practical exercises, lectures, etc.) of fellow students and instructors - Willful damage of facilities, or unauthorized use/removal of property - Neglect of workplace health and safety procedures or practices, or the creation of safety hazards - Bringing of illicit drugs, unapproved alcohol or other intoxicants to college facilities or events for personal use or for use by others - Attending training, educational, laboratory, practicum, cooperative placement or other services or training activities while under the infl u-ence of drugs, alcohol or other intoxicants - Use of computing or network resources to access, create, view, listen to, store or transmit material that is harassing, obscene, abusive, illegal, por-nographic or discriminatory, or that otherwise violates applicable laws, Great Plains College policies or community standards - Inappropriate display of vulgar, obscene, abusive, illegal, pornographic or discriminatory materials, clothing or actions - Failure to observe college policies

PROCEDURE It is necessary to bring unacceptable behaviour to a student’s attention and request that such behaviour cease or change. Th e general principle used when such behaviour is addressed is that the student will be given an explanation as to the nature of the unacceptable behaviour and the cor-rective action that should take place. In the majority of cases this informal notifi cation and explanation of expectation is all that is necessary. If the behaviour is persistent, reckless, endangering or of an extreme na-ture, additional or more formal steps will be taken to make sure a respect-ful, safe and educationally conducive environment is maintained. When formal actions are warranted, documentation of the issue, the rationale and terms of actions taken will be outlined in writing to the student. A copy will be kept in the offi cial student fi le.

To assist in consistent application of disciplinary action the Director of Programs or designate will be the authority when imposing sanctions or other disciplinary actions.

Criminal behaviour will be referred to appropriate authorities.

Informal Notifi cation Procedure Th e situation is brought to the attention of the Program Coordinator who

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will discuss the matter with the instructor, Student Adviser and Region Manager. Th e Region Manager or designate will discuss the unacceptable behaviour with the student. Th e informal notifi cation and resulting con-versation will be documented in the student’s fi le.

Formal Notifi cation Procedure Upon receiving notifi cation of the misconduct, the Region Manager will investigate the alleged misconduct, which will include off ering an oppor-tunity to the student to explain the incident and conducting any further investigation deemed necessary to ensure procedural fairness. Th e Region Manager will report all fi ndings to the Director of Programs. Th e Director of Programs or designate will make the disciplinary decision on the

conduct and will advise the student of the decision verbally and in writing. A copy of the written documentation will be placed in the student’s fi le.

Principle of Progressive Discipline Actions taken and penalties imposed when misconduct has been deter-mined will be guided by the principle of progressive discipline. To that end, penalties assigned and actions will:

- Normally increase in severity for second and subsequent acts of mis-conduct - Take into account the severity of the misconduct - Educate with respect to correct behaviour and the consequences of future misconduct

Disciplinary Actions When necessary, disciplinary actions will progress in the sequence as out-lined. However, depending on the seriousness of conduct, Great Plains Col-lege may act as appropriate, including immediate suspension or expulsion.

Types of Disciplinary Action

1) Reprimand A reprimand is an action, which offi cially recognizes a violation of good conduct and advises the off ender to avoid future infractions. Documenta-tion of a reprimand will be placed in the student’s fi le.

2) Probation Probation is a set of restrictions, expectations, performance indicators, deadlines and timelines placed on a student to continue in a course, activi-ties, program of study or access to facilities or resources. Th e action allows the student to remain in the program or course on the conditions imposed

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by the appropriate authority. Th e student on probation will be informed in writing of the terms of the probation. A copy of the letter will be placed in the student’s fi le.

3) Suspension Suspension is an action which removes or excludes the student from services, activities, a course, practicum, program, campus or Great Plains College for a specifi ed period. Exclusion or removal will be immediate if the safety of the public, staff or students is in any danger.

Great Plains College instructors have the authority to suspend a student from the classroom or lab for a day if they deem the behaviour to be disruptive, in-appropriate or to pose an immediate risk to students, faculty or administrative staff . Suspension beyond a day will be determined by the Director of Pro-grams based on information received from all related parties to the Program Coordinator to the Region Manager to the Director of Programs.

