COVID-19 Information for International Applicants
COVID- 19 Information for International Applicants
For more details regarding the University of Guelph’s current response to the virus please visit the COVID-19 Information webpage.
The University of Guelph’s International Recruitment and Admissions team is working alongside all departments at the University to make accommodations, where possible, for all internationally-based applicants affected by the COVID-19 virus.
For any questions not listed below regarding exceptions needed to support your application to the University of Guelph, internationally based students should contact:
- Applicants and Schools: Astrid Morphet – Assistant Manager, International Admissions at amorphet@uoguelph.ca
- Agents: Amy Van Rensburg – Assistant Manager, International Recruitment at avanrens@uoguelph.ca
- Transfer/Non-Semester 1 students: applicant@uoguelph.ca
From September 10th 2020, all phone lines to the university will become active and available during normal working hours. Please visit the Meet the Team webpages for the appropriate extension numbers.
Offer Conditions for International Education Systems
The global impact on school systems, examining boards and international curricula around the world means that the U of G International Admissions team will adapt our evaluating and assessment methods to work with what is possible in your area of the world or for your curriculum type. We will accept adjusted assessment methods as determined by the school system, examining boards or international curriculum provider in order to meet our conditions.
Below is a brief outline of the international admission practices for "affected students"*
Please note, these practices are constantly being reviewed and may change as we learn more.
*"Affected students" are any students currently studying in a country where schools/colleges/universities/testing sites have been closed due to the COVID-19 virus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What International Student Support is available for international students studying at U of G?
A: Please visit this International Student Support website for more details including information about our New Funding Initiatives for Fall 2020.
Q: My school has closed, and I can’t send my transcript(s) to U of G?
A: Please inform us in writing of your situation and list which courses you were finishing in your final year and ensure that we receive all of the relevant documents officially or unofficially that you have access to. Admission consideration may be made on earlier years coupled with a list of specific final year required courses and conditions. If you are eligible for admission, official documents will be required by March 1st, 2021 for the fall 2021 intake, or a deadline specified in your offer of admission.
Q: My English exam center is closed currently – what are my options?
A: Duolingo English Test & TOEFL iBT® Special Home Edition are currently available and can be used. We will review applications without the proof of English proficiency and grant offers with both English proficiency and academic conditions. Those students receiving an offer of admission will have until March 1st, 2021 to submit official proof of English proficiency unless further deferrals are requested and approved.
Q: There is a travel advisory for my country – what should I do?
A: Please keep us informed by emailing Astrid Morphet, Assistant Manager, International Admissions at amorphet@uoguelph.ca, including the details of your particular situation, your full name and U of G Student ID.
Q: Can I defer my offer if I cannot travel to Guelph in September?
A: Students are able to defer their offers for 1 year. You will be required to accept your offer of admission prior to the response deadline as outlined in your offer letter, in addition to applying for a deferral by Summer 2021. Please visit Deferrals for additional information.
Q: I have general questions about the University of Guelph, who do I need to contact?
A: Our International Recruitment and Admissions staff and students can be reached online through UniBuddy!
Staff are available during business hours (Monday through Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm EST) to answer any general questions you might have during this difficult time. Please visit the website, scroll down and click on the “staff tab” to reach us.
Current students are also available and require up to 24 hours to respond to any of your questions about their personal student experience (admissions, programs and majors, residence, employment opportunities, living in Canada, etc). Please visit the website, scroll down and click on the “student tab” to reach them.
Q: Will COVID-19 affect classes starting in September?
A: The University has not announced it's plans for September 2021. Please monitor the University of Guelph news page for updates and announcements.
Q: How is residence affected by COVID-19?
A: The University has not announced it's plans for September 2021. Please monitor the University of Guelph news page for updates and announcements.
Q: I need assistance with my immigration or study permit into Canada
A: If you have any questions or concerns in regards to your travel plans or Canadian immigration processes and requirements, please reach out to your International Student Advisors before moving forward with your arrangements. They can be reached at intl.student@uoguelph.ca.