Scroll down for useful resources including links to website for symptoms and prevention, as well as links to Government Health Offices and Other Government Assistance Programs
Trent University Resources
Trent University COVID-19 Information
Visit the Trent University COVID-19 Response Page for more information on the University's response
You can also email: covid19info@trentu.ca or call: 705-748-1234 for more information
Trent also has a Frequently Asked Questions Page with lots of helpful information.
You can also email: covid19info@trentu.ca or call: 705-748-1234 for more information
Trent also has a Frequently Asked Questions Page with lots of helpful information.
Digital Class Information
We understand that this is a stressful time for students and thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through the details of creating alternate ways of delivering course material and final exams. Your health and well-being and the integrity of your academic year are our top priorities.
Classes: Your Teachers will communicate with you directly through Blackboard or email about how your class will be continuing.
Library services at both the Peterborough and Oshawa campus will be closed as of Monday, March 16, 2020. Students will not have access to public computers. Online resources will continue to be available. Students without access to a home computer will need to contact their course instructor.
Exams: Due to concerns about COVID-19 and the goal to increase social distancing and reduce mass gatherings, alternate arrangements are being made with regard to final exams – and no final exams will be held on campus. Instead, instructors will be using a variety of options available for those who have final exams. Your instructor will communicate with you through Blackboard or via email regarding final exams.
For more information visit Trent University's COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions Page
Classes: Your Teachers will communicate with you directly through Blackboard or email about how your class will be continuing.
Library services at both the Peterborough and Oshawa campus will be closed as of Monday, March 16, 2020. Students will not have access to public computers. Online resources will continue to be available. Students without access to a home computer will need to contact their course instructor.
Exams: Due to concerns about COVID-19 and the goal to increase social distancing and reduce mass gatherings, alternate arrangements are being made with regard to final exams – and no final exams will be held on campus. Instead, instructors will be using a variety of options available for those who have final exams. Your instructor will communicate with you through Blackboard or via email regarding final exams.
For more information visit Trent University's COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions Page
University Services Information
Academic Skills: Instructors will continue to be available for students by email and for online and phone appointments. If you have already booked an appointment, the academic skills team will contact you to change or modify your existing appointment.
For an online appointment, we ask that you send a copy of your assignment instructions and your working draft or early notes or questions to the instructor via email. During the allotted appointment time, an instructor will review your draft and provide written feedback or discuss strategies to approach your work via email.
Let the instructor know if you wish to speak with them on the phone during your allotted time; they can provide feedback or discuss strategies orally instead of providing written feedback.
If you have questions and would like to connect with an academic skills instructor, please go to the academic skills website
Academic Advisors: Advisors will continue to be available for students by e-mail and phone appointment. If you have already booked an appointment, the academic advising team will contact you to change or modify your existing appointment. If you have questions and would like to connect with an academic advisor, please go to the academic advising website.
SAS: In Durham GTA, advisors at the Accessibility Office are available for on-going virtual support. To book an appointment, please phone 705 748-1011 x 5100. Appointments can occur by phone or by video.
Library: Services at both the Peterborough and Oshawa campus will be closed as of Monday, March 16, 2020. Students will not have access to public computers. Online resources will continue to be available. Students without access to a home computer will need to contact their course instructor.
First People’s House of Learning: Current Indigenous Support Services for Trent University are being offered remotely by phone or by video, through First Peoples House of Learning.
FPHL staff will be working remotely until further notice. They will continue to offer services and supports, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For those not able to return to your communities and are staying in town, please contact FPHL for support. The FPHL Facebook page will contain current updates.
Direct2U Perscriptions: Students who pickup their Direct2U prescriptions at the TDSA office: please call Alliance Pharmacy at 1 (877) 796-7979 to get prescriptions rerouted for pickup at an alternate location that is convenient for you.
