Select the links below for Frequently Asked Questions about:
Learning Centers
Student Health Coverage
Financial Aid
Residence
Parking
New Health and Wellness Building
Student Life Centre
Student Services/Success
Cultural Centers
Library Commons
Georgian Stores
Public Transportation
Office of the Registrar
Campus Connections
On-campus Dining
Learning Centers:
Is there help for essay and report writing?
Check out The Write On! Centre page.
- Located in Room K103
- Designed to help students understand an assignment, organize ideas and create a thesis
- APA and MLA help available
Is there computer help on campus?
Check out the page for Click On!
Visit the library help desk to book a Click On appointment. Students will receive help with computer skills with word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Where can I go for math help?
Check out The Math Lab page.
- Located in room K201
- Designed to help students understand the assignment, make sense of math problems and work with formulae
Where can I sign up for/to be a peer tutor?
Check out the Peer Tutoring page.
Located on the main floor of the Barrie library. There are 5 knowledge hubs to provide assistance in the following area:
- Liberal Arts and University Studies
- Engineering and Technology
- Business and Management
- Health Sciences
- Computer Studies (Room B124)
Online Tutor
Students studying late or when tutors aren’t available don’t have to go without help.
Email Peer Services and a tutor will respond within one business day.
Student Health Coverage:
What is included in the student health insurance?
Check out the Student Health Insurance page.
The student health and dental plan covers the following:
- Physiotherapy (80% up to $300/yr)
- Massage Therapy (80% up to $300/yr)
- Vision, Eye Exams, Glasses/Contacts (100% of exam every 24 months)
- Vaccines (80%)
- Speech Therapy (80% up to $300/yr)
- Psychologist/Social Worker (80% up to $300/yr)
- Chiropractor (80% up to $300/yr)
- Naturopath (80% up to $300/yr)
- Ambulance (80%)
- Orthopedic (80% up to $200/yr)
- Dental Accident (100% within 30 days of accident up to $2000)
- Diagnostic and Preventive Care (100% once per benefit exam)
- Major Restorative (crowns, bridges & dentures – 10% Limited to once every 5)
Can I opt out of the health insurance?
If you are an eligible student and have comparable health and/or dental coverage you may apply to waive benefits. Each student is given one opportunity to waive benefits under the health and/or dental plan(s) each year. All waiver forms must be completed online and must be received by the applicable deadline for the semester period of enrolment.
Students will receive a reimbursement cheque once they’ve withdrawn from the package.
Financial Aid:
What is the difference between bursaries and scholarships?
Check out the Bursaries page.
The difference between a bursary and a scholarship has to do with eligibility requirements. Bursaries are based solely on financial need, whereas scholarships take many other variables into consideration.
How do I apply for awards and scholarships?
This link directs you to a searchable section of the Georgian College website, where you can search for Awards and Scholarships. They are available based on leadership, volunteer track record, grades and financial need. There is over $600,000 in awards available. All applications are found online and can be submitted to Awards and Scholarship office in Room C259.
Bursary applications are available through the Financial Aid office (room C170). There are 3 main bursaries available:
- Ontario First Generation Bursary
- Aboriginal Post Secondary Education and Training Bursary
- Georgian College Bursary for Students With Determined Need
What is OSAP and how do I apply?
OSAP or Ontario Student Assistance Program is a government program that provides eligible students with financial assistance for post-secondary educational costs.
Applications are completed online
- Interest FREE while in school FULL-TIME
- Payment FREE while in school FULL-TIME
- Six month grace period after completion of studies
- No co-signers needed
- On-campus assistance and information
- Online application
- Loan forgiveness
- Interest relief
Here is a useful resource that compares the benefits of a line of credit versus an OSAP loan. Visit the Financial Aid office in room C170 for all OSAP inquires.
Residence :
What does it cost to live on campus? How do I apply?
Check out the Residence page.
Once you have been accepted into a program at Georgian College you are eligible to apply for residence. In your
acceptance package you will be provided with your Georgian College student ID# and your password (this is your birth date in the format YY/MM/DD) to access the banner portal. To apply for residence, access this link.
