The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininew, Anisininew, Dakota and Dene peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. More
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2
Moving to Canada to study is an exciting opportunity! Proper planning and support from the International Centre can help you settle in to life at the University of Manitoba.
The International Centre hosts a weekly conversation group each term; all students are welcome!
Join us to learn about other cultures, meet students and practice your conversation skills.
Accepting donations now!
Click here for donation instructions.
Open for shopping Monday November 4th 9:30-12:30 pm! Open each day during business hours as stock remains.
Get important immigration updates, events, tips and community updates to your inbox every month from the International Centre (IC).
The International Student Newsletter is delivered on the last week of every month.
Our first issue is being sent out July 28, 2023.
All international students who are registered at UM will be automatically sent this newsletter.
For those who aren't yet registered, or you are a staff, faculty or community member who is interested in receiving the newsletter, you can send an email with 'subscribe' in the subject to international-student-newsletter-join@lists.umanitoba.ca
If you are a UM Community member (such as faculty, staff, UMSU recognized student groups, student associations) and would like your UM event featured, please email: crystal.stewart@umanitoba.ca
Our international student advisors (ISAs) recognize the unique experience of international students. We are here to help you with your adjustment to life in Canada and throughout your time at the University of Manitoba.
The ISAs at the International Centre work with you at various points during your time at UM to plan ahead or work through challenges regarding personal matters, academics, university regulations and policies and life in Winnipeg. The ISAs can also provide information on immigration regulations as they relate to your studies in Canada such as study permit extensions and changes, Temporary Resident Visas, the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program and more. Our advisors can provide you with the information and referrals you need.
For the weeks of November 12th to November 22nd, inclusive, there will be increased drop in-advising and reduced scheduled appointments. Please call our reception desk at 204-474-8501 or email us at international@umanitoba.ca for more information.
Some international students will require a tuition fee and living expense estimate letter as part of applying for their study permit. If you need a fee estimate letter, email international@umanitoba.ca to request one. Please note it can take up to 10 working days for an estimate letter to be issued.
There are a number of great orientation programs and events to help you get settled here in Winnipeg!
Build your intercultural competency skills by participating in various programs that allow you to learn people and perspectives from all over the globe!
One of the first things you need to think about before you come to the University of Manitoba is where you are going to live and how you will arrange it.
Review the information below to make an informed choice on what housing option is best for you.
It’s always important to think about being a good neighbour, whether you’re living in residence, a homestay placement, an apartment or a house. This means keeping the noise you and your guests make to a reasonable level, keeping shared spaces tidy and clean and keeping open lines of communication with people with whom you’re sharing space.
It is recommended to plan to reserve a temporary accommodation while you are searching for a place to live or waiting for your residence move-in date.
You might want to consider booking temporary housing in a hotel, hostel, Airbnb suite or elsewhere for when you first arrive in Winnipeg, since it can take a number of weeks to find off-campus housing. You can book these accommodations well in advance, ideally as soon as you know you will be coming to the University of Manitoba.
A spot in residence is not guaranteed and is not automatically included in your tuition. If you are considering residence as a place to live, visit our on-campus housing page for a listing of all available buildings on campus. We recommend you apply as early as possible. You do not need to have received your letter of admission in order to apply.
In addition to University of Manitoba’s main residence buildings, St. John’s College and St. Andrew’s College have small independent residences also located on the Fort Garry main campus.
If you have been approved for on-campus housing, you can contact them to see if an early move-in date is an option for your room. However, there may be limited services (food) if you arrive earlier than the set move-in date.
We recommend that you arrange to stay in temporary accommodation (hotel) until you can move in, so that you can still arrive early enough to settle in, recover from jet lag and attend all Orientation programming.
Ensure you’ll have everything you need to set up your new residence in Winnipeg. Refer to "Packing for residence life" in our Moving in information.
While you will need to conduct your own search to find off-campus housing, our rental search resource can be helpful. Once you’ve been accepted to UM, it will be important for you to become familiar with your options for off-campus housing, such as a house, apartment, condo, shared apartment, etc. You can also become familiar with maps of different neighbourhoods in Winnipeg and proximity to campus.
