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Career and Employment Advising

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Get career and employment advising support - available to all Conestoga students and international graduates. 

• Book a Career Advising Appointment Get advice on how to Understand, Plan, Show, Share and Apply your experiences to find employment. Visit the Student Success Portal for further details.
• Attend a Workshop / Event Look for upcoming learning and networking opportunities.
• Browse Help Resources Explore hundreds of templates, samples and tips to help you succeed in your employment journey. Use the filter features to topics, e.g. job search, resume, networking, etc.
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•   Student Portal

Career Resources for Conestoga Alumni

Conestoga's Talent Hub is a one-stop virtual and in-person support hub for Conestoga alumni at all stages of their career and employment journey.

A wide range of services and supports are available to assist alumni with:

• Resumes and cover letters
• Personal branding
• Interview preparation
• Graduate job search
• Employer programming and events

Visit https://www.conestogac.on.ca/talent-hub to access:

• Conestoga’s Job Board MyCareer
• VMock Smart Resume and Elevator Pitch platform
• Devant platform to help international students and alumni work and succeed

For more information visit the Talent Hub in person at our  Kitchener - Downtown campus or contact us at [email protected] .

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Career Development Professional

• Program Description
• Course List

Please note:

This is an eText program. Learn about our eText initiative .

To effectively participate in this program, students must have reliable Internet access and a device that meets these requirements .

About the program

Program information.

Course fees to complete this program total approximately *$4,000.00.

*This is the estimated amount for domestic students and may differ if students take equivalent courses. Fees are paid when registering for each individual course and are subject to change each term.

Admission requirements

• An Ontario College Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Degree or equivalent or a minimum of 5 (five) years of full-time work experience, within the past ten years, as an employment counsellor, career advisor, human resources professional or similar role AND
• Submission of a current resume AND
• Please use the following questions to complete the letter of application: Why are you interested in this program? Why are you a strong candidate for this program? What personal and/or life experience have impacted your decision to develop your skills and knowledge in the field of career development? What are your long-term career goals?

Note re: admission requirements

• Applicants possessing degrees/diplomas from institutions where the language of instruction was not English will be required to provide test scores as evidence of their English language proficiency. Test scores, if required, would be a minimum of TOEFL iBT 88 (effective January 2024 with no individual skill less than 22; IELTS 6.5 with no bands less than 6.0; CAEL 70 with no sub-test band scores less than 60; PTE Academic 58; Conestoga English Language Test (CELT) Band 6; Cambridge Exams 180 with no individual score less than 170; or equivalent scores in other recognized standard tests of English.
• We offer a language program for students whose English language skills are below the standard required for admission but who have met all other admission criteria. You will be eligible for admission to the Graduate Certificate program after completion of level 4 of the General Arts and Science - English Language Studies (ELS) program with an overall grade average of 80% and no grade less than 75%. Your placement in the ELS program is determined by scores on an in-house English language test or TOEFL or IELTS.

Admission procedures

• Submit a completed Conestoga College Program Application Form.
• Submit proof of Admission Requirements. Review Apply to a Program to learn how.
• Upload your letter of application and resume to your application form.
• Final selection is made following an assessment of the admission requirements.

Program requirements

• Students must be accepted into the program to be eligible for the Practicum Seminar and Practicum Project courses.

Graduate opportunities

Program outcomes.

• Complete research using various tools and methods in order to analyze trends and current Labour Market Information to be responsive to market changes.
• Apply self-reflective and critical thinking skills to enhance counselling, teaching, and learning strategies with groups and individuals that meet ethical principles.
• Apply evidence-based career development practices that incorporate a comprehensive set of tools, techniques, and strategies to support clients with diverse identities.
• Complete needs assessments with clients to select appropriate approaches for meeting their career and employment goals.
• Design strategies that incorporate local, national, global, social, economic and political trends to assist clients with career decision-making.
• Integrate appropriate technologies into the full spectrum of Career Development strategies to maximize service delivery to clients.
• Source relevant legislation and social policies to plan programs, interventions and referrals for clients.

Program related resources

• Student Program Handbook

Program contact

• [email protected]
• 519-748-5220 ext 3205

Mark your calendar with our registration dates, so you can plan your future.

The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.

Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.

Conestoga's Co-operative Education, Career and Work-Integrated Learning Portal

"We were so pleased with [our co-op student's] performance after her first term we asked her to return for a second term. She exceeded our expectations." Karen, Interior Designer, Affiliation Schlegel Villages Inc.

Co-op Programs

Co-op students are available from 66 co-op programs in a broad range of disciplines from degrees and diplomas to trades

WIL Placements

WIL Support Services provides service to students to participate in 5,300 Work-Integrated Learning placements annually

Community Clients served

The Conestoga Career Centre provides services for the general public in our community

Student Guide

2023/24 conestoga college, president's message.

Welcome to the 2023-24 academic year. Whether you're returning to Conestoga to resume your studies, or joining us for the first time, I hope that you will find your experience to be both positive and rewarding.

This promises to be a very exciting year for Conestoga. We continue to invest in campus renovation and expansion efforts that will provide new opportunities for students to access the career-focused education that leads to successful futures.

