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The Transitional Experiences of Graduate Students Living and Studying in Atlantic Canada
Radheeka Ranasinghe, Noel P. Hurley
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DOI:10.17265/2161-623X/2026.09.001
Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
This study provides an overview of the challenges faced by international students at a university in the east coast of Canada while pursuing their graduate studies. It highlights the key challenges that international students encounter during their academic journey and the implications these challenges have on their overall experience and well-being. This qualitative study explores various aspects of the challenges faced by international students, including financial difficulties, cultural adjustment, health, accommodations, language barriers, mental health, climatic, food, daycare, and employment. It examines the impact of these challenges on students’ academic performance, personal growth, and social integration. The findings of this research emphasize the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for international students. It calls for the development of comprehensive support programs, financial assistance options, academic support services, and mental health resources to address the specific needs and challenges faced by international graduate students. Most importantly, the services and support programs offered to the international students need to be assessed to evaluate to which measure the international students are benefited with them. Moreover, it helps to upgrade and make necessary changes to the programs and services better serve the needs of the international students. By understanding and addressing these challenges, the university can foster an inclusive and supportive educational environment that enables international students to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
international students, graduate studies, challenges, financial difficulties, language barriers, cultural adjustment, academic pressure, mental health
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