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!

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. Students will not be subject to any retaliation as a result of their complaint.  

The Dispute Resolution Process is as follows: 

1. When a concern arises, the student should first attempt to address it with the individual most directly involved.  A student making a complaint may make oral submissions and/or have a person (agent or lawyer) present with them at all stages of the proceedings and/or make oral submissions on behalf of the student. Student will not be subject to any retaliation as a result of their complaints. If unsatisfied with the outcome, the student would submit a written complaint to the Director of Studies (DOS) or designate. Should this person be absent or be named in the complaint, the student should submit the written complaint to the Senior Education Administrator (SEA).  
2. The DOS or designee will arrange to meet with the student to discuss the concern as soon as possible and within five (5) business days of receiving the student’s written complaint.  
3. Following the meeting, the Director of Studies or designee will conduct any necessary enquiries and/or investigations and provide a written response to the student that includes the reason(s) for determining the complaint.  
4. If the student is not satisfied with the determination of the Director of Studies or designee, the student must advise the Director of Studies or designee. The Director of Studies or designee will immediately refer the matter to the Senior Education Administrator (SEA) or designate, who will review the matter and meet with the students within five (5) business days. The SEA will either confirm or vary the determination of the Director of Studies. Decision will be made as soon as possible and the dispute process, including any appeal, will take no longer than 30 business days after the complaint was first received. At this point the institution’s Dispute Resolution Process will be considered exhausted. The responsibilities of the Student, Director of Studies, and Senior Education Administrator are as follows.  
5. After having exhausted the Dispute Resolution Process, if the student is not satisfied with the institution’s resolution of his/her complaint in accordance with the procedure herein set out, the student may file a claim with the Board of Directors (http://www.languagescanada.ca/en/contact) or (1-604-625-1532)  for resolution in accordance to the terms and conditions of the Dispute Resolution Policy for Languages Canada (available for download at www.languagescanada.ca). Students may also file a claim with the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (https://www.privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca/) on the basis that the Institution misled the student regarding any significant aspect of an approved program.  

All disputes will be recorded and retained by International House Vancouver for eight (8) 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. 

The Student’s Responsibilities 

The student must communicate his/her concern in writing to the relevant faculty member. Students are encouraged to address any concerns immediately and seek to utilize Student Services Support before participating in the Dispute Resolution process. Students should also retain copies of any written correspondence with the Institution.  

Should the student be unable or unwilling to approach the faculty member, or should concerns remain unaddressed by said faculty member, the student may contact the Director of Studies in writing, who will assist in determining an appropriate resolution. The student has the right to have a person present with them at all stages of any proceedings that may result, and to have this person, or an agent or lawyer, address any concerns on the student’s behalf.  

The Director of Studies’ Responsibilities  

Within five (5) working days of the submission of the complaint, the Director of Studies must:  

          (a) hear the student’s complaint;  

          (b) if necessary, ensure the complaint is prepared in writing (either by the student or by alternate means); and  

          (c) obtain the approval of both parties, evidenced by a signature, regarding the contents of the complaint or, if one or both parties object to the content, a list of concerns that such a party has.  

The Director of Studies will investigate the merits of the complaint, which may include, but not limited to, an in-depth discussion with faculty member(s), the complainant or any other students who may be involved. The Director of Studies is responsible for identifying the appropriate person to address the complaint and for notifying the student(s) involved of the status of the complaint process. If the Director of Studies is absent or named in the complaint, the Director of Student Services will assume responsibility for making a determination in respect of the student complaint.  

The Director of Studies or designate must record all resolution plans/decisions, as well as the reasons for such resolutions/decisions. The decision and resolution plans must be signed by both the faculty member/staff and the student who filed the complaint. A copy of the will be provided to the student, and the original will be filed in the student’s academic file. If the parties agree to a mutual resolution, such resolution must be implemented. The Director of Studies will follow up to ensure the resolution resolves the student’s complaint in a satisfactory manner. A student who disagrees with the Director of Studies’ assessment of the complaint may escalate his/her concerns to the Senior Education Administrator. 

