ORIENTATION

A
Academic Calendar
Adding and Dropping Courses
Advanced Standing
Advocacy Services
Apply to the College (see How to Apply)
Assessment Tests
Awards (see Student Awards Office)

B
Bookstore Refund Policy
Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards

C
Calendar of Important Dates
Campus Jobs
Certificates - see Frequently Asked Questions about Academic Records
Changing the information in your college student record
Child Care Services
Computers
Counselling & Career Coaching Services
Counselling Services

D
Dates - Academic Calendar
Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services
Degrees - see Frequently Asked Questions about Academic Records
Diplomas - see Frequently Asked Questions about Academic Records
Disability Services

E
Education Verification - see Frequently Asked Questions about Academic Records
Electives
Emergency Funding
Exemptions

F
Financial Assistance

G
General Education Electives (GenEDs)
GO Transit Passes
Grades
Graduation - see Frequently Asked Questions about Academic Records

H
Health Insurance
Holds on Students' Accounts
Housing
How to Apply

I
ID Cards
Important Dates - Academic Calendar

L
Late Admits
Library Learning Commons/Libraries
Lockers

M
Mature Students Information Sessions

N
Name Changes

O
Orientation for Programs
OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)

P
Photo ID
Password for Students
Password for Faculty/Staff
Placement Testing
PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition)
Proof of Enrolment

R
Replacement Diplomas/Certificates
Registration - Frequently Asked Questions
Release of Information

S
Scholarships
Second Career
Special Timetables
Social Events - Campus Calendar
Sponsorships
Student Associations
Student Awards Office
Student Identification
Student Records
STU-VIEW

T
Testing - Assessment and Placement
Timetables
Transcripts (Official and Unofficial)
Transfers
Transit Local
Tutoring

W
WebCT
Withdrawals

Note: For the official college policies see:

George Brown College - Academic Policies, Guidelines and Codes of Conduct

A

Adding and Dropping Courses

Please also see: Paying fees and Registering

How do I add a course to my schedule?

You cannot add a course on-line but you can drop core course(s) on-line.

You can add a new course to your timetable within five days of the first day of classes. For the specific date, please check the "Important Dates for Students" document posted on our web site. To add a course, you must contact your academic department office and they will complete a Student Action form for you to register.

Please ensure that you know the course title, course code, and (if available) the course registration number (CRN) of the course you wish to add. Courses can be added to your schedule only if room is available in the course section in which you want to enroll.

NOTE: In the event that an added course takes you over the normal program course load, additional fees may be assessed.

How do I drop a course from my schedule?

It is recommended that you meet with your program advisor prior to dropping a course or withdrawing from your program.

You can drop a course from your schedule within ten days of the start of classes. For the specific date, please check the "Important Dates for Students". To drop a course, you should contact the office of your academic department and submit a written request to the Office of the Registrar, You can also drop your course(s) on-line through STU-VIEW.

Please ensure that you know the course title, code, and (if available) the course registration number (CRN) of the course you wish to drop.

If you stop attending a course but do not officially drop or withdraw from it, you will receive a failing grade (F) for that course on your college transcript.

Dropping a course may affect your status as a full-time student and, consequently, eligibility for financial assistance (OSAP) and/or Student Association Health Insurance. Normally, a full-time student is defined as someone registered in at least 66 2/3% of a full course load in a given semester. You may have to return an OSAP loan if your status changes to part-time (less than 60% course load).

What if I want to add and/or drop an Elective course?

You may add and/or drop elective courses from your timetable within the prescribed timelines. Please go on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/ and follow the instructions.

You are required to add and/or drop courses on-line at: http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/.

How do I add a course to my schedule?

You can add a new course to your timetable within five days of the first day of classes. For the specific date, please check the "Important Dates for Students" document posted on our web site. To add a course, go on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/ and make your selection.

NOTE: In the event that an added course takes you over the normal program course load, additional fees may be assessed.

What if I am a returning student in a Business and Creative Arts program that requires a special timetable?

You will not be able to add and/or drop courses on-line. You will be required to speak to an academic advisor prior to dropping and/or adding courses to your timetable.

Advanced Standing

A student applying for advance standing is applying for admission to a program of study to a semester higher than semester one.

Advance standing provides credit for previous courses taken in a related area of study to a student upon admission, which enables direct entry to a second or higher semester of a program.

For more information please contact the Admissions Office at 416 415-5000 ext. 4805 or see policy on Advanced Standing: http://www.georgebrown.ca/Admin/VPAcad/policies/gbacademicpolicies2.pdf

Advocacy Services

Can I get assistance with the resolution of a College-related issue?

The Student Association provides students with support and advice for academic appeals and assistance with resolving student issues. You can reach them at:

St. James Campus:	(416) 415-5000 ext. 2455
Casa Loma Campus:	(416) 415-5000 ext. 4730
Ryerson:	T.B.A.

Counselling provides students with advice on College policies, procedures, rights responsibilities and also general guidance on how to resolve complaints and where inquiries should be directed.

Call or visit the Counselling Office
St. James Campus, Room 582C,
Tel: (416) 415-5000 ext. 2674 or e-mail lets_talk@georgebrown.ca

Assessment Tests - Math/English/Science

Please see Testing - Assessment and Placement.

Bookstore Refund Policy

How do I get a refund from the campus bookstore?

Here is the bookstore's policy for the current academic school year:

• Take book and receipt to the campus bookstore for a refund
• Refund or exchange on textbooks only within 14 days of purchase with original receipt.
• Books must be in mint condition.
• The period for refunds is 14 days.
• No refund on opened software, stationary, calculators, or special order items/deposits.
• Exchange only on defective merchandise.
• Water damaged books are non-refundable

[Source: http://gbcbookstore.bookware3000.ca/?page=faq.html]

Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards

What kinds of bursaries, scholarships and other financial awards are offered at George Brown?

Through very generous contributions from individuals, organizations, and companies, George Brown College is able to offer various scholarships and awards to students. These are based on academic achievement, and in some instances, academic achievement in conjunction with college/community involvement.

Please check with your individual Faculty or Department to determine if an application is required, and to learn of the special requirements/prerequisites that apply to each scholarship and award.

Awards are considered part of a student's taxable income for the year. The college will issue T4A forms to all recipients in the spring of the year following the year in which the award was paid.

Scholarships, awards and bursaries listed are subject to change without prior notice, and are subject to conditions as may be set down by the college and/or the organization or individual offering the award.

For questions regarding all bursary and scholarship programs, contact the Financial Assistance Office at St. James, Casa Loma or Ryerson Campus. Awards are also listed at http://www.georgebrown.ca/financialaid/

George Brown College Student Assistance Fund

Through funds set aside from tuition fees paid by all full-time students, the College offers bursaries to students who demonstrate financial need. Bursary applications are available through the Financial Assistance Offices at all three campuses. Students should complete the application and submit it to the Financial Assistance Office along with a letter outlining the nature of the problem. We advise you through e-mail as to the results of the bursary application. Bursaries are non-repayable but are subject to tax depending on amount awarded.

Please also see Counselling & Career Coaching Services.

C

Campus Jobs

Please see Financial Assistance, Work-Study Program.

Changing the Information in Your College Student Records

See Student Records.

Child Care Services

Does George Brown College have child care facilities?

George Brown College operates nine child care centres in various locations. A limited number of childcare spaces are available to George Brown students. Since spaces are limited (especially spaces that are subsidized by the government), applications should be submitted early. For more information about child care, call (416) 415-5000, ext. 2359. Information about childcare opportunities is also provided in the Full-Time Programs Guide.

Computers

I don't have a computer. Are there computer labs on campus?

Students may use any of the following computer labs:

Casa Loma Campus

Open Access Computer Learning Centre (OACLC):
Located in Room C350 for the use of students.

Register on-line at: http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/.

Use Pentium computers and access major software applications used in class, computer-based tutorials, e-mail, the Internet, CD-ROMs, scanning and colour printing.

There is also a very limited number of MAC computers available as well.