When a student is suspended within a period that concludes in the same aca-demic year, automatic re-entry into the program occurs upon the completion of the suspension and meeting of any related conditions. Th e student does not need to re-apply for admission. Upon re-admittance, the student must work with the appropriate staff member to ensure the conditions for a program or course re-entry are met and ensure future student success. If the student’s sus-pension concludes aft er the current academic year, re-application for program admission is required. Th e individual will not be eligible to re-apply to the program until the terms of suspension are completed. Th e individual’s applica-tion will be subject to normal application and waitlist procedures.

Suspended students are not eligible for refunds.

4) Expulsion Expulsion is an action which removes the student from Great Plains Col-lege indefi nitely. Th e President of Great Plains College has the authority to expel students. A student who is expelled will not be re-admitted for a minimum of one full academic year aft er which the student can make an appeal letter in writing to the President for re-admittance.

Expelled students are not eligible for refunds.

COPYRIGHT

Student Guidelines for Posting, Scanning or Copying

Th e copyright law of Canada governs the copying and communicating of

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copyright-protected material. Certain copies and communications may infringe copyright law. Th ese fair dealing guidelines are provided for your information. You are solely responsible for knowing your rights and responsibilities under the Copyright Act.

Great Plains College is not responsible for infringing copies made by the users of college machines.__________________________________________________________Th e fair dealing provision in the Copyright Act permits the copying and communication of short excerpts from a copyright-protected work, with-out permission or the payment of copyright royalties.

1. A student may copy and communicate, in paper or electronic form, a single copy of a short excerpt from a copyright-protected work for the purpose of research, private study, criticism, review, news reporting, education, satire or parody. 2. Copying for the purpose of news reporting, criticism or review must mention the source and, if given in the source, the name of the author or creator of the work.

3. A single copy of a short excerpt from a copyright-protected work may be posted to a learning or course management system that is password protected or otherwise restricted to students of a particular course. 4. A short excerpt means any one of a to g: a. up to 10% of a copyright-protected work (including a literary work, musical score, sound recording, and an audiovisual work) b. one chapter from a book c. a single article from a periodical d. an entire artistic work (including a painting, print, photograph, diagram, drawing, map, chart, and plan) from a copyright-protected work containing other artistic works e. an entire newspaper article or page f. an entire single poem or musical score from a copyright-protected work containing other poems or musical scores g. an entire entry from an encyclopedia, annotated bibliography, dictionary or similar reference work

5. Copying or communicating multiple short excerpts from the same copyright-protected work, with the intention of copying or communi-cating substantially the entire work, is prohibited.

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STUDENT HEALTH

Saskatchewan Health CardSaskatchewan Health covers health services for certain special classes of newcomers from outside Canada who move to Saskatchewan on or before the fi rst day of the third calendar month aft er arriving in Canada. If you are among the groups identifi ed below, you may be eligible for benefi ts from the day you move to Saskatchewan.

•permanent residents (landed immigrants)•people discharged from the Canadian Forces•non-immigrants who are in Canada in connection with their trade or profession•international students•returning spouses of Canadian Forces members•returning Canadian citizens•returning residents

If you are an international student temporarily residing in Saskatchewan to further your education, you may be eligible for Saskatchewan health coverage. You must apply for a Saskatchewan health services card. You must provide proof of full-time enrollment at an accredited educational institute and a valid Study Permit issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

To begin your application, see: http://www.ehealthsask.ca/HealthRegistries/Pages/apply-for-health-card.aspx

General Information about Sask Health Benefi ts:http://www.ehealthsask.ca/HealthRegistries/Pages/health-benefi ts.aspx

Student Health and Dental PlanTh e Great Plains College Health and Dental Plan will provide extended health and dental benefi ts for full-time students enrolled in an eligible full-time program. Th e charges for the plans will appear on your student account statement. Once paid, you will have coverage for a full year from the day your fi rst class begins.

If you have been assessed the plan’s fees but already have comparable cov-erage, you can opt out of the health and dental plans through the website at www.mystudentplan.ca within 30 days from the fi rst day your class

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begins. You will still be required to pay the Health and Dental fee up front as part of your mandatory tuition fees, however, you will be credited for this fee once you opt out.

