Admission Policy

Welcome to International House Vancouver, your gateway to exceptional ESL programs in the area! We take pride in providing top-notch education to students who meet our program’s admission requirements. Rest assured, we follow a fair and transparent admission procedure to ensure that each student’s journey with us is smooth and fulfilling.

Our Admission Procedure is designed to make the process straightforward and efficient:

1. Inquiry: Reach out to our friendly receptionist who will direct your inquiries to our onsite administrator.

2. Personalized Guidance: Our onsite administrator will meet with you to discuss your interests and preferences regarding the ESL program. If you’re uncertain about which program level suits you best, we’ll provide you with detailed information about all levels, empowering you to make an informed decision. You will receive comprehensive details about our policies and program outlines to support your choices.

3. Eligibility Check: Once you’ve chosen a program level, our onsite administrator will review the admission criteria with you to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Please note that admission requirements cannot be waived, ensuring a level playing field for all applicants.

4. Document Submission: We request essential evidence, such as transcripts, proof of identification, and age, to confirm that you meet the program’s admission criteria. All documents submitted will be carefully kept in your student file.

5. Enrollment Contract: After verifying that you satisfy the admission requirements, our onsite administrator will prepare a Student Enrolment Contract. In a personal meeting, we will go through the contract, discussing all the policies that will be relevant to your program of study. Only if you agree and fully understand your rights and responsibilities, you will be invited to meet with our Senior Education Administrator or Director.

6. Goal-oriented Discussion: During the meeting with the Senior Education Administrator or Director, we’ll discuss your educational aspirations and commitment to successfully completing the program. Additionally, financial arrangements for tuition and other fees will be addressed.

7. Signing the Contract: Upon reaching a mutually agreeable financial arrangement, both parties will sign the Student Enrolment Contract. We will provide you with a copy of the signed contract, along with all policies and program outlines, for your records.

8. Creating Your Student File: A dedicated student file will be created for you, where all relevant information, including your assigned student number, will be securely stored.

9. Essential Student File Contents: Your student file will include the following items:

   • Signed Student Enrolment Contract
   • All Admission Requirement Evidence
   • Student Photo ID/Evidence of Legal Status in Canada (e.g., student visa copy for international students, PR card, or passport copy for Canadian residents)
   • Fee Receipt

10. Waitlist Option: In the event that a class is full, we offer a waitlist option. If a seat becomes available, we will notify you, allowing you to join the course promptly.

At International House Vancouver, we are committed to providing an inclusive and enriching learning environment. Join us on this exciting educational journey, and together, let’s unlock your full potential!

Code of Conduct Policy

Our Code of Conduct Policy at International House Vancouver sets clear expectations for students to ensure a respectful and conducive learning environment during their program of study. As an institution committed to academic integrity and student well-being, we hold students accountable to the following principles:

1. Attendance and Respect: Attend classes as per the Attendance Policy and treat all students, staff, and school property with respect, solely for learning purposes.

2. Classroom Behavior: Maintain appropriate behavior in the classroom and avoid any disruptive or offensive actions.

3. Academic Integrity: Uphold the highest standards of academic integrity by refraining from cheating or plagiarism in completing class assignments.

4. Safety and Security: Ensure the safety of everyone by not bringing any weapons, alcohol, or prohibited mood-altering substances to the school premises.

5. Respectful Communication: Refrain from making inappropriate remarks regarding another student’s or staff member’s ethnicity, race, religion, or sexual orientation.

6. Detrimental Conduct: Avoid engaging in any conduct that may be detrimental or damaging to other students, staff members, or the school community.

Failure to adhere to the Code of Conduct may lead to dismissal procedures. Unauthorised absence for seven days may result in termination. For severe offenses, immediate dismissal without a warning letter or probationary period may be implemented. Such serious offenses include sexual assault, harassment, discrimination, physical assault, verbal abuse or threats, vandalism of school property, and theft.

Concerns related to a student’s conduct should be reported to the Onsite Administrator or Director, who will address them in accordance with our Policy.

Additionally, our institution considers plagiarism and cheating as grave academic offenses that compromise the core values of honesty and academic integrity. Plagiarism involves copying another person’s work or ideas without proper acknowledgment. This includes copying from various sources such as books, images, the internet, and more.

Cheating includes using unauthorized aids during assignments, exams, or projects, copying others’ work, and theft or solicitation of academic materials.

