Financial District
Lake Ontario
Chinatown
Fashion District
Metropolitan Toronto library
Ramsden Park
Don River Park
Royal Ontario Museum
Queen’s Park
Ryerson University
Allan Gardens
Eaton Centre
Union Station
CN Tower
City Hall
BaldwinSteps
Canada’s Walk of Fame
Art Gallery of Ontario
University of Toronto
www.ef.comImportant Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.
LanguageCourses AbroadFor adults and students aged 16 & above
EF International Language Centers
Accreditations and Memberships
The EF International Lan-guage Centers in London,
Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol
and Bournemouth are:
EF Dublin is accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers
in the USA are members of:
The EF Interna-tional Language
Centers in the USA are accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers
in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:
EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qual-ité Français Langue
Etrangère.
EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.
All EF Courses are certified by Southern
New Hampshire University.
EF Education is an active participant in
the Comité Européen de Normalisation.
The EF International Language Centers
in Brisbane and Perth are
members of:
The EF International Language Centers in
Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are
accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge,
Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are
members of:
All EF Courses are recognized by Hult
International Business School.
Federation of International Youth
Travel Organizations.
TorontoOne of North America’s coolest cities, Toronto is
Canada’s hub for innovative entertainment, fashion
and arts. Its international population and urban style
make it an exciting place for studying English.
Contact details:127 Portland St. Toronto, Ontario M5V 2G5, CanadaTel: +(1) 416 850 2456
EF Toronto
Watch a video
Or visit us atFacebook.com/EFToronto
Section ...... Topic
1 ............Introduction to EF
2 ............Welcome to Canada
3 ............Weather watch
4 ............Travel & transfer service
5 ............School information
6 ............Academics
7 ............Accommodation & meals
8 ............Money matters
9 ............Phones, faxes & Internet
10 ..........Health care & insurance
11 ..........School activities & excursions
12 ..........Transportation
13 ..........Expectations
14 ..........Canadian culture & living tips
15 ..........Adjusting to a new culture
16 ..........EF school calendar & holidays
17 ..........Checklist
Contents - Toronto
Dear Student
Thank you for choosing our school for your studies.
The EF Toronto staff is committed to ensuring that
your time here is enjoyable and rewarding. We believe
that whether this is your first visit to Canada or if you
are a seasoned traveller, you are guaranteed to have
a wonderful time at the EF Toronto School.
The relaxed and friendly atmosphere of the school
centrally located downtown, along with the liveliness
and cosmopolitan feel of Toronto will serve to make
your stay here unique! From the lively downtown to
the lovely Niagara Falls to the dizzying view from the
CN Tower, we feel sure there will be something to suit
every need.
We are looking forward to meeting you soon and
helping you make the most of your time in Canada.
Best wishes,
Steve Allen, School Director
EF International Language Center, Toronto
3 Toronto, Canada
2. Welcome to Toronto, CanadaToronto is Canada’s largest city (population
of 3 million) and the capital of the province of
Ontario. In recent years, Toronto has become
one of the most exciting and progressive cities
in the world. The city is a multicultural Mecca,
with more than 80 ethnic groups speaking
approximately 100 languages. Located in the
heart of Ontario, Toronto is Canada’s cultural,
financial and transportation hub. According to
a UNESCO survey, Toronto is one of the safest
and least expensive cities in the world to live.
Toronto is home to the CN Tower, the world’s
tallest free standing structure, named one of
the Seven Wonders of the Modern World; On-
tario Place, which features the first permanent
giant-screen IMAX® theatre, a Canadian inven-
tion; and the Skydome indoor stadium, which
is famous for its retractable roof. Other great
places to visit in Toronto include:
z Air Canada Centre: Home to the Raptors -
Toronto’s Basketball Team and the Maple
Leafs - Toronto’s Hockey Team.
z Art Gallery of Ontario: art in 50 galleries.
z Beach Blast: Indoor beach volleyball facility
located in central Toronto. Six Olympic size
courts, locker rooms, food and beverages.
z Eaton Centre: Toronto’s largest shopping
center - located at the corner of Yonge Street
and Dundas Street.
z Maid of the Mist: Experience Niagara Falls
aboard the Maid of the Mist. A 30-minute
boat tour in front of the American Falls and to
the base of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
z Rogers Centre: Home to the Blue Jays -
Toronto’s Baseball Team and the Argonauts
- Toronto’s Canadian Football Team
z Yonge Street: Toronto’s main thoroughfare is
the longest street in the world (about 1,200
miles /1,800 km long.)
