FAQs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- International Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Us
Recruitment Office
Room 102
A. E. McKenzie Building
270 - 18th Street
Brandon, Manitoba
R7A 6A9
Phone: (204) 727-9649
Fax: (204) 725-2143
email: letain@brandonu.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
General
How many students attend Brandon University?
Currently, there are approximately 3000 students enrolled at Brandon University.
If I decide to live off campus, is there public transportation that will get me to the University?
Yes. Brandon University has an agreement with the City of Brandon of a $15 fee, which is included in your student fees, for a U-Pass. This allows all BU students full city bus service from September to August annually. Just show your Student ID card when you board the bus.
What is the average size of first year classes?
On average , class sizes in the first year vary from 50 to 200 students. One of BU’s strengths is that 60% of our classes have fewer than 20 students and only 1.5% of classes have more than 100 students. (Larger classes typically occur in first-year courses.)
Is there an Orientation session for new students to learn the ropes?
Yes. Orientation is an annual event that takes place before first-term classes begin. It is designed both for new students and for students who have put their studies on hold and are now returning. The orientation agenda will be available on the web and a brochure will be mailed to newly admitted students during the summer months.
What is a pre-professional program?
Pre-professional programs are simply a set of selected Arts and Science courses that will enable students to qualify for entry into a professional program, for example, medicine, social work, journalism, or dentistry. The courses you will take and the length of time you spend at Brandon University will vary, depending on the professional program you are planning to enter.
Students are encouraged to consult an academic advisor before course registration. Most professional program requirements referenced by Brandon University are for programs offered by the University of Manitoba. Programs at other universities may have different requirements.
Do I need to bring a computer to BU?
BU students receive a user ID that enables them to access the network at one of over 200 computer terminals located throughout the campus. The computers are available at no cost, with unlimited access to the Internet and the latest processing programs to complete your assignments. The Library also has additional computers dedicated to searching for journal articles and other resources for student projects.
How do I get a parking space?
Contact the Residence Office and request an application for parking. Students are encouraged to apply early.
Is it true that BU has a high drop out rate because there is no minimum average for admission?
No. While admission to Brandon University does not require a minimum high school average, Manitoba students must have a high school diploma to gain acceptance directly following high school. In our experience, there can be many reasons why a student’s high school performance may not be reflective of his or her true potential. We feel that all students should have the opportunity to attend a post-secondary institution if this will assist them in attaining their goals in life. Brandon University’s graduation standards are as high or higher than any university in the country.
Given its small size, is Brandon University still a quality university?
We think Brandon University is a high quality university, in part because it is a smaller institution.Like all universities, Brandon University is a fully recognized degree granting institution. We take a great deal of pride in keeping class sizes small so that students have the maximum opportunity to interact with their professors and lab instructors.
In my recruiting travels over the past five years, I have noticed a striking increase in the number of students expressing a desire to attend a smaller university. Students want to get the most out of their education dollar. This means having access to professors and needed services, not spending hours in endless line-ups. Most of all, it means being treated as an individual.
I plan to attend BU first then transfer to a professional program at the University of Manitoba. Will the University of Manitoba consider my Brandon University marks?
You would be eligible to transfer from Brandon University to the University of Manitoba into a professional program. I recommend that you seek the advice of an academic advisor and check the required prerequisite courses in the current Brandon University calendar.
Does the University of Manitoba take U of M students over BU students for acceptance into professional programs?
No. The selection process for professional programs at the University of Manitoba is based on one or more of the following: grade point average, interview score, and entrance exam. Selection is not based on which Manitoba university you attended.
I plan on walking to class or taking a bus during the winter months. What are the bus connections like in the city?
There are two bus connections that link to the campus every half hour. Brandon University has an agreement with the City of Brandon of a $15 fee, which is included in your student fees, for a U-Pass. This allows all BU students full city bus service from September to August annually. Just show your Student ID card when you board the bus.
Applying
Q. I’ve applied at BU using the online application form. Do I send a cheque and my transcripts in right now or will I be notified of when to send them in?
A. Applications will not be processed until the application fee has been paid. Please send your application fee and official transcripts with the application or as soon as possible to the Brandon University Admissions Office. International students paying the application fee by wire transfer will need to follow the instructions for wire transfer.
Registration and Courses
Q. Is there anyone I can contact to get help in picking my courses for next year?
A. All first year students must attend TREK: The Journey Begins, mandatory first year course advising. For more information on TREK, please contact the Student Services Office at 727-9739.
Q. Will I receive anything regarding whether my registration has been processed and whether I was able to get into the classes that I wanted to be in?
A. Financial & Registration Services will notify students in writing of any problems with their initial registration immediately. This will include notification of a full course or lab section, a change in slot time or cancellation of a course. If you need to verify receipt of a registration, or have any other questions regarding registration and tuition, please feel free to contact Financial & Registration Services at (204) 727-9735 or email finreg@brandonu.ca.
