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 live in the same household as a person who has a confirmed or presumptive case of COVID-19 case.
- You have returned from travel outside of Canada within the last 14 days.
- If you're unsure about your symptoms, contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1.
Last updated: Sept. 3, 2021 at 4:26 p.m.
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; however, individuals who are not fully vaccinated are required to participate in Royal Roads’ on-campus rapid testing program.
If you are participating in on-campus classes this fall, you will have received an email from Royal Roads that asks you to indicate whether you are fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated, or not vaccinated, or to indicate if you prefer not to declare your status.
Individuals who are not fully vaccinated are required to participate in weekly on-campus rapid testing.
Please note that the Royal Roads rapid testing program is not open for drop-ins if you are on-campus and develop symptoms. COVID protocol is that if you develop symptoms while on campus, you should leave campus, call 811 and follow instructions from there.
Rapid testing is not considered a substitute for vaccination. 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.
This vaccination self-declaration and rapid testing program is an important part of our ongoing work to promote a safe learning and working environment, and to support the wellness and mental health of our students and employees.
For more information, please visit the RRU rapid testing program page.
Updated Nov. 1, 2021 10:28 p.m.
Do I need proof of vaccination to attend events on campus?
As of November 16, 2021, a Public Health Officer order requires proof of both vaccination doses to enter or use the Royal Roads Recreation Centre and to attend any non-academic or non-educational indoor activity that is larger than 50 people..
People from BC must show their BC Vaccine Card for entry, and people from other Canadian provinces or territories must show their proof of vaccine and valid government ID. International visitors and students must show proof of vaccination and their passport.
Updated Nov. 18, 2021 8:00 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.
What is involved in the RRU rapid testing program? Is it an uncomfortable nasal swab?
RRU’s rapid testing program involves a Point-of-Care (POC) nasal swab test, done on campus by a health care professional.
Updated Oct. 18, 2021 4:14 p.m.
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 B.C.’s vaccination process can found on the Immunize BC website.
Specific information for people who are visiting B.C. 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 required in all public indoor spaces in BC. Read more at BC Gov.
How do I request an exemption from the mask requirement?
Students requesting a mask exemption may do so by contacting Accessibility Services.
If a mask mandate has to be issued to deal with rising rates of COVID-19, why is it still recommended that we can learn on-campus?
The Provincial Health Officer states that classroom settings are not risky places for COVID-19 transmission, especially when following the orders and protocols laid out for indoor environments. For our programs that are designed for in-person learning, we are pleased to be able to engage students safely and in a manner that will maximize their learning experience.
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.
Is the Recreation Centre open?
Yes, the Recreation Centre facility is open, although services have been modified. They also continue to offer free, online classes.
Find additional Recreation Centre information.
Last updated: Aug. 27, 2021 at 3:03 p.m.
Classes and residencies
Have classes and residencies returned to on-campus delivery?
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 will resume delivery of on-campus residencies effective January 2022.
Schools and program offices will communicate with students directly about delivery format and start dates. Please watch your email for communications from your program office.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Student Services.
Updated November 30, 2021
When will RRU offer short-term, on-campus housing for students doing residencies?
We are reopening short-term, on-campus housing for students who are in residencies (within blended programs) in January 2022.
Updated Sept. 1, 2021 1:03 p.m.
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?
Study abroad programs have been temporarily suspended.
We continue to work to provide options for program completion, including remote internships around the world.
Students are encouraged to connect with their program office for more information.
Last Updated: May 8, 2020 11:39 a.m.
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?
Until January 14, 2022, international students are able to Canada, regardless of vaccination status, if students meet the following requirements:
- Students hold a valid study permit or have been approved for a study permit.
- Students will attend a Designated Learning Institution on the list of institutions with approved COVID-19 readiness plans. Royal Roads University is a DLI with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan.
Beginning January 15, 2022, all international students who are 18 years or older will need to be fully vaccinated to enter Canada.
Additional travel restrictions may also be imposed in response to COVID-19. All travellers should regularly consult the Government of Canada’s travel information prior to travelling.
In addition to these requirements, all travellers must not have COVID-19 symptoms (be asymptomatic) and must follow all public health measures. Travellers arriving by air must also show proof of a negative test for COVID-19 taken within 72 hours of travel.
