What is the Student Refugee Program (SRP) at Alexander College?

The Student Refugee Program (SRP) began in 1978, and as part of the World University Services of Canada (WUSC), brings students currently living in conflict areas to live and continue their education in Canada.

Due to limited resources, education can be difficult or impossible for individuals living in a refugee camp to continue. Refugees often flee their country because of war, a natural disaster, or political repression, and may struggle with having their basic needs met.

The staff and faculty at Alexander College, in combination with the Alexander College Student Association (ACSA) have partnered with WUSC to sponsor a refugee student fully for an entire year. This is to ensure and cover core necessities (such as housing expenses, healthcare, utilities, food, and more).

In the student’s second year, Alexander College will continue to support the student by covering their tuition, books, and other education expenses. The ultimate aim of the SRP is to enable each refugee student to become a successful member of Canadian society.

85% of students sponsored through WUSC’s SRP are able to find work in their field of study. This program has given hope to those still living in refugee camps.

Source: “Fostering Tomorrow’s Global Leaders: An Evaluation of the WUSC Student Refugee Program” (2007).

What Alexander College is doing:

• In February 2017, Alexander College implemented a $5 fee per term for all registered students to support a sponsored student. 100% of this fee will go towards supporting the student’s transitional and living expenses in their first year. Learn more about how the $5 fee will support the student here.
• Please note that as of Fall 2021 this amount will be increasing to $8 in order to accommodate the addition of a second annual student to the program.
• Alexander College consistently encourages students to get involved in supporting our refugee student. Students can help by contacting ACSA to find out the many ways to help!
• Alexander College will also be holding a variety of fundraisers throughout the year to support our refugee student! Stay tuned for more updates by visiting our School News page.