For additional questions regarding your Great Plains College Student Health and Dental Plan, please contact us at:

[email protected] • 1-877-746-5566, ext. 249mystudentplan.ca

Non-Smoking and Non-Tobacco UseIn an eff ort to create a healthier atmosphere for the college community, Great Plains College makes eff ort to protect our students, clients, staff and visitors from the health risks associated with tobacco use and expo-sure to secondhand smoke. One of our goals is to promote and reinforce a tobacco free lifestyle. In the process Great Plains does not seek to force or require cessation of tobacco products use by its students, staff or visi-tors. Great Plains College seeks to uphold the personal rights and decision making processes of all people involved. Students who chose to smoke are requested to use the designated smoking area only. Smoking and tobacco use is prohibited in the following locations:

• Inside campus buildings• On campus grounds; including parking lots• In all college-owned or leased vehicles

Off enses will be dealt with in the same manner as violations of other col-lege policies and may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Conduct Policy. Sanctions and disciplinary actions could include: reprimand, probation, suspension and expulsion.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT APPLICATION PROCESS How to apply1) Complete the International Student application form at www.greatplainscollege.ca/apply or request a paper copy of the form to be mailed or emailed to you.Eligible programs for International students for 2015-16 are: o Business- Swift Current o Administrative Assistant- Swift Current- Apply before April 30, 2015, to be assessed for a scholarship. For most programs, applications are accepted throughout the year. Some programs carry an application deadline as indicated in the individual program description.

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- Program prerequisites are listed in individual program descriptions at www.greatplainscollege.ca.

- English Language Profi ciency requirements are noted within this document.

2) Submit your application.Your application can be submitted using one of the following methods:

- Submit via email to [email protected]

OR- Print the completed application and mail, along with all supporting doc-uments to:

Margaret Schafer, Student AdviserGreat Plains CollegeBox 5000Swift Current, SK S9H 4G3Canada

3) Submit your application fee and supporting documentation:

In order for your application to be assessed for admission to the program, we require:

a) A $125 CDN non-refundable application fee payable to Great Plains College. Please call 1 (866) 296-2472 to pay your application fee. Note that Saskatchewan is the Central Standard Time Zone.

b) All offi cial secondary and-or post-secondary transcripts from your home country and from Canada and results of any foreign credential rec-ognition assessments you have had completed in past. Transcripts must be sent directly from the originating institution to Great Plains College. All transcripts must be translated to English.

c) English Language Profi ciency Requirement: Provide proof of English Language Profi ciency if English is not your fi rst language. If testing is required, have test results sent directly to Great Plains College from the testing service. 4) Acceptance Process

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You will be contacted within 48 business hours of your application being successfully received.

You will be contacted by the International Student Adviser if any information is missing or in question. If a Foreign Credential Recogni-tion process is required to evaluate your transcript and additional fees apply, the International student adviser will contact you to discuss this.

- Once your program entrance requirements have been met you will receive an acceptance letter outlining your program, tuition and schol-arship details.

- You will be asked to pay a tuition deposit of 25 percent of your full tuition within 30 days to secure your seat.

- If you apply to a program that is already full, or have not met your program’s prerequisites, a student adviser will contact you to discuss your options.

Study PermitsAs an International student, you must apply for a Canada Study Per-mit from the Canadian Embassy if you plan to study for more than six months.

Your offi cial letter of acceptance must be included with your study permit application to prove you will be studying at a Designated Learning Institution. In addition to the letter of acceptance you will have to prove: that you have suffi cient funds to cover tuition costs and living expenses for the duration of your study period; that you do not have a criminal record and are not a security risk to Canada; that you are in good health; and that you will be leaving Canada at the end of your stay.

It is strongly recommended that you submit the study permit applica-tion at least three months before the start of classes to allow for pro-cessing time.

Federal and Provincial Study-in-Canada ReferencesIt is important that you do not let your study permit expire. Allowing a study permit to expire is considered a violation of the Immigration Act which may aff ect your eligibility for an extension and may lead to deportation.

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Please refer to the following websites for more information on studying in Canada and Saskatchewan:

Citizenship and Immigration Canada www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/index.asp

Immigration Saskatchewan www.economy.gov.sk.ca/immigration/studying

International Student AdvisorTh e main liaison between Great Plains College, the provincial Ministry, and the college’s international students is the International Student Advi-sor. Contact information for this person is below:

Until April 30, 2015 Teresa Cole [email protected] 1-306-778-5471 May 1, 2015 onward Keleah Ostrander [email protected] 1-306-778-5471

Foreign Credential RecognitionGreat Plains College follows the foreign credential recognition processes of the institutions from which it brokers programs. Please refer to the bro-kering institution of the program of interest for more information.

