Our top priority is keeping you safe
Whether you are a new or returning student, we welcome you! It has been a challenging time, but our whole university community has worked together to help ensure you have a vibrant and safe experience.
The number one thing you can do to keep you, your loved ones and your fellow RRU students safe is to get vaccinated.
Learn what will be required of you for vaccination, masking and other provincial health guidelines to keep us all well while we return to what we do best: learning, teaching and research.
Schools and program offices will communicate with you directly about delivery format and start dates. Watch your email for communications from your program office.
Residencies associated with blended programs (programs with both on-campus and online courses within the program schedule) will continue online until January 2022.
Frequently asked questions
Health and wellness
Do I have to complete any daily COVID-19 screening?
Everyone — employees, students, contractors and visitors — must do a daily self-assessment for COVID-19 symptoms before coming to campus or any Royal Roads workplace. You can use the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool.
Do not visit campus if any of the following apply:
- You have any COVID-19 symptoms.
- You have been advised to self-isolate for any reason.
If you're unsure about your symptoms, contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1.
Last updated: Jan. 14, 2022.
Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to come to class in person at Royal Roads?
Vaccinations are not required for participation in on-campus classes.
We strongly encourage all members of our university community to get vaccinated. RRU held on-campus vaccination clinics on this fall. If you missed these you can attend other drop-in vaccine clinics throughout the province.
Updated Jan. 12, 2022 3:47 p.m.
Do I need proof of vaccination to attend events on campus?
By Public Health Officer order, proof of vaccination is no longer required to access businesses, events and services in BC.
The Royal Roads Recreation Centre will continue to require proof of vaccination.
Updated Apr. 8, 2021 10:20 a.m.
Can I get my COVID-19 vaccine on campus?
Five vaccine clinics were held at the Royal Roads. Students Dogwood Auditorium. Students, staff, faculty, associate faculty and the public were welcome to attend and get their COVID-19 vaccine
If you missed these you can attend other drop-in vaccine clinics throughout the province.
Updated Nov. 1, 2021 10:30 p.m.
Are there rapid tests available?
Rapid antigen testing kits are free for everyone in BC at participating pharmacies.
You can ask for a kit and you don’t have to show ID.
The closest participating pharmacies to Royal Roads:
- London Drugs
- Peoples Pharmacy
- Rexall Drug Store
For more information, visit the Government of BC rapid testing page.
Updated May 5, 2022
I was vaccinated outside of BC. How do I get information into the provincial database if I move to BC?
If you have already received a COVID-19 vaccine outside of BC, you can record your vaccination through the Submit/Update My COVID-19 Immunization Record form. The site also has information on what to include.
If I received a vaccine that is not approved in Canada, can I still get an approved Canadian vaccine?
Anyone living in BC can receive the COVID-19 vaccination for free. It doesn’t matter if you are a Canadian citizen or not. If you want to get a COVID-19 vaccination and are not a BC resident, you need to register for a Public Health Number. You can also book a COVID vaccination appointment online.
You can find more information about what to do if you received a COVID-19 vaccination outside BC on this BC Centre for Disease Control web page.
Where can I get more information about COVID-19 vaccinations in B.C.?
Information about BC.’s vaccination process can found on the Immunize BC website.
Specific information for people who are visiting BC from out of the province or country, including international students, can be found on this page of the BC Centre for Disease Control website.
Is social distancing required in classrooms?
According to the guidance from BC’s Provincial Health Officer, strict physical distancing is no longer required. Schools and universities will continue to create space between people, including managing flow of people in common areas, to minimize crowding and allow people to pass through easily; reminding students and staff about respecting others’ personal space, using visual supports, signage, prompts and using available space to spread people out where possible.
Do I have to wear a mask?
By order of the Provincial Health Officer, masks are no longer required in public indoor spaces in BC as of Mar. 11. Read more at BC Gov.
At RRU, we will continue to encourage mask use in spaces where we are in close proximity, and we will support those who continue wearing masks on campus.
Updated: Mar. 10, 2022 at 5:50 p.m.
Do I need health insurance when I come to Canada?
Health insurance is required for all residents of British Columbia, including students. All Royal Roads University students are required to have basic medical insurance while studying in Canada.
Read more about health insurance requirements and options.
Aug. 26, 2020 1:41 p.m.
What do I do if I get sick?
Please visit prevent the spread and follow the directions for What to do if you’re sick.
Last updated: September 7, 2021.
What do I do if I become ill while staying in on-campus housing?
Return to your room and contact CARE team: care@royalroads.ca who will give you information on services, resources and next steps for self-isolation.
Students staying in dormitory-style rooms with shared washrooms will be relocated to accommodations dedicated for self-isolation.
Is the Recreation Centre open?