Summer Hours of Operation:
Monday through Thursday - 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday - 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation:
Monday through Thursday - 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday -10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please note: on Holiday Weekends, i.e. Family Day, Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day and Thanksgiving, the following hours will apply:
Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday and Holiday Monday - Closed

Please note: on the Easter Weekend, the following hours will apply:
Good Friday - Closed
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday - Closed

For more information, call (416) 415-5000, ext. 4459.

St. James Campus

Open Access Computer Learning Centre (OACLC):
Located in Room 131, for the use of students. An overflow open access lab is located in Room - 124.

Register on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/.

Use Mac or Pentium computers and access major software applications used in class, computer-based tutorials, e-mail, the Internet, CD-ROMs, scanning and colour printing.

Summer Hours of Operation:
Monday through Thursday - 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday -10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation:
Monday through Thursday - 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday -10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please note: on Holiday Weekends, i.e. Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day and
Thanksgiving, the following hours will apply:
Friday - 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday and Holiday Monday - Closed

Please note: on the Easter Weekend, the following hours will apply:
Good Friday - Closed
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday - Closed

For more information, call (416) 415-5000, ext. 2004.

 

Ryerson Campus

Academic Resource Centre (ARC):
Located in Room 677, Sally Horsfall Eaton Centre, for use of GBC students.

Register on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/.

Use Pentium computers and access major software applications used in class, computer-based tutorials, e-mail, the Internet, CD-ROMS, scanning and colour printing.

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation:
Monday through Thursday - 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Please note: on Holiday Weekends, i.e. Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day and Thanksgiving, the ARC closes at 3:30 p.m. on the Friday and will be closed on the Holiday Monday.

For more information, call (416) 415-5000, ext. 2977.

Counselling and Career Coaching

Also see Financial Assistance & Counselling Services

Are there campus organizations that will help me find work, prepare a résumé, etc.?

GBCareers website.

The Peer Program

The Peer Program has a number of positions available if you are a full-time student in a post-secondary program. The Peer Program hires responsible, committed students for the following positions: Peer Tutors, Peer Advisors, Peer Career Assistants and Special Projects Peers. These positions pay between $10 and $12 per hour depending on the duties, and allow you to work up to a maximum of 15 hours a week depending on your schedule and the demand for service. You can pick up an application and receive more information about these positions at your campus Counselling & Career Coaching Services office.

Other Services

If you need help preparing your traditional/scannable résumé or cover letter or would like to receive coaching for a job interview, contact the Counselling & Career Coaching Services office on your campus for a workshop schedule or a personal appointment. Students can also access online resources - through the Student Affairs web site - http://www.georgebrown.ca/saffairs.

Counselling and Career Coaching
St. James Campus
Room 582C - Tel: (416) 415-5000, ext. 2107

Casa Loma Campus
Room C317 - Tel: (416) 415-5000, ext. 4585

Counselling Services

I have a personal problem.
Who can I talk to outside my circle of friends?

Free counselling services are available through the Counselling & Career Coaching Offices:

Casa Loma Campus
Room C317 - (416) 415-5000, ext. 4585

St. James Campus
Room 582C - (416) 415-5000, ext. 2107

Counsellors are available to help you with personal or school-related problems. They are also able to provide information about study skills workshops, career options, part-time jobs, the peer program, and on-line job posting through www.workopoliscampus.com. You may reach Counselling Services on-line at lets_talk@georgebrown.ca. E-mail the counsellors with your questions or request for an appointment and they will get back to you within one working day. Due to the nature of the Internet, e-mail confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

For career counselling, please see Career and Employment Services.

D

Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services

What assistance is available to me if I am deaf or hard-of-hearing?

If you are deaf, deafened or are hard-of-hearing, a range of services is offered including educational interpreting, computerized notetaking, scribing, peer notetaking, peer tutoring, modified course load and test proctoring, technical devices and counselling.

As soon as you are registered as a full time, part time on continuing education George Brown student please fill out an intake form, return it to the Deaf Services office and notify the office as soon as you know you will be coming to George Brown so that services can be arranged for you before classes begin.

You will find an intake form at www.georgebrown.ca/saffairs then click Disability Services. As soon as you have registered as a George Brown Student, please call or visit the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services office, located at the St. James Campus in Room 173, at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2066 or TTY at 1-877-515-5559. You can also reach the office by fax at (416) 415-2161 or by e-mail at jcorry@georgebrown.ca.

TTY PAYPHONE LOCATIONS

Casa Loma: - second floor, near “C” Building elevators

St. James: - lower level, near Student Service Centre

St. James: - main floor, near east elevators

St. James: - fifth floor, to the right off central elevators

Hospitality, 300 Adelaide Street E. - first floor, north balcony (look for payphone)

Ryerson Campus: - 99 Gerrard St. East, payphone near room 597

Disability Services

I have a physical, emotional or learning disability.
What kind of assistance is available to me?

You can get information about assistance for various disabilities from the Disability Service Office at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2622. Specialized technical equipment and accommodations are available for many classroom and testing situations.

To receive services from the Disability Services office, please fill in an intake form and return it to the Disability Services office in Room 582C at St. James Campus. You will find the intake form at www.georgebrown.ca/saffairs then click Disability Services.

Also see Counselling Services.

Dropping Courses

Please see Adding and Dropping Courses.

E

Email

Please see Student Email

Electives

Please see General Education Electives

Emergency Funding

I am experiencing unforeseen financial difficulties.
How can I get immediate financial aid?

Emergency funds are available if you are facing unforeseen financial difficulties as a result of injury, theft, or illness. Apply at the Financial Assistance Office.

George Brown College Student Emergency Fund

Tuition fees paid by all full-time students support the Emergency Fund. The program is designed to assist students who have been placed in serious financial difficulty due to sudden and unexpected situations such as fire, theft, death, accident, etc. Applications are available through the Financial Assistance Office. Return completed applications to the Financial Assistance Office and speak to one of the consultants. The bursaries are non-repayable but are subject to tax depending on amount.

What can I do if I don't have enough money for books?

Book Vouchers are offered to first year students who find themselves in a financial situation where they cannot buy a necessary text book at the beginning of the year.  Applications are available through the Student Service Centres at St. James and Casa Loma Campuses and students can check at the Student Service Centre in 3 days regarding the result.  Ryerson students can speak to the Financial Assistance consultant in Room # 611. 

Exemptions

How can I get an academic exemption from a course?

1. Register in the course(s) you are applying to be exempted from and attend classes. This way if your application for exemption is not granted you would be properly registered.
2. Complete the application for exemption form. Note that the deadline for exemption applications is by the 10^th working day from the start of the semester.
3. Ensure that you have signed the exemption application.
4. Attach all appropriate supporting documentation that will assist you in the evaluation of your application. This would include a copy of a transcript showing the mark(s) obtained for the course(s) you are applying to be exempted from, as well as a course description.
5. Submit the completed, signed form and its supporting documentation to the appropriate Academic Department. Locations are listed below.
6. The appropriate program co-ordinator/course instructor will evaluate your application. If your application for exemption has been approved the academic division will change your status in the course(s) from RE or RW (registered) to EX (exempt). Please check your status at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/. Academic divisions are required to have all exemption applications evaluated by the end of the third week of classes. Any concerns you may have should be directed to your academic division.
7. Check your timetable on STU-VIEW. Any courses you have been granted an exemption for will be listed there.
   

If an exemption is granted, can I register in a Continuing Education course in its place?

Unfortunately not. You may, if space is available, register in another full-time post-secondary course that has the same number of hours at no additional charge.

NOTE:  Generally refunds are not granted for an exemption.  However, if you are granted enough exemptions to change your status from full-time to part-time, fees will be adjusted accordingly and a refund may be issued.  Likewise, getting one or more exemptions may affect your status as a full-time student, and consequently, your eligibility for OSAP and/or Student Association Health Insurance.  Please check your status before deciding to apply for an exemption.