At International House Vancouver, we uphold the Code of Conduct and maintain a zero-tolerance policy for academic dishonesty. Students are encouraged to embrace honesty and report any concerns related to academic integrity to the Onsite Administrator.

By following our Code of Conduct and upholding academic honesty, we create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students at International House Vancouver. If you have any questions regarding our policies, feel free to reach out to the Onsite Administrator for clarification.

Complaint Policy

At International House Vancouver, we provide an opportunity for students to express their concerns in a fair and equitable manner through our Complaints Policy. This policy applies to all students currently enrolled or those who were previously enrolled at International House Vancouver before submitting their concern to the on-site administrator. We highly value your feedback and take every complaint seriously to ensure the best possible experience for our students.

Any complaints, whether verbal or written, are promptly addressed by the on-site administrator. In cases where a complaint involves another person, the on-site administrator arranges separate meetings with both concerned parties to gain a comprehensive understanding of the matter.

During these meetings, meticulous notes are taken, and every effort is made to find an amicable resolution. However, should the issue remain unresolved, our Dispute Resolution Policy comes into effect, providing a mechanism for fair and just resolution.

For complaints related to our services, the on-site administrator records written notes and issues specific notices to the concerned staff, ensuring that each complaint is fully addressed and resolved to the student’s satisfaction.

In the unlikely event that a complaint is about the on-site administrator or Senior Education Administrator (SEA), students have the option to file a complaint with the Director for impartial handling.

At International House Vancouver, we are committed to maintaining an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Hence, we expect all stakeholders, including students, staff, and administrators, to comply with our Code of Conduct Policy, which sets the standards for behavior and interaction within our college community.

Your feedback is of utmost importance to us as it helps us continually improve and enhance your overall experience at International House Vancouver. Please feel free to share your concerns, and we assure you that they will be treated with utmost care and transparency. Together, we can work towards making your educational journey with us truly exceptional.

Deferral Policy

At International House Vancouver, we understand that sometimes circumstances may arise that prevent you from attending the semester for which you have enrolled. In such cases, we offer the option to request a deferral within the same academic year. Our academic year is divided into three semesters, running from September (Fall) to January (Winter) to May (Summer).

Once you have been admitted, you have the opportunity to defer your start date for up to one (1) year from the date of acceptance into the program. To request a deferral, you need to submit the deferral form along with any supporting documents.

Please note that deferring your offer of admission does not guarantee a seat in your preferred intake, and you may be subject to receiving an alternate offer. Not all deferral applications will be approved, as they are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Deferral Deadlines: The deferral request must be submitted at least two weeks before the start date of the semester you are enrolled in.

Deferral Conditions: To be eligible for a deferral, you must have accepted the offer of admission and paid the required deposit. Once these conditions are met, you can proceed with submitting the Admissions Deferral Form along with any necessary supporting documents.

Requesting a Deferral: If you applied to International House Vancouver through an education consultant or agent affiliated with us, the consultant or agent must request the deferral on your behalf. On the other hand, if you applied directly without the assistance of an education consultant or agent, you can email the completed deferral request form to admissions@internationalhousevancouver.com.

We understand that life is unpredictable, and our deferral option aims to provide flexibility while ensuring a smooth transition for our students. If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding the deferral process, feel free to reach out to our admissions team at the provided email address. We look forward to welcoming you to International House Vancouver and supporting your educational journey.

Dismissal Policy

At International House Vancouver, we hold our students to a high standard of conduct, and compliance with our institution’s Code of Conduct is essential. Any student who fails to meet these expectations will be subject to the procedures outlined below, which may include immediate dismissal from the institution based on the severity of the misconduct.

This policy applies to all students currently enrolled in any of our Programs and courses at International House Vancouver.

Immediate dismissal without a warning letter or probationary period may be warranted for the following substantiated misconduct:

• Sexual assault, harassment, discrimination, bullying
• Physical assault or other violent acts committed on or off campus against any student
• Verbal abuse or threats
• Vandalism of school property
• Theft

Any concerns related to a student’s conduct should be reported to the On-site Administrator or Director in accordance with this Policy.

Dismissal can also be based on academic performance or attendance. If a student fails to inform the instructor or the college about an extended absence, it will be considered unauthorized, and disciplinary action will be taken. Seven days of unauthorized absence may lead to termination/dismissal.

All communication regarding dismissal will be in writing, and a copy will be placed in the student’s file.