Sexual Violence Supports: For Durham students, support is available through Counselling Services. Please call 905-435-5100
Students can also call the Durham Rape Crisis Centre 24/7 support line at 905-668-9200
International Office: We understand that you may have concerns and questions about your immigration status in Canada as a visiting exchange student or international student, given the recent announcement about Trent University's response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Rest assured that Trent International remains available to assist you as this fluid situation progresses.
As of March 18, 2020 International students and workers who are currently outside of Canada will not be permitted to return to Canada until the border is reopened. If possible, it is advised that you return to your home country. You should contact your own embassy or consulate for assistance if required.If you are a Canadian student studying abroad, you are permitted to return to Canada.
Please email studyabroad@trentu.ca to update us on your plans and for assistance.
All temporary residents already in Canada and with an immigration status that will expire within the next 90 days should apply for an extension so that you will maintain a valid temporary resident status in Canada. Once the application is submitted, the client will benefit from implied status and may remain in Canada until a decision is rendered on their application. You can apply to extend you Study Permit.
IRCC’s intention is that clients will not be adversely impacted if they are unable to continue to comply with the conditions of their visa as a result of the COVID-19 situation. When submitting any application for extension of immigration documents, it is advised that you include a Letter of Explanation noting that the COVID-19 situation has required you to extend your status.
Residence: While residences at Durham College/Ontario Tech University remain open for students who are not able to leave, with all classes moved to online, students who are able to move out are strongly encouraged to do so by Sunday, March 22, 2020.
Students should follow the instructions provided in the email sent from residence staff on March 17. We are committed to ensuring students are supported during this time. If you have any concerns or need support please contact Jenifer Richardson, Manager Student Affairs Durham at jrichardson@trentu.ca.
For more information visit Trent University's COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions Page
For an online appointment, we ask that you send a copy of your assignment instructions and your working draft or early notes or questions to the instructor via email. During the allotted appointment time, an instructor will review your draft and provide written feedback or discuss strategies to approach your work via email.
Let the instructor know if you wish to speak with them on the phone during your allotted time; they can provide feedback or discuss strategies orally instead of providing written feedback.
If you have questions and would like to connect with an academic skills instructor, please go to the academic skills website
Academic Advisors: Advisors will continue to be available for students by e-mail and phone appointment. If you have already booked an appointment, the academic advising team will contact you to change or modify your existing appointment. If you have questions and would like to connect with an academic advisor, please go to the academic advising website.
SAS: In Durham GTA, advisors at the Accessibility Office are available for on-going virtual support. To book an appointment, please phone 705 748-1011 x 5100. Appointments can occur by phone or by video.
Library: Services at both the Peterborough and Oshawa campus will be closed as of Monday, March 16, 2020. Students will not have access to public computers. Online resources will continue to be available. Students without access to a home computer will need to contact their course instructor.
First People’s House of Learning: Current Indigenous Support Services for Trent University are being offered remotely by phone or by video, through First Peoples House of Learning.
FPHL staff will be working remotely until further notice. They will continue to offer services and supports, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For those not able to return to your communities and are staying in town, please contact FPHL for support. The FPHL Facebook page will contain current updates.
Direct2U Perscriptions: Students who pickup their Direct2U prescriptions at the TDSA office: please call Alliance Pharmacy at 1 (877) 796-7979 to get prescriptions rerouted for pickup at an alternate location that is convenient for you.
Sexual Violence Supports: For Durham students, support is available through Counselling Services. Please call 905-435-5100
Students can also call the Durham Rape Crisis Centre 24/7 support line at 905-668-9200
International Office: We understand that you may have concerns and questions about your immigration status in Canada as a visiting exchange student or international student, given the recent announcement about Trent University's response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Rest assured that Trent International remains available to assist you as this fluid situation progresses.
- If you have a valid Study Permit, you are able to remain in Canada for the duration of its validity, up to 90 days after the end of the academic term. If you need to remain in Canada past this date, you can apply to extend your stay in one of two ways:
- if your studies are complete, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor
- if you studies are not complete, you can apply to extend your stay as a student
- If you do not have a Study Permit and entered Canada as a visitor, you are authorized to remain in Canada until your status as a visitor expires. If the officer at the border stamped your passport, this date will be noted there. If your passport was not stamped, you are eligible to remain in Canada for 6 months from the date of your entry.