The Recreation Centre facility is open with health and safety protocols in place. They also continue to offer free, online classes.
Proof of vaccination continues to be required.
Find additional Recreation Centre information.
Last updated: Apr. 8, 2022, 10:24 a.m.
Classes and residencies
Have classes and residencies returned to on-campus delivery?
Yes, most programs that are usually held on campus returned to on-campus, in-person delivery in September 2021. Most programs that offer blended delivery with short on-campus residencies resumed on-campus residencies in January 2022.
Updated March 9, 2022
Is there on-campus housing for students doing residencies?
Yes, short-term on-campus housing for students who are in residencies (within blended programs) is available.
Updated March 9, 2022.
Academic support
My research may be affected by restrictions due to the pandemic. What can I do?
As long as Canada has measures in place for physical/social distancing and staying at home, all forms of data gathering for research and projects that involve physical/social interaction (such as focus groups and face-to-face interviews) and other forms of in-person research should not proceed. Instead, student researchers should use other data gathering methods, such as phone and online surveys, email and others.
In rare cases a request for exemption from research may be considered. Royal Roads is here to support students affected by the pandemic. You can find more information about student research, including a form for exemption requests.
Updated Sept. 8, 2020 1:41 p.m.
How can I get help from the Writing Centre?
Support from the Writing Centre is available online.
Updated: Aug. 18, 2020 at 11:45 a.m.
May I come to campus and use the library? How do I access library services?
The RRU library is open for in-person service on a limited schedule. Masks will be required during your visit. If you’re not feeling well, please reschedule your in-person visit and instead take advantage of the library’s numerous online services; see Library support during the COVID-19 pandemic for more information.
As we manage ongoing requirements for social distancing and capacity during this transitional time, we encourage students to continue booking online appointments with our services where possible. Normal hours will resume in September.
Last updated: Aug. 25, 2021 9:10 a.m.
Is the bookstore open?
Yes! The bookstore has been operating throughout the pandemic, and the library building (where the bookstore is located) re-opened on August 3, 2021. On-campus sales are available seven days a week or you can purchase texts online for delivery or pickup. Find bookstore information.
Updated Aug. 27, 2021 at 3:02 p.m.
Student support services
Are student support services available?
Student support services are available online and include the following:
- Learning resources (such as the library, bookstore, Writing Centre, computer support, team coaching and more)
- Counselling and learning strategy services
- Financial Aid and Awards
- Indigenous student services
- International student support
- Accessibility services
- Career development
Staff will respond to emails and may hold conversations in secure online settings like Zoom, Collaborate Ultra or BlueJeans.
Last updated: Aug, 18 2020 12:28 p.m.
Are Indigenous student supports available?
Yes, Indigenous Student Services continues to provide support to students.
Visit Indigenous student services for more information and resources.
Last updated: Aug. 18, 2020 12:28 p.m.
Career development
What’s happening with study abroad programs and international internships?
Some international internships and study abroad opportunities are now available. Royal Roads follows the travel guidelines offered through the Government of Canada.
Contact your program office or Career Learning and Development advisor to learn more.
Last Updated: March 9, 2022
Is internship, practicum or career development planning available?
Yes, career learning and development advisors will continue to offer student support.
Visit Career Development for more information and resources.
Last updated: Aug. 18, 2020 12:14 p.m.
International students
How can I help fellow students who may face stigma or discrimination associated with COVID-19?
When people associate COVID-19 with a specific group, ethnic community or nationality, stigma and discrimination can occur. Stigma affects us all. It creates fear or anger towards people instead of the virus.
These are some steps you can take to reduce stigma:
- Show support, kindness and empathy to those who have, or are tested for, COVID-19.
- Take care of your mental and physical health.
- Protect yourself and those around you.
- Choose your words carefully.
- Learn the facts about COVID-19.
Royal Roads University stands in solidarity with the Canadian Human Rights Commission against racism connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus has no borders. Royal Roads supports equity and inclusion for all. Racist behaviour will not be tolerated on our campus or in our online spaces, in keeping with our existing policies.
Learn more about reducing stigma.
Updated Aug. 26, 2020 1:03 p.m.
Can I come to Canada if I'm enrolled in a program that is less than six months under current travel restrictions?
You can travel to Canada as a fully vaccinated traveller to study in a program for less than six months without a study permit. However, there are situations in which applying for a study permit is recommended even if you are fully vaccinated (e.g., to continue studying past six months and work on or off-campus). Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers must have a valid study permit to attend a program for six months or less.
Is international student support available?
Yes, Student Engagement will continue to provide services for international students. Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors will still assist with questions related to international study permits.
Find international student guidelines or book an appointment online.
Last updated: Aug. 18, 2020 11:20 p.m.