Procedure for Addressing Student Misconduct:

1. All concerns regarding student misconduct must be reported in writing to the On-site Administrator.
2. The On-site Administrator will arrange a meeting with the student within 5 school days of receiving the complaint. In cases of serious misconduct requiring immediate action, the meeting will be scheduled as soon as practicable.
3. Following the meeting with the student, the On-site Administrator will conduct further inquiry or investigation as necessary to determine the validity of the concerns.
4. Any necessary inquiries or investigations will be completed within 5 school days of the initial meeting with the student.
5. The On-site Administrator will meet with the student again and take one of the following actions:
   • Determine that the concerns were not substantiated.
   • Determine that the concerns were substantiated, in whole or in part, and:
     • Issue a warning with the consequences of further misconduct.
     • Set a probationary period with appropriate conditions.
     • Recommend dismissal from the Institution.
6. The On-site Administrator will prepare a written summary of the determination, provide a copy to the student, and place the original in the student’s file.
7. If a warning or probation is given, both the On-site Administrator and the student will sign the written warning or probationary conditions, and the student will receive a copy, with the original placed in their file.
8. In the absence of the On-site Administrator, the Director will handle the reporting and follow the procedures as listed above.
9. If the recommendation is to dismiss the student, the Director will meet with the student to deliver the dismissal letter and calculate any refund due or tuition owing based on the student’s financial account with the school.
10. If a refund is due, the Director will ensure that a cheque is sent to the student within 30 days of dismissal.
11. If the student owes tuition or other fees, the Director will manage the collection of the amount owing.
12. All records related to the dismissal will be kept in the student file, and all relevant staff and instructors will be notified of the dismissal.

At International House Vancouver, we strive to maintain a positive and respectful learning environment, and adherence to our Code of Conduct is crucial to achieving this goal. Students are encouraged to understand and follow our policies and procedures to ensure a successful and enriching educational experience.

Dispute Resolution Policy

At International House Vancouver, we provide an opportunity for students to resolve disputes of a serious nature in a fair and equitable manner. This policy applies to all International House Vancouver students who are currently enrolled or were enrolled prior to submitting their concerns.

We believe in handling all disputes or grievances efficiently, fairly, and without bias. Our aim is to encourage all parties involved to try to resolve issues informally through calm and respectful discussions, avoiding any rude or unkind remarks or personal attacks. However, if an informal approach does not lead to a satisfactory resolution, a more formal process becomes necessary to provide a fair and reasonable mechanism for resolution.

Key points of our Dispute Resolution Policy:

1. All student disputes or grievances must be made in writing.

2. The student must submit the written complaint to the on-site administrator or Senior Education Administrator (SEA), who is responsible for making determinations in respect of complaints. In case the on-site administrator or SEA is absent or is named in the complaint, the student must submit the complaint to the Director.

3. If the student is or was enrolled in an approved program and is dissatisfied with the determination made by the institution regarding any significant aspect of that program, they may file a complaint with the Private Career Training Institutions Branch.

The process for handling student complaints is as follows:

1. The student should initially address the concern with the staff member most directly involved. If the outcome is unsatisfactory, the student should put the concern in writing and deliver it to the SEA or on-site administrator.

2. The SEA or on-site administrator will arrange a meeting with the student to discuss the concern and desired resolution within 5 school days of receiving the written concern, or as soon as practicable.

3. Following the meeting, the SEA or on-site administrator will conduct appropriate enquiries and/or investigations to determine the validity of the student’s concerns.

4. The necessary enquiries and/or investigations will be completed no later than 10 school days following the receipt of the student’s written concerns.

5. Within 10 days of receiving the student’s written concerns, the SEA or on-site administrator will perform one of the following actions:

   • Determine that the concerns are not substantiated.
   • Determine that the concerns are substantiated in whole or in part.
   • Determine that the concerns are frivolous and vexatious.

6. The student and the institution’s personnel involved will receive a written summary of the determination, and all documentation relating to the complaint should be signed by all parties. A copy will be given to the student, and the original will be placed in the student’s file.

7. If the concerns are substantiated in whole or in part, the SEA or on-site administrator will propose a resolution to address the concerns.

8. If the student remains unsatisfied with the determination made by the SEA or on-site administrator, they must advise the SEA or on-site administrator within 48 hours of being informed of the determination. The matter will then be referred to the Director, who will review the matter and meet with the student within 5 school days.

