Studying in a new country can come with difficulties, but you should know that you’re not alone! There are many support services available to international students, including: 

• Academic advisors  

• Study skill support - student tutors and mentors 

• Health services 

• Mental health support 

• Legal aid 

• Writing centres 

• Student unions 

• Emergency loans 

• Immigration services 

Colleges and universities in Canada typically have the services listed above available to their students, completely free! The best place to learn more about these is through their international student centre or student life services. 

Student support services are often geared towards common obstacles faced by international students. These top challenges include: 

• Financial difficulties 

• Language barriers 

• Isolation and loneliness 

• Housing and accommodation 

• Culture shock 

Depending on what area you need financial support in, your school’s Financial Aid office is the best place to find guidance. This may also be called a Financial Assistance office or Finance and Funding. They often provide services that include: 

• Emergency grant assistance 

• Tax services 

• University fees support 

Many universities and colleges also provide financial aid specific for international students, through bursaries, scholarships and awards.

If you’re looking for more help with your studies, look no further than your school’s Academic Skills or Learning Skills services. You’ll be able to access: 

• Workshops and resources 

• Drop-in help 

• Peer tutoring 

• Learning groups 

You can also access some of these services through your school’s Writing Centre. This is a great place to get a second set of eyes on your work if you're looking for someone to proofread or edit an application or essay.  

Mental health is one of the most common obstacles faced by international students, and maintaining mental wellness is essential. Your student health centre is a great place for information about services that can include: 

• Group therapy  

• Counselling and therapy 

• International student support groups  

Your university or college may also have a specific mental health student support number, by appointment or for immediate assistance. For example, the University of Toronto provides exclusive Telus Health Student Support for its students. 

If you’re looking for online options, there are many available including: 

• Hello Leena  

• 7 Cups 

• Wellness Together Canada  

• Talkspace 

If you are in crisis and need immediate assistance, please visit your nearest hospital or call 911. Health professionals are there to help you

Whether you’re managing roommate disagreements or looking for a place to live, housing obstacles can feel like a big task for an international student. Luckily, many universities and colleges, through their Student Life centre, offer services that include: 

• Rental finders 

• Application support 

• Workshops 

• In-person or virtual drop-in sessions 

• Dispute management training 

These are all designed to help reduce your housing stress and give you clear next steps to tackle whatever is on your mind. 

You can find legal aid through programs funded by the provincial government, or through legal services at your college and university. You can find more information about these services through your Student Life Centre or your school’s law program, which will often have a Community and Legal Aid Program for students.  

If you are looking for immigration-specific help, like a study permit extension, reach out to your International Student Centre or International Experience Centre. They will often have International Student Immigration Advisors or similar services to help answer your questions and give you direction.

No matter what you’re struggling with, there are resources and services available to you as an international student at your university or college. Remember that you are never alone, and there are people out there who understand your struggles and are ready to help!  

If you’re looking for more information about being an international student in Canada, follow IDP Education Canada on Instagram, Facebook, or X (previously known as Twitter.) If you have further questions, book an appointment with a student counsellor at IDP Canada today.