It is possible to begin your search for off-campus housing from your home country, but you will likely find it easier to conduct your search when you are in Winnipeg. Rental listings usually do not go up more than one to two months before a move-in date. For this reason, many international students consider arriving in Winnipeg three to four weeks before classes to secure off-campus housing.
It's important to verify a rental space is legitimate and as advertised before committing. You should carefully inspect a location in person before sending any deposits, and fully read and understand the rental contract before you sign.
Students at the Bannatyne campus can consider the Medical Centre Apartments, which are limited to Health Sciences Centre or University of Manitoba students. However, as with University of Manitoba residence, a spot in the Medical Centre Apartments is not guaranteed.
Another option to consider is living with a local family through the Polar Trails Homestay Program.
We always offer a session on Renting in Manitoba during International Centre Orientation where you can learn about how and where to find safe housing in the city and tips to avoid rental advertisement fraud.
If you want to watch a recording in advance, please click the session below:
Renting Housing in Manitoba (recording)
As a renter in Winnipeg, you should familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. A lot of this comes down to mutual respect—this applies to your landlord-tenant relationship, as well as your relationship with your roommates and neighbours.
It is strongly recommended to purchase tenant insurance for any rental unit. Contact any insurance provider for information and pricing; it is usually very affordable to include in your monthly budget.
Learn more about the importance of purchasing tenant insurance.
The Residential Tenancies Branch is a government service that can provide information on matters such as rent, repairs and deposits, and mediate disputes between tenants and landlords. They provide information on your rights and responsibilities during a tenancy, investigate problems, and hold hearings to make decisions and make legally binding orders on certain issues.
All landlords and tenants in Manitoba are governed by a law called The Residential Tenancies Act, which contains all of the laws and rules that renters and landlords must follow. The Residential Tenancies Branch enforces that law. The Residential Tenancies Branch can overrule any decision made by a landlord if the landlord isn't following the law.
This helpful guide explains what renters need to know about their rights and responsibilities.
A rooming house is a building rented by several tenants at the same time, sharing facilities like the kitchen, washrooms, laundry and entrances. In most cases, each individual tenant has a separate rental agreement with the landlord, and each tenant is responsible to pay their own rent. Each tenant has the right to have keys to entrances to the building, as well as a private room with a lock.
There are many supports available for international students, free of charge in a variety of options.
The Sexual Violence Resource Centre (SVRC) provides support, education, resources and referral services for any student, faculty or staff member who has been affected by sexual violence. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence and would benefit from support, the SVRC can help.
Spiritual health services are available to all, whether you identify as spiritual, atheist, religious or agnostic. We recognize, affirm and work with your existing values and beliefs.
Student Counselling and Wellness at the University of Manitoba is available to provide support and services to all University of Manitoba students, including International Students. All of our services are free and International Students can choose from a variety of options to receive help.
Our Health and Wellness services include the recently opened Student Wellness Centre at 162 Extended Education where you can drop by to rest, recharge or connect with other students. The Student Wellness Centre hosts our peer support program called Healthy U – a team of friendly student volunteers who are available to talk with about a variety of health topics.
Student Services at Bannatyne campus is a service hub for students and residents in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, we provide the supports and referrals you need for personal and academic success. All our services are free and confidential, and we work hard to accommodate your schedule.
Empower Me is a confidential mental health and wellness service available 24/7, 365 days a year is covered under the UMSU Health & Dental Plan. You can access Empower Me through the Dialogue app.
UM has many academic resources to help you be a successful student. Explore these resources before you arrive to help you understand expectations, policies and services available for support.
Some rules and expectations at the UM will be different from those you’re used to—even if you have experience at another institution. These expectations are reflected in the values of academic integrity: honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility and courage. How you show these values means different things in different countries and cultures. As a UM student, you are expected to know these rules, apply them and ask questions if you are unsure; otherwise, you could face serious consequences.
Please visit the academic integrity website for more information.
Career Services supports students from their first year to their final year on campus. They can help you
Faculty advisors are available to answer questions about studies, grades and course selections, helping students achieve academic success.