Q. How do I claim my student ID?
A. To claim your student ID, go to the Student Information page. In the second paragraph entitled “Help” click on the “claim your ID” link. Once you have claimed your ID you will be able to access all of your student information (class list, tuition and/or residence costs, class marks, income tax receipt, etc.). You can also add/drop courses when you sign into your student account. MAKE SURE you memorize your username and password.
Q. How do I get a copy of my class list?
A. You must first claim your student ID (see previous Q & A). Once you have claimed your ID you can sign into your student account and access/print your information (class list, tuition and/or residence costs, class marks, income tax receipt, etc.).
Q. What is a cross-registered (cross-listed) course?
A. A cross-registered (or cross-listed) course is a course that can be taken for credit under more than one department. This means when you register for that course you decide the department you want the course to be recorded under on your academic record/transcript. For example, the course Biology I can be taken for Botany credit as 14.162 or Zoology credit as 94.162.
If you wish to use a cross-registered course for your major or minor, you should take the course under the department that you are majoring or minoring. You can change a cross-registered course that you have already completed from one department to another, as long as you do so before you graduate. Also, the course must have been offered during that session under the department you wish to change to. You may make this change by simply submitting a change of registration form to Financial & Registration Services. You would add the course under the department you want the course and drop it from the department in which you completed the course.
You may contact Financial & Registration Services for further information on cross-registered courses or any other registration questions.
International Students
Q. What is the process of admission in your university for other countries?
A. Admission requirements, application procedures, forms, programs and fees can be found on the discover.brandonu.ca website under “International Students”.- To submit an International on-line application visit “Apply”.
For questions regarding the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at (204) 727-9784 or email Admissions@brandonu.ca.
Graduate and After Degrees
Brandon University offers a Masters in Education, Music and Rural Development. We also offer a Bachelor of Education After-degree and a Graduate Diploma in Education.
Q. I will be graduating from the U of M this coming October. I was wondering if Brandon University offers a degree in Education once a student has obtained a first degree. If so, is the program offered distance education?
A. Brandon University offers a degree in Bachelor of Education (After Degree), a Masters in Education and a Graduate Diploma in Education. All information and applications involved with these degrees come directly from that office. Please contact the Department of Education at (204) 727-9626 or email jonesb@brandonu.ca.
First Time Students
Q. When should we be purchasing books, paying for our tuition, etc.?
A. Purchasing books: beginning anytime the last two weeks of August at the Brandon University Bookstore. The sooner the better to avoid the line-ups.
Paying tuition: you can pay your tuition fees online under BU Tools, www.brandonu.ca/payonline, or in person, anytime prior to the start of classes at the Financial & Registration Services office, 2nd floor, Clark Hall.
Student cards: for the September intake the Student ID Centre is located to the McMaster Hall Study Room. Please bring a proof of registration to avoid delays in processing. (ie. copy of course current registration or tuition statement)
Q. Are there any lockers still available? How do I go about getting one?
A. Lockers will be available for rent the first week of classes at the Financial & Registration Services Office, 2nd Floor, Clark Hall. This is the same counter where you will pay for your tuition, residence and make course changes.
PLAR
Q. I hear that students have to assemble a portfolio of their learning to be considered for Prior Learning Assessment–that seems like a lot of work. Why would someone go to all that trouble rather than just taking the course?
A. Many students find that working on their portfolios during their own time fits better with their work or family schedules, and is preferable to taking a course in which they find they are not really gaining significant new knowledge. While assembling a portfolio that documents prior learning does require effort, there is assistance available from the BU PLAR Coordinator in Student Services. For more information or portfolios check out the PLAR website at www.brandonu.ca/plar.
Scholarship Questions
What do I have to do in order to be considered for entrance scholarships and bursaries?
The admission application form includes a box for you to indicate if you wish to be considered for entrance scholarships and bursaries. You will automatically be considered for Board of Governors Entrance Scholarships, based on your Grade 11 marks submitted with your admission application. You will also be sent an application form for other entrance scholarships and bursaries. If you want to be considered for any of these, you must fill out the form, indicate which scholarships and bursaries you are applying for, and return it to the Scholarship Office along with any letters of reference required by the deadline date. (If letters of reference are required, this will be stated in the Terms of Reference for the award.). See Scholarships.
When is the scholarship application deadline?
The deadline to submit the application form for scholarships will vary from one year to the next. Click on Scholarship General Information for exact deadline dates.
Am I eligible for entrance scholarships and bursaries if I have attended a college or university after high school?
No. Students will be considered ineligible if they have attended a post-secondary institution.
What awards are available to new students?