We're working with the City of Kitchener on a major expansion for Creative Industries education and training and look forward to opening our newest campus in Milton in January 2024.

Growth and change are important for institutions; they're important for individuals as well, as you strive to be the best that you can be and prepare for an exciting future.

During 2023-24, I encourage you to commit to personal achievement. Your ability to learn, to develop new skills, and to embrace new challenges will be the keys to your career and life success.

This guide provides important information regarding Conestoga policies and practices as well the services available to you as a student. If you have additional questions, please ask. College faculty, staff and administration are deeply interested in your success and happy to provide advice and assistance when you need it.

Your time at Conestoga is an important beginning, the first step in a lifelong journey that includes commitment to your chosen field, your community, and your ongoing education.

Thank you for choosing Conestoga. I hope you have an outstanding year.

John Tibbits, President

Student Life

​​shape your experience with student engagement, the student engagement department is here to help you transition to the conestoga college experience, connect with your community, and build your skills..

Start your college experience by completing Conestoga 101 (CON0101) on eConestoga , a mandatory course for all new full-time students that will take you approximately one hour to complete. CON0101 provides an overview of the supports, services, and opportunities available to you throughout your time at Conestoga. Make sure you complete it early on in the term, as it contains valuable information that will help you transition to Conestoga.

Find out more on the  Conestoga Student Engagement website  or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @ConestogaStudentEngagement.

Athletics and Recreation

Calling all Condors! An active and healthy lifestyle can play a key component in your success here at Conestoga. Whether you compete on a varsity team, have fun with your friends in an intramural league, or want to lift weights in the fitness centre, there is something in Athletics and Recreation for everyone.

Gamers… we're happy to share that Conestoga opened its first Esports Hub at the Waterloo Campus in the Fall of 2022. All Conestoga students can use the Hub free of charge. The Hub offers open play, leagues, and competitive teams.

Connect with us

Make sure you're following us for facility information, recreational opportunities, and to stay up to date on Condor Athletics!

Visit Our Website to find out more about our facilities, programming and teams.

Recreation Centre email for general inquiries: [email protected]

Instagram: @cc_condors @cc_condorsesports

Conestoga Students Inc. (CSI)

Conestoga Students Inc. (CSI) was established in 1973 and is the official student association of Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, representing the voice of over 24,000 students. CSI is governed by a student board of directors and provides Conestoga students with services, events, resources, and advocacy initiatives to improve and support the student experience. 

CSI Health Plans & Wellness Office

CSI offers two health plans for Domestic and International students to ensure they have access to healthcare coverage while studying.

CSI's Wellness Office (Located at Doon Campus) hosts a rotation of practitioners that gives students convenient and cost-effective treatment options right at campus.

Support Service Fees

Csi association fee.

The CSI Association Fee provides access to CSI services, resources, and advocacy initiatives involving the student experience - from college affairs through all levels of government. These include health and wellness supports, academic supports, career and leadership development opportunities, and the CSI Shuttle. This fee also supports improvements to student spaces and basic operating costs.

Additional Fees

CSI provides additional services to all CSI fee-paying students like events, clubs and frosh kits! You can choose to pay these fees at the time you pay your Conestoga College invoice. If you do so, you will receive all benefits associated with that service right at the beginning of the semester.

Connect with CSI:

You can find out more about CSI's services and events on their website, social media, and the CSI Mobile App.

On-Campus: Find your nearest CSI Service Hub

Phone: 519-748-5131

Onlin e: https://conestogastudents.com/

Download the CSI Mobile App by searching Conestoga Students Inc on the app store of your choice.

Follow us on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , and TikTok !

ONE Card (Student ID)

One card student photo.

Before you can be fully registered and access your timetable, you must upload a ONE Card student photo. Your ONE Card student photo completes your student record and confirms that you are a Conestoga College student.

After your ONE Card Student Photo has been uploaded and approved , this will be your ONE Card student photo going forward. You are not required to update or renew your photo.

Follow the ONE Card Student Photo Upload instructions and learn more about receiving and using your ONE Card.

WHAT IS A ONE CARD?

Your ONE Card is designed to keep your life simple by offering an all-in-one solution for identity validation during exams, accessing applicable on-campus services (library services, lab access), off-campus purchasing and discounts (no cash needed!), and using the Grand River Transit System (with purchase of a 4-month Term Pass).

For more information visit the ONE Card webpage .

CONNECT WITH ONE CARD

Follow ONE Card on Facebook (ConestogaOneCard) , Twitter(@CC_ONECard) , and Instagram (ConestogaOneCard) to stay up-to-date on contests, events, news, promotions, and more.

Your Services

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​be-dah-bin ga​mik.

Be-Dah-Bin Gamik, (Place of New Beginnings) provides services for Indigenous students , including those who are First Nations (status and non-status), Metis and Inuit. Our services ensure a smooth transition to college life by providing ongoing student support. The service includes social and cultural events and activities, traditional counselling services, and Elders-in-Residence programs and the Aboriginal Student Circle.

Visit us:

Kitchener - Doon campus, room 2A111 Waterloo campus, room 1F08

The Bookstore is here to help you get everything you need to start your learning. To find exactly what you need, generate your personal booklist. All required resources are available online only and can be shipped to your home free of charge. You can also select one of our many pick-up locations and get next day pick-up. Browse our online Bookstore to add some Conestoga branded merchandise to your collection while you're at it!