Normally a full-time student is defined as a student who is taking 66 2/3% of the courses required in a given semester. You may have to return an OSAP loan if your status changes to part-time (less than 60% course load).

For non-academic exemptions, please see PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition).

Locations and Contact Information for the Academic Departments

F

Financial Assistance

Also look under the following specific sections in this document:

• Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards
• Emergency Funding
• OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)

If you have received OSAP funding.

Can I work part-time to supplement my OSAP loan?
If you are an OSAP recipient who is seeking part-time employment, you may apply for student jobs on campus through the Ontario Work Study Program.

The Ontario Work Study Plan (OWSP) is a government sponsored program that gives students a chance to get at a part-time job on campus. Through this plan, you can earn extra money and gain valuable job experience while you are in school.

What are the Government guidelines for Work Study Program eligibility?
[Source: OSAP website, https://osap.gov.on.ca/OSAPPortal/en/A-ZListofAid/TCONT003615.html, Ontario Work Study Plan (OWSP)" section, under funding available for full-time students]. Please check the OSAP website for the most current information.

If you do not have sufficient OSAP funds to pay all your education-related costs, you may be able eligible to participate in OWSP.

OWSP can help you reach your goals by providing extra income. But remember, while you are in school, your first priority is your schoolwork. The job must not interfere with your studies.

Eligibility

You can apply for help through the Ontario Work Study Plan if you are:

• a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
• an Ontario resident;
• a full-time student registered at any Ontario university or college of applied arts and technology;
• in receipt of OSAP.
• You are particularly encouraged to apply for OWSP if you belong to one of the following groups: Aboriginal Canadians, francophones, persons with disabilities, social assistance recipients, sole-support parents, visible minorities, current or former wards of the Crown, and women.

Types of jobs available

George Brown College has different types of part-time jobs available on campus. In general, you can expect to work in clerical, academic, or service-related areas. For example, you might work in a school office, on a special project, in a lab, or in a bookstore. You may even work in an area related to your field of study.

Amount of money you can earn

You'll earn $10.25 per hour and can work up to 15 hours per week. The maximum amount of money you can earn per semester is $1,000.

The Ontario Work Study Program provides OSAP students with part-time jobs throughout the college. Students complete an application form, locate their own job through any of the departments, i.e. Athletics, your own Faculty, the Library, etc. The Financial Assistance Office must approve your application before you begin work.

Remember that income earned during the school year from any source, Work Study Program or not, legally must be reported to the Financial Assistance Office and may impact your OSAP funding, either during the current school year or in the future. Applications and information are available through the Financial Assistance Office.

How do I get information about George Brown's Work Study Program?

For questions regarding Work Study Programs, please phone (416) 415-5000 ext. 2488.

I am not receiving OSAP but I do need to work to support myself. Is there any way I can earn money on campus?

The George Brown College Student Assistance Fund has a work-study program if you are a student in financial need who is not eligible for OSAP.

Work Study Program for non-OSAP Students

This program allows students to work on a part-time basis throughout the College, to a maximum of 15 hours per week at $10.25 per hour. Funds for this program come from tuition fee payments of all full-time students and acceptance is based on financial need. Students complete an application form, locate their own job through any of the departments, i.e. Athletics, your own Faculty, the Library, etc. The Financial Assistance office must approve your application before you begin work. Applications and information are available through the Financial Assistance Office. You can also check gbcareers.georgebrown.ca for part-time jobs available on campus.

For questions regarding Work Study Programs, please phone (416) 415-2488.

Are there other campus organizations that will help me find work, prepare a résumé, etc.?

George Brown College's Counselling & Career Coaching Services uses Workopolis Campus to post employment opportunities from employers who specifically are looking for George Brown students and graduates. WorkopolisCampus is the Internet job-posting site for full-time, part-time and continuing education students and graduates of George Brown College.

All students, whether they are full-time, part-time, Continuing Education or program graduates, can pick up their password from any Counselling office. They will be asked to show their Student ID Card or their registration receipt as proof of enrolment in a course or program in the College.

www.workopoliscampus.com

The Peer Program

The Peer Program has a number of positions available if you are a full-time student in a post-secondary program. The Peer Program hires responsible, committed students for the following positions: Peer Tutors, Peer Advisors, Peer Career Assistants and Special Projects Peers. These positions pay between $10 and $12 per hour depending on the duties, and allow you to work up to a maximum of 15 hours a week depending on your schedule and the demand for service. You can pick up an application and receive more information about these positions at your campus Counselling & Career Coaching Services office.

Other Services

If you need help preparing your traditional/scannable résumé or cover letter or would like to receive coaching for a job interview, contact the Counselling & Career Coaching Services office on your campus for a workshop schedule or a personal appointment. Students can also access online resources - through the Student Affairs web site - www.georgebrown.ca/saffairs.

Counselling & Career Coaching Services

St. James Campus
Room 582C - Tel: (416) 415-5000, ext. 2107

Casa Loma Campus
Room C317 - Tel: (416) 415-5000, ext. 4585

G

General Education Electives (GenEDs)

What are GenEDs and how do I choose them?

Most returning students and some first semester students are required to register for a general education elective (i.e. GSCI1045 or GHUM1112.) Go on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/. If you are required to register for a general education elective you will be prompted to do so. Follow the instructions and select your general education electives.

If you require a print out of general elective choices please contact the Contact Centre at 416 415-2000. You can also register for electives at the Information & Student Service Centres. You can also register for electives at the Student Service Centres.

General Education is intended to provide college graduates with the knowledge, skills and understanding to fulfill their personal growth and development. George Brown College offers students a variety of choices in the three major categories of study as established by the College Standards and Accreditation Council (CSAC).

Category of Study	Course Category Code	Example
Arts and Humanities	GHUM	GHUM 1060 Art & Music in the Western World
Social Sciences	GSSC	GSSC 1144 Working in a Diverse Workforce
Science and Technology	GSCI	GSCI 1045 Nutrition

It is important to select the correct combination of general education electives to meet the graduation requirements of your program.

Consider the following when choosing your general education electives:

• The category of study of elective courses successfully completed to date. To verify those courses, check your unofficial transcript on STU-VIEW (http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/)
• The category of study of mandatory general education credits in your program.
• The category of study of any specialization/other general education credits in your program.
• To verify the above information, check the requirements for your program on the website or contact your academic department.
  

It is the student's responsibility to ensure that the proper general education course components are completed to meet program requirements. Students who need clarification, academic advisement or further information about these general education requirements as they relate to their particular program of study, are encouraged to speak to their General Education professors or to their Academic Department.

What should I do if I didn't choose an elective prior to the start of classes?

Most post-secondary programs offer an elective course, usually after the first semester. Go on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/. You will be presented with appropriate elective choices. Follow the instructions and select your elective(s).

If you require a print out of elective choices please contact the Contact Centre at 416 415-2000. You can also register for electives at the Information & Student Service Centre(s).

Note: The deadline date for adding general elective courses is five days after the start of classes.

The deadline date for dropping general elective courses is 10 days after the start of classes.

GO Transit Passes

How do I get a student rate to travel on GO Transit?

If you are going to be traveling into Toronto to attend George Brown College, you may want to purchase a GO Transit student monthly pass. They can save you about 50% off the cost of 40 adult single-ride tickets or almost 40% off the cost of an adult monthly GO pass.

Student passes are valid for unlimited travel by the pass holder between two specified fare zones within the time period specified on the pass. They are not transferable. Pass holders must sign the front of the pass in order to validate it. Passes are valid anytime in the calendar month specified on the pass. You don't always need to be traveling to and from school, but you can travel only between the fare zones specified on the pass.

But first you need to get a valid GO Transit Student Identification Card. This is not the same as your George Brown College Student I.D.

If you are a registered full-time student, you can also apply for a GO Train Student Card on STU-VIEW at: stuview.georgebrown.ca until the last day to add a course to your schedule as indicated on the Important Dates for students for each term. 

Otherwise, visit the Student Service Centre to complete an application in person.