9. The Director will either confirm or vary the determination made by the SEA or on-site administrator. At this point, the School’s Dispute Resolution Process will be considered exhausted.

All disputes will be recorded and retained by International House Vancouver for 7 years, including copies of all relevant documentation. We are committed to ensuring that our students have a supportive and transparent process for resolving disputes, and we value your feedback to help us continuously improve and enhance your experience at International House Vancouver.

Grade Appeal Policy

Welcome to International House Vancouver, where we believe in providing a fair and transparent academic environment for our students. Our comprehensive grades appeals policy ensures that students have the opportunity to resolve concerns regarding their marks in a just and equitable manner.

At International House Vancouver, grades for course work are meticulously compiled, taking into account various assessments completed throughout each chapter or unit. These assessments encompass a wide range of activities, such as projects, assignments, class tests, presentations, participation in class activities, and evaluations of appropriate competences. Each assessment is assigned a score, and these individual scores are combined to calculate the final grade for a given course.

To maintain academic integrity, the minimum acceptable mark on any work is set at 50%. It’s important to note that only grades received on midterm or final assessments are eligible for appeal, while grades for assignments or weekly quizzes may not be appealed.

The process of appealing grades at International House Vancouver is well-defined, offering students multiple opportunities for reconsideration:

1. Appeal Upon Assessment Return: As soon as any course work or assessment is returned by the instructor, students have the chance to appeal the marks given by the instructor. Should the appeal be successful, the instructor will update the mark on the records to accurately reflect the revised grade.

2. Appeal After Exam Results: Following the release of exam results, students may directly appeal their grades with the instructor. In the event of a successful appeal, the grade will be modified in the student’s file records. If the appeal is initially unsuccessful, students have the option to submit a written request to the senior education administrator (SEA). The SEA will then facilitate a recheck exam, where students’ exams will be reevaluated by different instructors. The final decision will be made based on the rechecked results by another instructor.

3. Secondary Appeal: In cases where a grade appeal has been made but remains unchanged, students have the opportunity to appeal the grade a second time. However, if the grade remains unaltered after the second appeal, further appeals will not be considered. Following the posting of final grades, students may initiate an appeal either with the instructor or the SEA. Upon review and if deemed merited, the grades will be adjusted in the student records and promptly communicated to the students.

At International House Vancouver, we strive to ensure that our grading process is fair, consistent, and open to scrutiny. Our grades appeals policy is designed to provide students with the confidence that their concerns are heard, and resolutions are reached through a transparent and objective approach. We encourage all students to make use of this policy when they genuinely believe there has been an error or an unfair evaluation of their academic performance.

If you have any further questions about our grades appeals policy or any other aspect of our institution, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to supporting your academic journey and ensuring a successful learning experience at International House Vancouver.

Grading Policy

At International House Vancouver, we understand that each course within the program may have its own unique grading structure. These grading details will be explicitly outlined in the course outline, class handouts, or communicated during the first lecture by the respective instructor. We believe in providing clear and transparent information to our students, ensuring they are aware of the grading criteria from the outset.

In our ESL programs, we maintain a consistent grading structure across all levels to assess students’ performance fairly. The grading scale is as follows:

• A+: 95-100
• A: 90-94
• A-: 85-89
• B+: 80-84
• B: 75-79
• B-: 70-74
• C+: 65-69
• C: 60-64
• C-: 55-59
• D: 50-54
• F: 0-49
• N: Incomplete

Upon successful completion of the program and fulfillment of all graduation requirements, students will receive an official transcript and a Certificate for the program they have enrolled in.

Transcript or Certificate Reissue: In the unfortunate event that a student misplaces or loses their transcripts or certificate, International House Vancouver provides a reissuance service. To apply for a reissued transcript or certificate, students must submit a written request to International House, providing the following information:

• Program name
• Start date and end date of the program
• Explanation for the reissue request

Please note that a fee will be applicable for the reissue service. We understand the importance of official documentation and strive to make the reissuance process as smooth and efficient as possible for our students.

If you find yourself in need of a transcript or certificate reissue or have any further questions regarding our grading structure or any other matter, do not hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated staff is here to assist you in any way we can to ensure a successful and rewarding educational experience at International House Vancouver.

