Winter Break Extension – Resident FAQs

Last updated: December 3, 2020.

The first day of Winter Term 2 has been changed from January 4 to January 11, 2021 to help give students a longer break to prepare for the term, and to travel using appropriate isolation procedures. These FAQs should help answer many of your questions. Please contact us if you require additional information.

Rules are in effect in UBC Student Residences to help maintain the health and safety of our residence communities. Learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will be required of me to help keep my community healthy?

New rules are in effect in all Student Residences managed by UBC Student Housing to help maintain the health and safety of yourself and others in the residence community. Compliance is mandatory; failure to follow the stated rules may result in residence standards action and/or termination of your residence contract and eviction from residence. Full details along with the rules themselves can be found here.

Can I still return to residence on January 3 even though the first day of Winter Term 2 is now January 11?

Yes, residences will be open, and food is available. If you are returning or travelling to Canada for the first time you will need to self-isolate in accordance with public health mandates. Information for UBC students about travelling to Canada is here. UBC’s self-isolation website is here.

I need to self-isolate when I arrive. Can I still book the UBC Self-Isolation Package?

Spaces are filling up quickly for the UBC Self-Isolation Package in December and January. Reservations are available on a first-come first-serve basis while capacity lasts. If you are unable to secure a reservation, you must book alternative self-isolation accommodation. Detailed accommodation information, including a list of off-campus self-isolation packages, is here.

I’ve reserved the UBC Self Isolation Package but now need to change my dates. Can you help?

If you have booked a UBC Self-Isolation Package and your arrival date has changed, please contact us as soon as possible to ensure we can still accommodate your reservation.

I’m a current Orchard Commons resident. Will this change the status of my Winter Break Staythrough request?

If you have made a reservation your status will not change. If you need assistance please contact us.

I’m a current Orchard Commons resident and I reserved a Winter Break Staythough. My plans have now changed because of Winter Break Extension. Where can I find more information about cancelling my Staythrough?

We’re here to help — please get in touch with us as soon as you can. Email residence.life@ubc.ca by Friday, December 11 for details and next steps.

Where will I be able to find food on campus between January 3 and January 11?

UBC Food Services will have multiple food service locations open across campus. Exact locations and hours of operations are available here (subject to change). The Residence Dining Room and Market in Orchard Commons (Open Kitchen and Hero) will also be open, serving Orchard Commons and Totem Park residents only, beginning with Jan 3 dinner service.   

I’m a new first year resident moving into Orchard Commons / Totem Park. What should I know about moving in between Jan 3-11?

To help us with our planning for a safe move in, you will receive an email asking you to identify which date you are planning on moving into residence. This will allow us to determine the high volume days (anticipating Jan 3, 9, 10) and proceed with planning for your arrival.

You can find details about moving into UBC Student Housing  here. Information about your actual Move-in Day is here (don’t miss the video that walks you through the move-in process). All incoming new Winter 2021 residents will receive communications with important information about moving in, including adjustments we are making in response to COVID-19, in December.

What amenities will be available between Jan 3-11 in residence?

All amenities currently available will continue to be offered, in ongoing compliance with public health directives. Detailed information and COVID-19 Residence Rules are here. Information about  UBC Student Housing’s response to COVID-19 is here.