If the resources in your personal booklist say "included with course" you are in our growing eText program, meaning the cost of your resource has been included in your program fees. You can visit our website to learn more about the eText program including links to live support sessions, how to access and use your eTexts and the answers to many frequently asked questions. If you need immediate help, please email us at [email protected] , visit our Here to Help Guide or visit one of our campus locations . 

Conestoga College Residence & Conference Centre

The Conestoga College Residence & Conference Centre has three residence offerings located at the Kitchener, Waterloo, and Brantford campuses. All residences are within close proximity to their respective campuses. Any registered, full-time Conestoga college student can reside in residence.

To apply, please visit My Housing Portal , and select the residence you would like to stay at. The acceptance process is completely online through the Housing portal.

Kitchener Residence

The Kitchener Residence is within walking distance of Conestoga College's Kitchener - Doon and Cambridge – Fountain Street campuses. This residence offers students two suite style options – open concept, or two-bedroom suite. For information on pricing for the Kitchener Residence, please click Here .

Telephone: 519-895-2272

Waterloo Residence

The Waterloo Residence is within walking distance of Conestoga College's Waterloo campus and a short drive to the Downtown Kitchener campus. This residence offers apartment-style living, with two bedroom styles – single, or shared. For more information on pricing for the Waterloo Residence, please click Here . 

Brantford Residence

The Brantford Residence is located within the core of Downtown Brantford, and is steps away from Conestoga's Brantford campus. This residence offers apartment-style living for students, with all suites including a full kitchen. Stay tuned for more information regarding this residence coming soon.

​​​​​​Student Success Advisors are here to help you!

No matter your campus, school, or program at Conestoga, there is a Student Success Advisor (SSA) available to support you. When you don't know where to start, are experiencing challenges that affect your learning experience, or need help succeeding in your program, your SSA is there.

Who is your Student Success Advisor? Use our SSA SEARCH TOOL . Once you identify your SSA, you may book an appointment with them.

Aren't sure where to start? Complete the Ask For Help Form , and a Student Success Advisor will connect with you.

Put your strengths to work and develop new skills to meet program expectations. Our team of tutors, consultants and advisors are here to help you be successful.

Access academic accommodations through Accessible Learning for help with:

• Assistive Technology
• Extra time on tests or exams
• Classroom supports

Improve your understanding of course materials:

• Math and accounting help
• Peer tutoring available in 300+ courses
• Learn study strategies, time management, effective note-taking and exam preparation

Health and Wellness Services

Student Health & Wellness provides a range of health and well-being services to fit your needs, including counselling , medical care , peer support , mental health support , and health promotion. Our goal is to support student development, academic success and foster a healthy campus.

For more information on our health and wellness services, visit the Student Success Services website .

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Prevention & Response

The Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Prevention & Response office provides help based on your individual needs. If you have experienced or witnessed sexual or gender-based violence we are here to support you. Your rights are recognized and supported at Conestoga College, including the right to be safe.

There is no timeframe for when an incident occurred for someone to access support, and you do not need to disclose what happened to get help.

The Conestoga College CARE Team helps to ensure that the students that are most in need of elevated levels of support are identified early. We aim to provide students with the appropriate opportunities and interventions to aid them in achieving their academic and personal goals, while supporting a safe and welcoming learning environment for all community members.

As a member of the Conestoga community, you can share concerns for students by using the Public CARE Referral Form . Only members of the CARE Team review the information you provide. If you have concerns about confidentiality, please write your concern in the referral form.

More information about the CARE team can be found here: https://successportal.conestogac.on.ca/s/careteam

Career & Employment Advising

Be future-ready.

Conestoga College's Career & Employment Advising team can help students prepare for successful employment during and after college. Advisors can help you explore your career options and identify opportunities to leverage your skills and experiences to achieve your career goals.

Conestoga students at any campus have access to appointments with a career advisor. Students can book an appointment and access career resources online through the Student Success Portal . For all other inquiries, please contact us.

Visit the MyCareer Portal to search hundreds of job postings and register for employer events and job and career fairs.

Co-operative Education

Located in one of Canada's fastest-growing economic centres, Conestoga College offers over 80 co-op programs in a broad range of disciplines and credentials from degrees to diplomas.

Co-operative Education integrates academic studies with program-related experience in the workplace. This results in better-trained workers who are familiar with their professional expectations and have the skills needed to contribute to an organization right from the start. All of Conestoga's degree programs, plus dozens of diploma programs and graduate certificates, offer a co-op component.

Please note:

The College cannot guarantee co-op employment. All co-op students are required to conduct an independent co-op job search in addition to the supports and services provided by the Department of Co-op Education. Meeting the requirements of the "Co-operative Education designation" on your diploma or to meet the requirements of your degree require prior approval by the co-op department before you start your work term. Without prior approval the work may not be credited towards the Co-op credit and risk the employer eligibility for receiving the co-op tax credit.

Students are responsible for their own transportation and associated costs in order to complete work term requirements. Work locations may not always be readily accessible by public transportation.