The Academic Learning Centre offers many services and workshops, including tutoring, to help students. There are also specific resources available for those who are multilingual learners.
If you need to improve your English, the English Language Centre offers part-time courses to help improve your language skills, including oral English and academic writing.
These courses are designed to support your language skills only and cannot be used for academic credit with your degree.
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) provides support and advocacy to students with disabilities such as hearing, injury-related, learning, mental health, medical, physical, visual or temporary disabilities. They can provide support and programs for students who may require assistance in the classroom or during exams. SAS highly encourages students to contact their office prior to applying and after accepting offers of admission. This will help prepare them with the necessary information before the beginning of school to offer a successful transition into university life.
Aurora is our online registration and student information system. Follow the steps on the registration page to ensure you’re prepared and understand how to use the system before registration opens.
If you are beginning your studies in the Fall term, you will most likely be able to register for both fall and winter courses at the same time. This is recommended because courses fill up quickly.
If you are beginning your studies in January, many courses may have limited space or already be full. It’s very important to register for your winter courses as soon as possible. Do not wait until after you arrive in Winnipeg.
For Summer registration, you’ll be assigned one day to register for courses during the first week of registration (typically in March). After this first week has passed, the system will become open to all students.
To start preparing for university, check out the First Year Planning Guide. This online document has essential information on how to select and register for your courses, and it’s your best resource for planning your first year.
When selecting your courses, it’s always a good idea to consult with one of our academic advisors. Find your faculty advisor here.
note: If you are not able to begin your studies in your expected start term, you must de-register (withdraw) from any courses you have registered for. Non-payment of fees will not cancel your registration.
If you need to defer your admission to a future term, please contact the admissions office at international_students@umanitoba.ca.
Ensure you are aware of the registration revision period and last day to drop courses for a refund.
As a graduate student, you should discuss registration directly with your department or unit to determine if you are responsible for registering for your own courses, or if your department will do this for you. For information about registration for graduate students, please review the information provided on the Faculty of Graduate Studies website.
Student Advocacy and Case Management is a unit that helps students who are dealing with personal or health challenges affecting their academic life. Student advocates can give advice and guidance about a student’s rights and responsibilities within the University and support in dealing with academic or disciplinary matters—including cases where a student may have broken a rule of academic integrity.
Students can also receive personal support and connect to resources on and off campus through the student support case management team. These services are free and confidential.
Most UM courses will be delivered remotely for Fall 2020 & Winter 2021 terms. This guide will provide you with strategies and resources for successful course completion in a remote learning environment.
A university education is an investment and the government requires you to be able to support yourself and your dependents without needing to work in Canada. It’s important that you have a clear understanding of your finances throughout your studies.
If you are facing unexpected financial distress, or have had a significant change in your financial situation, please contact Financial Aid and Awards or the UMSU Hardship Fund.
In addition to your savings and financial support from family and friends, you may be eligible for awards and scholarships.
You must have a valid Canadian study permit to be considered for any scholarship or bursary.
Scholarship recipients are selected based on academic merit, while bursaries are based on financial need.
There are two types of entrance scholarships: the International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarships and the International Baccalaureate Entrance Scholarships. Excluding entrance scholarships, undergraduate international students will only be considered for undergraduate scholarships and bursaries after they have completed their first 24 credit hours of study at the University of Manitoba.
Learn more about entrance and undergraduate scholarships and bursaries for international students.
The Faculty of Graduate Studies will inform you if you qualify for an International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarship at time of admission. After your first year of study, you may also qualify for the International Graduate Student Scholarship.
The Faculty of Graduate Studies maintains a list of scholarships that international graduate students are eligible to apply for.
Please visit the awards database for a list of all awards available to graduate students. Students with financial need may also consider applying for bursaries.
U.S. citizens can find information about applying for student loans here.
It’s important to set up a bank account as soon as possible so you can start depositing money, paying bills, and tracking your expenses in Canada. There are two different kinds of financial institutions in Canada: commercial banks and credit unions. There are differences in their ownership structures, the amount of interest that is paid, the fees and the extent of customer service you receive.
