Foreign Researchers at Ryerson University Pre-Arrival Manual

Prior toArrival to Canada

Prior to Arrival to Canada - Obtaining a Visa, eTA and Work Permit Your contract with Ryerson University is conditional upon you being granted legal entry into Canada

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may require either a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).

International researchers from a visa requiring country, will need to obtain a visitor visa. Please visit the IRCC website to apply.

Individuals from visa-exempt countries, will require an Electronic Travel Authorization. An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It’s electronically linked to a traveller’s passport and valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Applying for an eTA can be processed online and will generally receive their eTA approval via email within minutes. However, some requests can take several days to process. Please visit IRCC to apply.

If you require a work permit, your eTA or visa will be issued to you at the same time as your work permit. You do not need to apply separately or to pay an additional fee.

Fees associated with the application process is your responsibility. Visit IRCC’s website for an up-to date list.

You can apply for a work permit online or through a Canadian visa office (VAC) nearest to your current place of residence.

If you are from a visa-exempt country, you have the option of applying for a work permit at a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) port of entry (POE) whether you are arriving by land or air.

A temporary work permit will normally be issued for the dates outlined in the letter of invitation. However, there are other factors, such as passport expiry date, which an immigration officer will take into consideration when issuing a work permit.

It is your responsibility to contact the nearest Canadian embassies and consulates offices to enquire and, if necessary, apply for the relevant travel documentations. You are also responsible for paying any consular fees.

Prior to Arrival to Canada - Obtaining Biometrics and MedicalsBiometrics

Most visitors will have to give biometrics when they apply for a visitor visa, a study or work permit or permanent residence. Canadian visa officers use biometrics to confirm your identity.

Further details about biometrics requirements can be found here.

Medicals

Information on medical exam requirements for temporary residents (visitors, students and workers) can be found here.

Look into whether you are required to obtain medicals for a visa and/or work permit.

Prior to Arrival to Canada - Accommodations Arranging for Accommodations

It is your responsibility to arrange your own accommodations while at Ryerson. We encourage you to make a reservation before arriving and how to get from the airport, such as Toronto Pearson to your accommodation. Human Resources or Ryerson International cannot find you accommodations, however we can offer suggestions. Below you will find a list of resources.

Ryerson is located downtown Toronto where you will also find numerous short-term accommodation options, such as hotels, hostels, airbnb’s and bed & breakfasts (B&B’s). You can use sites such as expedia.ca, booking.com, hotels.com, among many others.

Do your research before booking as quality varies between establishments. Visitors find tripadvisor to be a good source of reviews. For more info on housing and shelter, visit the City of Toronto website

Getting to Know the Neighbourhoods

Each neighbourhood in Toronto has its own distinct personality, each contributing to the diversity that defines our city. This neighbourhood guide provides an introduction to some of the districts that make up Toronto. You can also visit Toronto Maps to view Toronto using an interactive map tool.

On - Campus

Ryerson has limited on-campus accommodations during the summer months. To find out more, please visit summer accommodations website.

Off - Campus/Renting

Viewit.ca: apartment rental listings with pictures; map-based searchesCraigslist: classified ads for jobs, housing, goods/services, local activities https://moving2canada.com/: one stop shop for information on relocationSabbatical Homes: supports the academic community with home exchange, home rental, house-sitting, and sharingAcademic Homes: provides the international academic community an opportunity to exchange, rent, buy and sell homes with other faculty, administrators and postdoctoral fellowsToronto Internet Apartment Guide: features Toronto’s residential rental properties and leading property management firmsHomestead: operating in multiple cities across OntarioSettlement.org: options for short-term housinghttps://www.ryerson.ca/housing/off-campus/

Prior to Arrival to Canada Meetings at Ryerson University

Before arriving in Canada you should arrange meetings for your first few days in Toronto.

Arrange a meeting with your faculty host: discuss important issues such as your research schedule during your visit, the research and reporting expectations, training requirements and much more!

Arrange a meeting with Ryerson International at rihelp@ryerson.ca for a brief orientation of Ryerson, Ryerson documentation you need to obtain and services available to you on and off campus!

Culture Shock

It is very common to experience culture shock when you find yourself in a foreign setting. This is a normal reaction to a new environment where you are no longer in control as you have been in your own comfortable setting. You may experience a range of emotions when adapting to a foreign culture, from excitement and interest to frustration, depression and fear of the unknown. Culture shock is a term used to describe what happens to people when they encounter unfamiliar surroundings and conditions.