International students will require a co-op work permit and a Social Insurance Number to be eligible to work in Canada. For more information, please contact the International Education Office .

For more information we invite you to contact the Co-op Advisor for your program.

International Support Services

The International Student Support Services team provides specialized support that caters to the unique needs of international students as they adjust to Canada and life at Conestoga College. Our specialized International Transition Coordinators (ITCs) and International Student Immigration Advisors (ISIAs) offer information, resources, tips and referrals on a wide variety of topics.

For more information, please visit the International website .

Conestoga Equity Resources - Serving our Diverse Community

We acknowledge our diverse student population and the different barriers or needs they may experience. Many of our services offer different resources to enhance the student experience and support equity on campus. We have combined a list of Conestoga's Equity Resources and encourage you to access them.

Library Services

Library services and resources are available online for all Conestoga students. By visiting

the Library's website , you can access an excellent and extensive collection including eBooks, streamed videos, articles and online help.

We offer in-person and virtual research help , bookable group study rooms , and a variety of spaces that promote student learning.

Additional supports provided by Library Services include:

• Academic Integrity
• Writing Services  
• Copyright  

For Library service hours and additional information, visit our Contact Us page, email [email protected] , or try our virtual chat/text service, askON .

Registrar's Office (Welcome Centre)

For information and to receive direction on where to email your inquiry you can call: 519-748- 5220, ext. 3656

Please connect with our team through the emails below:

OSAP, Student Financial Services:

OSAP and general questions:  [email protected] Scholarship, Award and Bursary questions: [email protected] Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Student Financial Services

Financial planning is an integral part of your post-secondary studies. Student Financial Services can help guide you through options to finance your post-secondary education.

Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)

The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a financial aid program that can help eligible students pay for college. OSAP offers funding through:

• grants : money you don't have to pay back
• a student loan : money you need to repay once you're done school

Assistance is based on financial need as determined by the federal and provincial governments through an assessment of your OSAP application. OSAP applications should be submitted as early as possible.

Canada Apprentice Loans

The Canada Apprentice Loan provides eligible apprentices registered in Red Seal trades with interest-free loans to assist with the cost of technical training. Apprentices may receive up to $4,000 per period of technical training. Applications should be submitted as early as possible.

Conestoga College Awards, Bursaries, and Scholarships

Conestoga distributes over $3.6 million annually to students as:

• awards: based on a combination of criteria which may include merit, community involvement, or financial need.
• bursaries: based on financial need and may include other criteria for selection such as a specific program, gender or heritage.
• scholarships : based on academic performance.

To be considered for many of these students must submit the General Awards Application each term. How to apply for awards, scholarships, and bursaries:

• Log in to the Student Portal
• Select the Services tab
• Select My Forms
• Select the General Awards Application
• Complete the information in each tab
• Review your application and submit

More information can be found in the Awards Frequently Asked Questions .

Conestoga College Work Study Program

The Conestoga College work study program provides on-campus, program-related employment to current students. Work study positions allow students the opportunity to help meet the costs of attending college, while providing a valuable work experience with flexible scheduling that work around class times.

How to apply for work study opportunities:

• Click on Career in the left menu bar
• Click Job Postings
• Click Search Job Posting
• Under the Job Posting Information box select On Campus (Work Study Program Only)
• Once you have found a position you are interested in, apply according to the posting instructions  

Academic Achievement Awards

The college recognizes exceptional academic achievement by its students both during their studies and upon graduation. There are four categories of academic recognition upon graduation: President's Honour List, Graduation with High Distinction, Graduation with Distinction, and Conestoga Honour List.

Please refer to the Academic Awards webpage for more information.

IT Services

Use your Condor-ID to login to many of the College Digital Services – such as Email, Lab & Open Access computers, on-campus Wi-Fi, Student Portal, eConestoga, software downloads, select a Locker, and more.

To find the format of your Condor-ID and the default password, learn about accessing your college email or connecting to Wi-Fi on campus, go to https://it.conestogac.on.ca/support .

If you are taking an OntarioLearn course, please refer to this link: OntarioLearn | Continuing Education | Conestoga College  

Printing on Campus

At the beginning of every semester, students receive a $40 non-refundable print balance. You can print in any Computer Lab, Open Access Lab or Hallway kiosk available throughout the College. Check out the Printing Support page for more information.

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Support Services

Many students enroll in programs that have a work-integrated learning (WIL) component that allows students to gain hands-on experience while applying classroom learning in a workplace or practice setting. WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING SUPPORT SERVICES provides support to students, faculty and partner sites to prepare for and participate in work-integrated learning opportunities (excluding co-op work terms). Your Program Coordinator and/or Placement Officer will provide specific details throughout your program regarding your program's WIL opportunities.

Please visit the Pre-Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) FAQs for more information.

For more information related to your WIL health and safety requirements we invite you to drop in or call 519-748-5220, ext. 3101

Doon (Kitchener) Campus: visit, Room 3F13A

Student Rights and Responsibilities

The Student Rights and Responsibilities Office (SRRO) supports students and employees to understand policy, as well as review options and bring about resolution regarding:

Disruptive Behaviour

• Behaviour that restricts and/or prohibits the ability of faculty to teach, students to learn, or negatively affects the learning or working environment.
• Inappropriate online engagement as per Student Expectations for Online Engagement
• Bullying, Harassment, and Discrimination, as defined in the Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Policy.  