For more information on passes or schedules, the GO Transit information line can be reached toll-free at 1 (888) GET ON GO (438-6646); or online at www.gotransit.com.
[Information source: GO Transit website, May, 2003]

For local transit information, please see Transit - Local.

 

Grades

How do I get a copy?

To receive a copy of a term grade, check STU-VIEW Please make sure that you notify the college immediately if your address, telephone number, etc. changes (or you can make the change yourself on STU-VIEW.)

Grades that have been submitted are updated at the end of each month. If a grade for a completed course is missing, students should contact their academic department. Also, if a student believes a grade is incorrect again the correct course of action is to contact their academic department.

See also Frequently Asked Questions about Records(Transcripts; Education Verification; Graduation, Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees; Grades)

H

Health Insurance

General Information

The Student Association offers the Student Health and Dental Plan. The plan covers all domestic and international post-secondary (full-time) students. Each campus has a Health Plan Office where students can access information about the plan, receive assistance in filling out the claim forms, and pick up the Pay Direct Drug Card.

All student questions/concerns should be directed to the Student Benefits hotline at (416) 415- 2443, emailed to studentplans@georgebrown.ca or to the respective campus Health Plan Office:

• ST. JAMES - Room -121, in the basement across from the cafeteria
• CASA LOMA - Room E130, Life Works Centre
• RYERSON - Room SHE614, in the Student Association Office

Note: The Student Benefits Plan opt-out deadlines for 2010/11 are:
September Students: October 7, 2010
January New Start Students: February 3, 2011

For Family Enrollment addition, the deadline for submitting these applications along with payment are October 14, 2010 for September enrollment, and February 10, 2011 for January new enrolment. No applications will be accepted after the posted deadlines.

Holds on Students Accounts

How do I correct a financial or academic hold on my student record?

For financial holds, contact the Accounts Receivable department at 416-415-5000 ext. 4408. For academic holds, contact your academic office. Please see Academic Departments for contact information.

Housing

Is there an on-campus residence at George Brown College?

There is no on-campus residence. However, we purchase an off-campus housing registry from the University of Toronto to assist students. You will be required to pay a membership fee of $22.00 for 8 weeks. This registry contains listings of private accommodations within the Greater Toronto Area. To access the registry, register with the Housing Department either at the St. James Campus - Room -113, or at the Casa Loma Campus - Room C317. You will be given a card which you must show each time you wish to see the listings.

Is the housing listed in the registry close to the College?

Since private individuals list the residences for rent, they could be located anywhere in Toronto. It is always a good idea to look at a map of the area and to view the dwelling before signing any rental agreements. Please call the Student Housing Office at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2101 or (416) 415- 5000, ext. 2296  or visit our website at www.georgebrown.ca/saffairs/housing/housing.aspx  for more information.

How much can I expect to pay for rent?

Rents may vary depending on the quality, privacy and location of the dwelling. Most rents listed by the Housing Service are within the following ranges:

Shared Accommodations:

$400 - 600 per month

Private Accommodations:

Bachelor - $600-750 per month
One-bedroom - $750-1,000 per month
Two-bedroom - $900-1,400 per month
Three-bedroom - $1,500-2,000 per month

Rental listings are also published in most local newspapers, including the Toronto Star (http://www.thestar.com/) and the Globe and Mail (http://www.globeandmail.com/), as well as a free publication called Renter's News. These publications are not associated with George Brown Collegethey are listed here for your convenience.

Are there in-town residences where students might live?

There are two residences that house many of our students. Rooms are limited so apply early.

The Residence College Hotel

90 Gerrard St. West, Toronto, ON, M5G 1J6.
Tel: 416-351-1010
Fax: 416-351-8583
E-mail: residencecollegehotel@uhn.on.ca

Neill-Wycik Co-op College Inc.

96 Gerrard St. East, Toronto, ON, M5B 1G7
Tel: 1-800- 268-4358 or 416-977-2320
Fax: 416-977-2809
Email: housing@neill-wycik.com
Web: www.neill-wycik.com

 

How to Apply

For programs at George Brown College apply at www.ontariocolleges.ca, the application processing service owned and operated by Ontario’s publicly-funded colleges.  There is a non-refundable fee to apply (see www.ontariocolleges.ca for details).

How do I contact ontariocolleges.ca?

Call the Customer Contact Centre at 1 888 892 2228 or click 'Ask Us' at www.ontariocolleges.ca. 

The mailing address is

Ontario College Application Services
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, ON
N1G 5J3    

What do I need to do about my transcripts?

What you do about transcripts depends on a number of things. 

• If you are in high school in Ontario let your guidance office know you are applying and they will send your transcripts to www.ontariocolleges.ca for you.
  
  
• If you are currently in high school in another Canadian province, you need to send one (1) official transcript to www.ontariocolleges.ca.
  
  
• If you are out of high school, you need to arrange with your last high school to have one (1) official transcript sent to www.ontariocolleges.ca.  Depending on where you went to high school, you may be able to request your transcript electronically through the transcript request service at www.ontariocolleges.ca. If not, contact your last high school directly.
  
  
• If you have attended an Ontario college or university, order your official transcripts through the transcript request service at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
  
  
• If you attended a college or university outside Ontario, but still in Canada, you must request that the institution you attended send an official transcript to www.ontariocolleges.ca.
  
  
• If you are sending documents from any educational institution outside of Canada, you need to send an original or certified copy of the documents and an official English or French translation, if the document is not in English or French, to www.ontariocolleges.ca. There is an international document assessment fee of $60.00 to evaluate your credentials.

Find out more about How to Apply.

I

ID Cards

See also www.georgebrown.ca/studentcard/

How do I get my photo I.D. card?

Q: Who is eligible for a Student Photo Identification (I.D.) Card?
A:

• active registered full-time students who pay the assessed photo I.D. fee
• active registered tuition short program students who pay the assessed photo I.D. fee
• Redirection Through Education (RTE) and 'FOR YOU' Program students
• active international full-time students
• part-time Con-Ed student who pay extra $12.00 (optional)
• Apprentice program student who pay extra $12.00 (optional)

Q: What do I need to get my photo I.D. card?
A: Students obtaining their new student photo I.D. card must present personal identification and proof of registration/payment.

Q: When, where and how do I get my photo I.D. card?
A:Go to:

• Casa Loma Campus : Library Learning Commons
  160 Kendal Avenue, Room C350  

• St. James Campus :  Library Learning Commons

  • Main - 200 King St. E., Room 121
  • Annex - 200 King St. E., Room -124
    
    
• Hospitality -   E-library – 300 Adelaide St. E., Room 111
  
  
• Ryerson Campus:
  • Location: One Card Office,
    Jorgenson Hall,
    Room JOR-02,
    350 Victoria Street
    
  • Monday – Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    
    You may contact the Ryerson One Card Office
    at 416-979-5000 ext.7565
    email: onecard@ryerson.ca
    Web site: www.ryerson.ca/onecard

Q: How can I use my photo I.D. card?
A:George Brown College's student photo identification card is more than just student I.D. It has the capacity to improve access to services and help reduce cash transactions during your life at George Brown College.

Your photo I.D. will identify you as student at the College giving you access to many of our facilities, including the Open Access Computer Learning Centres; be your Library Learning Commons (LLC) Borrower's Card; and be a "venda-card" for cashless photocopying and printing.

Q: What do I do to activate my photo I.D. card as a library borrower's card?
A: Your GBC Photo-ID card must be activated in the Library before use, otherwise the number will not be recognized. To activate your card, please visit the Library Help Desk in person or send us an email at askgbclibrary@georgebrown.ca. 

Many of GBC's library resources are also available from outside the college, using Off-Campus Access but your card will need to be activated first. Be sure that you carry your I.D. card with you at all times since you will need it to check out material from the LLC and to access a variety of services on campus.

Q: Do I need to get new Student Photo Identification Card every year or every semester?
A: No. Your photo I.D. card is a permanent card that is issued in your first semester. The cost is covered by a student I.D. fee that's paid in the first year installments.