In general, foreign credential processes will involve the prospective stu-dent providing original transcripts as part of the application process. Th ese will be assessed by the brokering institution. A fee for this service may apply.

Language Profi ciency RequirementsGreat Plains College will generally apply the language profi ciency require-ments of the institution from which it is brokering programming.

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS CHART

English is the language of instruction and examination at Great Plains College

Applicants who have completed their secondary (high school) education or received post-secondary training in one of the following exempt coun-tries are not generally required to provide evidence of English language profi ciency (ELP).

If your fi rst or primary language is not English and-or your country is not exempt, you will need to provide evidence of having the English language skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing necessary to be successful in the program to which you are applying.

Saskatchewan students graduating from Fransaskois and French Immer-sion high school programs are not required to meet further ELP require-ments.

Exempt Countries

• American Samoa • Anguilla • Antigua and Barbuda• Aruba• Australia• Bahamas• Barbados• Belize• Bermuda• Botswana• British Virgin Islands• Canada (except Quebec)• Cayman Islands• England• Fiji• Ghana• Grenada• Guam• Jamaica• Kenya

• Lesotho• Malawi• New Zealand• Nigeria • Northern Ireland• Papua New Guinea• Panama Canal Zone • Puerto Rico• St. Kitts and Nevis • St. Lucia• Scotland • Sierra Leone • Trinidad and Tobago • Turks and Caicos Islands • Uganda • United States of America • US Virgin Islands • Wales • Zambia • Zimbabwe

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Completion of studies at a Canadian or U.S. high school (secondary education

A minimum grade of 70% in Grade 12 provincially-examined or state-examined English courses as part of one successful full-time year of study; OR successful completion of Grades 10, 11 and 12 English courses or their equivalents, in sequence, as part of three full academic years in a high school using provincially-accredited Canadian or state-accredited U.S. curriculum, including regular (10, 20 or 30 level) or modifi ed (11, 21 or 31 level) courses. English as a Second Language courses will not be considered.

Quebec applicants must provide proof of:- a Secondary V Diplome d’etudes secondaires (DES) with three successful years of English in sequence, or- a minimum of one complete year in an academic diploma program at a French College d’enseignement general et professional (CEGEP), and two of the following English courses: English 603-101, 603-102, 603-103, or- a minimum of one complete year in an academic diploma program at an English CEGEP college

Canadian provincially-examined Adult 12 program (secondary education)

A minimum grade of 70% in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30 (or equivalent) of one successful full-time year of study and completion of a provincially-examined Adult 12 program.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS CHART

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U.S. approved Adult 12 program (secondary education)

Successful completion of an approved Adult 12 programincluding a minimum grade of 70% in equivalent English courses as part of one successful full-time year of study.

Completion of studies at an English-speaking secondary school outside North America in a country that is not exempt

Successful completion of Grades 10, 11, and 12 (or equivalent), in sequence, as part of three full years of secondary school taught and examined at an accredited institution recognized by Great Plains College, where English is the offi cial language of instruction and examination. Director of Planning or designate approval will be required.

Completion of studies at an English-speaking post-secondary school

Successful completion of a one-year certifi cate, diploma or degree from an accredited program and institution recognized by Great Plains College where English is the offi cial language of instruction and examination. Director of Planning or designate approval will be required.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – Internet-basedwww.toefl .com

An overall minimum score of 81 on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), with a minimum score of 19 in each of reading, listening, speaking and writing for Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs.

An overall minimum score of 79 on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), with a minimum score of 18 in each of reading, listening, speaking and writing for Assiniboine Community College programs.

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TOEFL – Paper-basedwww.toefl .com

Minimum test score of 550 with a minimum TWE of 3.5 and a minimum TSE of 50.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Academic Modulewww.ielts.orgwww.saskpolytech.ca/admissions/admission-requirements/english-language-requirements.aspx

Overall minimum score of Band 6.5 with a minimum score of 5.0 in each component for Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs.