Conflict Management

• Disputes with another person(s) related to the college.
• Suggestions to enhance accessibility and inclusion so everyone can participate fully at Conestoga.
• Concerns regarding fairness, consistency, or application of college policy and practice.

Before engaging with the SRRO, we encourage you to seek informal resolution of your concern or dispute by initiating dialogue with those involved, seeking guidance from others you trust, and documenting your communications. See Finding Resolutions for more resources.

Connect with us:

Email: [email protected]

Website: Student Rights and Responsibilities | Conestoga College

Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. We are working remotely. We can meet in-person and outside of these hours based on availability.

After You Graduate

Alumni relations.

Twitter  @ConestogaAlumni   Facebook  @ConestogaCollegeAlumni LinkedIn  @Conestoga College Students & Alumni web:   https://www.conestogac.on.ca/alumni/ email:   [email protected]

Community Career Centre - Services for Job Seekers & Graduates

The Community Career Centre at Conestoga provides personalized support for eligible individuals who are not in school and not employed. Career exploration and job search services and resources are available at no cost to the job seeker or graduate. We can help you meet your job goals.

On-campus services are available in Kitchener, Stratford and Waterloo, with itinerant services in Elmira, New Hamburg, Wellesley, and throughout Perth and Huron Counties. Contact the Career Centre to see if you are eligible for an appointment at a location convenient to you. 

Find us on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn

College/Campus Practices

Conestoga hours of operation.

Regular hours of operation at all Conestoga campuses are from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Monday to Sunday. Hours of operation are subject to change without notice.

Campus closures and statutory holidays are listed as part of Conestoga's academic dates . Please note that all closures denote no entry or access permitted to students, staff, and general public, for the duration of the day. For information regarding campus closures or access to facilities outside regular hours of operation please contact Security Services at ext. 3357.

College/Campus Closure Practice

As a public institution, Conestoga attempts to remain officially open at all scheduled times. In the event of cancellations resulting from inclement weather or emergency situations, an announcement will be posted the day of, on the home page of the Conestoga website, as follows:

• Classes commencing prior to 5:59 pm – by 6:15 am
• Classes commencing from 6:00 pm onwards – by 4 pm
• Emergency Situations – as needed . 

Closure information will also be broadcast through Conestoga's official social media channels, including Facebook and Twitter (@ConestogaC), and posted to College Service Updates . Local radio and television stations will also be advised of campus closures resulting from inclement weather or emergency situations.

If a campus is closed:

All in-person classes and activities will be cancelled at that site. 

• Previously scheduled/timetabled online classes may continue at the discretion of the online instructor.

Scheduled In-Person Examinations and Severe Weather Conditions

If the College is closed due to extreme weather, all in-person assessments to be administered during a regularly scheduled class will be postponed until the next class. Previously scheduled/timetabled online classes may continue at the discretion of the instructor.  

If the College has to be closed in an examination week, all in-person exams will be rescheduled to the end of the exam schedule (Saturday or the next Monday).

Students who cannot travel to the College due to extreme weather (e.g., travel advisories or road closures) in their local area are responsible for notifying their faculty of their inability to write on the day of the assessment. The notice must be provided by email or telephone prior to the time of the scheduled assessment. Students who fail to provide this notice will receive a grade of zero. Students must make arrangements to write the assessment immediately upon their return to the College.

Notice of College closure will be posted on our website by 6:15 am the day of. Notice of cancellation of evening classes, will be posted on the website by 4 pm the day of (see College/Campus Closure Practice for more information).

The safety of our College community is a top priority. Conestoga services a large area and it is recognized that conditions can vary widely within the region. Always exercise your best judgement with respect to travelling during extreme weather, based on your individual circumstances. Public transportation, where appropriate, may be the safest option.

Smoke-Free Environment

Smoking is not allowed in any Conestoga building. Help keep the environment clean by using the waste receptacles when you smoke outdoors. To provide unobstructed entry to the college for visitors and non-smoking employees and students, all campus entrances have been designated smoke-free.

Use of Food and Beverages in Classrooms and Labs

It is the responsibility of senior management to ensure that the academic environment is clean and conducive to learning. The following policy statements will be adhered to regarding the use of food and beverages in classrooms and labs:

• There is no food permitted in any classroom or lab. Beverages are permitted in unbreakable, re-sealable containers. Please note that in computer labs, containers should be placed away from the keyboard to prevent unnecessary damage.
• Beverages (including water) are not permitted in health sciences skill labs. For health and safety reasons, instructions will be established by faculty and management within designated shop areas, such as Electrical, Metal Machining, and Woodworking.

It is the responsibility of instructional staff and management to ensure that the policy is adhered to by students. 

For information about locker rental at your campus, please visit our Locker Webpage.

Contact [email protected] with your questions.

Parking and Transportation

For details about parking and transportation at a Conestoga College campus, visit Parking Services on the Conestoga website or contact [email protected] .

Safety and Security Services

Campus safety and security.

We are here to help!

Our emphasis is to provide an environment that is equal for all and encourages personal growth and academic success within a Safe and Healthy campus.