Credit Unions are financial co-operatives, owned and controlled by the people who use their services. The people who use credit union services must own shares in the credit union and members of many credit unions share in the profits every year. Credit unions offer the same services as banks and often have lower fees.
The advantage of banks is that it is often easier to arrange international financial transactions through a bank. There are many banks to choose from, but the CIBC is the only bank that currently offers Automated Teller Machines (ATM) on campus. If you intend to use ATM machines on campus, a CIBC account may save you money in transaction fees.
This tool can help you make the right banking institution choice for you.
In general, there are two types of bank accounts: chequing accounts and savings accounts.
There are different kinds of chequing and savings accounts that offer different levels of interest. The financial institution should be able to explain which account will best suit your needs.
To open a bank account, you will need to make an appointment at the bank or credit union of your choice. When you go to the appointment, be sure to bring documents such as:
Be sure to ask about the transaction and service fees that the bank or credit union charges for writing and cashing cheques, using an ATM card, wiring money, etc.
Learn more about banking services in Canada.
If you find that a financial institution’s fees are too high or that you are not satisfied with the service, you can always close your account and move to a different institution.
When you open a bank account, you will be issued a debit card (also referred to as an ATM card or a bank card) to use in bank machines around the city, or to pay directly for goods and services. This is a secure method of payment, which is protected through the use of a Personal Identification Number (PIN). When you pay using your debit card, the money is immediately deducted from your account. Your bank will typically charge you an additional service fee if you withdraw money from a bank machine that belongs to a different bank.
Credit cards can be a convenient way to make payments. The amount you spend accumulates on your account and you are responsible for paying off what you’ve spent once a month. Most online purchases are made using a credit card. In order to apply for a credit card, you will need two pieces of government-issued identification. You may want to ask if they have a no-fee student card.
It can be difficult for international students, including U.S. citizens, to get a credit card, and the initial credit limit is often very low (i.e., $250 Canadian), which can make it difficult to use the card to make larger purchases such as an airline ticket. However, if you develop a good credit score (by making your payments on time and in full, not opening multiple credit cards and avoiding credit-seeking behaviours), you can have this limit increased.
If you are facing unexpected financial distress, or have had a significant change in your financial situation, please contact Financial Aid and Awards or the UMSU Hardship Fund.
Most bank and credit union websites offer online branch locators. Simply type in an address in Winnipeg to see a list of branches nearby.
BMO Bank of Montreal
Customer Service: 1-877-225-5266
CIBC - Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Toll-free Phone #: 1-800-465-2422
HSBC Canada
Customer Service: 1-888-310-4722
RBC Royal Bank
Toll- Free Phone #: 1-800-769-2511
Scotiabank
Toll- Free Phone #: 1-800-472-6842
TD Canada Trust
Toll-free Phone #: 1-866-222-3456
It’s important to develop a realistic budget to help you manage your finances and make the most of your experience. Tuition and school fees vary according to the program of study and course load. For an estimate of the tuition and school fees for your program, please refer to fee information hub. Similarly, additional costs will vary depending on how you choose to live. To help you make your own budget, visit the Government of Canada Student Budget Worksheet.
Explore estimated international student costs for undergraduate programs
The following is an estimate of costs, in Canadian dollars, for a single student living in Winnipeg at a very modest level for one calendar year (12 months). Actual living expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle and could be higher than what is estimated below.
For newly admitted students:
| Books and supplies | $1,200 – $5,700 * |
| Accommodation and utilities | $9,000** – $18,000 |
| Food | $3,600 |
| UMSU Health and Dental Insurance (+ UMSU Legal Protection Program) | $393 |
| Manitoba International Student Health Plan (MISHP) | $1,104 |
| Miscellaneous (clothing, initial winter clothing, phone, entertainment) | $4,300 |
| Transportation (bus pass for 12 months) | $1,072 |
| Resettlement costs | $1,945 |
For returning students:
| Books and supplies | $1,300 – $5,700* |
| Accommodation and utilities | $9,000** – $18,000 |
| Food | $3,600 |
| UMSU Health and Dental Insurance (+ UMSU Legal Protection Program) | $393 |
| Manitoba International Student Health Plan (MISHP) | $1,104 |
| Miscellaneous (clothing, phone, entertainment, ongoing costs) | $4,300 |
| Transportation (bus pass from May – August) | $358 |
* Books and supplies fees are subject to change and often increase two to three percent per year.
