International Students
The Chancellor Cuthbertson Student Success Centre provides programming and advising for international students.
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 Chancellor Cuthbertson 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 Chancellor Cuthbertson Student Success Centre
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.
International Student Services (ISS) offers information and support as you get settled on campus. They also provide services from a registered immigration consultant if you have concerns about documentation.
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. 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 Calgary Public Library card. This is a free service. 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.
Tandem: A language-learning exchange app with a global community and over 300 language choices. 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.
Sounds of Speech: Linguistics based print, animation, video and audio explanations of how the speech sounds of North American English are constructed. 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, TOEFL® and TOEIC® tests, and the Cambridge English exams such as C1 Advanced (CAE), B2 First (FCE), A2 Key (KET) and B1 Preliminary (PET, as well as PTE Academic, PTE General and Michigan.
Academic Language-Building Aids
Smart Words: Develop your use of transitions, linking words and phrases, elevated vocabulary, idioms, humor and more.
Manchester Academic Phrasebank
News and stories
Preparing for Writing Support Appointments
Making the most of your time
Self-Reflection on your Grades
After tests or exams, you might be tempted to move on to focusing on upcoming topics, especially if the grade you received was not what you aimed for. However, a crucial part of learning is understanding yourself, your skills, and what you learned from the course. Taking time to reflect on how you preformed can give you the insight needed to improve your study habits and understand your strengths.
Maintain your motivation: Five tips for staying focused throughout the semester
Have you ever had one of those days, or maybe weeks, where it feels a little bit harder to get things done? If so, you’re not alone – I often meet with students who express difficulty staying motivated, especially once the excitement of a new term wears off.
How can scrap paper help during an exam?
Exams (especially finals) are the culmination of a semester of hard work. Often, exams are worth a large part of your grade, or you need to achieve a certain grade on the final to pass the course.