Before travelling to Canada, Royal Roads students must submit their travel and quarantine (self-isolation) plans to Royal Roads. This can be done through the COVID-19 travel preparedness portal.
Visit the IRCC website for more information on travel restrictions and exemptions for international students and their immediate family members.
Visit our website to find drop-in times or to book an appointment, if you wish speak to a Royal Roads international student immigration advisor.
Updated December 2, 2021.
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?
Follow these steps as you arrive in Canada, quarantine and then study online at Royal Roads:
- Log in to Moodle and read the COVID-19 Travel Preparedness: Responsibilities for entry into Canada portal. Review all of the documents so you're aware of all rules and guidelines and the supports available to you. If you can't find the portal on Moodle, email Student Engagement about your travel plans to Canada and ask to be added to the portal.
- Determine if you are exempt from mandatory quarantine requirements. Even if you meet the eligibility to be exempt, you must still create a quarantine plan in case it is required upon arrival.
- Find a place to quarantine for 14 days. Find temporary accommodation information.
- Submit your quarantine plan and proof of vaccination, if applicable, to the Government of Canada using the ArriveCAN app, which you can find on the iPhone/App Store or Android/Google Play before departing to Canada.
- Submit your quarantine plan to Royal Roads via the Moodle portal: COVID-19 Travel Preparedness: Responsibilities for entry into Canada.
- Arrive in Canada and comply with the assessment process. You will take a COVID-19 test upon arrival.
- If required, travel to your quarantine location. Take a taxi or private transportation. Don't take public transit.
- While in quarantine, complete a daily COVID-19 symptom self-assessment through the ArriveCAN app.
- At day 8 of your quarantine, complete the at-home COVID-19 test provided to you at the airport. Follow all directions carefully.
- While in quarantine, stay connected with other students through Travel Preparedness portal and online activities. If you require assistance, contact Student Engagement.
Exemptions for fully vaccinated travellers
Starting July 5, 2021, fully vaccinated travellers are exempt from some testing and quarantine requirements. Read about the exemptions.
Do I need a COVID-19 test before travelling to Canada?
Yes. As of January 7, 2021, all air passengers travelling to Canada from another country must test negative for COVID-19 before travelling. The test must be taken within the 72 hours prior to the scheduled departure to Canada and must be a COVID-19 molecular polymerase chain reaction (or PCR) test.
Travellers who have previously tested positive for COVID-19, but have recovered and are no longer contagious, may still be able to travel to Canada by following the Government of Canada's travel guidelines.
This testing is in addition to the 14-day self-isolation/quarantine requirement that must be completed upon arrival.
Visit the Transport Canada website for more information on pre-departure COVID-19 testing.
Updated Feb. 2, 2021 at 10:46 a.m.
Do I need a COVID-19 test after arriving in Canada?
Yes. As of February 22, 2021, all air passengers arriving in Canada from another country will be required to take a COVID-19 molecular test at their own expense, before leaving the airport. Travellers will also be provided with an at-home COVID-19 test to be completed prior to the end of quarantine.
Find more information on the Government of Canada website.
Last update: Feb. 19, 2021 1:06 p.m.
When I arrive, where can I self-isolate (quarantine) in Victoria? How do I get there? How do I get food?
Under the Quarantine Act, all travellers to Canada, including international students, must submit a quarantine plan to the Government of Canada and must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. The law in British Columbia also says all travellers must submit a detailed self-isolation plan.
Log in to Moodle to find detailed information about quarantine and plans that you need to submit on Moodle. Look for the portal called Covid-19 Travel Preparedness: Responsibilities for entry into Canada.
All international students who started programs by April 2020 have been added to the portal. If you can't find the portal on Moodle, email Student Engagement about your travel plans to Canada and ask to be added to the portal.
To limit points of contact when travelling book a connecting flight directly to Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Do not use public transit like buses and ferries to reach Victoria on Vancouver Island.
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 self-isolate outside of Victoria and need help finding accommodations and food services.
Review the BC Centre for Disease Control's guidelines for self-isolation for more information on self-isolation requirements.
Email Student Engagement 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 August 20, 2020 at 2:36 p.m.
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.