**Minimum estimate is for a shared accommodation (living with more than one person). Estimates are based on information provided by Canada Student Financial Assistance program and in consultation with UM Financial Aid and Awards.
An additional $5,055 should be added for a first dependent and an additional $5,893 for an additional dependent to cover 12 months of living expenses. Please note, the above spouse and dependent estimates do not include costs for health insurance.
If you have been admitted to UM and require a written estimate of tuition and living expenses, please contact the International Centre at international@umanitoba.ca.
Students coming to UM through the International Centre Student Exchange Program pay tuition to their home universities and not to the University of Manitoba. However, all exchange students will be required to pay Students' Union fees and field trip fees, if applicable. Health insurance fees will vary according to the length of study and the health insurance options chosen.
How and when to pay your tuition and other fees is going to be one of your first concerns. Familiarize yourself with the tuition fee payment schedule, and instructions on how to pay your tuition fees from outside and inside of Canada. Only use University-approved payment methods. Pay your own fees, and never share your UM student account login information with anyone, not even an agent.
You should check your fee assessments in Aurora Student each term to ensure you can pay your fees by the deadline, as you will not receive a fee assessment or invoice in the mail.
Not paying your fees by the deadline will result in additional fees charged to your account. Your account will also be put on hold, which is serious and means you will not have access to many essential UM services, including the libraries, computer labs, and official documentation orders from the Registrar’s Office (e.g., a transcript, enrolment verification, etc.). Having a hold on your account will also affect your ability to register for courses, and may result with you being de-registered from future term courses.
Learn more about fee payment deadlines and penalties
Some international students will require a tuition fee and living expense estimate letter as part of applying for their study permit. If you need a fee estimate letter, email international@umanitoba.ca to request one. Please note it can take up to 10 working days for an estimate letter to be issued.
The University of Manitoba only requires that you pay your full tuition by the fee-payment deadline. However, if you would like to pre-pay some of your tuition, or if you are required to, please follow these instructions.
Some programs may require a non-refundable tuition deposit when you apply.
Created by the Winnipeg Police Service, read over this brochure on tips to avoid scams and protect yourself from fraud.
For further information on how to protect yourself, you can find information from the following resources:
Protect yourself from Immigration Fraud
You may consider working in Canada to help earn some extra spending money and gain skills to enhance your employability. However, it is important to recognize that the amount you can earn while working cannot fully fund your expenses.
If you do intend to work during your studies, it is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with very strict requirements that federal government expects international students to meet at all times in order to work on or off campus in Canada during their studies.
Students who wish to stay and work in Canada after their studies are encouraged to work and volunteer to build skills, gain industry connections and references, and enhance their employability. Career Services has a number of resources, such as careerCONNECT, to support you in finding on-campus work, off-campus work and volunteer positions.
You will need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) card in order to work in Canada. To apply for a SIN card, your study permit must have the conditions to work printed on it.
We know that your first weeks on campus and in Winnipeg can be overwhelming. There’s so much to be done when you arrive! Use these resources to help you get around and get settled.
Usually, cell phone providers offer three types of plans:
The conditions, offerings and prices may vary within these plans. Make sure you to talk to the provider before purchasing the one that best suits your needs.
Some main providers are:
Quality child care and family-friendly policies are indispensable to our student, staff and faculty parents. We are committed to providing services and supports that help our students and staff with children thrive, including on-campus child care, change tables, breastfeeding-friendly spaces and more.
Explore the childcare page to learn about existing child care services and supports, as well as the results of our child care Initiative.
Whether you’re living in residence or off campus, there are many dining options on our campuses. Check out dining services to learn about our restaurants and meal plans.
Winnipeg is home to a range of diverse restaurants. Find the best places to eat according to Tourism Winnipeg. You can also read more PegCityGrub, Winnipeg’s most popular culinary website.