For general inquiries, contact Security Services at: [email protected] or 519-748- 5220 Ext. 3357

For more information on security services and procedures, please visit the Security Services webpage.

Mobile Safety App

The Mobile Safety App provides access to emergency contacts, safety toolbox, campus maps, support resources, request walk-safe, report sexual assault, push notification, and campus news feed. Download from the App store for free.

Anti-Violence

Any form of violence is not tolerated at Conestoga. Any incident of violence must be reported immediately to Campus Safety.

Minors on Campus

Your student record and fees, general information.

The term "student record" refers to the collection of data dealing with an individual who is associated with a program or course of study at the college.

Most of the data is categorized as academic, personal and/or financial and is maintained by the Registrar's Office. The Official College Record for each student is a permanent record consisting minimally of the student's name, student number, personal data, achievement, and academic decisions and should be maintained for a minimum of 55 years.

Important terms, definitions and processes are detailed on the Office of the Registrars webpage , including:

• Admission Information
• Student Records Information
• Completion of Forms/Requests for a Letter
• Course Audit
• Course Changes (Course Add/Drop)
• Credit Transfer
• Part-time Studies (Day Courses)

Program Suspension and Cancellation

Conestoga reserves the right to cancel, at any time, a program, course, a program major or option, change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered, or change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons, or withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registration, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event Conestoga exercises such a right, the college's sole liability will be the return of monies paid to the college by the applicant or student.

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Conestoga requires a fair and consistent approach to evaluating and documenting the academic achievements of students. Different grading systems exist and reflect the different philosophies and practices both within Conestoga as well as those standards that we are required to implement (e.g., Apprenticeship Branch, Postsecondary Education Quality Assessment Board).

To view the full Grading Policy and Procedure please go to Conestoga Grading Procedures .

For additional information, visit the Office of the Registrar's webpage .

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Tuition and Fees for full-time programs are found on the individual program pages. Search  Full-time programs for information about program's tuition and fees. 

For information on other college fees, refunds, withdrawals and tax receipts. Visit the Office of Registrar's "Paying your Fees" page . 

Academic Dates 2023-2024 

Important dates specific to your program can be found on the website .

Online and Part-time Studies (Continuing Education)

Whether you want to build on your existing skills for your current career or gain new ones for a career change, our flexible delivery options make it possible for you to achieve your educational goals. With in-person, online and hybrid courses offered in a wide variety of interest areas, you can take a single course or work towards an academic credential. The choice is yours.

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Information regarding the programs and courses available and how to register is available on the Continuing Education website .

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Please refer to the Continuing Education website for detailed information on fees, refunds and withdrawals.

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If a student has met all of the requirements for completion of a part-time program, the "Application to Graduate" form must be completed and submitted to the Registrar's Office. Forms are available at Student Forms . Applicable fee will apply.

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OntarioLearn is a consortium of Ontario Colleges whose mandate is the shared development and delivery of courses online using various learning management systems/platforms. Due to curriculum sharing, OntarioLearn courses at Conestoga College are not eligible for PLAR.

The passing grade for an OntarioLearn course not hosted by Conestoga will be determined by the respective host college.

All grades are recorded as per Conestoga's grading policy.

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Students are advised to review and comply with all policies and procedures which can be found on the Conestoga Policies and Procedures webpage .

Students must follow all the policies and procedures for Conestoga College, and it is expected that faculty and employees will accept, fulfil and enforce these standards.

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The names Conestoga College, Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, the former name Conestoga College of Applied Arts and Technology, and any other name or logo(s) employed by the college are the exclusive property of the college and may not be used without first obtaining authorized permission.

References and Recommendations

There may be occasions when students approach Conestoga College faculty, staff, and administrators to request a reference letter or recommendation. These could be for the purpose of gaining employment, applying to other post-secondary institutions for additional education, applying for scholarships, bursaries, and awards, or for other unspecified reasons.

To comply with privacy laws, students must provide written consent prior to any faculty, staff or administrator acting as a referee. Students have the right to inspect and review reference letters unless they waive their right in writing. If a student waives the right to inspect and review a copy of any written references, the referee can send the reference letter directly to the employer, educational institution, or organization. This may be required in certain circumstances if a letter is to be provided. For example, a requesting institution may require reference letters be sent directly from the referee to the institution in a sealed and signed envelope. If the student does not waive the right to review, this fact may be noted in the reference letter. Please note that faculty, staff, and administrators always have the right to not provide a reference or recommendation in any scenario. This is especially the case if the reference or recommendation is outside of their scope of practice. 

Program Handbooks may contain additional school-specific guidelines related to reference letters and recommendations.

• This is a companion document to the current Conestoga College Student Guide. © Conestoga College. All rights reserved.

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Make an appointment to meet with our team of tutors, consultants and advisors who can build your confidence in course materials. Or use our online self-referral form  to get help from your Student Success Advisor if you think you need some extra support getting organized, improving your study skills, or figuring out where to start.

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Conestoga students can log in to the Learning and Study Skills section of the Student Success Portal for lots of tips and tools to get you organized and support your learning. You can also visit the Student Success Portal to register for upcoming workshops to support your success at Conestoga.