I'm an international student. Do changes during COVID-19 impact my work eligibility?
Students who were previously eligible to work (as noted on their study permit) continue to be eligible to work while all classes have moved online.
Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website for more information.
Last updated: Sept. 16, 2020 3:17 p.m.
With my classes online am I still be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit?
On February 12, 2021 Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada announced that if your on-campus courses have been moved to an online-only format because of COVID-19, you may still be eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
The IRCC also removed the requirement to complete at least 50 per cent of studies inside Canada to maintain PGWP eligibility; however, students must continue to meet all other PGWP eligibility criteria.
Visit immigration & residency for information related to permits, visas or other immigration matters. Find drop-in times or book an appointment.
For updated information from IRCC read the following:
Last updated: Feb. 16, 2021 2:10 p.m.
Is COVID-19 affecting permanent residency immigration programs?
Visit the BC Provincial Nominee Program website for information and updates, including in-class learning requirements for international students.
Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website for information on how COVID-19 is impacting federal permanent residency programs.
Last updated: Feb. 10, 2021 2:42 p.m.
Coming to Canada: travel & quarantine
Where do I find information about coming to Canada to study at RRU?
If you're a new or returning international student coming to Canada to study at Royal Roads, welcome. Find information about Canada's updated travel rules for international students.
Last updated: Sept. 3, 2021 3:56 p.m.
Can international students at Royal Roads travel to Canada at this time?
As of January 15, 2022, all international students who are 18 years or older must be fully vaccinated to enter Canada.
Review students coming to Canada to find information about travel, COVID-19 testing, quarantine, and arrival.
Updated January 20, 2022.
What do I do if I contract COVID-19 while travelling to Canada?
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 while travelling, you must inform the Canadian Border Services Agency officer when you arrive in Canada. The officer will tell you what to do next.
Last updated: Sept. 3, 2021 3:56 p.m.
What steps do I need to take to prepare for arrival and quarantine?
Review students coming to Canada to find information about travel, COVID-19 testing, quarantine, and arrival.
Have questions? Contact Student Engagement for assistance.
Do I need a COVID-19 test before travelling to Canada?
Yes, travellers to Canada over the age of five, including fully vaccinated travellers, require pre-entry testing for COVID-19. Review the Government of Canada's pre-entry testing guidelines for information on the types of acceptable tests, timing of testing prior to travel, and guidelines for individuals who have previously tested positive for COVID-19.
Updated Mar. 1, 2022.
Do I need a COVID-19 test after arriving in Canada?
Fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Canada, including international students, may be selected for random testing upon arrival.
Find more information on the Government of Canada website.
Last update: January 20, 2022.
When I arrive, where can I self-isolate (quarantine) in Victoria? How do I get there? How do I get food?
All travellers to Canada must have a quarantine plan.
To limit points of contact when travelling book a connecting flight directly to Victoria International Airport (YYJ).
When you arrive in Victoria take a taxi from the airport to your self-isolation location. Do not take a bus. Local taxi companies include Yellow Cab (250.381.2222), Bluebird Cabs (250.382.2222) and Victoria Taxi (250.383.7111).
If you can't self-isolate in your permanent or long-term accommodations, you must do so in another place, such as a hotel. Find a list of local hotels and food services in Victoria that can support you during self-isolation.
Email Student Engagement if you will quarantine outside of Victoria and need help finding accommodations and food services.
Email the Care Team for support and services, if you're a student entering a self-isolation period.
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 while travelling, you must inform the Canadian Border Services Agency officer when you arrive in Canada. The officer will tell you what to do next.
Last updated January 20, 2022.
Financial aid
Is help available for students facing financial hardship because of COVID-19?
Students financially struggling because of the economic effects of COVID-19 can apply for emergency support through the Emergency Bursary Program.
This funding includes the support of $140,000 from the provincial government for domestic students who are residents of BC.
Both federal and provincial governments also offer various financial and career supports for students. Read more on Royal Roads' Career Development site.
Updated May 11, 2020 at 11:31 a.m.
Are financial aid services still available?
Yes, Financial Aid advisors continues to offer student support.
Visit Financial Aid and Awards for more information and resources, or book an appointment.
Last updated: Aug. 18, 2020 12:30 p.m.
Where can I find information about restrictions on travel to Canada?
Information about travel restrictions, COVID-19 testing, quarantine, and vaccination requirements for all travellers to and within Canada can be found on the Government of Canada's travel website.
What do I do if I become ill while staying in Residence?
What do I do if I become ill while staying in Residence?
Return to your room and contact CARE team: who will give you information on services, resources and next steps for self-isolation. Students staying in dormitory-style rooms with shared washrooms will be relocated to accommodations dedicated for self-isolation.
