Adapting to a new cultural environment and a new education system may present some unexpected challenges.  The University of Toronto offers a wide range of support services to help students establish a support network, improve their spoken English, and effectively deal with transition issues.

Academic Support

Extensive academic support services are available to students - from workshops on note-taking and exam preparation to tips on writing university-level essays - to help you develop your full potential.

Centre for International Experience

The Centre for International Experience (CIE) is the main source of support for international students and a gathering place for students with cross-cultural interests at U of T. The Centre offers many services throughout the year including:

• New International Student Orientation — CIE hosts a number of orientation sessions designed for new international students, which are aimed at assisting you in the transition to your new environment.
  
• Student Advising — this is where you can find support for a wide range of issues, such as immigration, employment and adjusting to life in Canada.
• English Communication Program — if English isn’t your first language, this is your opportunity to improve your English language skills.
• Cross-cultural Counselling — our cross-cultural counsellor provides culturally sensitive counselling to U of T students on personal issues. Feel free to discuss anything from family problems to depression to self-esteem.
• Social and Cultural Events — the ISC offers students a taste of Canadian and world cultures by hosting cultural and social activities, such as themed dinners, parties, field trips and tours.

English Language Learning in Arts and Science

English Language Learning (ELL) Program supports all U of T undergraduates enrolled in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences whose first language is not English (ESL or multilingual students), as well as native speakers seeking to improve their English language skills.

ELL takes a holistic approach, encouraging students to immerse themselves in English to improve reading, writing, speaking, critical thinking, and listening skills. The programs - an 8-day non-credit Intensive Academic English course, Communication Cafe, and Reading eWriting - give students strategies for improving their language skills now and in the years to come.