Overall minimum score of Band 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in each component for ACC programs.

Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)www.saskpolytech.ca/admissions/admission-requirements/english-language-requirements.aspx

Minimum score on the CLB* required by the program (minimums range from 7 to 9). Applicants testing at Saskatchewan Polytechnic who achieve a score of 8+ on the CLB will be considered to have met level 9 as Saskatchewan Polytechnic does not currently test for benchmark 9 or higher.

*Great Plains College does not accept the CLBPT as evidence of English profi ciency. CLB levels must be established through CLB-A testing.

Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST)www.usask.ca

Minimum score of 4.5 in each of listening and reading, a minimum score of 4.0 in speaking and a minimum score of 4.0 in writing.

Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL)www.cael.ca

Minimum score of 60 with a minimum score of 50 in each component.

University of Cambridge Certifi cate of Profi ciency in English (CPE)www.cam.ac.uk

Minimum grade of C.

Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)www.umich.edu

Minimum score of 85 for Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs.Minimum score of 80 for ACC programs.

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University of Regina ESL Programswww.uregina.ca

Successful completion of ESL 050 (Advanced Level) with completion of either Literature and Writing or Advanced Writing, or a minimum average score of 55 on the ESL placement exam.

University of Saskatchewan ESL programswww.usask.ca

Successful completion of University Preparation Level 2 (UPREP 2).

Other college and university intensive ESL programs

Successful completion of a Great Plains College-recognized ESL program from a Canadian college or university, if it is considered equivalent to Great Plains College’s required TOEFL iBT or IELTS admission requirements. Profi ciency equivalents will be reviewed by Great Plains College’s Director of Planning or designate in consultation with the relevant program head. Director of Planning or designate approval will be required.

Advanced Placement (AP) English Successful completion of Grade 12 at an English-speaking high school, including Advanced Placement English courses, each with a minimum grade of 3.

International Baccalaureate (IB) English A1 or A2

Successful completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma, including higher level English with a minimum grade of 4.

Other equivalent proofs of profi ciency Profi ciency equivalents are reviewed by Great Plains College’s Director of Planning or designate in consultation with the relevant program head; Registrar approval is required. Applicants may appeal to the Director of Planning or designate decisions concerning English language profi ciency requirements.

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ADDITIONAL PROGRAM-SPECIFIC ELP REQUIREMENTSSaskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing

See www.sasknursingdegree.ca/scbscn/

COLLEGE CONTACTS FOR ADMISSIONS

Margaret Schafer – Student Services Adviser [email protected] or 306-778-5497

Business Offi ce – (306) 773-1531 or [email protected]

FEES AND TUITION Payment of FeesGreat Plains College accepts fee payment in CDN dollars only by cheque, money order, debit, Visa, MasterCard or cash at all offi ce locations. Please refrain from sending cash through the mail. Your registration becomes eff ective upon payment of the required fees. You cannot attend courses or programs until all fees are paid unless prior arrangements have been made with the Student Services offi ce. Great Plains College reserves the right to withhold service or marks until all outstanding fees are paid. Please contact the Student Services offi ce for more information.

International Student Tuition Fee Policy (2015-16)Application fee: $125 non-refundableProgram Tuition: 2.5 times the domestic tuitionTuition Deposit: 25% of tuition Foreign Credential Assessment fee: $100 Note: International student fees are higher as a result of additional costs to ensure supplemental supports are in place for international students.

All other student fees will be assessed per the main Great Plains College Tuition Schedule.

Tuition RefundA student seeking a refund in a credit program shall submit a written request to the Program Coordinator. Th e current Great Plains College refund schedule will apply. Please note: A refund may be reimbursed directly to the funding agency, if so directed.

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A copy of the Refund Policy is available at the Student Services offi ce and online at www.greatplainscollege.ca. Student Association Fees • Full-time post-secondary students - $70Th e Student Association exists to help enhance the student experience and support the academic and non-academic needs of Great Plains College students. Th e Student Association will serve as the offi cial voice of the students at Great Plains College.