There are many places to purchase groceries (food items) convenient to where you live. Popular grocery stores in Winnipeg include Sobeys, Co-op, Safeway, Superstore and Walmart. Superstore on Bison Drive has a range of foods from all over the world.
Small convenience stores and gas stations, such as 7-Eleven, can be very expensive places to purchase groceries compared to larger grocery stores.
To find grocery stores near the University of Manitoba, explore google maps.
If you cannot find what you’re looking for at a major grocery store, you can visit a specialty food store.
| Name of Store | Contact information | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| African Foods General Wholesale | 245 Notre Dame Ave 204-414-9226 | Specialize in foods from a variety of African countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Congo, etc. |
| Akin’s International Foods | 550 Sargent Ave. 204-779-8666 | African, Caribbean foods. Specialize in pounded yam, Ogi/Koko/Akamu, stockfish, Moin-Moin, cassava leaves etc. |
| Arirang Oriental Food Mart | 1799 Portage Ave. 204-831-1212 | Specialize in Japanese and Korean foods |
| Balkan Foods | 185 Stadacona St 204-663-1445 | Specialize in foods from Poland, Greece, Bosnia, and Italy |
| Baltona Meat and Deli | 600 Selkirk Ave. 204-586-8621 | Specialize in Polish foods, meats, cosmetics, sweets, and herbs |
| Bueno Bros Supermarket | 84 Isabel St. 204-786-2800 | Specialize in Philippine foods and other Asian foods: seafood, meats, vegetables, rice, sauces, spices, noodles, etc. |
| Didar Grocery Mart | 110 Adamar Rd. 204-275-6060 | East Indian and Canadian foods |
| Dino’s Grocery Mart | 460 Notre Dame Ave. 204-942-1526 | Import foods from around the world, especially from India, Pakistan, other Asian countries, and the West Indies |
| Dong Thai Ltd. | 459 Notre Dame Ave. 204-943-9868 | Specialize in Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, Laotian, Latin American, Thai, and Vietnamese imported foods |
| El Izalco Market | 696 Sargent Ave. 204-779-7092 | Specialize in Central American food |
| A l’Epi de Blé | 1757 Main St. 204-334-2526 | French Bakery |
| Greek Market | 1440 Corydon Ave. 204-488-6161 | Greek foods: olives, olive oil, pitas, desserts |
| Halal Meats and Specialty Foods | 206 Maryland St. 204-774-8095 | Specialize in foods from Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Morocco, Somalia, and Pakistan |
| India Spice House and Video | 66 Mandalay Dr. 204-261-4600 | Specialize in East Indian food and spices |
| La Grotta Del Formaggio | 550 Sargent Ave. 204-775-0691 | Italian and Greek foods |
| La Grotta Mediterranean Market | 1360 Taylor Ave. 204-982-9461 | Specialized in Mediterranean foods |
| Lucky's Supermarket | 1051 Winnipeg Ave. 204-272-8011 | Specialize in food from all over Asia such as Vietnam, China, Philippines, Japan, Korea, Thailand |
| Lvov Euro Food Corner | 5B-140 Meadowood Dr. 204-783-8777 | Offer a variety of food and delicatessen from Europe. Specialize in products from Russian and Ukraine |
| Meghna Grocery | 1741 Pembina Hwy. 204-261-4222 | Halal meats, Bangladeshi, Pakistani, Arabian, Indian, and Sri Lankan groceries |
| Mercadito Latino | 570 Sargent Ave. 204-415-2870 | Specialize in Latin American foods |
| Oriental Market | 268 King St. 204-943-4103 | Chinese foods, meat, vegetables, seafood |
| Portuguese Fish and Food Market | 460 William Ave. 204-943-8793 | Specialize in Portuguese foods, some Brazilian and Chilean foods |
| Russian Deli Market | 643 Portage Ave. 204-774-1041 | Specialize in products from Russia and Ukraine |
| Sangam Grocery Mart | 1-933 McLeod Ave. 204-668-6248 | Specialize in food from India |
| Sun Wah Supermarket | 303 King St. 204-944-9162 | Specialize in frozen seafood, live lobster and crab, and Asian groceries |
| The Real Canadian Superstore | 1578 Regent Ave. 204-654-5500 1035 Gateway Rd. 204-987-7329 215 St Anne’s Rd. 204-258-2401 2132 McPhillips St. 204-631- 6250 3193 Portage Ave. 204-831-3500 550 Kenaston Blvd. 204-488-5800 80 Bison Dr. 204-275-4100 1385 Sargent Ave. 204-784-7901 | Wide assortment of specialty foods |
| Tindahan Food Mart | 906 Sargent Ave. 204-783-3946 | Specialize in Philippine foods and some Portuguese foods |
| Wah Hing Grocery | 106 - 180 King St. 204-943-6878 | Chinese foods, some meats and vegetables, spices, noodles, rice, cooking tools |
| Young’s Market | 1000 McPhillips St. 204-957-1088 | Specialize in food from Philippines, China, and Thailand; some food from Japan and Korea |
| Young’s Trading | 397 William Ave. 204-957-0230 | Specialize in food from Philippines, China, and Thailand; some food from Japan and Korea |
The following is a list of grocery stores that have curbside pick-up or delivery options in Winnipeg for those who want to minimize their exposure. If you are self-isolating or in your mandatory quarantine period delivery is the recommended option.