- If you are unable to leave Canada by this expiry date, you can apply to Immigration, Citizenship, and Refugees Canada to extend your stay as a visitor.
As of March 18, 2020 International students and workers who are currently outside of Canada will not be permitted to return to Canada until the border is reopened. If possible, it is advised that you return to your home country. You should contact your own embassy or consulate for assistance if required.If you are a Canadian student studying abroad, you are permitted to return to Canada.
Please email studyabroad@trentu.ca to update us on your plans and for assistance.
All temporary residents already in Canada and with an immigration status that will expire within the next 90 days should apply for an extension so that you will maintain a valid temporary resident status in Canada. Once the application is submitted, the client will benefit from implied status and may remain in Canada until a decision is rendered on their application. You can apply to extend you Study Permit.
IRCC’s intention is that clients will not be adversely impacted if they are unable to continue to comply with the conditions of their visa as a result of the COVID-19 situation. When submitting any application for extension of immigration documents, it is advised that you include a Letter of Explanation noting that the COVID-19 situation has required you to extend your status.
Residence: While residences at Durham College/Ontario Tech University remain open for students who are not able to leave, with all classes moved to online, students who are able to move out are strongly encouraged to do so by Sunday, March 22, 2020.
Students should follow the instructions provided in the email sent from residence staff on March 17. We are committed to ensuring students are supported during this time. If you have any concerns or need support please contact Jenifer Richardson, Manager Student Affairs Durham at jrichardson@trentu.ca.
For more information visit Trent University's COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions Page
Housing
While residences at Durham College/Ontario Tech University remain open for students who are not able to leave, with all classes moved to online, students who are able to move out are strongly encouraged to do so by Sunday, March 22, 2020.
For residence specific information and resources please visit the Durham College Residence website
Trent students living at Durham College/Ontario Tech U are able to use all resources listed there, including calling the Health Centre numbers listed if they have questions. Student can also call the Residence & Conference Centre at 905-728-8700 ext. 8000.
Students should follow the instructions provided in the email sent from residence staff on March 17. We are committed to ensuring students are supported during this time. If you have any concerns or need support please contact Jenifer Richardson, Manager Student Affairs Durham at jrichardson@trentu.ca.
Please also note that Ontario has suspended all eviction notices, meaning that you cannot be removed from your home if you cannot make your rent payments.
You can also find out more information on a resource created by Jennifer Robson, Associate Professor of Political Management, Carleton University using public information.
For residence specific information and resources please visit the Durham College Residence website
Trent students living at Durham College/Ontario Tech U are able to use all resources listed there, including calling the Health Centre numbers listed if they have questions. Student can also call the Residence & Conference Centre at 905-728-8700 ext. 8000.
Students should follow the instructions provided in the email sent from residence staff on March 17. We are committed to ensuring students are supported during this time. If you have any concerns or need support please contact Jenifer Richardson, Manager Student Affairs Durham at jrichardson@trentu.ca.
Please also note that Ontario has suspended all eviction notices, meaning that you cannot be removed from your home if you cannot make your rent payments.
You can also find out more information on a resource created by Jennifer Robson, Associate Professor of Political Management, Carleton University using public information.
International Students
Health Coverage: For all questions about UHIP coverage visit the UHIP Plan Details Page. UHIP covers diagnostic testing and lab services. However, at this point, there is no information yet about whether you will still get UHIP coverage if you want to opt-in for COVID-19 testing without a doctor’s approval. UHIP provides a designated web page for information about Coronavirus:
If you don’t feel well, you are recommended to call for a medical appointment with UHIP Sun Life Preferred Health Providers. You can search them from the Find a Clinic Search Tool.