Housing Cancellation Policy

• Housing Cancellation Policy before arrival
  • Accommodation placement fee is non-refundable
  • If a student cancels 3 weeks or more before the arrival date, no cancellation fee will be charged
  • If a student cancels less than 3 weeks before the arrival date, 1 week of housing will be charged
  • If a student cancels less than 1 week before the arrival date or is a no-show, 2 weeks of housing will be charged
• Housing Cancellation Policy after arrival
  • Students registered for one month or less of housing must give the Housing Coordinator TWO weeks
  • Students registered for more than one month of housing, must give the Housing Coordinator ONE month
  • If there is a serious problem* with the host family that requires an immediate move, the Housing Coordinator will assist in finding a new family at no extra
  • If a student chooses to change accommodation for his/her own reasons, there will be a charge for the new placement and IH Vancouver does not guarantee

*Serious problems include: Physical danger to the student by someone or something in the homestay family or home Sexual or physical abuse by someone in the homestay family or another student Undocumented over-use of drugs or alcohol by the homestay family or another student.

Note: *The Placement fee is non-refundable. *There is no refund available for missed meals in Homestay.

Health & Safety Policy

Safety and Emergency Procedures at International House Vancouver

At International House Vancouver, the safety and well-being of our students and employees are of paramount importance. We are committed to providing a safe working and learning environment at all our college premises. To ensure this, we adhere to the following principles and safety protocols:

1. Employee and Student Rights:

   • Every employee and student at International House Vancouver is aware of their rights regarding health and safety, which are integral to the college’s operations.
   • All employees are entitled to a safe worksite and a harm-free work environment.
   • Employees have the responsibility to exercise reasonable care in their job performance to protect themselves, their coworkers, and the general public from illness or harm.
   • Employees have the right and responsibility to refuse unsafe work if they suspect a reasonable hazard exists. They must immediately report hazards and unsafe conditions or behavior to the on-site administrator or Director in writing.
   • Employees have the right to participate in the decision-making process regarding safety input and initiatives at the college.
   • Employees are encouraged to notify the on-site administrator or Director of any hazards or risks for immediate attention.

2. Commitment to Safety:

   • The management of International House Vancouver is dedicated to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees and students.
   • We uphold operating practices that protect the well-being of personnel, equipment, facilities, property, and the general public, while complying with relevant legislation.
   • Business activities that impact the environment are assessed, and measures are taken to avoid or minimize negative effects.
   • Employees and associates are encouraged to actively seek ways to improve business practices and operating procedures to minimize risk.

3. First Aid Equipment:

   • First aid equipment is securely stored on the premises and is known to designated staff members, particularly the on-site administrator.
   • First aid kits are regularly maintained and inspected by on-site administrators.
   • In the event of a medical emergency, students requiring first aid will report to their instructor or the reception. The on-site administrator will assess the situation and decide whether to refer the student to a hospital or call for an ambulance if necessary.

4. Earthquake Drill:

   • International House Vancouver participates annually in the province-wide “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” earthquake drill, held on the third Thursday of October.
   • During the drill, students and employees will practice the basic earthquake safety measures: Drop to the ground, Cover under a sturdy table or desk, and Hold On to the legs of the desk until shaking stops. They will then count the duration of the earthquake and wait for 60 seconds for safety.
   • Announcements and posters will be displayed throughout the institute premises to inform everyone about upcoming drills. All students and employees are expected to follow instructions and actively participate in the earthquake drill.

5. Fire Safety:

   • On-site administrators ensure compliance with all Fire Prevention regulations, including the safe storage of flammable and combustible liquids and proper exit capacity calculations.
   • Emergency Preparedness steps, such as identifying a School Fire Emergency Team and conducting fire extinguisher training, are implemented.
   • Information on exit routes from all rooms is posted to indicate the nearest exit in case of a fire.
   • Entrance and emergency exit doors are always kept unblocked, unbarred, and unlocked for swift evacuation.
   • Fire alarms are regularly checked in collaboration with the property manager to ensure their functionality.

At International House Vancouver, we prioritize safety and preparedness to provide a secure environment for all students and employees. By adhering to these principles and protocols, we aim to create a safe and conducive setting for learning and working. If you have any safety-related inquiries or special needs during drills, kindly notify our on-site administrators, who will be ready to assist you promptly. Your safety is our priority.

Instructor Evaluation Policy

At International House Vancouver, we prioritize providing the best services to our students and maintaining the highest standards of excellence in education. To achieve this, we have established a comprehensive yearly evaluation process for all our instructors. This evaluation is administered by the Senior Education Administrator (SEA) or the Director, if necessary.

