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International Students

The Student Success Centre provides programming and advising for international students.

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International Student Advising

International students coming to UCalgary often face the challenges of adapting to a new educational system and an unfamiliar culture while also learning to effectively communicate in a second language. The Student Success Centre and International Student Services work closely together to support the academic needs of our international student population.

Program Information

Undergraduate and graduate international students from all faculties are invited to access the following free services at the Student Success Centre

One-on-One Appointments

International students are invited to schedule an appointment with Jennifer Parsons, Academic Development Specialist (International).

  • Transitioning to the Canadian academic context
  • Time management
  • Study skills
  • Reading in an additional language
  • Exam preparation
  • Language support

Writing support

Writing support is available for both undergraduate and graduate students. One-on-one appointments with a writing tutor are available, as well as Writers' Space community.

Peer Assisted Writing

Want to connect with your peers and learn writing and editing skills at the same time? Join a Peer-Assisted Writing session to meet with a trained peer and hone your skills.Ìý

Featured events


Three students sit at a table, talking.

A group of students having a conversation.

Featured Resources

Numerous resources are available for English Language Learning. Browse the sections below to learn more about available programs.Ìý

International Student Services (ISS)Ìýoffers information and support as you get settled on campus.Ìý They also provide services from a registered immigration consultant if you have concerns about documentation.ÌýÌý

ISS programming includes a language-sharing program, USpeak, where you can practice a new language while also coaching another student in a language you speak fluently.

The ISS site has a comprehensive list of language-learning opportunities on campus.

The Faith and Spirituality Centre (FSC) offers programming and supports for all students on campus, regardless of religious affiliation, as well as opportunities to connect with a specific faith leader.Ìý Check the FSC site for more information about conversation groups, free lunches or tea times, and activities on and off campus.

Students with an address in Calgary can request a card. This is a free service.Ìý The CPL offers access to several language learning programs. Rosetta Stone can be downloaded as an app, and includes core lessons on grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, listening and speaking. Pronunciator has lesson plans, a focus on pronunciation, and opportunities to connect with live tutors.Ìý

: A language-learning exchange app with a global community and over 300 language choices.Ìý You can choose your learning partner by location, language, interests and more. There is a free version of the app available, as well as a paid subscription with more features.

: Linguistics based print, animation, video and audio explanations of how the speech sounds of North American English are constructed.Ìý A good resource for understanding and improving conventions of English pronunciation. The site also includes German and Spanish.

Language Proficiency Testing

Study aids and free practice tests for English language exam preparation (includes IELTS,Ìý ²¹²Ô»åÌý tests, and theÌý exams such asÌý,Ìý,Ìý ²¹²Ô»åÌýB1 Preliminary (PET, as well asÌý,Ìýl ²¹²Ô»åÌý.

Academic Language-Building Aids

: Develop your use of transitions, linking words and phrases, elevated vocabulary, idioms, humor and more.Ìý

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News and stories

Contact info

Jennifer Parsons

Academic Development Specialist

TFDL 360B
jen.parsons@ucalgary.ca

Elevate Link

Want to book an appointment?

Booking Instructions

Need help booking an appointment? View our Elevate booking instructions (PDF) to find out how.