For more information on coping with culture shock, visit the Government of Canada website.

Upon Arrival to Canada

Upon Arrival to Canada - Entering CanadaWhat documents do you require to apply for a work permit at the port of entry (POE)?

● Valid Passport(s) or travel document ● Signed Invitation Letter and/or signed contract from Ryerson University● Proof of credentials required for the position● IRCC Offer of Employment Number ● TRV or eTA● Biometric Data requirements (if applicable); Medical (if applicable)● Marriage certificate or Statutory Declaration of Common Law Union (for accompanying spouse/partner); Children’s birth

certificates (if applicable)

Refer to the documentation checklist found on work permit application page of the IRCC website. Settlement.org also provides additional information regarding what documents to bring when landing.

Additional documents such as proof of funds to cover your stay in Canada and accommodation arrangement may be asked by the immigration officer. Be prepared!

Entering Canada while having your work permit secured

Upon entry into Canada, you should have the documents listed above to assist the immigration officer for ease of entry. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) facilitates the flow of legitimate travellers and trade. It is also advised to keep photocopies of all your documents.

Applicants must, as well, be able to satisfy an immigration officer of general compliance with the requirements of the IRPA and IRPR, e.g., be in good health and have no criminal record.

Upon Arrival to Canada - Getting to RyersonHow to Get to Ryerson University from Toronto Pearson International Airport

192 Airport Rocket Bus: Operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and it runs direct, non-stop service from Terminals 1 and 3 at the Pearson Airport to Kipling subway station. From the Kipling subway station, you can take the subway eastbound to Yonge station and transfer southbound to the Dundas station which is just a 5 minute walk from the Ryerson campus. The cost is $3.25 cash (subject to change).

UP Express Train: Union Pearson Express train station is located in Terminal 1, directly adjacent to the Link Train service linking Terminals 1 and 3. You will be able to get to downtown Union station in 25 minutes. One way fare is $12.35 (subject to change). For more information, go to the UP Express website. Once you reach Union station, you can either a taxi to Ryerson University or take the subway to Dundas station which is just a five minute walk from the Ryerson campus.

Airport Taxis: Available at set rates or metered fee. The trip to Ryerson may cost from $60.00 and up. Agree on a fare with your driver when you enter the taxi.

Ride Sharing: Ride sharing services, provided by Uber and Lyft, are now available as part of a pilot project at Toronto Pearson.

You will likely be landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport when you come to Canada, however you may also be arriving to Billy Bishop Airport (regional flights only) or Union Station (trains), which are both relatively near Ryerson University and a short trip by the TTC. You may also be arriving to the Toronto Coach Terminal (bus), which is within walking distance to Ryerson. For more ground transportation options, visit the Toronto Pearson website.

Upon Arrival to Canada - Getting Health InsuranceUHIP

If your visit is less than three (3) months, you are required to obtain private comprehensive health insurance for your stay in Canada.

To find a private health insurance company, you can use the OmbudService Insurance Finder or look online.

If your stay in Canada is longer than three (3) months, you are required to apply for health coverage through the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP). Information on UHIP, as well as the application form can be found here. For further assistance, please contact Pension & Benefits Administrator, Jenna Miller at jenna.miller@ryerson.ca.

OHIP

If you will reside in Canada for more than six (6) months, you and your spouse/partner and dependents may be eligible for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), a taxpayer funded insurance plan. Coverage under OHIP only begins after a waiting period of 3 months. During the waiting period, UHIP is required.

You must apply for OHIP in person at a ServiceOntario Centre. You can drop in, or book an appointment. Further information on how to apply and documentation required, info can be found here.

For more information on health cards, eligibility and coverage, please visit Ontario.ca.

Upon Arrival to Canada - Identification Getting a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

If you receive payment from or through Ryerson University during your research visit, once you arrive in Toronto, you will need to get a Social Insurance Number within 3 days. SIN’s are used for pay, taxes and grants you access to government programs and benefits. To apply for a SIN, please go to a Service Canada Office. The closest location to Ryerson is City Hall Service Canada Centre. Make sure to bring original documents such as your, passport, work permit, visitor record and contract/invitation letter with you. Please provide all documentation to visitingresearch@ryerson.ca.