What does it cost to live in Georgian Green? How do I apply?
For information, and to apply for residence at Georgian Green, access this link:
Are their landlords with rooms to rent in Barrie?
Visit this link to explore listings by landlords in the Barrie area.
Parking:
What does a parking pass cost?
Visit the parking site here.
Cost
Daily fee of $5 ($2 after 7pm) for parking applies to all those parking in the gated lots.
Passes are sold for $39.50 a month or at discounted rates for multiple months upfront.
What do I do if my card it lost or stolen?
If your card is either lost or stolen, report it immediately to the Parking Sales Counter. The missing card will be cancelled, the old deposit forfeited and a new card issued. You will be required to pay an additional $10 deposit for the new card.
What about parking fines?
Fines must be paid within 14 days of ticket being issued. Failure to pay will result in academic records being sealed, parking privileges being revoked and vehicles being towed if found on campus. Prompt payment, within 24hrs, of fines will result in a 50% reduction in the penalty in most cases. Check out this page for more information.
New Health and Wellness Building:
Which programs will be utilizing the new building?
The programs that will utilize the new building are:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Dental Assisting & Dental Hygiene
- Massage Therapy
- Opticianry
- Personal Support Worker
- Practical Nursing
- Pre-Health Sciences
- Primary and Advanced Care
- Paramedic
Student Life Centre:
What is SAC?
SAC or Students’ Administrative Council- consists of 7 executive members, student directors, class reps and staff who are dedicated to providing great activities and services.
The council’s responsibility is to create a diverse social calendar to enhance students’ learning experience. Visit their page here.
SAC handles:
- Grad Photos
- Health insurance opt-out
- Special events
- Orientation
- Clubs and organizations
How much is a membership to the Athletic Centre?
Student gym memberships are $30 plus tax per semester. That includes all classes that are offered.
Students pay for a level one pass included in their tuition which is only access to the gymnasium on the main floor of the centre. The centre also features:
- 10,000 square foot fitness centre
- Indoor running/jogging suspended track (147m)
- Complete line of stretch and rehab equipment
- Group fitness/instruction studio
- Cardio area including bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers
- Change room facility with private showers and lockers
Do I have to be 19 years old to go the Last Class?
Many events are for all ages, but some evening events are 19+. Visit the TLC page for more information.
Student Services/Success:
I have an IEP/disability. What services are available to me?
The aim of Georgian’s annual Accessibility Plan is to identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities and establish priorities for future accommodations. For a more thorough explanation of services available, speak with one of the Disability Specialists or visit the Centre for Access page.
Where do I find my co-op coordinator?
Centre for Co-op Education and Career Services
All co-op counselors are now located in B110.
60% of Georgian’s programs offer Co-operative education.
They will help you to develop a career plan and get detailed information about educational and job market areas that may suit you, and specific guidance about how to get there. The Career Development Centre is pleased to partner with workopolisCampus.com to provide an online job search service to Georgian College students and alumni.
How do I reschedule a test?
This can be done through Testing Services.
Georgian’s Test Centers are located at the Barrie, Midland, Orillia and Owen Sound Campuses.
Test Centers provide services to Georgian students and proctoring services for external examinations.
Only documented medical/family emergency situations or conflicting religious observance schedules are grounds for special consideration.
Are all students given a learning strategist?
Counselling Services
All students are assigned a counsellor based on program area.
Counsellors are specially trained to discreetly and confidently match your needs to our specific services. Students are encouraged to make an appointment early, before small problems become large ones.
Check out the Learning Strategies page for more information.
Cultural Centers:
What services does the international centre offer?
The Georgian International Centre is located in Room C279 and offers a wide range of services to international students to help make their time at Georgian as delightful as possible. Services include:
- Homestay Program for International Students- The Homestay program provides a safe, caring and interactive family environment for international students to improve language skills and cultural awareness. HomeStay families will provide necessary household items such as linens and towels. The student’s bedroom will be furnished, including a bed/bedding, desk or table, lamp, dresser and closet. Most homes are located within walking distance to the campus.