Other great facts about the city:
z There are over 400 parks within the city and
surrounding areas
z Toronto has the world’s third largest theatre
district after London and New York
z Toronto has the fourth largest financial center
in North America
z It is the home to North America’s third largest
film and video production center
z There are more than 20,000 retail stores and
restaurants within the city
z The underground concourse in the downtown
area is 11 km long and links over 1,100 stores
and restaurants
z The city is only a few hours away from some
of the largest U.S. and Canadian cities such
as New York, Boston, Chicago, Montreal,
and Ottawa.
3. Weather WatchToronto’s seasons are easily distinguishable
from one another. Toronto enjoys long, hot
summer days and sunny weather, while spring-
time is mostly warm and pleasant, making it
the most welcomed season after the winter’s
snowstorms that sometimes strike as late
as March. Annual average rainfall is 68.9 cm
(27.25 inches) and annual average snowfall is
135 cm (53.2 inches).
Temperatures range from:
Spring: 0° to 12°C (32° to 54°F)
Summer: 13° to 22°C (55° to 72°F)
Autumn: 0° to 18°C (32° to 64°F)
Winter: -7° to 6°C (19° to 43°F)
Check www.weather.com for Toronto
weather forecasts.
4. Travel & transfer serviceTransfer service
Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be
confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service
from the Toronto Airport to your accommoda-
tion for an additional fee. We highly recommend
you take advantage of this service.
At least one month before your arrival you must
inform the EF Office in your home country of
the exact details of your flight, e.g. airline, flight
number, date and time – this is especially im-
portant if you will be using the transfer service.
Students whose flights are changed in transit
should inform the school office immediately.
1. Introduction to EFEF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learn-ing tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activi-ties results in a fast and fun way to learn a language.
EF students come from diverse back-grounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity.
A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recog-nized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while im-proving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Place-ment Service.
A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international com-munity where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.
4 Toronto, Canada
When you arrive at the Toronto airport, you
should look for the EF sign in the International
Arrival outside of the International Baggage
Claim area. Note: Please pass through the
baggage claim and customs! The airport
greeter will be carrying an EF sign or a sign
with your name on it. When you see the
Greeter, please introduce yourself to him or
her; they will be happy to meet you and help
you get to your accommodation. Please be
aware that other students will be arriving on
the same day and you may have to wait up to
an hour for other students to arrive before you
leave the airport.
What if you cannot find the greeter?
Toronto Airport has three Terminals (Terminals
1, 2 and 3). Please ask someone which termi-
nal you are in. Do Not Leave The Airport. If you
cannot locate us, please go to the Traveler’s
Aid desk and call the EF Toronto flight emer-
gency number. You will receive this number
and other important contact information prior
to your departure.
What if my flight is delayed?
If you are going to arrive late or if you have a
change in schedule please call the emergency
number that you were given by your local EF
office prior to your departure.
Students arriving independently:
Toronto taxi prices are based on what area of
the city you are traveling to. Zone maps with
pricing information should be clearly posted in
each vehicle. A taxi to the school or to the area
where the majority of homestays are will cost
no more than $40 to $60 Canadian dollars.
Please be considerate of your homestay hosts
and call them if you are going to be delayed.
5. School InformationEF’s program in Toronto is located in the heart
of downtown Toronto at Portland and Rich-
mond Streets. The EF school is on all major
public transportation routes, including bus and
subway lines and surrounded by many restau-
rants, shops, stores, side walk cafes and other
tourist attractions.
Fully renovated, the school has a computer
room equipped with educational and pronun-
ciation software, textbooks, dictionaries, refer-
ence books and audiovisual equipment, as well
as three computer rooms with 17 computers
each. The school also has a modern student
lounge and a lecture hall equipped with televi-
sion, music, VCRs, DVDs and educational
games. Students have access to free email
and Internet use.
Staff
The School Director is assisted by an accom-
plished staff of teachers and administrators.
There is also an Activities Coordinator who
organizes EF activities and excursions.
6. AcademicsEF language courses give students the opportu-
nity to study the English language and the local
culture for as long, and with as much intensity,
as suits the student and his or her needs.
EF Level Placement Test
Within 24-hours after booking your course,
you’ll receive your personalized EF username
and password for the online EF campus called
My EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF
Level Placement test online. This test will mea-
sure your language level and ability, grammar
and listening comprehension abilities. Using
your test results, our academic team will place
you in one of six different language levels.
As your English language skills become stron-
ger, you will be promoted into the next lan-
guage level. You may speak with your teacher
if you feel you have been placed into the wrong
level. Please note: you may have both morning
and afternoon classes depending on the time
of year and course type.
Orientation
When you arrive at the school you will take
the EF Level Placement test, if you have not
done so already. During your orientation you
will receive your class schedule and other
important information about the school and
the city. Fun activities are planned to help you
meet students and staff.
