International Student Support

Front Desk- Valeria - sized

York International is here to assist you during every stage of your time at York University. From application to graduation, our professional advisors and peer mentors are available to  meet with you and help you to overcome any difficulties you may face.

This section will provide you with information about the specific support resources that are available to all international students studying at York.

International Student Advising

Advising for international students who are studying at York is available through York International. Our advisors can assist you with your questions on matters of immigration, finances, housing, employment, and social and cultural issues.

International Student Advising is available in person, by phone or by email.

Visit the International Student Advising page for detailed information and to book an appointment with a York International advisor.

Peer Program

The International Student Peer Program is designed to support incoming international students in their transition to York University, Toronto and Canada. Peer Supporters are current international students or domestic students with international experience, who have made themselves available – in person and online – to new international students. The Peer Supporters offer cultural guidance and information about student life at York University and day-to-day life in Toronto and Canada.

Throughout the academic year,  participants in the International Student Peer Program will be invited to participate in activities that will allow them to build a network of friends.

Visit the Peer Mentor Program's website to learn more and to get involved! 

Global Connections

Global Connections (GC) is a project designed to help incoming international students obtain information about York University and Canada before they arrive. By connecting new international students with with current international students called Global Student Liaisons (GSL), this new program bridges the gap across countries, languages, and time zones.

Please click here to learn more about Global Connections and to connect with our student liaisons.

Resources for English as a Second Language (ESL) Students

ESL Credit Courses

York’s Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies offers courses designed for students who speak English as a second language (ESL). These credit courses help students improve their English and develop knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an academic program. Students may take these courses as Humanities and Social Science general education courses or as electives. The following examples are some of the most popular ESL courses offered. Visit the ESL website to see a complete list of the ESL courses available to you.

ESL Open Learning Centre (ESL OLC)

The ESL Open Learning Centre (ESL OLC) offers FREE weekly English language and academic skills support to English as a Second Language (ESL) students registered in credit courses at York University.  The ESL OLC offers help with all aspects of English language communication, learning and academic skills including help with writing, reading, speaking, pronunciation, listening or working on a specific assignment. You can book a one-on-one appointment to get individualized tutoring or sign up for one of our small group sessions or workshops where you can enhance discussion, pronunciation or presentation skills and more!

Writing Centre

The Writing Centre is equipped to help you become a better writer. Advisors are available to review a draft of your essay, discuss difficulties in expressing yourself through writing, and offer constructive feedback about your written communication. You can book an appointment to meet one-on-one with an advisor, or sign up for a group workshop focused on a specific aspect of academic writing.

Student Papers and Academic Research Kits (SPARK)

Student Papers and Academic Research Kit (SPARK) is an online guide to writing successful academic papers available to all York students.

Employment on Campus

Most international students are eligible to work while at York, however there are certain criteria that must be first fulfilled. To learn about what you need to do prior to getting a job, please read our "Working in Canada" webpage.

Graduate-Level International Students

As an international student in the Faculty of Graduate Studies, you occupy a special place at York University.  York International offers several programs and services specifically designed to support our graduate-level international students, in addition to the resources available  to all international students.
Please click here to learn more about York International's programs and services available to you.