Ryerson Email

You may choose to request a Ryerson email address (@ryerson.ca)

Ryerson offers Google Apps (including Gmail) to its community members. A few things to note:

● You must first activate your Online ID to use Ryerson email.● RMail is the default email system, you can login at mail.ryerson.ca. ● RMail is a good basic email system, but you may choose to use the G Suite platform; to learn more, please visit

www.ryerson.ca/google.

For assistance with any questions or concerns related to your Online ID and the services accessed with this ID, please contact 416.979-.5000 extension 6840 or help@ryerson.ca

Upon Arrival to Canada - Identification On-Campus Identification

As a member of the Ryerson community, you will have two forms of identification (ID): a physical form and a digital form.

One Card: Your Ryerson OneCard is your physical form of ID and can be used in the several different ways.

● It is your official identification on campus● It is your Ryerson Library card● It gives you access to some buildings, offices and labs● It can be used to purchase discounted TTC Monthly PRESTO (public transit) at the Ryerson Student Union

To get your OneCard, please visit the OneCard Office at JOR-02 in the lower level of Jorgenson Hall. Make sure to bring your:

● Passport● Ryerson invitation letter● OneCard Request form (provided by Human Resources, filled out by your supervisor/host/academic department)

Ryerson Online Identification: Your Ryerson Online ID is composed of both a username and password. Your Online ID can be used to access serval resources.

● Your Ryerson email account (see previous section on email for more information)● On-campus Labs & Printing● On and Off Campus Network & Wireless

To get your Online ID, please speak to your supervisor/host/academic department. Human Resources has provided them with step-by-step instructions on how to create you a guest user ID. Once your research collaborator has completed the Guest User ID Request Form, you will receive an email after which you can activate your account.

On-Campus Services

On-Campus Services Department Service Provided Website

Athletics Enjoy a reduced membership rate which includes access to the Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC) and the Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC), group fitness and towel service. The RAC also offers massage therapy, personal training, aquatics and more!

http://www.rec.ryersonrams.ca/

Ryerson Early Learning Centre

The onsite child care centre provides care to children aged 18 months through five years old.Gerrard Resource Centre offers emergency daycare services.

http://www.ryerson.ca/ecs/elc/ https://www.ryerson.ca/ecs/grc/

OneCard Office The official identification card for the Ryerson community. It also serves as a convenience card for many of the services available on campus.

http://www.ryerson.ca/onecard/

Immigrant Faculty and Staff Network

A community network for employees who identify as immigrants. Members bring a range of diverse perspectives and experiences of living and working as immigrants in Canada.

https://www.ryerson.ca/equity/community-networks-and-committees/immigrant-employees-community-network/

Ryerson Students Union (RSU)

With your OneCard, you will have access to offers, including tickets for a number off-campus entertainment. http://www.rsuonline.ca/tickets-and-merchandise

Library & Archives The library offers a number of resources on-campus and online. The library also offers access to online journal databases. Select the Research Databases tab on the Library & Archives webpage. Services include, laptop rentals and computer labs, printers and photocopying machines, quiet study floors and meeting rooms and workshops!

https://library.ryerson.ca/

On-Campus Services Department Service Provided Website

Academic Accommodation Support

For international researchers living with disabilities looking for help with their academic accommodations. https://www.ryerson.ca/studentlearningsupport/academic-accommodation-support/index.html/

Food on Campus Ryerson Eats provides the community with meals and snacks. Throughout the campus, you will find affordable prices, wholesome meal options made from scratch, fresh, local and sustainably-sourced ingredients and options. The campus has eight eateries, find the closest locations to you!

https://www.ryerson.ca/university-business-services/food/

Urban Farm The Ryerson Urban Farm aims to build a capacity for urban agriculture through production, education and research. Educational programming is offered. The farm is designed with over 30 crops and more than 100 cultivars, along with three rooftop beehives. The ground-level To sign up for the mailing list, please complete the Ryerson Urban Farm: Communications Sign-Up Form.

https://www.ryerson.ca/university-business-services/urban-farm/

Community Safety and Security

Security and Emergency Services is an on-campus service to protect and aid Ryerson community members. To connect with Ryerson Security and Emergency Services 24/7, you can externally call 416.979.5040 or via internal phones 5040. You can also email security@ryerson.ca. In addition to emergency responses, they also offer a wide variety of services including, WalkSafe Program, Training & Workshops and self tips and guidelines.