The Senior Education Administrator Responsibilities  

If the student is not satisfied with the determination of the Director of Studies, the student may wish to submit an appeal to the Senior Education Administrator. Within five (5) business days, the Senior Education Administrator will contact all relevant parties to gather information regarding the concern and conduct an investigation. Once the investigation is complete, the Senior Education Administrator will respond to the student in writing.  

Record of Complaints  

The Institute will keep a record of all complaints in the student file at the campus where the complaint originated for a minimum of eight (8) years from the date of the decision relating to the complaint. A copy of the complaint and any other submissions on file with respect to the complaint and/or the decision reached will be included in the record. Any student who makes a complaint will be provided with a copy of the record of the complaint if a student is not satisfied with the Institute’s resolution of their complaint.  

Contact Information  

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.

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

Student Dismissal Policy

At International House Vancouver (the “Institution” or “Institute”), 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. 

1) All students are expected to conduct themselves in a dignified and professional manner.  

2) Students may be suspended or dismissed/expelled, depending on the severity and/or degree of their “Misconduct”. Misconduct is defined as, and without limitation:

          a. Conduct which disrupts or in any material respect compromises the Institute or any of its students, including the administration of the program (including but without limitation any act or threatened act of violence, failure to cooperate with an inclusion or accommodation policy of the Institution);  

          b. Student performance bringing discredit on professional, academic, or ethical standards of the Institutions;

          c. Academic failure; 

          d. Poor attendance. i.e. attendance which falls below any program approval requirements, or poor participation (without medical excuse that gives rise to the legal need for accommodation); 

          e. Conduct which interferes with legal rights of other students and/or the Institution, its staff, agents, or employees;  

          f. Repeat contravention of the Institute’s policies as set out in the Student Enrolment Contract and amended from time to time as the Institution deems necessary or pursuant to applicable laws and/or regulations; 

          g. Failure to pay required fees as set out in the student’s signed contract; 

          h. Contravention of the performance requirements or other rules and/or guidelines as they may apply to the student; and  

          i. Distribution of materials within the campus and to the Institute’s students that may not have been approved by the Institute (such as brochures, third-party 

3) Repeated failure to abide by the Institute’s policies, which may be amended from time to time as the Institution deems necessary or pursuant to applicable laws and/or regulations, is ground for dismissal/withdrawal. Note that contravention of some Institute’s policies may lead to immediate dismissal/expulsion from the program, depending on the severity of the contravention (see policy 5 below).

4) The Institute may, at its sole discretion and consistent with applicable laws and/or regulations, consider a Suspension prior to the possible dismissal/expulsion of the student. 

5) Certain types of serious misconduct will lead to the immediate dismissal/expulsion of the student on a “zero tolerance” basis. Such conduct includes, but without limitation,  

          a. The use of alcohol or drugs; 

          b. Violent and/or threatening behavior towards another student, employee, faculty member, or visitor on or off campus;

          c. Dishonesty by the student related to academic testing or credentials, or any dishonesty towards the academic integrity of the Institution.  

6) Harassment or Discrimination—The Institution does not condone harassment or discrimination against any students, staff, employees, or agents. Students who engage in harassing or discriminatory activities are subject to immediate suspension pending investigation. Any student deemed by the Institution’s investigator as having engaged in harassing or discriminatory activities contrary to applicable laws and regulations may be subjected to immediate dismissal/expulsion. 

7) Students who damage, steal, and/or misuse property may be expelled and will be required to make restitution to replace or fully repair the property. 

8) Fee refunds will be governed by the provisions of this policy and applicable laws and/or regulations as prescribed. However, where the Institution has no legal requirements/obligation to refund tuition or any portion of a student’s tuition to any student who has been expelled (or suspended, where the suspension is long enough such that the student has lost a significant amount of time or opportunity that would otherwise have been spent in the course study), the Institution will have no obligation to refund tuition or any part of the student’s tuition. 

9) A sanction of suspension and/or dismissal/expulsion may be recorded on the student’s academic record and transcript. 

10) Notification: Students expelled for any reason will be notified in writing. The notification will describe the basis of dismissal/expulsion and the effective date. 

