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English Conversation Partners (ECP) Program

Want to improve your English conversation skills or meet new people from around the world? 

Join the English Conversation Partners Program, an immersive 7-week program that pairs students with an English-speaking volunteer to practise conversation, build confidence and share cultures. 

Program runs September 29 to November 11, 2026.

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

Applications for Fall 2026 are now open! Apply by September 18th, 2026

Apply by September 18th to be a Student Peer | Apply by September 18th to be a Conversation Partner  

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!

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?

Want to help another student improve their English communication skills? A Conversation Partner is a volunteer who is fluent or highly comfortable speaking English and meets regularly with another student to support their English skills through casual conversation. This role is for students who want to create a welcoming, supportive space while helping students build confidence.

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 Fall 2026 are now open! Apply as a Conversation Partner by Friday, September 18th, 2026.

Apply Now!

Who is a Student Peer?

Want to improve your English-speaking skills in a relaxed, supportive environment? A Student Peer is a student who meets regularly with a Conversation Partner to practice everyday conversations, build confidence, and expand their vocabulary. This role is for students who want to feel more comfortable expressing themselves in English while connecting with another student.

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

  • 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 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 Fall 2026 are now open! Apply as a Student Peer by Friday, September 18th, 2026.

Apply Now!

Practise English. Meet new people. Build confidence