The instructor evaluation is based on predefined criteria, which encompass various areas of content delivery, classroom interaction, and the pursuit of professional goals. The evaluation process includes the following steps:

1. Interview and Assessment:

   • A set time is scheduled with the instructor to conduct an evaluation interview. During this interview, the SEA discusses various aspects of the instructor’s performance, including their teaching methods, communication with students, and overall classroom environment.
   • The SEA also reviews the instructor’s achievements and contributions in relation to their professional goals.

2. Documentation and Support:

   • Instructors are asked to provide their recent resume/CV, any updated qualifications or certification copies, and details of any professional development activities they have undertaken.
   • All concerns raised by the instructor during the evaluation interview are noted down, and constructive feedback from students is also taken into consideration. Student feedback is shared with the instructor only after the final student grades have been submitted to ensure an unbiased assessment.

3. Professional Development:

   • The evaluation includes a discussion about the instructor’s planned professional development activities, which are essential for continuous improvement and growth.
   • The feedback obtained during the review serves as a valuable input for identifying areas where additional professional development might be beneficial.

4. Communication and Future Review:

   • After completing the evaluation, the SEA provides the instructor with feedback and highlights areas of strength and areas for improvement.
   • The instructor is informed of the next tentative review date, allowing them to prepare for future evaluations and demonstrate their commitment to continuous improvement.

At International House Vancouver, we believe in fostering a culture of ongoing development and support for our instructors. Through this rigorous evaluation process, we aim to ensure that our instructors maintain the highest level of teaching excellence, creating an enriching learning experience for our students. By evaluating our instructors on a yearly basis and providing constructive feedback, we reinforce our commitment to delivering the best educational services and fostering a dynamic and thriving academic community.

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2024 

Introduction

Welcome to IH Vancouver (“we,” “us,” or “our”). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, maintain, and share information from users (“you” or “your”) of our website, [ihvancouver.com](https://ihvancouver.com) (the “Site”). We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled in a safe and responsible manner.

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Personal Information

We may collect personal information that you voluntarily provide to us when you:

– Register or sign up for courses and programs.
– Contact us with inquiries or feedback.
– Subscribe to our newsletters or other communications.

The types of personal information we may collect include your name, email address, phone number, mailing address, and any other information you choose to provide.

1.2 Non-Personal Information

We may also collect non-personal information about your interactions with the Site. This information may include your IP address, browser type, operating system, the pages you visit on our Site, the time and date of your visit, and other similar information.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use the information we collect for various purposes, including:

– To provide and improve our services.
– To communicate with you about your inquiries, feedback, or course registrations.
– To send you newsletters, updates, and other promotional materials.
– To analyze and monitor the usage of our Site.

3. Sharing Your Information

We may share your personal information with third parties in the following circumstances:

– Service Providers: We may share your information with trusted third-party service providers who assist us in operating our Site and providing our services.
– Legal Requirements: We may disclose your information if required to do so by law or in response to valid requests by public authorities.
– Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of all or a portion of our assets, your information may be transferred as part of that transaction.

4. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

Our Site may use cookies and other tracking technologies to enhance your experience and analyze Site usage. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings.

5. Security of Your Information

We take reasonable measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. However, no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

6. Your Rights and Choices

Depending on your location, you may have certain rights regarding your personal information, including the right to access, correct, or delete your information. To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided below.

7. Third-Party Links

Our Site may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these sites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.

8. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new Privacy Policy on this page. We encourage you to review this Privacy Policy periodically for any updates.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us at: info@ihvancouver.com

Statement of Student Rights

Sexual Misconduct Policy

1. Statement of Purpose and Intent

International House Vancouver (IHV) is dedicated to the prevention of sexual misconduct and ensuring an appropriate response if such incidents occur. This policy aims to create a safe and respectful environment for all students, staff, and visitors at the college.

2. Scope and Application

What is Sexual Misconduct? According to the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy Act, sexual misconduct includes the following actions:

• Sexual Assault
• Sexual Exploitation
• Sexual Harassment
• Stalking
• Indecent Exposure
• Voyeurism
• The distribution of sexually explicit photographs or videos of a person to others without their consent and with the intent to distress the person in the media
• The attempt to commit an act of sexual misconduct
• The threat to commit an act of sexual misconduct

This policy applies to incidents of sexual misconduct involving students, staff, visitors, and any other person associated with IHV. It is not limited to the college campus but extends to events, excursions, and out-of-class activities.