11) Appeal procedure: Expelled students who dispute the facts of the dismissal/expulsion must file their appeal with the Institution within five (5) days of the student receiving the notification. 

12) The Institution, at its sole discretion, determine that a restorative process is warranted in lieu of or in tandem with any of the above forms of discipline that it seeks to impose. A restorative process is one which emphasizes repairing the harm caused or revealed by unjust behaviour through an inclusive or cooperative process.  

Students are encouraged to understand and follow our policies and procedures to ensure a successful and enriching educational experience. If there are questions, they may contact their advisor or the Director of Student Services at info@ihvancouver.com or by phone at +1-604-739-9836. 

Grade Appeal Policy

At International House Vancouver (the “Institution” or “Institute”), we believe in providing a fair and transparent academic environment for our students. Our grades appeals policy ensures that students have the opportunity to resolve concerns regarding their marks in a just and equitable manner. 

Grades for coursework are meticulously compiled, considering various assessments completed throughout each chapter or unit. These assessments encompass various 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. 

Grade disagreement process:  

1. Where a student disagrees with a grade received or any decision resulting from the application of the rules, policies, and regulations referenced in the Institution’s policy in its entirety, the student shall discuss the matter with their instructor or the Director of Studies in an attempt to resolve the problem.  
2. Both individual and/or group complaints should be handled as outlined above. Most complaints are resolved informally with the instructor or faculty member responsible for grading that student/group of students. Faculty members endeavor to be open and fair in dealing with students’ concerns, thus students are encouraged to speak with the faculty member(s) involved in the matter.  
3. Students have five (5) business days from the day they receive the grades to request a retake or re-assessment of the task, assignment, or exam.  

The process of appealing grades at International House Vancouver is as follows: 

1. A student who feels there have been extenuating circumstances that adversely affected his/her academic outcome/progress may appeal to the Director of Student Services. A student who is dissatisfied with the decision of first instance may appeal to the Director of Studies.
2. Students have five (5) business days from the day they receive a decision that affects their academic progress to request an appeal on the outcome of the decision. The Dispute Resolution Policy will apply.  

If there are further questions about our Grade Appeal policy, please reach out to the Director of Studies or Student Service Support.  

Students can also contact the Director of Studies at academic@ihvancouver.com. 

Sexual Violence and Sexual Misconduct Policy

1.       Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy 

IH Vancouver is committed to providing its students with an environment free from sexual violence and treating anyone who reports incidents of sexual violence or misconduct with dignity and respect. 

This Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy defines sexual violence and misconduct, and outlines IH Vancouver’s policies and procedures for training staff and students, as well as reporting and responding to complaints of sexual violence made by or involving its students. 

Any person(s) accused of engaging in sexual violence or misconduct will be referred to as the “Respondent(s)” and the person(s) making the allegation as the “Complainant(s)”. 

If this policy conflicts with any other IH Vancouver Policy, the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy prevails.

2.       Definition of Sexual Violence and Misconduct 

Sexual violence and misconduct means any sexual act or act targeting a person’s sexuality, gender identity or gender expression, whether the act is physical or psychological in nature, that is committed, threatened or attempted against a person without the person’s consent, and includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism, sexual exploitation and the distribution of a sexually explicit photograph or video of a person to one or more persons other than the person in the photograph or video without the consent of the person in the photograph or video and with the intent to distress the person in the photograph and video. 

3.       Training, Reporting and Responding to Sexual Violence and Misconduct 

A copy of the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy is included in every contract made between IH Vancouver and its students. Furthermore, a copy of the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy is given to all IH Vancouver directors, controlling shareholders, owners, partners and other persons who manage or director the affairs, along with teachers, staff, contractors, and other employees, and training is provided regarding the policy and the processes of reporting, investigating, and responding to complaints of sexual violence. 

The Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy is available on the IH Vancouver website and available to students, teachers, and staff at any time. 

IH Vancouver teachers, staff, and any other employees and contractors of IH Vancouver will report incidents of or complaints of sexual violence or misconduct to their Director of Student Services, or the Director of Studies upon becoming aware of them. Students who have been affected by sexual violence or misconduct who need information about support services should contact a student services representative or the Director of Studies directly. 