Many delivery and curbside pick-up options are limited due to increase in customers using these online methods. As a result, many items may be sold out due to an increase in demand. * Please note that this list may not include all options available for your area.
| Name | Pharmacy (in store) | Delivery | Pick-up |
| Save-on-Foods | Yes | Yes | |
| Walmart | Yes | Yes * | Yes |
| Superstore | Yes | Yes * | Yes |
| Costco (Non-perishable food & household supplies by delivery) | Yes | Yes | |
| Cantor’s Meats | Yes | ||
| Downtown Family Foods | Yes |
Grocery Delivery Companies:
* Instacart
Provides delivery from: Walmart, Real Canadian Superstore, Bulk Barn, M&M Food Market, Shoppers Drug Mart and Staples.
Despite the renowned cold, Winnipeg has the sunniest winter season in Canada with 358 hours of sunshine! The average low temperature in the winter is −20.2°C. It’s important to dress properly so you can be safe and enjoy the winter weather.
The wind chill index is what makes cold temperatures feel even colder, combining the temperature with the wind speed. You might hear reports that it “feels like…” a lower temperature with the wind chill. Be sure to cover any skin that will be exposed to the wind on cold days.
When skin is exposed to cold temperatures, it can be damaged by what is known as frostbite—this is similar to a burn caused by heat. It is important to seek immediate shelter and go inside if you experience pain, numbness, tingling, swelling or colour change in your fingers, toes or exposed skin. Frostbite can happen in as little as 10 minutes, so keep these tips in mind:
For more information about winter safety, visit the Government of Canada website
Looking for warm winter clothes? The list below is just a small sample of where you can find winter clothes in Winnipeg.
The following list and links are provided for informational purposes only. The University of Manitoba does not endorse, promote or have any affiliation with any of the vendors listed.
Price Range (where $ = not expensive and $$$ = expensive)
Stores near the UM Fort Garry campus that sell winter clothing
| Store Name | Address | Contact | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Bay | St. Vital Mall 1225 St. Mary’s Road |
www.thebay.com 204-255-1227 |
$$$ |
| Old Navy | St. Vital Mall parking lot 1225 St. Mary’s Road | www.oldnavy.ca 204-253-9666 |
$$ |
| Value Village (second hand store) |
1729 Pembina Highway | www.valuevillage.com 204-261-8719 |
$ |
| Giant Tiger | 2195 Pembina Highway | www.gianttiger.com 204-269-7285 |
$ |
| Mark’s Work Warehouse |
785 Dakota Street | www.marks.com 204-256-5092 |
$$ |
| Real Canadian Superstore | 80 Bison Drive | www.superstore.ca 204-275-4100 |
$$ |
| Winners | 2127 Pembina Highway | www.winners.ca 204-261-1804 |
$$ |
Other winter clothing stores in Winnipeg to consider
| Store Name | Address | Contact | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabela’s | 580 Sterling Lyon Parkway | www.cabelas.ca 204-786-8966 |
$$$ |
| Champs Sports | Polo Park Shopping Centre 1485 Portage Avenue | www.champssports.com 204-774-8149 |
$$ |
| Marshall’s | 600 Empress Street (next to Polo Park Shopping Centre) 1731 Kenaston Boulevard |
www.marshallscanada.ca 204-775-7073 204-488-7545 |
$$ |
| Mountain Equipment Co-op |
303 Portage Avenue |
www.mec.ca 204-943-4202 |
$$$ |
Note: The Kenaston outlet mall and Kenaston commons have a variety of stores that sell winter clothing, men’s and women’s clothing, footwear and home décor items at discounted prices.