For extended health coverage beyond that covered by UHIP visit the Student VIP COVID-19 response page for more details
Documentation for Applications: We are aware of the challenges facing some students in obtaining the required documents by the usual deadlines. If you need accommodation, please contact Trent International as soon as possible to discuss possible solutions.
Contact Information for international applicants and education agents:
Immigration Status: We understand that you may have concerns and questions about your immigration status in Canada as a visiting exchange student or international student, given the recent announcement about Trent University's response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Rest assured that Trent International remains available to assist you as this fluid situation progresses.
As of March 18, 2020 International students and workers who are currently outside of Canada will not be permitted to return to Canada until the border is reopened. If possible, it is advised that you return to your home country. You should contact your own embassy or consulate for assistance if required.If you are a Canadian student studying abroad, you are permitted to return to Canada.
Please email studyabroad@trentu.ca to update us on your plans and for assistance.
All temporary residents already in Canada and with an immigration status that will expire within the next 90 days should apply for an extension so that you will maintain a valid temporary resident status in Canada. Once the application is submitted, the client will benefit from implied status and may remain in Canada until a decision is rendered on their application. You can apply to extend you Study Permit.
IRCC’s intention is that clients will not be adversely impacted if they are unable to continue to comply with the conditions of their visa as a result of the COVID-19 situation. When submitting any application for extension of immigration documents, it is advised that you include a Letter of Explanation noting that the COVID-19 situation has required you to extend your status.
If you don’t feel well, you are recommended to call for a medical appointment with UHIP Sun Life Preferred Health Providers. You can search them from the Find a Clinic Search Tool.
For extended health coverage beyond that covered by UHIP visit the Student VIP COVID-19 response page for more details
Documentation for Applications: We are aware of the challenges facing some students in obtaining the required documents by the usual deadlines. If you need accommodation, please contact Trent International as soon as possible to discuss possible solutions.
Contact Information for international applicants and education agents:
- China: Felix Wu, xwu@trentu.ca
- Vietnam: Helena Nguyen, helenanguyen@trentu.ca
- India: Sahil Chawla, india@trentu.ca
- Regional Manager: Bernard Chan, bernardchan@trentu.ca
- Regional Manager: Jessica Lee, jlee@trentu.ca
- International admissions: internationaladmissions@trentu.ca
- Graduate Studies: graduate@trentu.ca
Immigration Status: We understand that you may have concerns and questions about your immigration status in Canada as a visiting exchange student or international student, given the recent announcement about Trent University's response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Rest assured that Trent International remains available to assist you as this fluid situation progresses.
- If you have a valid Study Permit, you are able to remain in Canada for the duration of its validity, up to 90 days after the end of the academic term. If you need to remain in Canada past this date, you can apply to extend your stay in one of two ways:
- if your studies are complete, you can apply to extend your stay as a visitor
- if you studies are not complete, you can apply to extend your stay as a student
- If you do not have a Study Permit and entered Canada as a visitor, you are authorized to remain in Canada until your status as a visitor expires. If the officer at the border stamped your passport, this date will be noted there. If your passport was not stamped, you are eligible to remain in Canada for 6 months from the date of your entry.
- If you are unable to leave Canada by this expiry date, you can apply to Immigration, Citizenship, and Refugees Canada to extend your stay as a visitor.
As of March 18, 2020 International students and workers who are currently outside of Canada will not be permitted to return to Canada until the border is reopened. If possible, it is advised that you return to your home country. You should contact your own embassy or consulate for assistance if required.If you are a Canadian student studying abroad, you are permitted to return to Canada.
Please email studyabroad@trentu.ca to update us on your plans and for assistance.
All temporary residents already in Canada and with an immigration status that will expire within the next 90 days should apply for an extension so that you will maintain a valid temporary resident status in Canada. Once the application is submitted, the client will benefit from implied status and may remain in Canada until a decision is rendered on their application. You can apply to extend you Study Permit.
