Current International Students

Your Future Starts Now

We know that choosing to pursue post-secondary education in another country is a big decision. We're here to help you along this exciting journey.

I have applied, now what?

After you have submitted your application to attend RDP, you should do the following:  

Log-in to TheLoop (RDP Student Portal) to Check Your Application Status

• Your username and login instructions will be provided to you via email shortly after applying to attend Red Deer Polytechnic.  
• If you experience trouble logging in, please email RDP's IT Services Desk.
• Once you have logged in to TheLoop, click on “Applications” in the menu on the right side of your screen.

I have received my Letter of Acceptance from RDP. Now what? 

1. Pay Your Tuition Deposit

• International Applicants are required to pay their non-refundable tuition deposit before they receive their Letter of Acceptance.
• If you meet the admission requirements for your program of choice and there is a seat available, you will be admitted to RDP. 
• Visit the International Student Tuition & Fees page for further instructions.  

2. Download Your Letter of Acceptance

• Once RDP has received your tuition deposit, you will be able to download your Letter of Acceptance. 
• To download your Letter of Acceptance, visit the Applications section of TheLoop and click on “Letter of Acceptance for International Students”
• For your security, the Letter of Acceptance PDF is protected with a password, which is your nine-digit Red Deer Polytechnic Student ID. You can find this ID on the top left-hand side of your screen under TheLoop logo.   

3. Apply for Your Study Permit and Co-op Work Permit

• Visit the Government of Canada webpage to apply for a study permit. 
• If your program includes a mandatory practicum or work experience component, you must also apply for and receive a co-op work permit before you begin your practicum/work experience. The Government of Canada explains how to apply for a co-op work permit.

4. Register in Courses at RDP

• For information about which courses are required for specific programs, visit the  Academic Planning Guide. Please read the guide for your program before registering for courses.   

5. Ensure Your Official Documentation is Submitted to RDP

• The Office of the Registrar can review your unofficial/scanned documents to admit you to a program and provide a  Letter of Acceptance. You must provide official documentation to the Office of the Registrar before the first day of classes.  See “Step 9” on the International Admissions webpage.

My first term at RDP begins soon, now what?

1. Arrange Accommodations 

• Check out the Housing for International Students page. 

2. Pay Your Full RDP Tuition

• Check out the International Student Tuition & Fees page. 

My Canada Plan

The International Student Medical Plan provides coverage in the event of a medical emergency, such as an injury or illness, for eligible RDP international students while studying in Canada. The coverage is comparable to doctor-insured services such as visiting a medical clinic or hospital. The fees will be added to your student account. Read more about what services may be covered here.

International students are automatically enrolled in the International Student Medical Plan and Repatriation Plan if they meet the following criteria:

• You are a new international student; or
• You are a continuing or returning international student and hold a valid study permit
• You are registered and accepted in an eligible program as an international student
• You are under the age of 65

International students are responsible for purchasing their own insurance while they travel to Canada and before attending the first day of classes. 

Opting Out

International students who have valid Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) can submit an online Opt-Out Application to waive the International Student Medical Plan by the deadline. You must upload a picture or scan of your Alberta Health Card to your Opt-Out Application as proof of coverage.

Email mycanada@rdpolytech.ca if you have questions.

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

Some international students may be eligible for free provincial healthcare through the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Individuals who are eligible for this coverage are provided full coverage for medically necessary physician services, and some dental and oral surgical health services. Read about what services may be covered here.

International students studying in Alberta, may be eligible for AHCIP coverage if:  

• The international student has a 12-month study permit (valid for an Alberta educational institution)  
• The international student intends to reside in Alberta for 12 months or more  
• International students who provide proof of their Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan may be eligible to opt-out of the My Canada International Insurance Plan

How To Apply for AHCIP 
You cannot apply for Alberta Health Care coverage until you are physically here in Alberta. When you apply for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage, you must provide:    

• Proof of Alberta residency - This could be an electronic utility bill showing an Alberta address or a non-utility statement or correspondence mailed to your Alberta address.
• Proof of your identity - This could be an ID card or driver’s license issued by any official government or a valid passport.
• Proof of legal entitlement to be in Canada: This could be an approved and valid study permit.

To review details on how to apply for AHCIP coverage, visit the Government of Alberta’s website. 

Your Responsibilities
Apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) by mail or at an authorized registry agent office. If you wish to apply in person, here are a few Registry Offices in Red Deer:

• Red Deer Registries, 7101 - 20 Sharpe Avenue, Red Deer
• One Stop License Shop, B - 3440 50th Ave, Red Deer

Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic Extended Health & Dental Plan 

The Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic offers an affordable extended Health & Dental Plan for full-time students. If you meet the eligibility requirements for enrollment, the cost of the plans is included in your fees.  

This plan provides extended health and dental coverage. Click here to review additional information about this coverage, to download your benefits card and to learn more about this coverage.  

Your Responsibilities

• Read about your coverage and email SARDP Benefits Plan Office if you have questions.
• Print your myBenefits Card.

Red Deer Polytechnic's International Mentorship Program connects new international students with continuing students who can provide support as they transition to life in Canada and at RDP.

New international students ("Mentees") will be paired with continuing RDP students ("Mentors") based on similarities in programs and/or interests.

This mentorship program seeks to foster a welcoming environment where students can connect to share their experiences and expand their network.  

Why should I join or volunteer?

New International Students (Mentees)

• Learn about other cultures and expand your global connections 
• Learn more about yourself and experience personal growth
• Receive advice from a fellow Polytechnic student about your courses, campus life and things to do in central Alberta 
• Attend social events/activities organized by RDP International where you can meet other students 
• Make the most out of your experience at our institution and in our city and region

Continuing International Students and Domestic Students (Mentors)

• Learn about other cultures and expand your global connections 
• Learn more about yourself and experience personal growth
• Develop valuable intercultural communication and event planning skills 
• Get involved in our community and receive a letter of reference from RDP International (Commit a minimum of 20 hours to the International Mentorship Program per academic year)
• Earn a co-curricular record on your official transcript (commit a minimum of 20 hours to the International Mentorship Program per academic year)
• Stand out in the competitive job market 
• Make the most out of your experience at our institution and in our city and region

Who is eligible to join or volunteer?

New International Students (Mentees)

• Any new international students (18+ years old) can request for a Mentor. Priority will be given to new international students in their first year.

Continuing International Students and Domestic Students (Mentors)

To be eligible to volunteer as a Mentor, students must:

• Be a current Red Deer Polytechnic student (domestic or international)
• Have completed a minimum of one term of study at Red Deer Polytechnic
• Be in good academic standing (Minimum GPA of 2.0)
• Able to commit a specific number of hours per semester (one year commitment)
• Students interested in volunteering as a Mentor must complete an application form
• Mentors will be selected based on availability, fit and commitment to the program

How do I join?