Get Ready for Your Winter 2021 Term

The winter 2021 term is fast approaching. Whether you end up studying remotely or on campus for some in-person classes, we are here for you. Below you will find some action items and information to get you ready for the term.

In this communication:

• Revised important dates
• Checklist of action items
• Details about finances and special funding
• What to know about coming to campus
• Learn about online resources available to you
• Information about how to access your online courses

Reminder: The University will be closed for the holidays, December 24-January 3 inclusively, so plan accordingly if you need to get in touch.

Revised Academic Dates

With the start of classes delayed to January 11, the majority of important dates and deadlines for the winter term were revised. A few key dates to know now:

• Jan 11 - Classes begin
• Feb 13-22 - Reading week (no change)
• Mar 15-16 - Scheduled pauses
• April 14 - Classes end (Friday schedule)
• April 15-16 - Pre-exam study days
• April 17-26 - Final Exam Period

View all Winter dates.

Getting Ready Checklist

To do now

• Order your textbooks online now to ensure timely delivery.
  • Use W Store's MyBookLook to view your course list of textbooks and materials.
  • W Store ships anywhere in Canada and internationally.
  • Delivery times will vary by country and customs rules - see shipping rates for details.
• Update your address and phone number in Quest to allow the University to support your academics and to deliver the most optimal course options.
• View your winter 2021 bill on Quest on November 30.
  • Complete your payment in full or your Promissory Note on Quest by December 15.
• Don't get locked out of your University accounts. Log in to WatIAM to enter an external password recovery email address.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) is required to access many online systems. Enrol today.

To do before classes start

• Finalize and confirm your class schedule on Quest. You now have until January 22 to add or swap classes.
• Did you make changes to your schedule? Review your tuition and fee bill to see if they had any impacts on your bill.

Finances and Special Funding

Incidental fees

University leadership and the graduate and undergraduate student associations have approved the incidental fees that will be charged for winter 2021.

• Deadline to opt out of optional and voluntary fees is December 15.
• International students who will not be in Canada for the winter term can opt out of UHIP coverage on Quest between November 30 to December 15.

As agreed with WUSA and GSA, we are charging the athletics and recreation fee for the term. Recognizing the important roles that recreation and physical activity play in supporting your mental and physical wellbeing, we have made athletics facilities open to students since September. We have seen considerable use of the facilities, and will continue to operate following public health guidelines.

Special funding available: Academic Readiness Bursary

If you applied to OSAP for the winter term, you might be eligible for up to $500 via the Academic Readiness Bursary. Review the undergraduate student funding and fee information web page for details about what this bursary covers, determine if you are eligible, and how you can apply. Application deadline: January 31.

If You Need to Come to Campus

• If you are coming to campus for the first time since the pandemic started, watch the Welcome Back Waterloo safety video and read this guide to learn more about what to expect. Visit the COVID-19 website for the latest safety updates.
• Stay informed about what services are physically open and available to you and which are offering modified services - these may be updated through out the term.

Online Resources

• Explore online learning resources to help you navigate studying and learning in an online environment.
• Learn about the Student IT Services available to you, how to use them, tips for remote learning, and how to get IT help/support.
• Bookmark the library home page for quick access to search the Omni catalogue, or use a research guide to find information to assist in your studies.
• Reconnect with your librarian for assistance using the Library or use the Ask us chat service.

Explore More Resources.

Accessing Your Online Classes

Registered for an online courses?

• Reliable internet access will be required.
• Tools such as a webcam may be used in your course.
• LEARN (the web-based learning management system):
  • If your instructor is using LEARN:
    • Before classes start, check your technology to ensure you can successfully participate in online classes - see LEARN's system, software, and internet requirements.
    • Find technical support on the LEARN help website or send an email to learnhelp@uwaterloo.ca.
    • On January 11, log in to LEARN to see what courses will be using this platform.
  • If instructors are using other platforms, you can expect:
    • An email from your instructor, no later than Wednesday, January 13, to your @uwaterloo.ca email address.
    • After January 13, if you still haven't heard from your instructor, reach out to them via email.