- Airport Pick-up- One of the staff members of the International Centre will pick you up at the airport and drive you to your new home. This is a free service.
- Introduction to the Community and College- The International Center helps students to become familiar with the city, the college, and a variety of community services during “International Student Orientation”. Orientation is mandatory for all international students.
Can any student visit/participate in events at the Aboriginal Resource Centre?
Aboriginal Resource Centre
The Anishnabe Education and Training Circle in partnership with Georgian College offers a variety of student support services designed to meet the needs of Aboriginal students, but is open to all students:
- The Visiting Elder Program- This program provides access to local Elders for support, spiritual guidance and cultural awareness. This program is available to all students at the Barrie, Orillia, and Owen Sound Campuses of Georgian College. For more information contact the Getsijig at (705) 728-1968 Ext. 1316.
- Getsijig: Native Education Officer- Provides support services to all students of Aboriginal ancestry on personal, social, academic and career issues. Liaison services between students, Georgian staff, and Aboriginal communities are also provided. The Getsijig can be contacted at (705) 728-1968 Ext. 1316.
- Native Community Liaison- The NCL works with Aboriginal communities, organizations, and individuals in the promotion of post-secondary education and the delivery of career planning workshops. Education/career resources and information on Aboriginal programming and services can be obtained by contacting the Native Liaison Education Officer at (705) 728-1968 Ext. 1317.
- Niwi Jiagan (My Friend) Peer Mentor Program- The Peer Mentor Program provides new students with peer support and assistance with becoming oriented to college and community services that enhance and increase success during college studies. For more information contact the Getsijig at (705) 728-1968 Ext. 1316.
- AETC Resource Centers- The Anishnabe Resource Centre provides access to computers and Aboriginal specific resources as well as a study area and meeting place for student activities and cultural gatherings.
o Barrie Campus – Room A163
o Orillia Campus – Room B201
o Owen Sound – Room A147
- Aboriginal Studies Area- Located in the Anishnabe Resource Centre, the Aboriginal Studies Area works with Aboriginal communities to identify and initiate the development of new post-secondary and community-based programs and services. For more information, contact the Dean, Aboriginal Studies at (705) 728-1968 Ext. 1315.
Library Commons:
What are the hours of the library?
Barrie
- Monday to Thursday, 7:45am -11:00pm
- Friday, 7:45am – 5:00pm
- Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Sunday 1:00pm – 8:00pm
Orillia
- Monday to Thursday, 7:30am – 8:00pm
- Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm
- Saturday, 10:00am – 4:00pm
- Sunday, CLOSED
Midland
- Monday to Thursday, 8:30am – 3:30pm
- Friday to Sunday, CLOSED
Owen Sound
- Monday to Thursday, 8:00am – 4:30pm
- Friday, 8:00am – 4:30pm
- Saturday, 9:00am – 2:00pm
- Sunday, CLOSED
Georgian Stores:
Can I purchase my textbooks online?
The Bookstore shelves textbooks for every program. They also offer online purchase options which alleviates long lines and waiting times at the beginning of a new semester. Staff at the Bookstore is happy to help students navigate their way through the store. School supplies, light snacks and beverages are also sold in the Bookstore. Bus passes and lockers are available through the Bookstore as well. Lockers are $12 for half locker and $24 for full locker.
Is there a place on campus where I can buy electronics/software?
Bits and Bytes is located in the back of the Barrie Campus Bookstore. They sell a variety of computer systems and laptops, including models from LG, Fujitsu, Apple and Touch Systems. Students can save anywhere from 10% to 90% off selected titles from such major software companies as: Adobe, Apple, AutoDesk, Microsoft, Panda and Quark.
Public Transportation:
Where can I buy a Barrie Transit bus pass?
Barrie Transit Bus Services
Passes can be bought at the Georgian Bookstore in Room C140.