If students, in good faith, report an incident of, or make a complaint about, sexual violence, they will not be subject to discipline or sanctions for violations of IH Vancouver’s policies relating to drug or alcohol use at the time the alleged sexual violence occurred. 

Students who disclose their experience of sexual violence through reporting an incident of, making a complaint about, or accessing supports and services for sexual violence, will not be asked irrelevant questions during the investigation process by IH Vancouver’s staff or investigators, including irrelevant questions relating to the student’s sexual expression or past sexual history. 

Subject to Section 4 below, to the extent it is possible, IH Vancouver will attempt to keep all personal information of persons involved in the investigation confidential, except in those circumstances where it believes an individual is at imminent risk of self-harm, or of harming another, or there are reasonable grounds to believe that others on its campus or the broader community are at risk. This will be done by: 

a)       ensuring that all complaints/reports and information gathered as a result of the complaint/reports will be only available to those who need to know for purposes of investigation, implementing safety or other measures that may be required; and 

b)       ensuring that the documentation is kept in a separate file from that of the Complainant/student or the Respondent. 

IH Vancouver recognizes the right of the Complainant not to report an incident of or make a complaint about sexual violence/misconduct or not request an investigation, and not to participate in any investigation that may occur. 

Notwithstanding, in certain circumstances, IH Vancouver may be required by law or its internal policies to initiate an internal investigation and/or inform police without the complainant’s consent if it believes the safety of members of its campus or the broader community is at risk. In all cases, including the above, IH Vancouver will appropriately accommodate the needs of any student affected by sexual violence or misconduct. 

IH Vancouver is committed to having specific confidential supports in relation to sexual violence on campus. Affected parties should contact IH Vancouver’s Director of Student Services or the Director of Studies. IH Vancouver will assist students who have experienced sexual violence to obtain counselling and medical care and provide them with information about sexual violence support services available in the community. Students are not required to file a formal complaint in order to access support services. 

4.       Investigating Reports of Sexual Violence and Misconduct 

Under this Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy, any student of IH Vancouver may file a report of an incident or a complaint to a Student Services representative, or Director of Studies in writing. Other officials, offices or departments may be involved in any investigation including the Human Resource Department. 

Upon receipt of a report of an incident or a complaint of alleged sexual violence being made, the Student Services representative, or Director of Studies will respond promptly and: 

a)       determine whether an investigation should take place and if the Complainant wishes to participate in the investigation; 

b)       determine who should conduct the investigation with regard to the seriousness of the allegation and the parties involved; 

c)       determine whether the incident should be referred immediately to the police; 

In such cases or where civil proceedings are commenced with respect to allegations of sexual violence or misconduct, IH Vancouver may conduct its own independent investigation and make its own determination in accordance with its policies and procedures. It may also determine what interim measures ought to be put in place pending the investigation process, such as removing the Respondent or seeking alternate methods of providing course delivery. 

Once an investigation is initiated, the following will occur: 

1)       the Complainant and the Respondent will be advised that they may ask another person to be present throughout the investigation; 

2)       the Complainant will be interviewed to ensure a complete understanding of the allegation and to gather additional information that may not have been included in the written complaint, such as the date and time of the incident, the persons involved, the names of any person who witnessed the incident and a complete description of what occurred; 

3)       the Respondent will be interviewed and informed of the complaint, provided details of the allegations, and provided an opportunity to respond to the allegations, including providing any witnesses the Respondent feels are essential to the investigation; 

4)       any person involved or who has, or may have, knowledge of the incident and any identified witnesses will be interviewed; 

5)       reasonable updates to the Complainant and the Respondent about the status of the investigation will be provided; and 

6)       following the investigation, the Student Services representative, or Director of Studies will: 

          a)       review all of the evidence collected during the investigation; 

          b)       determine whether sexual violence occurred; and if so 

          c)       determine what disciplinary action, if any, should be taken as set out in Section 5 below. 

