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As an International student in Canada, you can access various support services designed to help. Many universities and colleges have advisors who can help international students with visa issues, work permits, housing, academic support, career advice, personal safety etc. Here are a few such examples:
The University of British Columbia student support and resources page,
Toronto Mentropolitan University international student support platform,
University of Alberta Student Service Centre.
Other support services include:
- Language Support Programmes that provide language courses, tutoring, and conversation partners.
- Cultural Integration Programs that help international students integrate into Canadian culture and meet other students.
- Campus International Student Clubs and Associations where to connect with others from your home country or to meet new people.
Here are a couple of platforms providing support to international students:
- keep.meSAFE offers free support tailored to the unique needs of students.
- StudentSupport.ca is a for-profit social enterprise that aims to enhance the student experience at universities across Canada.
- Student organisations
If you want to meet other people, talk about classes, volunteer, and dedicate your time to a cause, or just play some sports, student organisations are the place to go.
Here are some of the top organisations that provide support services for international students in Canada:
- Canadian Alliance of Student Organisations (CASA) is a national organisation that advocates for post-secondary students to the federal government.
- The Canadian Federation of Students is a national union comprising over 530,000 students from more than 60 universities across Canada. The organisation advocates for affordable and accessible education, student rights, and social justice issues.
- Universities Canada provides information and support for international students regarding academic programs, research opportunities, and student life in Canada.
- Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) promotes international education and student mobility in Canada. The organisation offers programs and services to support international students, including scholarships and awards
- Colleges and Institutes Canada offers resources and advice to help international students make the most of their college experience in Canada.
- Many universities and colleges in Canada have student-run international student associations where you can find support, guidance, and resources. There’s also the option of joining cultural clubs focused on specific countries or regions or joining volunteer organisations where you can give back to the community and gain valuable hands-on experience.