General English Classes
General English classes focus on the develop-
ment of the four skills of speaking, listening,
reading and writing. They also include work on
grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.
Special Interest Classes
Depending on your course type you may also
select a number of special interest (SPIN)
classes. SPINs allow you to improve your
English through the study of a wide range of
subject options. Admission to some of these
will depend on academic and linguistic level
and availability of places. The selection of SPIN
classes varies throughout the year and a stu-
dent may not be able to repeat the same SPIN
class. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length.
Class size
The average class size is 15 students with a
maximum of 17 students.
Attendance
You are expected to attend all classes.
Consistent failure to attend class, for what-
ever reason, may result in expulsion from the
program with no refund of course fees. It is
important to note that in order to be eligible
for an EF certificate, students are expected to
participate in class and must attend at least
80% of all classes.
Canadian immigration regulations require
you to attend 80% of all your classes. EF is
required to report students who fail to maintain
this 80% average to Canadian Immigration Au-
thorities. Consequently, students with low at-
tendance may be asked to leave the program
and return to their home country.
Homework
You are expected to complete all assignments
set by your teachers in General English and
Special Interest classes. If you are taking an
examination preparation class you should ex-
pect at least one hour of homework per night.
Assessment
You will be assessed at regular intervals through-
out the course. Assessment is based on atten-
dance, participation, attitude and performance.
Course books
As part of your academic program, you’ll be
expected to buy the books and classroom
materials that you will use in class. The exact
number of books that you’ll need is determined
by your academic level, progress and choice of
special interest classes. If you wish to buy ad-
ditional books you may need more money. The
5 Toronto, Canada
books you buy are yours to keep, write in and
take home with you for future reference.
iLab Learning
All English language school courses include six
iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions comple-
ment and reinforce classroom learning in an
interactive online learning environment. There
is an iLab computer room at the school, which
is for your iLab lessons and self-study tutorials.
Please note: iLab is not included in the EF
Basic Course.
Exams
You may enroll for several different public
examinations during your course. Some can
be taken at the school itself, others must be
taken at an external examination center and
booked several months in advance. Please
note: you will be responsible for the cost of all
exam registration fees, which cannot be paid
at the sales office.
Library
The school has a computer room equipped
with educational and pronunciation software,
textbooks, dictionaries, reference books and
audiovisual equipment
EF is also located close to the largest reference
and English Language library in Canada.
EF University Placement Service
EF International Language Centers offer a Uni-
versity Placement Service (UPS) that provides
guaranteed admission into a university or col-
lege for qualified students. If you are interested
in continuing your studies, you are encouraged
to talk with the University Pathways Manager
at your school.
University Transfer Credit
Through our partnership with Southern New
Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students
may be eligible to receive university credit for
their coursework.
7. Accommodation & MealsHomestay living and student residence ac-
commodations are available at EF Toronto.
All housing matters should be directed to the
Housing Coordinator.
Homestay
Students staying in a homestay will have the
opportunity to experience Canadian life and also
have the chance to practice their new language
skills with fluent English speakers. Students who
choose homestay accommodation should do so
because they want to live in a family environ-
ment and interact with the family members.
Families choose to host international students
because they want to learn about other cultures
and people.
Students who live in a homestay must respect
the family and their home. Likewise, the family
will respect the student. As you get an in-depth
look at Canadian life, you will realize that Ca-
nadian culture is not the same as your culture,
and therefore, family life may be quite different.
The relationship between husband and wife, the
roles of family members, the relationship with or
discipline of children and the relationship with
pets are just some examples. If you are open-
minded about these differences, life in the family
will be a great learning experience.
In Canada, the traditional family of two parents
with children is slowly disappearing. More and
more, families may be a single parent with
children or a single adult living alone. To avoid
confusion, EF will speak of “homestay” rather
than of a “family” accommodation. Even in
Canadian families that have a more traditional
set-up, family members with children may lead
separate lives. Many students request a home
in a family with children of their same age.
However, few Canadians over 18 live with their
parents, and those who do, rarely participate in
group activities within the family.
You can expect that your hosts will be busy.
Most men and women work outside the home,
including people with children. Your host may
also have social and professional commit-
ments. They may not be able to spend all their
leisure time with you. However, remember that
you can take part in the activities offered by EF.
Canada is a land of immigrants with a great
range of ethnic and racial diversity. Our se-
lected homes reflect this cultural diversity.
Unless you have paid the single supplement
and a single placement has been confirmed to
you by EF, you will be placed in a double room
with another student. You are responsible for
all transportation costs to and from the host’s
home. You may be placed up to one hour away
from the school.