Tutoring and Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) primarily provide support for first-year courses in diploma and degree programs.

• Book a virtual appointment for first-year business MATH and ACCT course help with a peer tutor or view upcoming PAL sessions (log-in required).

Math consultants provide math help to full-time Conestoga students in courses with course codes beginning with "MATH" or "STAT".

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For help navigating the booking process, watch our appointment booking video . If you have any other questions, please email [email protected] .

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Conestoga offers appointments for help in all stages of the writing process and can help you understand proper citations to avoid plagiarism issues. You can learn more about the following services and book support appointments on the Student Success Portal (log-in required).

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Conestoga College respects, appreciates and encourages diversity. We offer an inclusive work environment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. If requested, accommodations will be made to support applicants with disabilities during the recruitment and selection process.

To apply for a position, please click on the requisition number.

For additional information, please read our Applicant FAQ .

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Faculty may be scheduled to teach anytime Monday to Sunday between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Conestoga College is committed to diversity and inclusion. Conestoga focuses on providing active, career-focused and engaging learning opportunities. The college strives to incorporate technology into each educational opportunity.

All new faculty are required to participate in the mandatory orientation provided by the college and the College Educator Development Program.

Learn more about Teaching at Conestoga College .

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College service updates, waterloo campus construction: november 13, 2023, to december 31, 2024.

Construction is scheduled for the Waterloo campus at 108 University Ave. East, from Monday, November 13, 2023, to Tuesday, December 31, 2024. During this time, Waterloo Main Building Level 1 of the D- and E-Wings, part of the Level 1 B-Wing, the west parking lot, the north laneway and the former Sonny’s property will be closed.

Kitchener - Doon campus closed: May 18 and May 19, 2024

All Kitchener - Doon campus buildings will be closed to students, employees and the community on Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19, 2024. Emergency backup power will remain operational during this time.

Kitchener - Doon campus Welcome Centre washroom closed: April 12 to August 30, 2024

The second-floor washrooms of the Kitchener - Doon campus Welcome Centre will be closed from Friday, April 12, to Friday, August 30, 2024, for renovations. Ground floor washrooms will remain operational during this time.

Cambridge - Reuter Drive (Skilled Trades) campus central parking lot closed: April 22 to September 3, 2024

The central parking lot at the Cambridge - Reuter Drive (Skilled Trades) campus will be closed from Monday, April 22, to Monday, September 2, 2024. The east parking lot will remain open, and a pedestrian walkway will be available. Accessible parking will be available in the west parking lot.

Guelph campus front parking lot closed: May 8 to 13, 2024

The front parking lot at the Guelph campus will be closed from Wednesday, May 8, to Monday, May 13, 2024, to remove the pylon sign in front of the building. Accessible parking will be available between doors 7 and 8.

Conestoga College under fire by students, union leaders for aggressive international student recruitment

School has raised questions about the sustainability of growth and the motivation behind it.

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The smell of South Asian spices wafts from the "Blends and Curries" food counter.

Conversations in Hindi and Gujurati flood the bustling hallways, which quickly get packed as students pour in and out of classes.

Cliques of Indian youth, who appear to make up a majority of the student population, take full advantage of common areas to study, lounge around or wait for class to begin.

Everywhere you look at the main campus of Conestoga College in Kitchener, Ont., there's ample proof of an explosion of international students.

The school has become a poster child for aggressive international student recruitment. Its efforts have brought in a flood of new money — a stark contrast to the financial pressures students themselves face — but also raised questions within the institution about the sustainability of that growth and the motivations behind it.

And as the federal government seeks to stem international student flows with a two-year cap on study permits, even the immigration minister has singled the college out.

The southwestern Ontario college had 37,000 study permits approved and extended in 2023 — the most in Canada —which marks a 31 per cent increase from the previous year.

Its student population has more than doubled in four years to about 45,000, and international students now vastly outnumber domestic ones.

The main campus alone is now home to more than 20,000 students. Some faculty and students believe things have gone too far.

"No organization can grow at that pace, and do it right, that quickly," said Leopold Koff, a union leader representing faculty, counsellors and librarians at Conestoga College.

Faculty members have turned into nomads with no fixed desks, a change the union says was prompted by the college's desire to build more classrooms to accommodate a larger student population.

The college says the change reflects a post-pandemic hybrid working model.

At the student union office, more than a hundred students come in and out within an hour to grab a free snack — one of many programs Conestoga Students Inc. offers to help a growing number of food-insecure students.

Instructors say students lack fundamental skills

Instructors are complaining that many students lack fundamental skills, which in turn makes their jobs more difficult, said Koff.

"They don't have the basic three Rs: reading, writing, arithmetic," he said. Making matters worse, Koff said students are often too busy working at jobs to focus on their studies.

He singled out Ottawa's decision during the pandemic to temporarily allow international students to work more than 20 hours a week.

"That is opening up a huge catastrophe for the students," he said. "They will take advantage of that ... They need the money."

Vikki Poirier, another union leader who represents support staff, said the college has hired more people to keep up with the school's growth.

• Conestoga College aware of lawsuit, wants to continue to foster positive learning environment

But she said new hires need time to get up to speed, and in the meantime, staff are facing massive workloads as they process more students.