Th e Student Association is involved in organizing social, recreational and academic activities for the students, and oversees all student fund-raising activities. Th e Student Council and designated bodies including the College Board, reserves the right to refuse any requests to fundraise.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Student Association, or have any questions, please contact Shawna Smuk at (306) 778-5450.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Financial EmergenciesA student facing a fi nancial emergency is encouraged to contact the Student Services offi ce. Th e Student Services offi ce may be able to assist through referral to the most appropriate agency. Great Plains College Scholarships Great Plains College off ers scholarships ranging from $500-$5,000 for approved post-secondary programs for the 2015-16 academic year. Off ers are based on transcripts provided at time of application and are conditional upon academic performance. If you were eligible for a Great Plains College scholarship, you should have received this infor-mation in your acceptance letter. Th ese scholarships will be awarded at the annual Contributors’ Reception. For more information, contact the Student Services offi ce or visit www.greatplainscollege.ca. STUDENT TRANSFER AND WITHDRAWAL PROCESSES

TransfersTo transfer to another Great Plains College program, contact the Inter-national Student Adviser. International students may only transfer to another eligible program. Application and tuition fees are generally not transferable.

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To transfer to another post-secondary institution in Saskatchewan, contact the International Student Adviser for information.

International students may only transfer to another designated post-secondary institution. Application and tuition fees are not trans-ferable between institutions. Application processes, tuition and fees, and eligibility requirements will vary by institution.

WithdrawalsIf a student is denied a study permit or withdraws before the program starts, the tuition deposit, less a $300 administrative fee, will be refunded.All application fees are non-refundable.

Cancellation of a program by Great Plains College will result in a full refund of fees paid.

To withdraw from a Great Plains College program, contact the Interna-tional Student Adviser.

International students must provide Great Plains College with their plan to either transfer to another institution or leave Canada. Students must be aware that there may be implications on their study permits with withdrawal from an institution.

Refunds will be processed according to the Great Plains College Re-fund Schedule.

GREAT PLAINS COLLEGE SERVICES

HousingGreat Plains College does not have dormitory residences on campus. Students will need to make private rental arrangements. Some sourc-es of information about rental apartments are listed below but Great Plains College does not intend this as a recommendation of any partic-ular landlord listed.

Swift Current Housing Authority 1-306-778-3218

Swift Current Online Classifi eds http://classifi eds.swift currentonline.com/c,120,Rentals%2C-Apart ments.htm?city=3

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Southwest Booster Classifi eds http://yourclassifi eds.ca/cb-sk-swbooster/for-rent/search

Formula 1 Real Estate Service 1-306-773-7527

Pyramid Property Management 1-877-874-5668 or 1- 306-773-4624 http://www.pyramidproperty.ca/available_properties.html

Avenue Living 1-855-247-1492 http://www.avenueliving.ca/apartments/swift -current

Reserved ParkingStudent parking permits are available for purchase for on-campus park-ing or for the 1st Avenue NE lot (beside the Legion Hall). You may con-tact the Business Offi ce to request a permit. Parking permit stalls will be assigned based on fi rst come fi rst serve. Parking permits allow you to park Monday to Friday from 6 a.m.–6 p.m. in your designated spot. • On-campus parking, August to July: $200• 1st Avenue NE lot, September to June: $100 or $50 per semester (September to December, January to April, or May to August). For more information please visit www.greatplainscollege.ca. Student Lounge and CafeA student lounge with café is located on the main fl oor providing beverages, snack and light lunches. Students are encouraged to use the games, TV, vending machines and furniture provided.

Student Study AreaTh is room is available for quiet academic study during the regular hours of college operation. Th e study area accommodates individual and group study. It is equipped with computers, a printer and internet services.

Exam InvigilationStudents can write exams by arrangement in the examination room during designated times. Other members of the community needing an exam supervised can also access these services on a limited basis. Exam invigilation fees may apply. Please contact the college at (306) 773-1531 to make the necessary arrangements.

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In Case of EmergencyYour instructor will review Great Plains College emergency procedures at the beginning of your program. You will be made aware of what to do in case of emergencies (such as fi res, tornados, lockdowns, etc.), where to assemble outside and who to report your presence to. LockersLocker rental fee is $25. Students must provide their own lock and agree to vacate their lockers by June 30. Great Plains College does not assume any liability for personal items left in lockers, and reserves the right to remove a lock when deemed necessary. VisitorsAll visitors should report to reception and state the nature of their visit. Visitors are not allowed to enter classrooms without prior arrangement.