Linens will be provided, but you will be
responsible for cleaning your own room and
doing your laundry. If the hosts prefer, you may
be required to take your laundry to a nearby
Laundromat for washing.
You are responsible for your personal items
such as shampoo, conditioner, soap and other
items. You will probably share the bathroom
with others. This means that you may need to
be flexible about shower and bath times. Very
few students have their own bathroom. If you
want to take a long time in the bath or shower
6 Toronto, Canada
check to see that nobody else is waiting to use
the bathroom.
Canadians usually do all major chores once a
week, on Saturday or Sunday. Since you are a
new member of the family it would be helpful
if you acted like one as well. It would be polite
to offer to help. Always remember to keep your
room clean and tidy. Make your bed, and put
your belongings away. You are also responsible
for cleaning up after snacks, and for washing
your own dishes after breakfast. It is also polite
to help clear the table after dinner.
You may make local calls and collect calls from
your homestay. Unless you are using a calling
card, you should not make long distance calls
from your homestay. Remember that you are
sharing the telephone with the rest of the people
in the home. Do not spend more than 15 min-
utes on the phone at any time. Tell your friends
and family to call you before 9 pm Toronto time.
Homestay accommodation is booked for your
entire course. You may only change homestays
for very serious reasons. Requests for change
will be considered on an individual basis.
No refunds will be granted for students who
choose to leave their homestay for
personal reasons.
Meals in a homestay
Your host family will provide you with breakfast
and dinner during the week and all your meals
on the weekends. You are responsible for your
own lunch during the week. Located within a
five-minute walking radius of the school are
many restaurants, cafes and coffee shops
offering meals from CAN$1.50 pizza slices to
CAN$10 all-inclusive lunches of various cuisines.
Meals will only be provided when you are
home to participate. Please be sure to call your
hosts if you do not plan to be home for dinner.
There will be no refund for meals not taken at
home with your family.
You will find that meals in Canada may taste
different from meals at home. Canadians eat
a lot of pasta, stew, chicken, fish, salad, and
vegetables. They rarely eat steak. If you have
any allergies, let your host know right away.
Expect your hosts to serve you Canadian food
or food from their ethnic origin. Don’t expect
them to know how to cook food from your
country. Be adventurous and open-minded.
If you would like to use the kitchen, ask your
host if you can do this. Appliances, such
as toasters, often differ from one country to
another. The first time you use an appliance, ask
your host to show you how. If you happen to
break an appliance, offer to replace it or repair it.
8. Money MattersCurrency
The Canadian dollar is the basic monetary unit
in Canada and 1 dollar = 100 cents. Paper
currency comes in denominations (values) of $5,
$10, $20, $50 and $100. Coins come in denom-
inations (values) of 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, $1, $2.
Banks
The safest place to keep your money is in a
bank. You can exchange most foreign curren-
cies at any bank. Different banks offer different
exchange rates. You can call around to find
the best rate for your money. It is a good idea
to open a bank account if you will be staying
more than 3 months.
Spending money
Depending on your lifestyle, we recom-
mend that you bring between CAN$100 and
CAN$150 per week excluding excursions, and
depending on how much traveling, shopping
and eating in restaurants you plan to do during
your visit to Toronto. Please remember that you
will be responsible for some meals.
You will also need to take money for learning
materials used in class and for any language
proficiency exams you plan to take.
How to wire money to Toronto
Please leave this information with anyone who
will be wiring money to you during your stay!
If you are in Toronto longer than 3 months, you
will probably open an account at a local bank.
Ask the bank how to wire money into your ac-
count. If you don’t have an account, you can
have money wired to Western Union. From your
bank in your home country, wire the money to
Western Union. You will be charged a fee to
receive a wire transfer. Please inquire with West-
ern Union before sending your money.
There are a few Western Union locations in
Toronto. The nearest locations are:
z 235 Spadina Avenue at East Giant Corpora-
tion (between Dundas St & Queen St)
Tel: 416 596 7327
Toll free telephone in Canada: 800 235 0000
z MoneyMart
617 Yonge Street
Tel: 416 920 4146
Two blocks south of Yonge & Bloor – open
24 hours
Credit cards
EF strongly recommends that students travel
with either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards
enable students to rent cars, reserve hotel
rooms and do various activities, which may be
more difficult with cash or traveler’s checks.
9. Telephones, fax & InternetTelephone
All long distance calls must be collect calls,
charged to the person you are calling, or
charged to a prepaid telephone card, which can
be purchased at the EF office. We recommend
that students expecting to stay for a long period
of time come with or purchase a mobile phone.
Fax
All EF schools use fax machines to conduct
business. The school will charge a small fee
to send long-distance faxes (usually CAN$5).
