Youth In Partnership Program

Frequently Asked Questions

We are not currently accepting applications for the Youth in Partnership (YIP) program. Please check back in early summer 2012 for details of any future opportunities with this program. Those interested in international youth internships are also encouraged to subscribe to RSS Feeds on the CIDA website (http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/rssfeeds).

Please note that the answers to the FAQs below are current but may be revised for future program cycles.

Is the application process competitive?
Yes - The Coady Institute receives hundreds of applications each year. We interview a short list of candidates, either in person, by Skype or on the phone.

What does my background have to be in?
Our placements are open to all disciplines. We have accepted graduates from a variety of disciplines. For example: Psychology, English, Human Kinetics, Health Education, Human Nutrition, Sociology, Anthropology, Biology, Communications, Spanish, International Development, Business, Art, International Relations, Philosophy, Education, and Political Science.

Are the placements only for St. Francis Xavier University graduates?
No - the placements are open to university or college graduates from across Canada who meet the general criteria. However, the Coady Institute makes special effort to recruit youth from the Atlantic Provinces, in light of the limited programs in Eastern Canada.

Will participating in the program cost me anything?
No - the program is designed not to be a financial burden for associates. Associates are responsible for transportation to and from the Coady International Institute at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, NS. For the duration of the placement, associates are provided with a stipend to cover their general living expenses.

Can I choose my country placement?
No - the Coady International Institute makes the final assignment based on the best fit between the partner organization and the associate’s background, skills, and interests. If you are interviewed, however we will ask what your preference is.

When will I find out if I'm successful?
We will contact successful candidates once the recruitment and applicant review process is finished. Unfortunately at this stage we are unable to provide timelines for this process.

What are you looking for in a candidate?
We are looking for candidates who want to gain international development experience to enhance their career development. The most important personal qualities are flexibility, cross-cultural sensitivity, positive attitude and initiative. The associate group is usually a mixture of young people with various levels of understanding of development and travel experience.

For More Information
For more information about The Coady Institute's youth programs please contact Adam Baden-Clay, youth programs coordinator, at coadyyouth@stfx.ca or call 902 867-5020.