Campus HoursStudents may access the facility during the following hours, with the exception of summer hours, scheduled closures and unexpected cir-cumstances.

Monday–Th ursday: 8 a.m. –10 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m. –6 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.Sunday: closedStat. holidays: closed

Business Offi ce HoursMonday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Phone Calls and MessagesPrivacy laws require that Great Plains College cannot confi rm wheth-er or not a person is on site. In case of an emergency, the caller must disclose the nature of the emergency so that staff can determine the best management case. In no circumstance do we guarantee delivery of personal messages. Exceptions may be made if prior arrangements are made with the Student Services offi ce.

Lost and FoundPlease give any items found or notifi cation of lost items to reception or aft er hours to the SCN attendant. Lost and found items will be kept at the reception desk for one program year. Unclaimed items will either be donated to a charitable organization or discarded at the end of the year.

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RecreationTh e gymnasium is available for students to use at no cost during noon hours, before classes and in the evenings.

Fitness – BodyFitGreat Plains College off ers all full-time students the opportunity to ac-quire a gym membership from BodyFit at a signifi cantly reduced cost. Confi rmation of enrolment is required from the Student Services offi ce before signing up.

Sundogs AthleticsGreat Plains College SunDogs compete in men’s and women’s volleyball and basketball. Full-time Great Plains College students have the op-portunity to become a SunDog. If you are interested in playing please contact the SunDogs Athletic Coordinator at [email protected].

Computer UseAll students who pay student association fees are given a Great Plains College computer account. Th is account gives you login access to all computers at the college as well as an email account. When using the computers do not save information in the documents folder. Save to the “U” drive as the “U” drive can be accessed from any computer on campus. Students are also encouraged to use a USB stick so they may have their information as needed. If you require help accessing college computers or your email account, please contact the Business Offi ce.

Students must: • use the computers in a responsible and lawful manner• avoid using the facilities for personal fi nancial gain• recognize that the computers are intended for educational use only• use only the programs that are installed on the computers and are avail-able for student use• avoid using the lab during a scheduled class, unless permitted by the in-structor• respect the rights of other users, and the policies of sites and net-work

Please remember:• downloading of any type from the Internet is strictly prohibited without prior permission• no food or beverages are allowed in lab facilities

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• computer printers shouldn’t be used in lieu of a photocopier• all full-time students are allocated a $5 (50 copies) print credit along with their computer ID• additional credits may be purchased at any time during the year (sold in $5 increments)• to report any problems to an instructor, or the IT assistant immedi-ately

Great Plains College ClothingGreat Plains College sells an assortment of college and SunDogs logoed clothing and other items. Quantities are limited. Purchases can be made through reception. AlumniYour college activity and involvement as a student at Great Plains Col-lege will not end with your program completion. You continue to be an important part of the Great Plains College alumni family. As an alumni member you will have the opportunity to remain involved in the stra-tegic direction of the college with connections in areas such as scholar-ships and various college events. For more information please contact the Development Offi ce at [email protected].

Program OrientationAll students will participate in an orientation at the beginning of the pro-gram. Th is will include information on the college and its services, the student’s program, college rules and policies and community services.

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Student ServicesStudents are encouraged to stop by Student Services located in offi ce 118 for assistance and are encouraged to make an appointment. Students can access services free of charge and are encouraged to seek solutions to issues using the services provided. Instructors and pro-gram coordinators reserve the right to refer students to the Student Services offi ce if it is felt that personal issues are impairing the stu-dent’s performance.

Th e services available include:

COMMUNITY HELP ORGANIZATIONS

EMERGENCY NUMBERS(All area codes 306) AddressesFire/Ambulance/Police 911 (emergency only)RCMP 778-4870 2 - 1st Ave NESouthwest Safe Shelter 778-3692Southwest Crisis Services Women’s Outreach 778-3684 Men’s Outreach 778-3433Victim Services 778-4898

Community Health Support NumbersSwift Current Regional Hospital 778-9400 2004 Sask DrAddiction Services 778-5280 350 Cheadle St WAlcoholics Anonymous 773-7494Northside Walk-in Medical Clinic 773-9100 911 Central Ave NCommunity Health Services 778-5280 350 Cheadle St WSask Health Line 811