There are also many places close to the school
that send faxes and charge for the time used.
Ask the front desk for directions to the nearest
fax machine you can use. When you receive
mail or faxes at the school, these will be kept at
the front desk for you until you pick them up.
Internet
The school is equipped with Wi-Fi wireless
Internet. Students are highly encouraged to
bring their personal laptop computers for email
and Internet use on the wireless network.
10. Health Care & InsuranceThe EF staff can recommend nearby hospi-
tals and doctors offices if you need medical
attention. If you have a medical emergency, go
to the emergency department of the hospital
closest to you. Make sure to bring some identi-
fication (i.e. passport) and your insurance card
with you. Walk-in medical clinics are for medi-
7 Toronto, Canada
cal problems that are not emergencies. There
is no need to make an appointment. You can
simply go see a doctor. Please ask the EF staff
for assistance if you need medical attention.
Immunizations
EF requires that all students attending an EF
school in North America carry proof that he
or she has been immunized against measles I
and II, polio, TBC, mumps, rubella, diphtheria
and tetanus. Please note that it is not sufficient
to have had the diseases as a child. If you do
not bring this documentation with you, you will
be required upon arrival at the school to obtain
the immunizations at an area hospital. The
cost to students is approximately CAN$50 (this
amount is not covered by insurance).
Insurance
All students traveling to Canada are required
to have medical and accident insurance upon
starting their program of study.
All students are required to bring proof of insur-
ance in English to show that they have proper
health insurance when a medical emergency
occurs. Students who do not bring proof of in-
surance will be required to purchase insurance
through EF at the school.
Erika Travel Insurance
Because security is EF’s number one priority, we
have negotiated a comprehensive tailor-made
travel insurance package for EF students with
Erika Travel Insurance, an international insur-
ance expert. The policy protects you against ex-
penses incurred through accident or illness, and
provides coverage for loss or theft of baggage
and personal effects. It also provides coverage
against interruption of your EF program due to
illness as well as liability and legal expenses.
The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika
Travel Insurance questions and claims. When
you are sick or injured the last thing you want
to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you!
11. Activities & ExcursionsExtracurricular activities contribute greatly
to your social and academic success. Your
school’s activities and trips give you the oppor-
tunity to apply your life skills, practice English
in real situations and familiarize yourself with
Canadian culture.
Activity program
The EF Activities Coordinator arranges a regu-
lar schedule of local activities, day-trips, and
weekend excursions to area attractions. The
cost of these trips is not included in the tuition.
Local activities
Local activities are offered twice a week,
including cultural events, visits to ethnic restau-
rants, movies, theatres and dance nights.
Weekend excursions and day trips
The school arranges weekend excursions and
day trips to local attractions. The number of trips
and the cost depend on the time of year and
the number of students wishing to participate.
Excursions can be paid for in cash or with trav-
eler’s checks. It may be possible to use credit
cards to pay for excursions – please check with
the school upon arrival as to whether or not
credit cards are accepted. Please note: all prices
are denoted in Canadian dollars. There may be
a small fee charged if credit cards are used.
For more information on what activities are
planned during your stay, pick up an activities
schedule at the front desk of the school.
The following are typical excursions and the
prices are estimates and do not include meals:
z Montreal-Ottawa-Quebec City CAN$350
z New York CAN$330
z Niagara Falls/Lake Tour CAN$45
z One day Ski Trips (all inclusive) CAN$80
z Metro Toronto Zoo Day Trips CAN$20
z Canada Wonderland CAN$40
Visiting the United States
If you plan to visit the USA during your stay in
Canada, you may need a multiple-entry visa. It
is very difficult to get the tourist visa once the
student has arrived in Canada, so we strongly
recommend that you apply for a US visa before
coming to Canada.
Most European Union students, Swiss and
Japanese students do not need a visitor’s visa
to visit the US. They can enter the country
under the Visa Waiver program. However
students from other countries must obtain the
visitor’s visa prior to arrival in Canada.
If you decide to obtain a visa once in Canada
you will need to visit the US consulate office in
Toronto. For more information on how to ob-
tain a visa while in Canada, ask a staff person
in the school office.
Sports
The school also organizes year round sporting
events, including ice-skating, snow skiing, soc-
cer, baseball, basketball, camping, canoeing,
horseback riding and water skiing.
12. TransportationPublic transportation
The public transportation system in Toronto is
excellent. It is also affordable and reliable, so
take advantage of every opportunity to use
it. The EF school is located at 127 Portland
Street, which is in the heart of the downtown
area. There are numerous bus and streetcar
stops only a few feet away from the school.