https://www.ryerson.ca/community-safety-security/

Student Learning Support (SLS)

For international researchers who use English as an additional language looking for help with their writing, reading, listening, speaking, and oral presentation skills. SLS offer a variety of free support programs designed to help students improve and develop their communication skills. This also becomes an opportunity to meet fellow students and practice language skills in a friendly, stress-free environment. Browse through the menu for details on specific programs, or read our Frequently Asked Questions.

https://www.ryerson.ca/studentlearningsupport/

https://www.ryerson.ca/studentlearningsupport/english-language-support/

Life in Toronto & Ryerson

Life in Toronto - TransportationPublic Transportation

There are many ways to get around Toronto, including local buses, trains, private coach buses, streetcars and subways. There is also transportation services for people with disabilities.

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC): The TTC operates a city-wide public transit system, with a network of subways, streetcars and buses, including Wheel-Trans, a service for people who require accessible transportation.

● One fare takes you in one direction only (regardless of distance). Be sure to ask for a Proof-of-Payment (transfer) from the TTC operator or at your departure subway station to transfer during your trip.

● If you will be using the TTC on a regular basis, you may want to consider getting a PRESTO. ● Information regarding purchasing other forms of payment be found here. ● Information regarding fares can be found here. ● The TTC has an online trip planner and Google Maps also incorporates TTC schedules into the directions it gives for public

transit trips.

MiWay: transit for the city of Mississauga that also services neighbouring transit systems including GO Transit, the TTC, Brampton Transit and Oakville Transit.

Life in Toronto - TransportationPublic Transportation

GO Transit: is a network of train and bus lines which links Toronto with the surrounding regions of the (GTA) and Hamilton Area.PRESTO: an electronic fare payment system available across most transit agencies in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Hamilton Area and Ottawa.

Rail

VIA Rail: Canada’s national passenger rail service with an array of train cars which provide riders with travel across Canada.

Buses

Greyhound Canada: Canada’s largest provider for intercity bus transportation.Megabus: services are provided in partnership with Coach Canada, offering premier intercity motorcoach service at discount rates.

Flying

Flying is often the quickest option, however can be more expensive. There are two airports in Toronto: Toronto Pearson International Airport and Billy Bishop Airport.

Tips and Resources

Public Transit Systems in Ontario: A list of public transit systems in Ontario, from the Ministry of Transportation. How to Ride Public Transit: This video has information about riding the bus, streetcar and subway.

Life in Toronto - TransportationCycling

Riding your bicycle is an affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly way of getting around downtown Toronto. Some of the streets downtown are designated with bicycles lanes.

Toronto Bicycling Network (TBN): Network with other bike enthusiasts. The site provides listings of special events, Toronto cycling maps, links to lobbying groups, and other special bike interest groups (mountain, adventure, and travel biking).Cycling Safety Tips: The City of Toronto provides cyclists with tips to be visible, ride predictably, understand how traffic works and to communicate with other road users. Cycling and the Law: The Highway Traffic Act highlight the rules for cyclists and other vehicles to travel safely and predictably on City streets. The City of Toronto has By-Laws that regulate the safe use of different cycling infrastructure throughout the City.BikeSpace: an app to help cyclists report issues with bicycle parking at private and public locations across the City. BikeShare Toronto: A network of 800 bicycles and 80 stations located throughout downtown Toronto, intended to provide Toronto’s residents and visitors with an additional transportation option for getting around town.

Taxis and Private Transportation Companies in Toronto

Ground transportation has changed dramatically in Toronto over the years. The City of Toronto provides important information to keep you well informed.

Taxi fares are standardized and begin as soon as you step inside the vehicle. You can request for a taxi by calling 416.TAXICAB (416.829.4222). For more information visit http://www.416-taxicab.com/. You may also want to use rideshare companies Uber and Lyft.

Life in Toronto - Setting Up Your HouseholdPersonal Finance

Upon arrival in Canada, it is highly recommended that you open a banking account. When opening an account, you will need at least two pieces of identification such as your passport, SIN or personal identification card. There are five major financial institutions near Ryerson:

Visit the Canadian Banking Association website to learn more about your Canadian banking options.