Discount Ride Cards and Monthly Passes are available for full time students who are registered in a full time educational program. Student Monthly passes can only be used with a valid Student Photo Identification Card issued by the educational institution you attend or with a Barrie Transit Photo ID Card.
Monthly passes are available in different categories and allow unlimited use during the month in which they are valid. High School, College, University and post-secondary students require a valid Student Photo Identification Card or Barrie Transit Photo ID Card for their passes to be valid. Georgian College Semester passes are valid for four months. A valid Georgian College Photo Identification Card or Barrie Transit Photo Id Card must be accompanied by the user for the pass to be valid. The semester pass will start in January, May or September.
Does the Go Bus/Train allow me to commute from Toronto?
Go Train/Bus
Passes are only available online, over the phone or at the main terminal.
The main Go Train terminal is located in Barrie’s southeast end. The trains’ major location stops south of Barrie are:
Bradford Newmarket Aurora Toronto.
The Go bus travels from the terminal to downtown Barrie Transit station where passengers can transfer over to the main public transit system.
What is the BACT?
Barrie Accessible Community Transportation Services
Tickets are available online, over the phone or at the terminal station.
The ‘Barrie Accessible Community Transportation Service’ (BACTS) is a specialized bus transportation service to assist persons with mobility difficulties. This service provides transportation from one accessible door to another and is available on a temporary basis or permanent basis, depending on the user’s eligibility.
Is there a bus that runs between the Barrie and Orillia campus?
Grey Hound
Tickets are only available over the phone, online or at the terminal.
Students primarily use Grey Hound bus services for traveling between the Orillia and Barrie campus.
Students with a valid Student Card receive 25 per cent off an adult ticket or 10 per cent off with any valid photo student ID from a Canadian or American secondary or post-secondary institution. Discounts for student cards apply to adult regular one-way or return fares only.
Office of the Registrar:
Where can I get my student ID card? and How do I pay my tuition?
Student will utilize the Office of the Registrar for two main reasons:
- Student ID Cards- Photos are taken in the lobby of the office and students will be instructed to return for the card (in most cases) the following business day.
- Tuition Payment- Students are welcome to pay the full tuition amount upfront but have other options. Deferral payments can be made, which holds a student’s spot in the program. After this payment they are able to pick courses and proceed into the next semester normally. Generally, by the third week of the new semester the balance of tuition fees will be due. Students may also make tuition payments via their Banner account.
Campus Connections:
Where do I book a campus tour?
Student can stop by Campus Connections in C131 to book a tour or visit the Georgian homepage to book online.
On-campus Dining:
Can I use my meal plan at the First/Last Class?
Meal plans are not accepted at The First Class or The Last Class
Where is the Bun on the Run kitchen?
Bun on the Run is a takeout food facility located in E109 kitchen lab.
A rotation of menu items is prepared by Hospitality and Culinary students. Generally, 3 items can be purchased for under $10. It is open Monday to Friday from 11:30am – 1:00pm, cash sales only.
What about the Georgian Dining Room?
The Georgian Dining Room
Prepared and served by students.
Monday – Friday reservations are recommended and if seating is available we do welcome walk-ins. Please reserve your table by calling our Georgian Dining Room reservations line (705) 722-5142, or e-mail gdrevents@georgianc.on.ca
Located on first floor of E building.
How much is a meal plan?
Meal Plans
There are 2 meal plan options for students:
- Convenience Plan- They only require a minimum purchase of $25.00 and may be added to in increments of $20.00 at any time. Barrie Campus Convenience Plans may be purchased or added to online, but Orillia and Owen Sound Campus Convenience Plans must be purchased and added to in person. There are no transaction fees and they never expire.
- Barrie Campus Residence Meal Plans- Available at the Barrie Campus only and must be used in the semester they are purchased in order to realize the tax savings. (You do not pay taxes on the food that you purchase). This meal plan is starts at $650.00, but funds can be added to the plan as needed.
Additional questions? Contact us by emailing firstgen@georgianc.on.ca
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