The nearest subways are St. Andrew and Os-
goode Union stations. Union station is also the
central train station where you can take trains
to various cities in Canada and the United
States. If you start your first day of school in
the beginning of a calendar month, after orien-
tation the school will show you where you can
8 Toronto, Canada
purchase a “metropass.” The approximate
costs of transit pass are:
z Monthly pass - CAN$121 (metropass)
z Weekly pass - CAN$36
z One-way ride - CAN$3
The subway, buses, and streetcars can take you
to any part of the city. Toronto’s transit system
runs from 6:00 am to 1:30 am. On Sunday, it
runs from 9:00 am to 1:30 am. Some of the ma-
jor bus routes have 24-hour service. For more
information, check the Toronto transit map.
Car rentals
Some students choose to rent a car during
their stay in Toronto. To rent a car in Canada,
you must have an International Driver’s license
and own a major credit card (Visa, Mastercard,
and American Express.) You also must be 25
years of age or older. For more information on
how to rent a car, please ask at the front desk
or at in the activities office.
Please note: you should not expect to park at
the school. Public transportation is extensive
and reliable and offers easy access to and from
the downtown area, so we strongly recom-
mend that you use it.
Flights
The Toronto area is well served by the Lester B.
Pearson International Airport. It takes approxi-
mately 30 minutes to travel between the airport
and the city. The school staff can help you with
any flight arrangements while you are at the
school. A taxi from the airport to downtown
costs approximately $45-50. Shuttle service is
approximately $16 to a downtown hotel.
13. ExpectationsExpectations are a normal part of anticipating a
new experience. Remember that many of your
expectations may have been formed by the
unreal world of TV and movies. Arrive at your
course center with an open mind!
What you can expect from EF:
z Supportive staff, available for guidance and
encouragement.
z An academic program which combines lan-
guage, special interest, and culture-oriented
classes.
z Full program of local activities and excursions
at special EF rates.
z Accommodation in either homestay or stu-
dent residence.
z All designated meals.
z EF Academic Year Abroad Diploma for
Academic Year Abroad students with 80%
attendance per term and good academic
standing and academic records
z EF Course Certificate for International Lan-
guage Students with 80% attendance and
good academic standing.
z Preparation classes and/or materials for appro-
priate standardized language exams and avail-
ability of University Placement Service (UPS).
What EF expects of you:
z To develop a greater understanding of the
world around you.
z To attend at least 80% of all classes and to
do your best in class at all times.
z To be respectful of your homestay hosts, your
classmates, your teachers and your community.
z To keep your room and shared areas clean.
z To speak English at all times.
z To abide by all laws, rules and regulations of
your host country, state, campus and school.
What you can expect from your homestay hosts:
z A comfortable, clean place to live.
z Prepared meals or accessibility to food to
prepare yourself according to the meal plan.
z Access to the school in approximately one
hour by public transportation. All transporta-
tion costs are your responsibility.
School rules and regulations
As a member of the school and Greater To-
ronto community, you will be asked to observe
all campus rules. These include:
z You must arrive on time every day for class.
z No alcoholic beverages allowed if you are
under the age of 19.
z No illegal drugs allowed in the school or host
family under any circumstances.
z No smoking in the school building.
z Students must respect quiet hours set by the
homestay hosts.
z Students must be respectful of other stu-
dents and school property
z All students are expected to attend at least
80% of all classes.
Failure to comply with the above rules and
regulations may lead to your dismissal.
14. Canadian culture & living tipsSafety
Canada is a very clean and safe country. How-
ever, use the same caution that you would take
in your own country. Be aware of the people
around you and of your surroundings. Try to
appear as though you know where you are
going, even if you do not.
The following tips may be helpful:
z Do not carry large sums of cash. Try to plan
your cash needs so that you use the bank
machine during daylight hours. If you must
use the bank machine after dark, go with
someone you know.
z When you are in restaurants or outside the
school, keep your purse or backpack beside
you.
z Use caution when you travel on public transit
at night. You may choose to take a taxi
instead which is more expensive but a safer
option.
z When you go out at night, go with another
person. Stay on streets that are well lit.
z If you are going out alone, tell someone
where you will be and what time you will be
home. Call if you are going to be late.
z Do not give your address or phone number
to strangers, such as people you meet in
bars or on the street.
All local postal stations are open 8 am 5:30 pm
weekdays. Substation hours vary depending
on the location. Many locations are listed under
Canada Post Corporation in the white pages of
the telephone directory. Important: Canadian
postage must be used on mail posted from
any point in Canada. The letter and postcard
rate within Canada is 52 cents. Letters and
postcards mailed to destinations other than
Canada and the U.S. are CAN$1.60. Please
note that rates may vary depending on weight.