Both union leaders said they have raised concerns with the school's administration, but they don't feel heard.

"Our perception of administration of the college these days ... is that it's a river of money. And if you get in the way of that river of money, you're going to be plowed over," Koff said.

College had $106M surplus

Conestoga College's finances have been generously padded by international student tuition fees, which can sometimes be three times more than those for Canadian students.

Financial statements show the public college had a $106-million surplus for the 2022-23 year. That's up from just $2.5 million in 2014-2015.

Conestoga College declined a request to interview its administration. In a statement, the college defended its recruitment levels.

"Colleges and universities across the country have been welcoming international students as part of their financial viability strategy given the flatlining of public funding in recent years," the statement said.

"Students who come to Conestoga from other countries have enabled us to reinvest our surplus in new buildings and in-demand programs, both of which drive economic growth. Domestic and international students now enjoy best-in-class facilities funded by the surplus."

Conestoga also touted the contribution its students make to the regional economy and the role they play in filling labour shortages. It also defended its admissions standards, noting its requirements are "similar to, or higher, than other colleges."

LISTEN |  Conestoga College president John Tibbits defends school's international student numbers:

Some international students struggle to make ends meet

The individual stories of international students at Conestoga College suggest many of them are experiencing hardship, at the same time as the college amasses a fortune.

While some students are lucky enough that their parents can afford to pay for their tuition and living expenses, others must take out loans and rely on employment to pay their bills.

Bijith Powathu and Fredin Benny both took out educational loans in India to pay for their first-year tuition. Now, they're working full-time jobs at a factory and warehouse, respectively, to pay for their second-year fees.

The young men said balancing work and school means sleep often goes to the wayside. When Powathu is scheduled for a night shift at his factory job in Mount Forest, Ont., he drives 85 kilometres directly to class in the morning.

"Straight from work I have to come here to manage. Sometimes sleepless nights," Powathu said. Many Indian students describe how challenging it is to find work back home, where youth unemployment is sky-high.

According to the Centre for Indian Economy, the unemployment rate for youth aged 20 to 24 in India was 44 per cent between October and December 2023.

But jobs are becoming harder to find for young people in Canada, too.

Nelson Chukwuma, president of Conestoga Students Inc., said that's top of mind for students right now.

"Our students are having a hard time finding jobs," he said. Some Conestoga scholars attribute the scarcity to the increase of students in the region.

"A couple years ago, the condition was different. But now it is entirely changed. Mainly the job market," Powathu said, describing the plight of his unemployed peers.

"So based on that, they just want to go back [home]."

Several students described handing out resumes on a consistent basis since arriving to Canada last September, with no success.

They said there's significant guilt in relying on their parents for support. Chukwuma used to be an international student himself, and he has watched the campus change over time and that change has been dramatic over the past five years amid unprecedented growth.

• Conestoga College will need to cut international student intake by more than half this September

"We don't think it's sustainable," he said. Although his organization has financially benefited from the higher enrolments, Chukwuma said it is constantly playing catch-up when it comes to meeting students' needs.

"I think the college needs to definitely re-evaluate their strategy because [of] the flack that we've gotten, not just from the professors [and] staff, but also just from the community," Chukwuma said.

He noted that local governments didn't have the housing and transit infrastructure to accommodate the influx. Conestoga said it invested in eight new properties last year to address housing needs.

Many at the college also lay blame at the feet of long-term provincial underfunding coupled with few federal limits on the international student population.

For decades, a cost-of-living financial requirement tied to student permits sat at $10,000 — an amount that significantly underestimates how much money students spend on basic housing and food.

As part of a broader effort to rein in the number of temporary residents in Canada — a political liability for the Liberal government because of its impact on housing affordability — Immigration Minister Marc Miller has more than doubled the amount to $20,635.

Miller also announced that work permits for international students' spouses would only be available for those in master's or doctoral programs.

Number of study permits cut

Also in January, Miller announced that Canada would impose a two-year cap on study permits, reducing the number of new study visas by 35 per cent.

At Conestoga College, this will mean a massive reduction. The Ontario government has allocated the public college just 15,000 permits out of its national share — less than half of what was approved the previous year.

Another federal rule change could have a significant impact on those who are working full time. Miller announced on Monday that the temporary waiver to the limit on work hours would expire as scheduled on Tuesday.

In the fall, the federal government plans to implement a new cap of 24 hours a week.

"To be clear, the purpose of the international student program is to study and not to work," Miller said.

• Conestoga College president John Tibbits defends school's intake of international students

The immigration minister said the new cap reflects the fact that the overwhelming majority of international students work more than 20 hours a week.

At the same time, it keeps students from prioritizing work over school, he said.

"We know from studies as well that when you start working in and around 30-hour levels, there is a material impact on the quality of your studies," Miller said.

For international students such as Powathu and Benny, it's going to mean working about 16 hours less every week — a significant financial impact.

Prior to the announcement, Powathu and Benny both said a return to 20 hours would be untenable. Asked if they'd survive, both said: "No."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Reporter/Producer

Nojoud Al Mallees covers economics for The Canadian Press. She's based in Ottawa.

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International students: IRCC announcement updates

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