• career advising• fi nancial advising• academic advising• exam invigilation• general advising (i.e. Attendance, per-formance, issues impairing success, etc.)• sponsoring agency issues/diffi culties• fi nancial aid• confi rmation of enrolment• referrals to outside agencies

• incoming referrals from instructors and/or program coordinators• special needs programming• student assistance and advocacy • student employment opportunities (employment opportunities are shared with Great Plains College students throughout the year in a variety of ways) • internal & external referral for life skills counselling

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Mental Health Support Numbers AddressesMental Health Services 778-5280 350 Cheadle St W24 Hour Crisis Line 1-800-567-3334Christian Counseling Centre 773-0614Gamblers Anonymous 773-6271

Community Service Agencies NumbersSOUTHWEST NEWCOMER WELCOME CENTRE 778-6262 237 Central Ave NHuman Resources Canada 778-4372 250 Central Ave NLegal Aid 778-8272 350 Cheadle St WSalvation Army 778-0515 780 1st Ave NWSocial Services 778-8219 350 Cheadle St WBig Brothers/Big Sisters 773-1643Canada-Saskatchewan Labour Market Services 778-8230 350 Cheadle St W

Other Important NumbersCity of Swift Current Telebus 773-1448City of Swift Current 778-2777 177 1st Ave NEComprehensive High School 773-2801 1100 11th Ave NESwift Current Public Library 778-2752 411 Herbert St ESwift Current Housing Authority 778-3218 78 Central Ave NHighway Hotline 1 (888) 335-7623

STUDENT CARD DISCOUNTS* Swift Current Broncos- Present your student card and attend a regular season game for $9.25

Lucky Charlies – 240 Central N Lower Level Chinook Centre– Drink specials every day of the week

M&M Meat Shops – #3 701 Robert Street East- 10% off your everyday purchase

Family Pizza – 701 Robert Street East- Large 2 for 1 pizza for a medium charge

Modern Family Restaurant – 49 Central Ave North- 15% off regular menu items

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In Look Fashions – Swift Current Mall- 10% off regular priced merchandise Subway – 101 Central Ave North OR 1-1100 South Service Rd East- Monday to Friday during school hours: Free drink and cookie with sandwich- Regular student specials Schimmel’s Dutch Bakery – 139 Central Ave North- Free drink with soup and sandwich *May be subject to change

COLLEGE CONTACTS

International Student AdvisorTh e main liaison between Great Plains College, the provincial Ministry, and the college’s international students is the International Student Advi-sor. Contact information for this person is below:

Keleah Ostrander – Director of PlanningEmail: [email protected] Phone: (306) 778-5471

Business Offi ce – (306) 773-1531 or [email protected]

Margaret Schafer – Student Services (Applications)Email: [email protected] Phone: (306) 778-5497

Shawna Smuk – Program CoordinatorEmail: [email protected] Phone: (306) 778-5450

My Program Coordinator: ________________________________

My Instructor: ________________________________________

greatplainscollege.ca • 1 (866) 296-2472

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KINDERSLEY CAMPUSBox 488, 514 Main Street

Kindersley SK S0L 1S0Phone: (306) 463-6431

Fax: (306) 463-1161

ROSETOWN PROGRAM CENTREBox 610, 1005 Main Street

Rosetown SK S0L 2V0Phone: (306) 882-4236

WARMAN CAMPUSBox 1001, 201 Central Street

Warman SK S0K 4S0Phone: (306) 242-5377

Fax: (306) 242-8662

BIGGAR PROGRAM CENTREBox 700, 701 Dominion Street

Biggar SK S0K 0MOPhone: (306) 948-3363

SWIFT CURRENT CAMPUSBox 5000, 129 2nd Avenue NE

Swift Current SK S9H 4G3Phone: (306) 773-1531

Fax: (306) 773-2384

MAPLE CREEK PROGRAM CENTREBox 1738, 20 Pacifi c Avenue

Maple Creek SK SON 1N0Phone: (306) 662-3829

TOLL-FREE: 1 (866) 296-2472

greatplainscollege.ca

international student handbook 2015

Documents

student appeal policy

student conduct policy

student health

student harassment

environment policy

student guidelines

grading policy

evaluation policy