Buddy Programs for International Students in Canada

Starting college can be overwhelming, but with buddy programs available at many Canadian institutions, you’ll have support to help you feel at home. Buddy programs match incoming students with upper-year mentors who provide guidance and friendship during the transition to college life while study in Canada. 

These on-campus mentors are trained in promoting mental health and creating a secure environment for students to build strong connections and long-lasting friendships. As you research universities and colleges, consider if they offer buddy programs to ensure you have a support system from the beginning.

What is a Buddy System?

Buddy Systems are an innovative approach to welcoming international students to a new academic environment. New international students, referred to as “international buddies,” are paired with current local students, known as “local buddies,” who share similar interests. These local buddies serve as guides and mentors, assisting international students in adjusting to new surroundings and culture with ease. The program helps to create a sense of community and smooths the transition for international students.

Objectives of Buddy Programs

The Buddy System is designed to help international students especially Indian students feel at home in their new environment and foster cultural exchange. By pairing new students with local students, the program aims to:

• Enhance the welcoming experience and integration of international students through online resources available to universities, schools, and associations.
• Encourage local students to broaden their perspectives and embrace intercultural exchange.
• Strengthen student mobility programs, enabling universities and associations to establish lasting partnerships through shared communication, facilitation, and training tools.

How Buddy Programs for Indian students Works?

The Buddy Programs are designed to help new Indian students smoothly transition into their new academic environment. This program pairs Indian students with local students who share similar interests, such as language or field of study. Here’s how It Works:

• Local and foreign students are matched based on shared interests.
• The matching process starts before the academic term begins and often connects Indian students with their local buddies before their arrival on campus.
• Local students are responsible for guiding and assisting Indian students during their initial weeks on campus, including enrolling in classes, navigating student services and resources, and learning about the local area.
• Many universities provide access to the Buddy Programs through a Facebook page, connecting international students with their local buddies.

List of Canadian Schools Offering Buddy Programs

International Buddy Program, University of Prince Edward Island

The program matches each student with a local student (buddy) who acts as a mentor, offering support and guidance as they navigate the university experience. The aim of the program is to help students feel welcome and connected to the UPEI community and to foster cross-cultural friendships. 

The program is open to all international students, especially Indian students, designed to help them make the most of their time at UPEI by providing access to resources and support networks. The program is also an excellent opportunity for local students to learn about different cultures and gain an international understanding.

International Buddy Program, Justice Institute of British Columbia

Students at the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) are given a helping hand by their volunteer buddies who are available even before their arrival in Metro Vancouver. Through email, the Buddies offer guidance, assist with setting up a Canadian bank account and phone plan and are great resources for information about courses, instructors, and campus life.

The buddy program at JIBC also provides an opportunity for online social interaction with your Buddy, from virtual tea times to online gaming. With Buddies available during the spring and fall semesters, make sure to apply for the program before the start of the term.

King’s Academic Mentoring Program, King’s University College at Western University

As a student at King’s University College, you are automatically enrolled in the King’s Academic Mentoring Program (KAMP) during your freshman year. You will have access to a student mentor for guidance and support, whether through one-on-one interaction, small group sessions, or digital communication. 

Your mentor will aid in your transition to university life and help you reach your academic aspirations by providing you with valuable campus resources. These mentors, who are academically successful upperclassmen, are dedicated to ensuring new students experience a successful first year.

International Student Study Buddy Program, University of Waterloo

The Study Buddy program at the University of Waterloo is designed to provide support to international students enrolled in upper-year (200- and 300-level) Science classes. This peer-to-peer program matches these students with Canadian peers in the same course, forming small groups or duos.

The buddies offer academic support both in class and during study sessions. Classes currently available through the study buddy program include biology, earth and environmental sciences, chemistry, physics, and nano sciences. For additional information, visit the Study Buddy program page.

Buddy programs are an excellent way for new international students especially Indian students to get adjusted to their surroundings and culture. Local buddies serve as guides and mentors, helping the transition go smoothly. This program helps create a sense of community among all students, making everyone feel welcome. If you are an Indian student attending college in the United States, consider participating in the buddy programs.