There are several affordable stores that sell household items (such as towels, linens, cookware, furniture, clothing, etc.) in Winnipeg. Popular stores and shopping centres include Ikea, Walmart, Giant Tiger, JYSK, Marshalls, Winners, Superstore, Dollarama, St. Vital Centre and CF Polo Park Shopping Centre.
You can get many of your basic needs without leaving campus!
In addition to prescription and non-prescription medications, the University Centre Pharmacy sells many toiletries and other dorm essentials. It also contains a postal outlet, which makes sending and receiving packages easy.
The UM Bookstores sell all the textbooks you’ll need for classes, as well as computers and accessories, UM clothing, office supplies and much more.
The U of M Re-Shop offers used office equipment and furniture to students free of charge. Search their current inventory.
It may take a little extra time to find exactly what you’re looking for, but buying used goods at a thrift store (also known as a secondhand store) can be very affordable. Popular options include Value Village, Goodwill and Salvation Army thrift stores.
On most weekends in spring to early fall, you’ll see signs on the roads in residential neighbourhoods advertising yard sales and garage sales. These sales are a great way to find used household items and clothing in good condition at affordable prices. Bedbugs can be a problem, so avoid buying used items with cloth material such as mattresses or pillows. If you purchase clothing, be sure to wash in hot water right away and dry in high heat.
There are many ways to get around once you arrive in Winnipeg: public transit, ride-hailing services, taxis, biking, walking and driving are a few popular options.
The University of Manitoba does not provide pick-up services from the airport. Taxi service from the airport is provided by Unicity Taxi, which is available near Exit 3 at the terminal building. For more information about transportation at the Airport, visit the airport website.
Winnipeg Transit is the bus system in Winnipeg. To learn how to take the bus in Winnipeg, visit Transit Travel Tips.
To watch a video on how to take a Winnipeg transit bus, watch here:
There are a number of taxi companies in Winnipeg that need to be requested in advance, either by phone or through an app. You can request an estimate before you use a taxi, but the cost of the ride is determined by a meter that runs in the vehicle throughout your drive.
TappCar and Uber are ride-hailing companies that let you book a vehicle to pick you up. Their app allows you to get an estimate cost of your trip, request in advance and pay through the app so there is no payment required to your driver.
The above information is provided for information purposes only, and does not imply endorsement or support to any of the linked information, services or providers.
There are many factors to consider if you plan to drive in Manitoba, such as ensuring the correct authorization, testing, getting insurance and ensuring you can drive for Manitoba’s winter driving conditions. If you are considering driving in Winnipeg, please meet with one of our international student advisors.
Plan your route on our Getting Here page has for more information on public transportation, biking, parking, carpooling and getting around campus.
Cycling is a great way to get around the city when the weather is mild! It's economical, a great way to exercise, and environmentally friendly! However, it's important to know that cyclists still need to follow all the rules of the road that vehicles do, including stopping at intersections, traffic lights and riding in safe areas to travel, whether that be the road or a bike lane. Check out this brochure below to learn about UMCycle and about cycling safety.
Jieli Huang
International Student Advisor
international@umanitoba.ca
Nick Guo
International Student Advisor
international@umanitoba.ca
Rakshya KC
International Student Advisor
international@umanitoba.ca
Rebecca Irving
International Student Advisor
international@umanitoba.ca
Maryann Giesbrecht (on leave)
International Student Advisor
international@umanitoba.ca
International Centre
541 UMSU University Centre
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