5.       Disciplinary Measures 

If it is determined by IH Vancouver that the Respondent did engage in sexual violence or misconduct, immediate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken. This may include: 

1)       disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment of teachers or staff; or 

2)       expulsion/dismissal of a student; and /or 

3)       the placement of certain restrictions on the Respondent’s ability to access certain premises or facilities; and/or 

4)       any other actions that may be appropriate in the circumstances. 

6.       Appeal 

Should the Complainant or the Respondent disagree with the decision resulting from the investigation, he or she may appeal the decision to the Senior Education Administrator within five (5) business days by submitting a letter/email advising of the person’s intent to appeal the decision. 

7.       Making False Statements 

It is a violation of the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy for anyone to knowingly make a false complaint of sexual violence or to provide false information about a complaint. Individuals who violate the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy are subject to disciplinary and/or corrective action up to and including termination of employment of teachers or staff or expulsion of a student. 

8.       Reprisal 

It is a violation of the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy to retaliate or threaten to retaliate against a complainant who has brought forward a complaint of sexual violence, provided information related to a complaint, or otherwise been involved in the complaint investigation process. Individuals who violate the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy are subject to disciplinary and/or corrective action, up to and including termination of employment of teachers or staff or expulsion of a student. 

 9.       Review 

IH Vancouver shall ensure that student input is considered every time the Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy is reviewed or changed. IH Vancouver will review its Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy at least once every 3 years and amend it where appropriate. 

Contact Information   

Please see the list of resources below for a list of support services, centers, and other resources in British Columbia. 

Resources in British Columbia 

BC Crisis Lines 

Help is available! We are here to listen, here to help – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Language Service: Both of the 310-6789 and 1-800-SUICIDE phone lines are available in over 140 languages using a language service.  Let us know which language you require, and we will try and provide an interpreter. 

Anywhere in BC 1-800-SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433 
Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 
Vancouver Coastal Regional Distress Line: 604-872-3311 
Seniors Distress Line: 604-872-1234 
Online Chat Service for Youth: www.YouthInBC.com (Noon to 1am) 
Online Chat Service for Adults: www.CrisisCentreChat.ca (Noon to 1am) 

 VictimLink BC 

Anyone who has been a victim of crime in British Columbia, their family members, and witnesses can use victim services. Even if you’re not sure if you have been a victim of crime, you can call VictimLink BC, a toll-free, confidential, multilingual telephone service available across B.C. and Yukon 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-563-0808. 

Additional Resources: 

Where to Get Help 

Youth Against Violence Line 

SAIL – Seniors Abuse and Information Line 

Victim Services & Violence Against Women Program Directory 

Ending Violence Association of BC Program Directory 

BC Society of Transition Houses Program Directory 

Police Victim Services of British Columbia Program Directory 

Indigenous Organizations & Services Directory 

BC Housing for Women Fleeing Violence 

Crime Victim Assistance Program 

Victim Safety Unit 

How to Help 

What Bystanders Can Do 

Coming Forward If You Witnessed A Crime 

Family Member or Friend of a Victim 

How Can I Help My Friend? 

Reporting Child Abuse in BC 

Information and Other Resources 

Am I safe? 

Are you being abused? 

Are you experiencing abuse? 

Creating a Safety Plan 

Types of Violence and Abuse 

Dispelling Myths About Sexual Assault 

Third Party Reporting for Victims of Sexual Offences 

BC Association of Friendship Centres 

Moose Hide Campaign 

Ending Gender Based Violence 

FREDA Centre for Research on Violence Against Women and Children 

Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention Initiative 

Resources for LGBTQ2S and non-binary survivors of violence 

Disability Alliance of BC’s Anti-Violence Help Sheets to help People with Disabilities 

Knowledge Exchange Toolkit 

A Forced Marriage Risk Assessment Framework 

Statement of Student Rights

Tuition Refund and Withdrawal Policy

To receive a refund of any portion of the tuition fees, a student must provide International House Vancouver (“IHV”) a written notice that they intend to withdraw from the program which they have enrolled.   

The institution must pay the student within 30 days of receiving a notice of withdrawal or a copy of refusal of a study permit, as applicable.