There are many awards available to new students in the form of scholarships based on academic performance and bursaries that are based on financial need. The Board of Governors scholarships, for example, are awarded to new students who have a minimum average of 85% and higher. Contact the Scholarships Office for more information.
What are the amounts of the scholarships?
Most scholarships range from $100.00 to $1,000.00 and some are as high as $7,500.00. The Board of Governors Scholarship is awarded depending upon each individual’s entering average.
Is a list of scholarships available on-line?
Yes. Please visit the web page Entrance Scholarships and Bursaries.
Can I take a year off after high school and still be eligible for entrance scholarships?
Yes, provided you do not take a post-secondary course during that time. Otherwise, prospective students planning to travel or work for a year after high school graduation are still eligible for all entrance scholarships.
If I am a Campus Manitoba student, do I qualify for Brandon University awards?
Possibly. Campus Manitoba students may be eligible for a BU entrance scholarship; the decision is made on a case-by-case basis.
Can I apply for scholarships on-line?
No; however, a printable application is available on-line for printing.
What is the difference between a scholarship and a bursary?
Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance. Bursaries are a non-repayable monetary grant based on financial need.
If I have been awarded a scholarship or bursary, how will I receive my money?
The scholarship or bursary money will be placed in your tuition account at Brandon University.
May I defer an entrance scholarship or bursary for one year?
Yes, provided you are working or traveling and not attending another post-secondary institution for that year.
What is the number of credit hours required for scholarship and bursary eligibility?
It varies. The Board of Governors awards, for example, require registration in a minimum of 24 credit hours, regardless of the amount of the award. A few other awards stipulate a minimum number of credit hours in the Terms of Reference for the award. For the majority of awards, the minimum number of credit hours required depends on the amount of the award. The relationship is as follows:
Are there scholarships and bursaries available for Spring and Summer Sessions?
No. Awards are based on the Regular Session only.
If I receive an award at Brandon University, may I use the award at another institution?
No. If you receive a scholarship or bursary from Brandon University, you must register for the appropriate number of credit hours in the Regular Session at Brandon University in order to retain your award.
Do I require letters of reference for each individual scholarship or bursary listed on the entrance application form?
No. The same letter or letters of reference may be used for more than one award, unless the Terms of Reference for an award require a specific type of letter.
I will be in grade 12 next year, and I plan to take some BU classes. Will I be eligible for BU entrance scholarships when I graduate from high school?
Students in high school may take a maximum of 9 credit hours of BU classes and still be eligible for our entrance scholarships.
Accommodations
Is there a residence on campus?
Yes.Brandon University has three residence halls on campus to accommodate single students. We have a men’s residence (Darrach Hall), a women’s residence (Flora Cowan), and a co-ed residence (McMaster Hall).
How do students gain admission to residence?
Students must fill out a residence application form, indicating which residence hall they wish to live in, and submit it along with the application fee.Early application is advised. Follow the Residence link for more information.
Can you describe the residence meal plan?
The Residence Dining Program is a “declining balance system”. Residence students deposit a pre-determined amount of money in a food account at the beginning of each term.Students use their residence identification card as a type of debit card to pay for meals and snacks.
Can Assiniboine Community College students live in BU residence?
Yes. Assiniboine Community College (ACC) students can live in the Brandon University residences.
How long will it take to walk from my residence room to class?
You will be able to walk from your residence room to anywhere on campus in a matter of a few minutes.
What furniture comes with a residence room?
Each residence room comes with a bed, desk, chair, dresser, bookshelf, lamp, blanket, sheets, pillow and pillowcase. Students are encouraged to bring a warm comforter.
Are single or double rooms available in residence?
Both.Single and double rooms are available to students planning to live in residence. First year students are placed in a double room, but are welcome to apply for a single room during their second year. You are encouraged to check with the Residence Office on room availability.
What other features are available to students living in residence?
Each residence building has a study room, television and games lounges, laundry rooms, and cable outlets. All three residence buildings have Internet access. Flora Cowan has a full kitchenette for all residents to access.
The Internet package and cable package are reasonably priced and are in addition to the monthly room and board cost.
I plan to bring a car to university. Are there parking spaces for residence students?
Yes. On the residence application form students can indicate if they would like a serviced parking spot. The cost for a parking space varies according to whether it is serviced or non-serviced. See the Residence Parking web page.
Where is a good place to begin looking for a place to rent in Brandon?
I recommend buying a copy of the Brandon Sun Newspaper for the most complete and up-to-date listing of rental properties. I encourage you to look early to ensure you get a choice location appropriate for your situation.
What is the rental market like in Brandon?
The rental market in Brandon is thriving, and students are able to find a place somewhere in the city that meets their budget
Financial
How much is tuition for one year of full time study?
Tuition will vary depending on which program/faculty offers the course and whether you are attending day or evening classes. See Tuition.