IRCC’s intention is that clients will not be adversely impacted if they are unable to continue to comply with the conditions of their visa as a result of the COVID-19 situation. When submitting any application for extension of immigration documents, it is advised that you include a Letter of Explanation noting that the COVID-19 situation has required you to extend your status.
Health Benefits
Students can access their plan and services virtually and remotely in the event of school closures. Found online are:
- Your health plan card
- Coverage details and brochures
- Plan forms and documents
- Make claims
- Medavie Blue Cross Portal
- Direct2U Doctors
- I.M. Well
- Live chat with a Student VIP agent
- And more
Visit the Student VIP COVID-19 Page for more information
Student Employees
Student employees should contact their manager/supervisor to determine if they are required at work. If student employees are no longer required to work, the University will continue to pay them and may re-deploy to other areas where possible or necessary.
Student employees that elect to go home or not attend work (including refusal to work) will not be paid. Due to these exceptional circumstances, all employees who would normally be scheduled to work during the university closure will receive pay consistent with their regular schedule. No one will suffer a loss of pay of their regular earnings as a result of limiting on-site work during this time period.
For employees that normally fill out paper timesheets, Managers/supervisors will be able to send timesheets or an email noting their employees regular weekly hours to timesheets@trentu.ca by the payroll deadline. Timesheets will not be required to be submitted or signed by the employee.
Communication is key. Employees are encouraged to connect with their managers and supervisors if they are unable to attend to their typically assigned duties.
Medical documentation is temporarily not required to support absences. Trent is currently working with our long-term disability provider to determine medical documentation requirements should extended periods of absence occur (i.e. greater than 6 months). The university will be introducing self-declaration forms in the coming weeks.
Employees should contact their manager/supervisor to make arrangements to facilitate working from home or an alternate location.
Employees that are ill will be paid until their return-to-work, end of their contract or April 30, 2020, whichever comes first. The university will be introducing self-declaration forms in the coming weeks.
Student employees that elect to go home or not attend work (including refusal to work) will not be paid. Due to these exceptional circumstances, all employees who would normally be scheduled to work during the university closure will receive pay consistent with their regular schedule. No one will suffer a loss of pay of their regular earnings as a result of limiting on-site work during this time period.
For employees that normally fill out paper timesheets, Managers/supervisors will be able to send timesheets or an email noting their employees regular weekly hours to timesheets@trentu.ca by the payroll deadline. Timesheets will not be required to be submitted or signed by the employee.
Communication is key. Employees are encouraged to connect with their managers and supervisors if they are unable to attend to their typically assigned duties.
Medical documentation is temporarily not required to support absences. Trent is currently working with our long-term disability provider to determine medical documentation requirements should extended periods of absence occur (i.e. greater than 6 months). The university will be introducing self-declaration forms in the coming weeks.
Employees should contact their manager/supervisor to make arrangements to facilitate working from home or an alternate location.
Employees that are ill will be paid until their return-to-work, end of their contract or April 30, 2020, whichever comes first. The university will be introducing self-declaration forms in the coming weeks.
Academic Concerns
If you have concerns about assignments, class content, or lectures it is always best to speak with your professor first.
In the event that you cannot come to a resolution with your issue, you may contact the following:
1. Speak with the Dean for the department of your course. This information is available on the Trent University Department website
2. If you do not get a response within 48 hours or you cannot find a resolution with the above, contact the Dean of Trent University Durham campus, Scott Henderson
3. If you do not get a response within 48 hours or you cannot find a resolution, contact Nona Robinson, AVP of Students
In the event that you cannot come to a resolution with your issue, you may contact the following:
1. Speak with the Dean for the department of your course. This information is available on the Trent University Department website
2. If you do not get a response within 48 hours or you cannot find a resolution with the above, contact the Dean of Trent University Durham campus, Scott Henderson
3. If you do not get a response within 48 hours or you cannot find a resolution, contact Nona Robinson, AVP of Students
Symptoms of COVID-19
Those who are infected with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold or flu.
The Canadian Federal Government website lists symptoms to be aware of for all Canadians.