Q: I lost my photo I.D. card. What should I do?
A: To avoid unauthorized use and responsibility for misuse, including financial liability, you must report lost or stolen cards, as well as changes of address, to the Photo ID Office in your Library Learning Commons.

A replacement charge of $12 is charged for lost or damaged cards. Ryerson, however, charges $30.00 to replace the Ryerson/George Brown College Photo-ID card.

The Library Learning Commons (LLC) Help Desk has a file of lost and found cards, so check your campus LLC first before purchasing a replacement card!

Currently the Photo-ID Office can accept cash only.  You may pay the photo ID fee on-line by using Stu-View.  Please print your receipt and bring it to your campus photo ID location with a piece of Government-issued photo identification.

Q: I am a returning student. What do I need to do?
A: You need to update your encoded card expiry date.

Visit the  Library Learning Commons (LLC) at the Casa Loma and St. James Campus or the Academic Resource Centre (ARC) in the Sally Horsfall Eaton Centre on the Ryerson Campus with your proof of registration to update your student photo I.D. card. You should update your card within the first 2 weeks of class.

Q: I am a student in the Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Assistant or the Activation Coordinator/Gerontology program in the Sally Horsfall Eaton Centre on the campus of Ryerson University. Do I need Photo-ID at Ryerson?|
A: Yes, you will need a Ryerson University Photo-ID card that specifically identifies you as a George Brown College student on the campus of Ryerson University. You will need this card to access all Ryerson services, including borrowing from the Ryerson library, photocopying and printing.

Q: What do I need to get my Ryerson University/George Brown College Photo-ID?
A: In order to get your card, you must bring 2-3 pieces of personal identification (2 only if one piece contains a photograph), and your completed Ryerson University/George Brown College September 2009 Photo-ID Authorization form to your picture taking session.

Q: Where do I get my Ryerson University/George Brown College, September 2009 Photo-ID Authorization form?
A: George Brown College will be mailing authorization forms to new students beginning August  2009. Students registering thereafter may pick up their authorization forms from the Early Childhood Education Office on the 5th Floor of the Sally Horsfall-Eaton Centre. Please be sure to bring identification.

Q: When and Where do I go to get my Ryerson University/George Brown College Photo-ID?
A: You may obtain your Onecard:

Regular Location and Hours:

         Monday – Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
         Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

         Location: One Card Office, Jorgenson Hall, Room JOR-02, 350 Victoria Street

You may contact the Ryerson One Card Office at 416-979-5000 ext. 7565
email: onecard@ryerson.ca.
Web site: www.ryerson.ca/onecard

Q: How long is my Ryerson University/George Brown College Photo-ID valid?
A: You Photo-ID card is valid for the whole time you are taking courses at George Brown College.

L

Late Admits

Just prior to the start of each semester, the college will accept applications directly (space permitting); that way, the applicant does not have to go through www.ontariocolleges.ca first, which will save her/him time. "Late Admit" applicants will still be required to use an www.ontariocolleges.ca application form and to attach appropriate documentation, including a cheque made payable to www.ontariocolleges.ca for $95.00.

You will also need to present any required documentation, including transcripts, high school or equivalency diplomas, landing papers (if applicable), and valid personal identification. College staff will process the application and forward it to www.ontariocolleges.ca on behalf of the applicant. Please ensure that you make the $95.00 cheque (for academic year 2010-2011) payable to Ontario College Application Services (OCAS).

If you would like to apply to a full-time program, please go to the Registration Office on any campus. College staff will ask you if you have applied using the www.ontariocolleges.ca application form before. If you already have a current application on file at www.ontariocolleges.ca (for programs offered between August and July of the current year), you do not have to apply again or pay another $95.00. Please note that www.ontariocolleges.ca does not give refunds for duplicate applications.

The fastest method for updating an www.ontariocolleges.ca application to include an amended program choice is by calling www.ontariocolleges.ca toll-free at 1 (888) 892-2228 - they are open Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. www.ontariocolleges.ca will usually be able to make the requested program change while you are on the telephone.

Library Learning Commons (LLC)/Libraries

How do I access the Library Learning Commons (LLC)/Libraries?

George Brown College operates a Library Learning Commons (LLC) /Libraries at each major campus and an Academic Resource Centre in the Sally Horsfall Eaton Centre on the campus of Ryerson University. Our collections reflect the programs taught at each campus. We subscribe to a number of full-text databases that are available on-site and online through our website at http://library.georgebrown.ca/. You will need your GBC Photo-ID or an Educational Resources Library card, in order to access the collection.

Casa Loma Library Learning Commons/Library:
Located in Room C330, 160 Kendal Avenue, Toronto

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation (subject to change):
Monday to Thursday - 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday - Closed

Please note: on Holiday Weekends, i.e. Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, Thanksgiving, the following hours will apply:
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday & Holiday Monday - Closed

Please note: on the Easter Weekend, the following hours will apply:
Good Friday-Closed
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday - Closed

For more information, call (416) 415-5000 ext. 4634.

Casa Loma ESL Resource Centre/Library
Located in Room 315, 1 Dartnell Avenue, Toronto

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation (subject to change):
Monday to Thursday - 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday - 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday - Closed

For more information, call (416) 415-5000 ext. 4950

St. James Library Learning Commons/Library
Located in Room 121, 200 King Street East, Toronto

Summer Semester Hours of Operation (subject to change):
Monday to Thursday - 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation (subject to change):
Monday to Thursday - 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday - 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Please note: on Holiday Weekends, i.e. Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, Thanksgiving, the following hours will apply:
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday & Holiday Monday - Closed

Please note: on the Easter Weekend, the following hours will apply:
Good Friday-Closed
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday - Closed

For more information, call (416) 415-5000 ext. 2173

Sally Horsfall Eaton Centre Academic Resource Centre:
Located in Room 677, Eric Palin Hall, 99 Gerrard Street East, Toronto.

Students registered in the Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Assistant or the Activation Coordinator/Gerontology programs need a Ryerson University/George Brown College Photo-ID card. (See also: ID cards). With this card they will have access to the Ryerson Library (except for databases). ARC (Academic Resource Centre) provides Open Access Computing, on-site use of the Video Collection, and access to GBC databases.

Summer Hours of Operation:
TBA

Fall/Winter Semester Hours of Operation (subject to change):
Monday - Thursday - 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Please note: On Holiday Weekends, i.e. Victoria Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, the ARC closes at 3:30 on the Friday and will be closed on the Holiday Monday.

For more information, call (416) 415-5000 ext. 2977.

 

Lockers

How do I get a locker?

Registration for you Locker is available on STU-VIEW

Frequently Asked Questions about Locker Service Program

Locker Service Policy

 

M

Mature Students Information Sessions

Are you thinking about returning to school? We offer information sessions throughout the year to help you with questions that you may have about admissions requirements, financial assistance, student services and application procedures. Register on-line

N

Name Changes

For in-person name changes, students will need a valid Marriage Certificate (for proof of surname changes), Legal Name Change document,  Birth Certificate or Driver's License.

O

OCAS (Ontario College Application Services)

What is OCAS - www.ontariocolleges.ca?

www.ontariocolleges.ca is the application processing service owned and operated by Ontario’s publicly-funded colleges. There is an $95 charge for applying to George Brown or any other college in Ontario. For the most current information, please consult the www.ontariocolleges.ca website.

Application fees are not refunded for duplicate applications.

Application fees will not be transferred from one application cycle to another. The only exceptions are:

1. If the applicant's only college program choice has been cancelled by the college. In this case a refund or transfer is processed on request only.
2. If an applicant who originally applied for the Fall intake has been offered early admission (summer semester) by the college, www.ontariocolleges.ca will not charge another application fee in this case.

www.ontariocolleges.ca will hold applications received without payment and notify the applicants that, to retain the original received date of their application, payment in full must be received at www.ontariocolleges.ca within 14 days of the date of notification of non-payment.

www.ontariocolleges.ca will notify applicants that if payment is not made within a two-week period, the application will be withdrawn. The date that the payment is then received is considered to be the date that the application is received.

