Supporting International Students & Visitors

The Faculty of Education provides international students with academic and social support, through EPLT's International Student Support Graduate Assistant. Find information for:

• Current International Students
• Visiting and Prospective International Students
• Go Global - Student Exchange Programs

Academic Growth

Various workshops are planned throughout the year to support the academic endeavors of international students. These workshops are uniquely designed to meet the needs of students for whom English is a second, third, or even just one of their many languages.

Social Support

An International Student Orientation for new and returning international students is planned at the beginning of each academic year. This orientation is intended to allow international students to get to know each other and foster new relationships that are mutually beneficial. Other social events are also planned throughout the year.

Graduate Student Concerns

Concerns unique to international students are also discussed with international students, and are brought to the attention of the Graduate Student Council of the Faculty of Education (GSFE). The GSFE represents the voice of students in the Faculty of Education, acts as a student advocate, is committed to ensuring robust communication between graduate students and the Faculty of Education, and supports graduate students during the graduate experience. For more information on the GSFE, please visit educ.ubc.ca/gsfe/.

Internationalization at Home

In line with UBC’s commitment to Internationalization at Home, the International Student Support team and international students in the Faculty of Education are also encouraged to participate in the Global Student Speakers' Bureau (GSSB). The GSSB is a program developed to support student speakers who are eager to share their international experience with audiences from UBC and the Greater Vancouver community. More information about the GSSB can be found at gssb-ubc.blogspot.com/

International Student Resource Support

Through this office, international students are provided with information on the various UBC support services provided throughout the school. These services include those offered through International House.

Role of the International Student Support Graduate Assistant

The International Student Support GAA in consultation with the Associate Dean, EPLT:

• Reviews the annual calendar of activities for international students.
• Initiates activities for supporting international students’ academic growth and social adjustment, including workshops and social events.
• Maintains communication among the various departments and support units in the Faculty of Education concerning international student concerns and events.
• Updates contact lists, including a database of international alumni.
• Carries out any other relevant tasks related to serving international students in the Faculty of Education, including providing resource information for international students.