When do I pay for my tuition?
Tuition fees for Regular Session, Fall/Winter classes may be paid in two parts; each payment is due the first day of each term. Student fees are all due at the start of the regular session.
How do I buy my textbooks?
The registration form is in triplicate. When you complete the registration form for the classes you wish to attend, the bottom copy is yours and should be retained as a record of the classes for which you have registered. This copy is also your “book list”.Take your copy of the registration form to the Bookstore and look for the course numbers that correspond to the numbers on the shelves for the various textbooks. The staff in the Bookstore can also provide assistance. The Student Union has also created an online used bookstore.
Are there used textbooks for sale?
There are used textbooks for sale by individuals no longer taking a particular class. I recommend that you check in the Bookstore first before buying used textbooks, to ensure that you know what you are buying and that the text is still current. You can save a lot of money buying used textbooks. Lists of used textbooks for sale can be found on the many bulletin boards located throughout campus.
Student Services
Are there services on campus to help students succeed at BU?
Yes. Brandon University offers a wide variety of services to assist students.. Most of the services on campus are available at Student Services in the A. E. McKenzie Building, conveniently located in the middle of the campus. Some of the services include: Academic Advising Services, Counselling Services, The Academic Skills Centre which offers assistance from Writing, Math and Learning Skills specialists.
Are there advisors on campus to help me select the right courses?
Yes. All first year students must attend TREK: The Journey Begins, mandatory first year course advising. For more information on TREK, please contact the Student Services Office at 727-9739.
There are a number of academic advisors on campus that will also help returning students select courses. Advisors can also help you select the courses needed to qualify for a professional program such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and so on. Please visit Student Services to find the advisor that can help you.
Does BU offer services to help me prepare and find a job?
Yes. The Career Planning and Placement Office, in Student Services, offers a wide variety of services to students seeking job information. Among other things, they can provide assistance with writing resumes and cover letters, conducting job searches, and preparing for interviews.
Does BU have services for students with disabilities?
Yes. The Services for Students with Disabilities program ensures that students with learning, emotional, and physical disabilities have equal access to university programs. Students with disabilities should contact the Disabilities Coordinator in Student Services.
I’m a single parent. Does BU have a day care facility on campus?
Yes. The Bran-U-Day Care Centre is a provincially subsidized day care located on campus, providing service for students, staff and faculty at Brandon University. Children must be between the ages of 2 and 6. There is also a Junior Kindergarten located in the Faculty of Education, for children between the ages of 3 and 5.
Tell me more about the aboriginal services on campus.
The Indigenous Peoples’ Centre, located in the George T. Richardson Building, is part of Student Services and is responsible for many programs for First Nations and Metis students. Services include learning skills workshops, and various workshops specific to student needs.
Is there an Elders’ Program on campus?
Yes. The Elders’ Program provides numerous services to the whole educational community, including spiritual and traditional counselling, performance of relevant ceremonies, mediation, and assistance with student orientation.
Is there an Orientation program for new students?
There is an Orientation program for new students prior to the first day of classes. New students will receive an invitation along with an agenda of activities, sometime in July or early August. While Orientation is an optional event, it is a good idea to attend to get the inside scoop on how to succeed in first year. See Orientation.
Student Activity
What is the Brandon University Students’ Union?
The Brandon University Students’ Union (BUSU) is the official body of the students at Brandon University. The Students’ Union makes a number of services readily available to you. BUSU provides student representation on the Board of Governors, the Senate, and on each Faculty Council.
BUSU also provides a number of services such as the Peer Support Centre, SUDS Lounge, Data Centre (free use of typewriters and computers), Campus Bookstore, The Quill (student newspaper), On-campus retail business, and the BUSU games room.
BUSU also provides funding for the official campus newspaper (The Quill), the BUSU handbook, scholarships, tutorial services, student clubs, and Orientation events (Frosh Week). BUSU also provides on campus photocopying, student bus passes, and sponsorship of a wide variety of community special events.
Is there a student lounge on campus?
There is a student lounge on campus, called SUDS, located in the Knowles-Douglas building.
Is there a campus recreation program on campus?
Yes. Campus Recreation provides a number of activities for students such as swimming, aqua fitness, skating, racquetball, aerobics, working out on the hydra gym, kickboxing, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and floor hockey, to name a few.
What services does BU have in place to ensure the campus is a safe place to live and study?
The campus is well lit in the evenings, including parking lots. There are security guards patrolling the campus regularly.
What varsity sports are offered at Brandon University?
Brandon University currently has men’s and women’s volleyball and basketball teams. See Brandon University Bobcats.
What recreational facilities are available within the city of Brandon?
Brandon offers a wide variety of indoor and outdoor facilities that are too numerous to mention here. Check out the City of Brandon website for more information.