A $20 fee is charged for returned cheques, (e.g. post-dated or stale-dated cheques, NSF cheques, "stop payment" cheques, cheques drawn on accounts which have been closed or in which funds have been frozen).

To ensure that all qualifying applicants are processed through www.ontariocolleges.ca, colleges must submit www.ontariocolleges.ca applications with payment received at the college through the late application process.

Please see the Late Admits section of this FAQ booklet for late application guidelines.

Orientation for Programs

Many programs offer an orientation prior to the start of a semester. You should receive communication from each program administrative office regarding specific dates prior to the start of classes. You can also consult the website for up-to-date information at:
http://www.georgebrown.ca/orientation/index.aspx

Also see Social Events Campus Calendar, Student Associations.

OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)

What is OSAP?

When you fill out an OSAP application you are applying for assistance funded by the provincial government (Ontario Student Loans, Ontario Student Opportunity Grants, and Aiming for the Top Tuition Scholarships) and/or the federal government (Canada Student Loans, Canada Study Grant for Students with Dependants, Canada Millennium Scholarships, and Canada Access Grant for Student with Permanent Disabilities). Other sources of financial assistance (e.g., bursaries), for which you must fill out a separate application, are explained in detail on the OSAP Web site. You should also check with the Financial Aid office to investigate other sources of financial assistance available to you.

For more information, please go directly to the OSAP website at https://osap.gov.on.ca/OSAPPortal/en/A-ZListofAid/TCONT003615.html.

I am a new student.
Where do I pick up my Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) loan papers?

During 'Start-Up', there will be loan distribution centres at St. James, Casa Loma and Ryerson campuses. Signage will be posted at all three campuses to direct you to the correct room.

Be prepared to show your Social Insurance Number Card and government issued photo identification in order to receive your loans.

For problematic issues you can contact one of our Financial Assistance offices at St. James, Casa Loma or Ryerson campus. For service at St. James you must get a Qmatic number at the Student Service Centre and wait until your number is called.

St. James Campus:

Location: 200 King St. E. in the Student Service Centre.

Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Phone:
Norman Skolnick (416) 415-5000, ext. 2476 - Reception and General Inquiries

Fax: (416) 415-5141

Consultants:

Al Kurtz, (416) 415-5000, ext. 2478 or e-mail

Jeanette Kyryluk, (416) 415-5000, ext. 2487 or e-mail

Benu Critoph (416) 415-5000 ext. 2802 or e-mail

Senior Manager:

Peter Olteanu, (416) 415-5000, ext. 2479 or e-mail

Casa Loma Campus:

Location: 160 Kendal Ave. in the Student Service Centre

Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Phone: Reception and General Inquiries, (416) 415-5000 ext. 4060

Fax: (416) 415-4930

Consultant:

Esther Huynh, (416) 415-5000 ext. 4060 or e-mail

Denise Laurin, (416) 415-5000, ext. 4064 or e-mail

Mohammad Asim (416) 415-5000 ext. 6500 or email

Location: 99 Gerrard Street East, Room 611

Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday
9 a.m. - 12 p.m., 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Consultant:

Michelle Abalos (416) 415-5000 ext. 2960 or email

FRIDAYS BEFORE LONG WEEKENDS, THE COLLEGE CLOSES AT 3:30 P.M.

I haven't applied for OSAP yet.
What should I do?

Apply as soon as possible. You can apply on-line at https://osap.gov.on.ca/OSAPPortal/en/A-ZListofAid/TCONT003615.html at no cost - this method produces the fastest response. You can also download and print the paper application from the above website, complete it and bring it to the Financial Assistance Office. Please be aware that the "paper" or hard copy application costs $10 to process. If you do not have Internet access from home, you may use the Open Access Computer Labs at any campus to apply online.

To receive a full year's OSAP assessment, you must apply during the first 45 days of the college year. After that, you get a pro-rated amount. This means that you receive funding for only the time left in the school year. You cannot receive funding if you apply after 90 days before the end of the school year. If you have any questions, please contact the St. James Financial Assistance Office at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2476. Casa Loma at (416) 415-5000, ext. 4060 or Ryerson at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2960.

Students who have completed at least one year of a program and are continuing in the next year of the same program at the same college can apply directly on-line in spring if you have not changed your status. Check the availability of the on-line application in April at https://osap.gov.on.ca/OSAPPortal/en/A-ZListofAid/TCONT003615.html. The ministry will send signature pages and requests directly to you or you can print your own signature pages from the web. Submit your completed documents directly to the Financial Assistance Office at the college.

NOTE: BScN (S118) collaborative degree Nursing students please note that if you are attending the George Brown College site for the first two years of the program, you must indicate "George Brown College" on your OSAP form.

I am a part-time student.
Can I apply for financial assistance?

You may be eligible for a Canada Part-Time Student Loan and/or Special Opportunity Grant, both of which are assessed with one application. They provide students with funding to study from 20% to 59% of a course load for OSAP-qualified courses. You must have a good reason for studying part-time and provide proof of your income. Part-time loans require that a student pay the interest during the study period on the loan.

What should I do if I want to appeal my OSAP assessment?

You can drop by or call the St. James Financial Assistance Office at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2476, Casa Loma at (416) 415-5000, ext. 4060, or Ryerson at (416) 415-5000, ext. 2960. One of the consultants will see if there is anything that can be done to help. There are many exceptions to the regular assessment, so some assistance may be available. You may also be eligible for additional financial aid from the Student Assistance Fund and part-time jobs offered through the Work/Study program.

P

Photo ID

See ID Cards.

Password for students

You should have received your  password in the mail. All students who have been accepted to the College are assigned a password. If you have already been assigned a password but have lost it, you can contact the Contact Centre at 416 415-2000, or 1-800-265-2002. You can also use this number to report any problems you are experiencing. Please keep your Password private-it protects your personal information.

For password assistance you may also visit the self-serve password utility website at:

https://service.georgebrown.ca

Detailed instructions on resetting your password can be found online at:

www.georgebrown.ca/IDM

Password for Faculty/Staff

Please go to http://service.georgebrown.ca to reset your password. If you continue to have difficulty, call the Contact centre at (416) 415-2000.

Only the Contact Centre can reset your password if you are staff or faculty.

Placement Testing

See Testing - Assessment and Placement.

PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition)

I already have work experience related to courses in my program.
How can I get credit for this?

Check your status before deciding to apply for an exemption. Normally a full-time student is defined as a student who is taking 66 2/3% of the courses required in a given semester. You may have to return an OSAP loan if your status changes to part-time (less than 60% course load).

If you meet the admission requirements for a program, you can apply for an assessment of your prior learning experiences. This process is called Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). To receive credit for previous, unaccredited learning experiences you will be asked to demonstrate what you know through a written challenge test, creation of a portfolio, and/or other forms of assessment. A faculty member will evaluate your completed assessment. You must pay a fee for every PLAR assessment. To confirm the most current PLAR fee, or to discuss PLAR options, please contact the PLAR Office at 416-415-5000 ext.7527 or plar@georgebrown.ca.  To review the typical steps required to complete George Brown College’s PLAR process, please refer to PLAR Steps Towards Success .”

The PLAR process can take as long as three and a half months to complete. Please ensure that you apply well ahead of deadlines.

NOTE: Earning credit through the PLAR process may affect your status as a full-time student and, consequently, eligibility for OSAP and/or Student Association Health Insurance.

For academic exemptions, please see Exemptions.

Proof of Enrolment

Do you need a Proof of Enrolment? If you have a standard request form from an RESP company, government agency or a bank, please fax this to 416-415-4289. These will be completed and sent directly to the company by fax provided on form within 3 business days.
If you do not have a standard form and you would like a Letter of Enrolment completed, you may request* one by coming in person to a Student Service Centres, emailing registration@georgebrown.ca or fax a request letter to 416-415-4289.
The following information is required:

• Name
• ID number
• Program
• Tuition payment date (payment must be received)
• Start date- End date
• Where you would like this letter sent or faxed to. Note, these can be officially sent by fax directly to the requesting company.
• Please ensure you sign and date the faxed request.