Banking Institution Address Phone Number

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) 595 Bay Street (inside Atrium on Bay) 416-861-3801

Alterna Savings 350 Victoria Street POD-158 416-213-7972

RBC Royal Bank 101 Dundas Street West 416-581-8865

BMO Bank of Montreal 382 Yonge Street, Unit #4 416-408-1974

TD Canada Trust 777 Bay Street 416-982-4364

Life in Toronto - Setting Up Your HouseholdTaxation in Canada

In Canada, the federal, provincial and municipal governments collect money from individuals and companies to help pay for government programs and services, such as roads, public utilities, schools, health care, economic development and cultural activities.

Information for newcomers on filing taxes in Canada is available through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The information applies only for the first tax year that you are a new resident of Canada. After your first tax year in Canada, you are no longer considered a newcomer for tax purposes.

Ontario assists with a number of tax credits and benefits, which can help you with living costs when you file your income tax return from the Ministry of Finance.

In Ontario, there is a Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) of 13%. Usually, HST is added at the cash register so the amount on the price tag may not be the final price. 8% of the HST goes to the provincial government and 5% goes to the federal government.

You pay HST on many goods and services but there are a few exceptions, such as basic food products, child care services, and prescription drugs.

Life in Toronto - Setting Up Your HouseholdTelephone Services

There are several private companies that provide local phone services in Ontario. You may call or visit a provider suitable to your needs. You can purchase a wireless phone/phone plan and/or instal a home phone. Contact information for top service providers commonly used in Toronto:

Bell Canada/Mobility: Number: 1-866-310-2355Rogers: Number: 1-888-764-3771Fido (Only Wireless): Number: 1-888-481-3436Telus (Only Wireless): Number: 1-866-558-2273Koodo (Only Wireless): Number: 1-866-995-6636Virgin Mobile: Number: 1-888-999-2321

Public telephone booths are located on many streets, as well as in businesses, public buildings and subway stations. Local calls at a phone booth cost 50 cents. 911 emergency calls that connect you to police, firefighters, and paramedics are free.

Telephone directories can be obtained free of charge online. Canada411 lists all local individuals and commercial telephone subscribers. YellowPages provides a list of businesses by the services they provide. Government Electronic Directory Services (GEDS) provides the contact information of all government departments.

Local calls (City of Toronto and some nearby suburbs) are free from landline phones and will cost you from your cell phone. The rate is set by your provider. Long-distance calls (Toronto’s further suburbs and beyond) will cost you from a landline or a cell phone. The rate is set by your provider. Calling cards are a popular method for saving money. The same applies for international calls. Remember, to make an international call, you first have to dial 011. Calling cards can be purchased at convenience stores.

Life in Toronto - Setting Up Your HouseholdUtilities: Heat and Hydro

Most homes are heated by natural gas, oil or electricity (“hydro”). In most apartments, the costs of heat, water, and electricity are included in the rent. If you have bought or rented a house, you will need to contact the appropriate agencies to begin service. The delivery of natural gas, a deregulated market, is supplied by a number of companies. Natural gas and oil providers can be found in the Yellow pages. Electrical service is supplied by the local electricity utility or with a unit sub-metering company, depending on who provides electricity service for the property. In Toronto, the local electrical utility is Toronto Hydro.

● Toronto Hydro● Enbridge Consumers Gas● Ontario Energy Board – The Ontario Energy Board oversees the energy sector in Ontario. The Board makes sure electricity

and natural gas companies follow the rules.

Utilities: Water

Contact your local municipality/regional municipality to start your utility bill for water.

● City of Toronto● Region of Peel (includes the City of Mississauga)

Utilities: Cable

● Rogers Cable● Bell Cable

Life in Toronto - Everyday LivingDriving in Ontario

If you live in Ontario and want to drive, you must have an Ontario driver's licence. The process to get a driver's licence depends on if you are a new driver, or if you have had a driver's licence before.

As a visitor less than three (3) months, and want to drive while you’re here, you can use a valid driver’s licence from your own province, state or country. The following conditions apply:

● be at least 16 years old● have proper insurance coverage for the vehicle you will drive● carry an original (or exact) copy of the vehicle ownership permit● obey traffic laws, drive safely and avoid collisions when you drive

As a visitor in Ontario for more than three (3) months, you will need an International Driver's Permit (IDP) from your own country.This is a special licence that allows motorists to drive internationally when accompanied by a valid driver’s licence from their country.You need to have this permit with you when you arrive in Ontario. You cannot apply for one once you are here.

See more information about how to apply, where to apply and fees related for a driver’s license.

