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English Conversation Partners (ECP) Program

Looking to practice your English conversation skills in a fun, relaxed setting? Or are you a fluent English speaker who wants to meet new people, learn about different cultures, and earn volunteer hours? The English Conversation Partners (ECP) Program offers you the perfect opportunity! 

Through this immersive program, a Conversation Partner, fluent in English, will be paired with a Student Peer who is looking to build confidence in their English language skills. They will meet once a week during the 7-week program taking place from February 3rd to March 18th 2026.

We are now accepting applications for both Conversation Partners and Student Peers for the Winter 2026 term. Please scroll below to find more information on eligibility and how to register!

STEP 1

Apply as either a Conversation Partner or a Student Peer

STEP 2

Attend a mandatory virtual training or orientation session

STEP 3

Get matched with your partner or peer and start your journey

STEP 4

Attend the kick-off event

STEP 5

Meet for one hour weekly at a cafe, restaurant, library or wherever you like to chat (virtually or in-person) 

STEP 6

Attend the Mid-Point Event

STEP 7

Complete the Personal Reflection Form

STEP 8

Attend the closing celebration event!

Applications for Winter 2026 are now open! Apply by January 23rd, 2026. 

Apply by January 23rd to be a Student Peer | Apply by January 23rd to be a Conversation Partner  

Why Join ECP? 

  • Make new friends and expand your social circle. 
  • Gain intercultural insights and broaden your global perspective. 
  • Improve your communication skills through active listening and engaging conversations. 
  • Explore the campus and beyond with a new friend! 

Who is a Conversation Partner?

A Conversation Partner is a volunteer who is fluent in English and helps international students practice their language skills. Conversation Partners provide a welcoming and supportive space for international students to engage in conversations about everyday topics, helping them adjust to life in Canada.

To apply as a Conversation Partner, you should meet the following criteria:

  • Fluent in English and a confident conversationalist. 
  • Upper year undergraduate or graduate student  

As a Conversation Partner your task is to facilitate the opportunity and environment for English language learners to practice their conversation skills. To achieve this, you will: 

  • Attend virtual mandatory training
  • Review the weekly activity guide and arrange weekly rendezvous with your student peer either virtually or in-person
  • Attend the ECP Kick-off, Mid-point and Closing event with the entire cohort of participants.
  • Complete the program reflection form at the end of the program 

In total, your weekly meetings, training and event attendance will add up to 12 volunteer hours earned!  

Applications for Winter 2026 are now open! Apply as a Conversation Partner by Friday, January 23rd, 2026.

Apply Now!

Who is a Student Peer?

A Student Peer is a volunteer who is looking to improve their English communication skills. Student Peers meet with their Conversation Partner regularly to engage in informal discussions, which help them practice speaking English in a relaxed and supportive environment. As a Student Peer, you will build confidence, expand their vocabulary, and enhance their ability to express themselves in English. You can also teach your Conversation Partner a language you speak fluently, helping them learn something new.

To apply as a Student Peer, you should meet the following criteria: 

  • International Student 
  • Looking to build your confidence in your English conversational skills  
  • Speak English as a Second language/Additional language or is an English Language Learner (ELL) 

Please note that first-year undergraduate applicants will be given priority.  

As a Conversation Partner your task is to facilitate the opportunity and environment for English language learners to practice their As a Student Peer, you will be expected to: 

  • Attend a mandatory virtual 60-minute orientation session
  • Help your conversation partner to arrange your 1-hour weekly meetings over 5 weeks. 
  • Attend the ECP Kick-off, Mid-point and Closing event with the entire cohort of participants.
  • Complete the program feedback survey at the end of the program 

In total, your weekly meetings, training and event attendance will add up to 11 volunteer hours earned!   

Applications for Winter 2026 are now open! Apply as a Student Peer by Friday, January 23rd, 2026.

Apply Now!