Peer consultation is central to a new comprehensive website directed at international students looking to study in Canada and Canadian students going abroad, launched this week by the Canadian Bureau of International Education (CBIE).
In addition to providing information on the application process, funding options and study programmes, iStudent Canada aims to share first-hand experience through student led blogs, forums and online events.
“We really felt that Canada needed a dynamic site that gave students a chance to share experiences quickly and dynamically, both international students and Canadian students, and to give each other practical advice,” said Jennifer Humphries, Vice President of CBIE.
“There is a lot of information available, but until iStudentCanada there was no space for peer-to-peer counselling and dialogue”
“There is a lot of information available, but until iStudentCanada there was no space for peer-to-peer counselling and dialogue.”
CBIE says it has recruited a team of people working and studying at institutions in Canada and internationally to contribute blog posts and respond to questions in the forums. Off-campus experts also give guidance on critical issues such as finances and immigration.
The site aims to provide students looking to study in Canada with pre-arrival information including how to obtain study permits and tips on what to do once they arrive.
In a bid to encourage more outbound mobility, the site also gives Canadian students ideas on how to fund their experience abroad and international work, study and internship programme options.
“It’s an open forum and we hope that students from all over the world will join in with their expertise and questions,” commented Humphries.