Toronto drinking and smoking laws
The drinking age in Ontario is 19; students un-
der 19 will not be able to purchase alcohol or
enter bars and discos. Most places that serve
alcohol will ask for proof of age before they let
you in. You need to show picture identification,
such as your passport. These rules also apply
to purchasing alcohol at a liquor store.
z In Ontario (Toronto), you must be 19 years of
age or older.
9 Toronto, Canada
z In Quebec, you must be 18 years of age
or older.
z In the U.S., you must be 21 years of age
or older.
Smoking is prohibited in all public buildings,
elevators, lobbies, stairwells, shopping malls,
cinemas, and sports facilities unless signs say
that you may smoke. Smoking is allowed in
restaurants only where there are smoking areas.
If you smoke in a “smoke free” place, you could
be fined up to $5,000. You must be 19 years of
age or older to purchase cigarettes. Most host
families only allow smoking outside the house
and EF prohibits smoking inside the school.
Taxes
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 5% tax
that is charged on most goods and services
sold or provided in Canada. There is also a
Provincial Services Tax (PST) of 8%, which ap-
plies to goods and services sold within Ontario.
Tipping
It is the custom in Canada to leave your waiter/
waitress a “tip” for good service. You leave the
tip on the table when you leave the restaurant.
The general rule is to leave 15% of your total
bill before the tax. The easiest way to calculate
this amount is to add the P.S.T. and the G.S.T.
(taxes) together.
Recommended reading and websites
z Let’s Go Canada, Harvard Student Agencies,
Inc. Great student travel guide for where to
go, how to get around, where to stay and
what to eat.
Recommended websites
z www.toronto.com
z www.city.toronto.on.ca
z www.infotoronto.com
z www.nowtoronto.com
z www.eye.net
15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of
students who have come together to learn
English. It is also a multi-cultural group of
young adults who are eager to share their
own culture and learn the culture of their host
country and fellow classmates.
One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts,
traditions and practices of a specific community
or population. Our culture affects how we view
ourselves, how we relate to others and what we
value as important in life. We are often unaware
of how much our culture affects our lives.
You may have already had some exposure to
the new culture you are about to experience.
You may have seen television shows, read
books, or studied in school about Canada.
While some parts of this culture may already
seem familiar to you, experiencing a new
culture first-hand will prove exciting. You will be
meeting students from all over the world who,
like you, are looking forward to spending a year
learning and living a language, both inside and
outside the classroom.
As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience
periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are
uncomfortable. Culture shock is what some-
times happens when we try to meet challenges
of our new culture by using the values, beliefs,
and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to
a new culture, we must learn that cultural differ-
ences are merely different - not right or wrong.
It is a good idea to bring traditional objects
from your culture to share with other students
and your host to teach them about
your country.
Tips on coping with change
Remember that change does not come with-
out some effort! We humans need a certain
amount of stress to motivate us to learn new
ways of being. Learning always involves some
form of change. You should try the following:
z While you might be tempted to surround
yourself with things that are familiar to you, try
not to isolate yourself by being only with others
from your home country. Keep reaching out to
your host, roommates and other students.
z Put off making major decisions such as an
accommodation change, until you feel more
“at home” with the culture in general.
z Talk to us about your worries or problems.
EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to
know about any problem you may have so
that we can help you.
z Set goals, no matter how big or small, and
accomplish them! You will feel good about
yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the
negative feelings associated with culture
shock. For example, set a goal that you will
speak English at all times.
z Remind yourself that you came to this
country to experience a new culture, to meet
others and to explore your new surroundings.
Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on
the days before leaving your home country
when you were excited about your new ad-
venture. Try to refocus this former excitement
towards your experience.
Keeping a journal
One way to keep track of emotions and
changes that take place over the year is to
keep a journal. By recording your experiences
and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able
to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will
have a record of your academic and personal
progress to look back on in days and years to
come. Be sure to note changes in:
z Language skills
z School performance and involvement
z Campus/host adjustment
z Individual learning and growth
Keeping a journal will help to remind you that
culture shock is truly a temporary phase
of adjustment.
Bring pictures and items from home
If you have room in your suitcases for some
music, a costume, pictures, or some typi-
cal crafts, it would be good to show other
students, as well as to decorate your room
to make it seem like home. We have seen
costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and
music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas
from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your
friends, family and surrounding area.
Important telephone numbers
16. EF School CalendarAcademic Year Schedule
The Academic Year is divided into three terms.
(See the applicable start date below for your
program’s specific term and break schedule).