The Canadian Federal Government website lists symptoms to be aware of for all Canadians.
Prevention of COVID-19
To prevent the spread of COVID-19 it is recommended that you practice social distancing and proper hygiene. Please see the infographics and videos below for more information.
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Stop the Spread of Germs Video Posted on the Durham Region COVID-19 website
Proper Hand Washing Video Posted on the Durham Region COVID-19 website
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Please also visit the Canadian Federal Government website list of prevention methods we should all be practicing.
Health Offices and Information
World Health Organization (WHO)
The WHO provides up to date information on the status of COVID-19 around the world. Visit the WHO website for more information.
Canadian Federal Public health services
The Canadian Federal Public Health Office website provides information concerning the Federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada including statistics, advise, and updates from the Prime Minister.
Ontario Government COVID-19 Resources
The Ontario Ministry of Health website has information concerning the status of the virus on Ontario as well as steps the Ontario Government is taking to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Telehealth ONtario
If you think you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or feel that you have symptoms of COVID-19 please contact your primary care physician or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. You can also access the free COVID-19 Self Assessment tool online.
COVID-19 Online Self Assessment Tool
If you think you have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has it, use this self-assessment to help determine how to seek further care.
Durham Region Information
The Durham Region has set up website to keep the public updated on the COVID-19 measures they are taking. Visit the Durham Region COVID-19 website for more information.
Other Government Subsidies and Information
Federal Benefits and Services (Including Employment insurance and emergency care benefit
The Government of Canada as created a website for Federal Benefits and Services including:
Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits provide up to 15 weeks of income replacement and is available to eligible claimants who are unable to work because of illness, injury or quarantine, to allow them time to restore their health and return to work. Canadians quarantined can apply for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits.
And
Emergency Care Benefit by providing up to $900 bi-weekly, for up to 15 weeks. This benefit will provide income support to:
Click on each drop-down box to see important information about each benefit. Read the whole section before contacting the service as there may be steps you need to take before you call or visit a service centre.
You can also find out more information on a resource created by Jennifer Robson, Associate Professor of Political Management, Carleton University using public information.
Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits provide up to 15 weeks of income replacement and is available to eligible claimants who are unable to work because of illness, injury or quarantine, to allow them time to restore their health and return to work. Canadians quarantined can apply for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits.
And
Emergency Care Benefit by providing up to $900 bi-weekly, for up to 15 weeks. This benefit will provide income support to:
- Workers, including the self-employed, who are quarantined or sick with COVID-19 but do not qualify for EI sickness benefits.
- Workers, including the self-employed, who are taking care of a family member who is sick with COVID-19, such as an elderly parent.
- Parents with children who require care or supervision due to school closures, and are unable to earn employment income.
Click on each drop-down box to see important information about each benefit. Read the whole section before contacting the service as there may be steps you need to take before you call or visit a service centre.
You can also find out more information on a resource created by Jennifer Robson, Associate Professor of Political Management, Carleton University using public information.
Income taxes
Canada has extended the timeline for submitting your income taxes
- Personal returns — The deadline for filing T1 returns that were due on April 30, 2020 has been extended to June 1, 2020. Individuals expecting a refund or benefits should file sooner if possible, as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will process refunds.
- Trust returns — For trusts having a taxation year ending on December 31, 2019, the return filing due date will be deferred until May 1, 2020.
- Income tax payments for all taxpayers — The CRA will allow all taxpayers to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020. This relief would apply to income tax balances due, as well as instalments and no interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
You can read more at CPA Canada's website.
Travel Advisories
The Government of Canada has issued travel and border restrictions to limit the spread of the virus. More information can be found on the Government of Canada Travel Advisory website.
Specific Airlines also have their own websites to provide updates and can be found here:
West Jet
Air Canada
Sunwing
Porter Airlines
Specific Airlines also have their own websites to provide updates and can be found here:
West Jet
Air Canada
Sunwing
Porter Airlines