Academic setbacks happen, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. If your grades aren’t where you want them to be, we can help you reset and move forward.

Back on Track supports international students who are on academic probation or at risk of being placed on probation by connecting you with MacEwan International, Wellness and Psychological Services, and Student Success Navigators. Together, you build a clear plan, access helpful resources and strengthen your path to academic success.

Who can participate?

Back on Track is open to international students currently on academic probation or at risk of probation. Participation is optional but strongly encouraged if you want to improve your academic standing. If you join, you commit to the program for two academic terms (Fall and Winter).

Note: Participation may be required as a condition of a required to withdraw (RTW) appeal for international students.

What to expect

Back on Track supports two groups of international students: those currently on academic probation and those at risk of being placed on probation. Your experience in the program depends on your academic standing, but in both cases, you receive structured guidance and regular check-ins to help you move forward with confidence.

If you are on academic probation

If you are on academic probation, you receive an invitation to join Back on Track in September. If you choose to participate, you do the following:

  1. Attend orientation
    The orientation session is co-hosted by MacEwan International and Wellness and Psychological Services. You review academic policies, important immigration information and the supports available to you. You also meet staff from across campus so that you know where to turn to for help.
  2. Complete an initial assessment survey
    You complete a survey to identify challenges you may have faced in the previous year such as time management, course difficulty or personal concerns. Based on your responses, MacEwan International works with you to create a personalized support plan.
  3. Meet with your support team
    At regularly scheduld meetings, you check in on your progress and discuss any concerns. Your meeting schedule, attendance and progress are recorded so that your support team can provide consistent guidance. This information can also be helpful if you request a review of an academic decision in the future.

Meeting schedule

  • Fall term
    ASGPA 1.5 to 2.0: meet every four weeks
    ASGPA below 1.5: meet every two weeks
  • Winter term
    Fall GPA 2.0 or higher: one meeting
    Fall GPA below 2.0: continue with Fall meeting frequency

If you are at risk of academic probation

If your academic standing becomes a concern after the Fall term, you are invited to attend a Back on Track orientation in January co‑hosted by MacEwan International and Wellness and Psychological Services. You review key academic and immigration information and meet staff who can support you throughout the term. Depending on your situation, you may also have regular check‑ins with an international student specialist or Student Success Navigator to help you stay on track.

Take the next step

Sign up for Back on Track to receive personalized guidance and structured support to improve your academic standing.

Sign up today

Meet your Back on Track support team

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International Student Specialists

International student specialists help you understand Canadian academic expectations, identify factors affecting your academic progress and connect you with the right campus supports. They also check your progress throughout the year and provide immigration advising to help you stay in compliance with your study permit.

Connect with an International Student Specialist
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Student Success Navigators

University life comes with many demands—readings, assignments, exams and daily responsibilities. Student Success Navigators work with you to develop practical strategies for managing your time, reducing procrastination, preparing for exams and using campus resources effectively. They show you which tools can support your success and how to use them in your day-to-day academic work.

Reach out to Student Success Navigators
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Wellness and Psychological Services

Wellness and Psychological Services support your mental, emotional and personal well‐being as you adjust to university life in Canada. Counsellors provide a private, confidential space to talk about stress, anxiety, relationships, cultural adjustment and other concerns. They help you develop healthy coping strategies and connect you with additional supports so you can feel balanced and succeed.

Meet with Wellness and Psychological Services
Perks for showing up

Back on Track is designed to help you improve your academic standing and move forward with confidence. Along the way, your effort and commitment are recognized:

  • Receive gift cards for attending all required meetings.
  • Be eligible for the MacEwan Back on Track Award.
  • Receive a support letter that shows your active participation.