It is important to always have sufficient auto insurance, to follow the traffic rules and to wear a seatbelt! Above all, never drink and drive.

Life in Toronto - Everyday Living The PATHThe PATH has over 30 kilometres worth of shopping, services and entertainment. According to the Guinness World Records, it’s the largest underground shopping complex in the world and it belongs in downtown Toronto! It links the city’s major tourist, entertainment, and business attractions!

Food - Nearby Eateries and Off-Campus food

There are many convenient places to get a bite to eat nearby, such as:

● Salad King:340 Yonge Street● Basil Box: Ryerson Student Learning Centre● Loblaws: Carlton & Church● The Urban Eatery: Eaton Centre, Yonge & Dundas

The campus cafeteria, the Hub Café on the main floor of the Podium Building offers a wide variety of food options The two student unions on-campus operate both a café and a pub. Oakham Café offers coffees, pastries and light meals at affordable prices in the historic Oakham House. The Ram in the Rye is the on-campus pub and regularly hosts free activities and events. As you can imagine, it’s one of the most popular student hangouts on-campus. Two coffee shop chains, both offering coffee and food, Tim Hortons and Balzac’s have locations on-campus.

In the mood for something outside the Ryerson area? Visit yelp.ca! Or do you want to order in? Visit skip the dishes and uber eats.

Life in Toronto - Everyday Living Food - Grocery Stores

For fresh produce and meat, there are several areas, markets and shops in and near the downtown area:

● Toronto Chinatown: a number of shops, restaurants, activities, historic monuments, and spas located at Spadina and Dundas● Kensington Market: located at Kensington and Baldwin, this diverse neighbourhood provides, restaurants, shopping, art and

much more!● St. Lawrence Market: home to 120 vendors, merchants and artisans, located at Front and Jarvis

There are also a number of grocery store chains near Ryerson University:

● Metro: Gould and Mutual, College Park at Yonge and College ● No Frills: 449 Parliament Street and 555 Sherbourne Street● Loblaws: Carlton and Church● The Kitchen Table: Atrium-on-Bay at Yonge and Dundas● Longos: Dundas and Elizabeth● Sobeys: College Park at Yonge and College

Life in Toronto - Everyday Living with ShoppingWhether you are hunting for an outfit, grabbing a bite to eat, or looking for an escape from bad weather, there are plenty of shopping malls in Toronto!

Yorkdale Shopping Centre: This North York mall regularly starts off with a stressful experience trying to secure a parking spot. However, once you're finished that battle you have access to 250+ stores.

Scarborough Town Centre: This Scarborough mall is for shoppers more interested in variety. It's a mix of major chains, big box retailers and independent shops.

CF Sherway Gardens: This Etobicoke mall services west-enders with plenty of upscale choices. Sherway Gardens is best known for its iconic tented roof, is the city's best for a day of relaxed window shopping.

CF Shops at Don Mills: This outdoor complex has brought highbrow shopping to what was once a humble neighbourhood.

CF Fairview Mall: this North York shopping centre manages to pack a lot - books, booze, small appliances, toys and fashion for every age and budget - into a manageable space.

Pacific Mall: Considered the "Largest Chinese Indoor Mall in North America," this Markham destination is home to nearly 500 shops.

CF Toronto Eaton Centre: The CF Toronto Eaton Centre is located conveniently for the Ryerson community in the heart of downtown Toronto, featuring more than 250 shops. CF Toronto Eaton Centre attracts almost 50 million visitors annually and ranks as one of North America’s best performing centres.

Vaughan Mills: This outlet mall delivers bargains and outlet versions of almost every major shoe store, as well as nostalgic entertainment.

Bayview Village Shops: As one of Toronto's pricier malls, you’ll find high end shops.

Square One Shopping Centre: This Mississauga mall is a mix of independent, chain and big box retailers.

Life in Toronto - Everyday Living Weather

Toronto has as broad a climate as almost anywhere in the world, with four distinct seasons. Spring (April & May) and Fall (September & October) are usually mild with temperatures between 10-20C, but extremes are possible. Summer (June-August) temperatures are often between 20-35C. July is especially hot and humid. Be aware of both the humidex and the UV index. Light clothing and lots of sunscreen are appropriate. Winter (November-March) days are often between -10C and 5C (most other Canadian cities are much colder). Watch the wind chill factor. Several layers of warm clothing are appropriate.

To check current conditions, visit Environment Canada.