*Must be requested by the student

Note: If you are receiving monies from Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan, CPP, RESP and USC the Registrar’s Office will complete and sign the necessay forms, however, it is still your responsibility to pay all tuition fees by the due date, even if you have not received your money.

R

Registration

See Paying Fees and Registering

Release of Information

How do I get a replacement diploma or certificate?

Please come into the College to complete a consent form to release your personal information. You will need to indicate the name of the person authorized (i.e. a parent or a sponsoring organization contact) to access information about your personal account, what information you would like to release and how long this release is valid for.

Please visit the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) page for more information.  

Forms are available at the Student Service Centres; please bring a valid photo ID.

Replacement Diplomas/Certificates

How do I get a replacement diploma or certificate?

An Academic Record Request Form needs to be completed and returned to the Student Service Centre with appropriate payment - $40.  It can also be faxed or mailed to address on page two of the form.  A valid photo ID is required for in person request and pick up (e.g. Student Card, Driver’s License, passport).

A copy of the Credential Replacement Form and instructions for submission can be obtained on our website at the Registrar's Office.

 

S

Scholarships

Please see Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards.

Second Career

Second Career is a Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities program that supports laid-off individuals who require skills training to assist them to find employment in demand occupations in Ontario. Through Second Career, applicants may obtain assistance with tuition, books and supplies, transportation, living, and other expenses associated with training.  Please visit www.georgebrown.ca/secondcareer for more information.

Social Events - Campus Calendar

How can I meet new friends and get involved in campus life?

Watch for the following Student Association and College-sponsored events.

See also Student Association.

Sponsorships

What information is required if I am being sponsored?

If you are being sponsored it means that someone else is responsible for paying your tuition fees. The College will require an official (original) sponsorship letter with total amount covered and invoice instructions from your sponsor authorizing the college to bill them for your tuition fees. The letter must include the name and billing address of the sponsor. The letter must be forwarded to the Finance Office (Attention: Wilma Mendoza).

Student Associations

How can I meet new friends at George Brown College?

Many exciting social and educational events happen throughout the year at George Brown. Here are some places where you can find out what's happening:

• GBC Student Association - find out about social events, student clubs, and becoming a student representative, call (416) 415-5000, ext. 2455;
  
  
• Athletics and Student Life offers a variety of sports and recreational activities at all levels. Call (416) 415-5000, ext. 2176 or (416) 415-5000, ext. 4714;
  
  
• The GBC Alumni Association offers a free Mentor Program that matches alumni with current students. For information (416) 415-5000, ext. 2535;
  
  
• Check the Dialog Newspaper and the bulletin boards for announcements about pubs, films, and special events that take place throughout the year;
  
  
• For information on workshops, tutoring and employment postings, call Student Affairs:
  1. St. James (416) 415-5000, ext. 2107
  2. Casa Loma (416) 415-5000, ext. 4585

Student Awards Office

The Awards Office can help identify which of the many scholarships, awards, bursaries, and grants available to George Brown College’s students you may be eligible for and assist with the application process.

For more information, please visit us in the Student Service Center or on the web through www.georgebrown.ca/financialaid

Student Identification

Please see ID Cards.

Student Records

The information contained in a student record is confidential and pertains to the individual student only. It is imperative that the information contained in each student's record is up-to-date. This information includes items such as name, address, phone-number, e-mail address, marital status, and date of birth. Students can update their information by visiting their academic office; dropping by the registration counter on any campus; or accessing the on-line service, STU-VIEW, via the Internet. To make changes, students will need a valid student number and password. For in-person name changes, students will need a valid Legal Name Change Certificate, Marriage Certificate (for proof of surname changes), Birth Certificate or Driver's License.

See also Frequently Asked Questions about Records (Transcripts; Education Verification; Graduation, Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees; Grades)

STU-VIEW

What is STU-VIEW?

With STU-VIEW, George Brown students may now do the following online:

1. View and update your address, phone number(s), and e-mail addresses;
2. View and print your class schedule including the day, time, room number and professor of a class;
3. View and print your grades. Grades that have been submitted are updated at the end of each month. If a grade for a completed course is missing, students should contact their academic department.
4. View and print an UNOFFICIAL transcript (for more information, please see Transcripts section).
5. View any holds on your record (overdue fees, library fines, academic standing, etc.) which may prevent registration activity or issuing diplomas, certificates, or transcripts;
6. Check your registration status.
7. View and print Canadian Tax Form (T2202A )
8. If you are an applicant, you can book your Admissions test
9. If you are a new student, you can book your placement test
10. Apply for a GO Transit discount pass
11. Locker rental
12. Change Stu-View password
13. Search the web for job opportunities(JobSpyder™)
14. Register for and/or change/drop courses
15. Pay your fees

STU-VIEW is available from any computer with Internet access. You may access STU-VIEW from any web browser from the College's website or http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/. You will need to enter your password and your Student ID Number to access your student record.

Problems Accessing STU-VIEW?

If you are having trouble using STU-VIEW, please call 416 415-2000 or 1-800-265-2002. If you have forgotten your password, please call 416 415-2000 or 1-800-265-2002 or  you may visit the Self-Serve Password Utility website at:

https://service.georgebrown.ca

Detailed instructions on resetting your password can be found online at:

http://www.georgebrown.ca/IDM

If you would like to request your password in person, please go to one of our Student Service Centres  at either the St. James or Casa Loma Campus. A staff member will look it up for you. Please remember that you will be asked to provide identification.

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Testing - Assessment and Placement

What is the Assessment Centre?

The Assessment Centre aims to contribute to student success by assessing the academic skills of applicants and new students to ensure that they have the necessary basic skills to be admitted to their programs of choice and to be placed into English and math courses that best meet their needs. For more information about the testing or assistance in booking your assessment, please call (416) 415-5000, ext. 4992.

What is the pre-admission assessment?

The pre-admission assessment is designed to measure your basic academic skills level to determine if you have the skills and aptitude necessary to successfully complete your program of choice. There are 2 types of pre-admission assessments administered by the Assessment Centre: applicants who apply to any program as mature students or applicants who do not have the high school credits required for admission to the program, and applicants to one or more of the more popular programs (called 'Oversubscribed' programs) at the College. In the case of 'Oversubscribed' program applicants, testing is mandatory because a process of "ranking" based upon test scores may be used to make admission decisions.

The following programs require all applicants to have their skill levels tested before admission:

• S112 - Dental Hygiene
• S121 - Registered Practical Nursing

What is a Post-Admission Placement Assessment?

The Post-Admissions Placement Assessment is designed to place you into the English and/or Mathematics course level that is best suited to your needs. If you require preparatory English and/or Mathematics, you will be placed into a foundation-level course that is geared to your needs. If however, you do not need any special support, you will be placed into our regular-level College English and/or Mathematics course(s). First-year students in all  programs are required to have their skill-levels assessed before they can be registered into their English courses. First-year students in many programs are also required to have their math skills assessed for placement into the appropriate level of math courses.

Placement testing is a requirement for all students* entering George Brown College. It is not an “Admissions Test” ( you have already been accepted into your program).

*Former George Brown College students who have successfully completed the required college-level courses do not need to test.  Also, students with a comparable English and/or Math credit from a college or university may be granted an exemption. If you’d like to apply for an exemption, register for the course anyway, fill out an Application for Exemption Form and send it to your Academic Department for consideration.

What are foundation-level courses?

Foundation-level courses prepare you for your program’s college-level English and/or Math courses and are a prerequisite for college-level courses.  After you successfully complete your foundation-level course(s), you will move into the courses required for graduation.

Please note:  If you are required to take foundation-level courses, you will be charged additional fees when you register for your college-level course(s)-usually in semester two.  There may be circumstances where you will not be charged i.e., if you are exempted from another course within the same term.