January 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan
Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar
Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar
Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun
Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012
Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug
Departure: 18 Aug 2012
April 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr
Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun
Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep
Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012
Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov
Departure: 1 Dec 2012
September 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec
Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan
Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar
Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013
Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar
Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May
Departure: 1 June 2013
January 2013
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan
Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar
Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar
Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun
Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013
Holiday: Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun
Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug
Departure: 17 Aug 2013
Please note: there will be no classes on
public holidays.
School holidays
The EF International Language Center in Toronto
recognizes the following public holidays when
there will be no classes. If your arrival falls on
one of these dates, please check with the
school staff upon your arrival for an exact orien-
tation schedule.
2012
1 January - New Year’s Day
20 February - Family Day
6 April - Good Friday
9 April - Easter Monday
21 May - Victoria Day
1 July - Canada Day
6 August - August Civil Holiday
3 September - Labour Day
8 October - Thanksgiving
11 November - Remembrance Day
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - Boxing Day
2013
1 January - New Year’s Day
18 February - Family Day
29 March - Good Friday
1 April - Easter Monday
20 May - Victoria Day
1 July - Canada Day
5 August - August Civil Holiday
2 September - Labour Day
14 October - Thanksgiving
11 November - Remembrance Day
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - Boxing Day
17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary)
It’s a good idea to make copies of these
and pack them in your suitcase just in
case. You don’t need to carry your pass-
port with you while you are in the Canada
but you must keep it and your other docu-
ments in a safe place while you are in
the country.
■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student
identification cards, travel cards and other
possible documents
■ Flight ticket
■ Luggage correctly labeled
■ EF Confirmation letter & other
EF documents
■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,
especially the Health Certificate
■ Medical and travel insurance documents
with proof of insurance in English. If you
have secured Erika Travel Insurance from
EF, you do not need to have anything
translated.
■ Immunization documents with a copy of
them in English
■ Basic medical supplies, any medication
you take regularly and a spare pair of con-
tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.
■ An International Driving License if you are
planning on hiring or buying a car.
■ Local currency for first week and for any
learning materials that are not included in
the cost of the course.
■ Money in the form of an ATM card
(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards
and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring
large amounts of cash in any currency!).
■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-
ances you plan to bring with you.
■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.
■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.
■ Personal sports equipment.
■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.
■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.
Homestay host’s or student residence name:
________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address:
________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):
________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number:
________________________________________
EF School telephone number:
+(1) 416 850 2456 ________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number:
+1 416 473 3509________________________________________
C
hec
klis
t
Important telephone numbers
16. EF school calendar & holidaysSchool holidays
The EF International Language Center in Toronto
recognizes the following public holidays when
there will be no classes. If your arrival falls on
one of these dates, please check with the
school staff upon your arrival for an exact orien-
tation schedule.
2012
1 January - New Year’s Day
20 February - Family Day
6 April - Good Friday
9 April - Easter Monday
21 May - Victoria Day
1 July - Canada Day
6 August - August Civil Holiday
3 September - Labour Day
8 October - Thanksgiving
11 November - Remembrance Day
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - Boxing Day
2013
1 January - New Year’s Day
18 February - Family Day
29 March - Good Friday
1 April - Easter Monday
20 May - Victoria Day
1 July - Canada Day
5 August - August Civil Holiday
2 September - Labour Day
14 October - Thanksgiving
11 November - Remembrance Day
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - Boxing Day
17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary)
It’s a good idea to make copies of these
and pack them in your suitcase just in
case. You don’t need to carry your pass-
port with you while you are in the Canada
but you must keep it and your other docu-
ments in a safe place while you are in
the country.
■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student
identification cards, travel cards and other
possible documents
■ Flight ticket
■ Luggage correctly labeled
■ EF Confirmation letter & other
EF documents
■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,
especially the Health Certificate
■ Medical and travel insurance documents
with proof of insurance in English. If you
have secured Erika Travel Insurance from
EF, you do not need to have anything
translated.
■ Immunization documents with a copy of
them in English
■ Basic medical supplies, any medication
you take regularly and a spare pair of con-
tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.
■ An International Driving License if you are
planning on hiring or buying a car.
■ Local currency for first week and for any
learning materials that are not included in
the cost of the course.
■ Money in the form of an ATM card
(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards
and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring
large amounts of cash in any currency!).
■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-
ances you plan to bring with you.
■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.
■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.
■ Personal sports equipment.
■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.
■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.
Homestay host’s or student residence name:
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address:
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):
_________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number:
_________________________________________
EF School telephone number:
+(1) 416 850 2456 _________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number:
+1 416 473 3509_________________________________________
Additional notes or numbers:
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address
_________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s)
_________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number
_________________________________________
EF School telephone number
_________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number
_________________________________________