Parks, Gardens and Beaches Toronto is home to over 1,500 parks and 600 km of trails, making it easy for you to enjoy nature, even in the heart of the city. Visit City of Toronto’s website to plan your adventure!

Life in Toronto - Entertainment Festivals and Events

Toronto offers a wide variety of festivals and events which celebrate the diversity of our people and culture. The Festivals & Events Calendar features all City-produced events alongside hundreds of events created by the community.

History, Art & Culture

The city provides museums, galleries, public art, exhibits, campus and poetry! Visit the City of Toronto for more information!

Recreation

The City provides recreational programs during the summer and winter months! Search for a program and Register today!

Sports

Toronto is home to a number of professional sports teams and boasts a passionate fanbase!

● Toronto Raptors - 2019 NBA Finals Champions! National Basketball Association (NBA)● Toronto Blue Jays Major League Baseball (MLB)● Toronto Maple Leafs National Hockey League (NHL)● Toronto Argonauts Canadian Football League (CFL)● Toronto FC Major League Soccer (MLS)

Want to cheer on the Ryerson Rams? Visit a local game at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, free with your OneCard.

Life in Toronto - ResourcesChildren, Youth and ParentingResources related to children programs and activities, pregnancy and parenting and youth services, visit City of Toronto to find out more.

Animals and PetsImporting or Travelling with Pets? Under the National Animal Health Program, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) establishes important requirements for all animals and animal products entering Canada. For further information, see the Pet Imports section of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website. Need a referral to a veterinarian, visit College of Veterinarians of Ontario for a location near you. Resources for animals and pets can be found on the City of Toronto website.

Environment

Want to learn more about water usage and protecting the environment? The City of Toronto website offers valuable information and resources. Also familiarize yourself with our recycling, organics and garbage programs.

The TOwaste app gives you access the the Waste Wizard, which provides collection schedules and information about where to find the closest Drop-off Depot or donation location right from your smartphone or tablet.

Tickets, Fines and Penalties

Need to pay a ticket due to a violation, receive a penalty and need to go to court? Click here for more information.

English Language

English Language Support provides free services and non-credit program to support students who use English as an additional language. Both staff and student-staff offer assistance with writing, papers, academic language, speaking, conversation, pronunciation, presentation, reading and listening.

Life in Toronto - ResourcesHealth and Wellness

The Ryerson Medical Centre is open to all members of the Ryerson community. You can make an appointment by calling 416.979.5070.

Telehealth Ontario is a free, confidential telephone service for general health advice and information from a Registered Nurse. They can assess your symptoms and help you decide your best first step. The service is offered in English and French, with translation support for other languages. Click on the link above or call 1.866.797.0000 (toll-free).

Use the Doctor Search service of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website to help you find a doctor in your area.To find a dentist in your area, use the Find a Dentist service of the Ontario Dental Association Information on health clinics, programs, vaccinations, and live chats, visit the City of Toronto website.

Public and Safety AlertsIn an emergency, seconds count. When police, fire or medical emergencies occur, call 9‑1‑1. Trained emergency call takers will provide you with the information and assistance you need. Click here for more information and resources.

Accessibility and Human Rights

Proudly diverse and intentionally inclusive, Ryerson University is committed to community engagement, action, inclusion, respect for Aboriginal perspectives, equity, diversity and putting people first. The Office of the Vice President, Equity and Community Inclusion collaborates across campus to make Ryerson a truly inclusive place to learn and work.

The City of Toronto also provides a number of resources for your benefit!

Life in Toronto - Diverse Community ResourcesDiverse Communities

Toronto is proud for their diverse communities. The Office of the Vice President Equity and Community Inclusion is proud to support a variety of community networks and committees across the campus that give visibility to a diversity of voices and create inclusive spaces, to address barriers and foster community engagement.

Black Faculty and Staff Community Network Employees with Disabilities Community Network Immigrant Employees Community Network Latino/Hispanic NetworkMuslim Faculty and Staff Community Network Positive Space The First Nations, Métis and Inuit Community GroupRyerson Parent Network Aboriginal Education Council Access Ryerson Black History Awareness Committee Cultural Awareness Committee December 6th Memorial Committee ECI Campuswide Steering and Implementation Committee Mental Health Advisory Committee

Ryerson offers a number of student groups on campus which are organized around common ancestry, religion, nationality and interests. For a list of student groups, visit rsuonline.ca for more information!