Math/English Course Registration

Most first semester students are required to have an English and/or Mathematics course on their schedule. Ideally, you should take your placement assessment prior to registering.

If you complete your placement tests at least 48 hours prior to registering on the web, you will be presented with the appropriate math and/or English course(s) when you go to register. (48 hours allows enough time for the Assessment Centre staff to mark the tests and enter the results on the College's Student Records system).

How can I prepare for placement testing?

Test samples are available on the Assessment Centre website. On the English placement assessment, you will be required to write an essay and a grammar editing  test called Writing Skills. The math placement test covers decimals, fractions, ratios, square roots, integers and exponents. Technology students will also write algebra tests. Also provided, under Additional Resources in each of the topic areas, English and math , are links to websites, sample questions and resources that will be helpful for your review. Dictionaries and calculators are provided where allowed by the test administration protocol. Students with disabilities or with special needs should call 416.415.5000 ext. 2622 to discuss their requirements for test accommodations.

For any information on Placement or Admission testing, call the Assessment Advisor at 416-415-5000 extension 4992. You may also e-mail your questions to gbctest@georgebrown.ca or visit the Assessment Centre website for general information.

What if I register for my courses before I complete my placement assessment?

If you are registering for a program offered by any faculty other than the faculty of Business & Creative Arts, the following will apply.

When you go on-line to register at STU-VIEW you will be reminded that you must book your placement test. You will have the opportunity to book your test on-line. If you have already completed your tests but have not waited at 48 hours to register, you may ignore the message.

You will be permitted to continue registering. However, in place of an English and/or math course you will be registered in placeholder courses such as COMM??? Test Reqd. or MATH??? Test Reqd.

Once you have been tested (and the Assessment Centre has entered scores) the placeholder course(s) will be replaced by the appropriate math and/or English course(s) on your schedule.

If you are registering in a program offered by the Faculty of Business & Creative Arts, the following will apply.

When you go on-line to register at STU-VIEW you will be informed that you require a placement assessment test and you will have the opportunity to book one on-line. If you have already completed your tests but have not waited 48 hours to register, you may ignore the message.

You will be permitted to continue with your registration for all courses other than math and/or English. For viewing and planning purposes only, you will be presented with the placeholder courses such as COMM??? Test Reqd. or MATH??? Test Reqd. You can view the times that the math and/or English courses are offered - but you cannot reserve a time until you have completed the placement tests.

Once you have tested, the placeholder courses(s) will be replaced by the appropriate course selections. You are then required to return to the web to register in the appropriate math and/or English course.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are properly registered in all courses including math and/or English.

Where are the Assessment Centres located?

Placement testing for students starting their programs in January 2010 is held at the Casa Loma Campus. Book your assessment appointment online at STU-VIEW or call (416) 415-2005.  Please pay close attention to the location of your placement test when booking.

Do NOT wait. Register immediately as seats fill up quickly! 

You must bring the following items to your testing session:

• the testing letter that you were sent (either mailed to you or given to you by an Admissions staff person)
• Government issued photo identification, i.e. driver’s licence, health card, passport etc.  Please note you cannot be tested without valid photo identification.
• pens and pencils
  

Timetables

When do I get my timetable?

Once you have registered your timetable will be immediately available. Register at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/. Check the web site often, as any changes to your timetable will be reflected there. You can also get a copy of your timetable at your campus Information & Student Service Centre.

Your timetable lists the days, times and locations of your courses. Remember to keep checking http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/ for the most up-to-date version. If you do not have Internet access at home, please feel free to use campus computer labs and workstations. The campus Open Access Computer Learning Centres are located in Room C350 (Casa Loma Campus) and in the Room 131 (St. James Campus).

Before going online, have your nine-digit Student ID Number and six-digit password ready and follow the link to STU-VIEW. If you have lost your password, please call (416) 415-2000.

Can I make changes to my timetable?

If you have problems with your timetable, you may go on-line at http://stuview.georgebrown.ca/ to select a different timetable (space permitting) or you may go to the office of your academic department. A program co-ordinator or departmental secretary can help you. You may need to add and/or drop a course.

How do I find out about last minute timetable changes?

While every effort is made to ensure that scheduled classes run on time, unforeseen circumstances such as illness or accidents sometimes cause class cancellations. Should this be the case, every effort is made to contact students. In the event that advance notice is not possible, cancellation notices are posted outside classrooms. If you have Internet access at home, you can check for last-minute timetable changes on STU-VIEW.

NOTE: Should the College close because of circumstances beyond its control-- e.g. bad weather - listen to the radio or check the College's web site.

My name is not on the class list - what should I do?

See the Academic Department Office to complete a Student Action form to add a course(s).

Transcripts

Official Transcripts

If you require an OFFICIAL transcript, you must request one by completing an Academic Record Request Form and submitting this form in person, by mail or by fax to any campus Information & Student Service Centre. The Academic Record Request Form is available at all Information & Student Service Centres or can be printed off our website at www.georgebrown.ca/Admin/Registr/. Your transcript request must be accompanied by a payment of $10 for the initial transcript copy and $10 for any additional copies. All requests must be signed and dated and must include your GBC Student ID Number. Fax requests must be accompanied by VISA, MasterCard or American Express number and expiration date as well as the signature of the cardholder. Fax requests should be sent to 416-415-4289. A valid photo ID is required for In-Person request and pick up (Student card, Driver’s License, Passport).

Unofficial Transcripts

Unofficial transcripts are for your information only. If you require an unofficial transcript, you may print one using STU-VIEW.

See also Frequently Asked Questions about Records (Transcripts; Education Verification; Graduation, Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees; Grades)

Transfers

How do I transfer into a different course/section/ program?

To transfer to a different course or section you must complete a Student Action form - these forms are available through your academic department or on our web site. You can fax it to: 416-415-4289. Forms must be submitted to your department before the first 5 days of the start of the semester. There is an administrative fee of $20 for all transfer requests.

How do I transfer into a different program?

You must go to the Student Service Centre at the St. James or the Casa Loma Campus. You may be required to carry out additional admissions procedures, test etc. Space in the program you wish to transfer to, may be limited.

Also see Adding and Dropping Courses.

Transit - Local

How do I get around in Toronto?

Toronto's subway and bus systems are quite efficient.

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is available 24 hours per day and seven days per week to assist you. The TTC can be reached at (416) 393-INFO or (416) 393-4636. Telephone information is now available in the following 18 languages: Albanian, Arabic, Cantonese, Farsi, French, Greek, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tamali, Turkish, Ukrainian and Vietnamese.

You can also visit TTC website at www.toronto.ca/ttc. The website offers route, fare and monthly "Metropass" information as well as detailed maps. If you do not have Internet access from home, you can access the TTC website from any on-campus computer lab terminal.

The TTC Student Discount Card

The Student Discount card is only available to elementary, intermediate or high school students. College students may purchase the monthly Metropass for $99.00 or $107 a month if they are using the TTC on a daily basis.

Please consult the website or ask at any subway or bus station for details.

I live outside of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
How do I get a student rate to travel on GO Transit?

Please see GO Transit Passes

Tutoring

How do I get help with my course material?

If you are having difficulties with some of your courses, the Peer Tutoring Program can provide small group assistance in its peer tutoring labs.

Most tutors are second or third year students who have completed training workshops and are paid by the college. The best part is that tutoring is free.

If you need a tutor, don't wait until the last minute. Sign up now in the Counselling Office at your campus.

St. James: Room 582C
Casa Loma: Room C317

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Withdrawals

How do I withdraw from my program of study?

You may withdraw from your program of study through STUVIEW.  It is recommended that you speak to your program advisor prior to withdrawing from your program.

Otherwise, notification of withdrawal from a program must be directed to the Office of the Registrar by the student, in writing and within the published timelines, in order to be eligible for appropriate academic standing and fees refund (where applicable). Not attending classes and/or notifying the professor of your intention to withdraw is not acceptable notification for program withdrawal. Failure to officially withdraw will result in a Did Not Attend (DNA) or "F" grades on your final transcript. [Read more...]