3. Definitions

a) Consent Consent refers to an agreement to engage in a sexual activity that is fully voluntary, clearly communicated, and ongoing. Consent for a particular sexual activity does not automatically extend to other activities. It can be withdrawn at any time, even during a previously consensual activity.

b) Sexual Assault Sexual assault encompasses any non-consensual sexual contact, including intercourse, fondling, touching, or kissing without the voluntary consent of both parties.

c) Sexual Exploitation This involves any person in a position of trust or authority engaging in sexual acts or inciting a young person for a sexual purpose.

d) Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment includes unwanted sexual communications or actions that are offensive, intimidating, or humiliating. It encompasses verbal, written, or visual communication and may involve unwanted touching, offensive jokes, sexual requests, or verbal abuse.

e) Stalking Stalking, or criminal harassment, entails repeatedly following, communicating with, or watching over one’s dwelling home in a harassing manner.

f) Indecent Exposure Indecent exposure refers to the deliberate public exposure of a person’s body, contrary to local moral or behavioral standards.

g) Voyeurism Voyeurism involves observing or visually recording a person in circumstances where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

h) Distribution of Sexually Explicit Material The distribution of sexually explicit photographs or videos of a person to others without their consent and with the intent to distress the person in the media.

4. Responding to Complaints and Reports of Sexual Misconduct

a) Complaint of Sexual Misconduct A complaint is a disclosure of sexual misconduct without making a formal report. The process for making a complaint includes:

• The victim discloses the misconduct to a staff member of their choice.
• The staff member directs the complaint to a member of the Senior Management team (not involved with the complaint).
• The Senior Management team acknowledges receipt of the complaint within 48 hours.
• If the victim chooses not to make a formal report, the complaint is recorded.

b) Responding to a Complaint

• Protective measures are taken, such as relocating the student, changing classes, or ensuring no contact between the victim and alleged perpetrator.
• Confidential support and counseling are made available to the victim through IH staff.
• Referral to professional support and counseling may be provided.

c) Report of Sexual Misconduct A report is a formal notification of sexual misconduct accompanied by a request for action. The process for making a report includes:

• The victim discloses the misconduct to a staff member of their choice.
• The staff member directs the report to a member of the Senior Management team (not involved with the complaint).
• The Senior Management team acknowledges receipt of the report within 48 hours.
• A written or recorded statement is taken by a member of the Senior Management team if the victim chooses to make a report.

d) Responding to a Report

• Protective measures are taken, such as relocating the student, changing classes, or ensuring no contact between the victim and alleged perpetrator.
• Guidance from law authorities is followed, and assistance is provided to the victim for professional support and counseling.

5. No Retaliation or Reprisals It is against this policy for the institution to retaliate or threaten retaliation in response to a complaint or report of sexual misconduct.

6. Principles of Administrative Fairness Any processes undertaken pursuant to this policy will be based on the principles of administrative fairness, treating all parties involved with dignity and respect.

7. Confidentiality Information related to a complaint or report is considered confidential and will not be shared without written consent, except in certain situations, including imminent risk of harm to oneself or others, or when required by law.

This policy is in accordance with the requirements of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB). For more information, visit www.privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca.

Withdrawal Policy

If a student decides to withdraw from a program at IH Vancouver, they must provide a dated, written notice of withdrawal or fill out the withdrawal form available at IH Vancouver and submit it to the on-site administrator. Refunds are calculated according to IH Vancouver’s Refund Policy, and the date on which the written notice of withdrawal is received will be used to determine any refund owing.

An international student whose application for a study permit has been denied is entitled to a refund as per IH Vancouver’s policy manual guidelines. A copy of the denial letter must be provided to IH Vancouver prior to the program start date.

Procedure:

When a student wishes to withdraw from a program, they need to put this in writing and deliver it to the Senior Educational Administrator stating the reason for withdrawal. Students can fill the withdrawal form available at IH Vancouver’s reception desk.

The Senior Educational Administrator will arrange to meet with the student to discuss it and make a decision within 5 school days of receiving the student’s written request, or as soon as practicable.

The reason for withdrawal is discussed with the student in order to address student concerns. If no common ground is reached, the student will be granted withdrawal, and a refund will be issued as per the refund policy of IH Vancouver.

Refunds are calculated according to IH Vancouver’s Refund Policy, and the date on which the written notice of withdrawal is received will be used to determine any refund owing.

All communication related to student withdrawal will be kept in the student file.