caribbeanstudentsupport.net

What It Is

Caribbean Student Support Network (CSSN) is a full-service study abroad program provider registered and based in Trinidad and Tobago. It focuses on long- and short-term study abroad programs in the Caribbean. Its core semester program places students at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, where they take courses comparable to degree requirements at their home institution, while also receiving housing, orientation, cultural activities, field trips, and local support.

Core Courses and Teaching Format

Based on the available information, CSSN appears to be more of a study abroad program operator and support organization than a standalone online course platform. Students register as full-time UWI students, gain access to campus services and facilities, and may choose from most courses as long as they meet academic requirements, except for courses in the Faculty of Medical Sciences. UWI follows a British-style education model, with 2–3 hour lectures and tutorials capped at 25 students. Assessments include midterm and final exams; midterms may be projects or in-class exams, while finals are typically essay-based or problem-based exams. If students run into academic difficulties, they can seek private tutoring through the head of student services.

Pricing and What’s Included

The program fee is disclosed in some detail: the total program cost is USD 25,310, including USD 20,310 for tuition and fees, USD 1,100 for housing, USD 1,200 for cultural activities, and USD 2,700 for administration and transportation. The fee includes registration for three courses, accommodation, orientation, field trips, cultural activities, and on-site staff support. There are also estimated additional costs of USD 2,900, covering visa expenses, groceries, a refundable damage deposit, and personal spending. Overall, the budget is fairly high, and meals and personal expenses need to be accounted for separately.

Organization Background and Support

Both CSSN leaders have backgrounds in higher education and international education. Roannta Dalrymple has ten years of experience in international education administration and previously worked at UWI and the Trinity in Trinidad program. Dr. Soleil Senghor has experience in finance and education and teaches at UWI St. Augustine. Its advisory board includes members from institutions such as Wellesley, Bowdoin, Amherst, and Williams, which adds credibility to the program’s design and academic network.

Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For

The strengths are its clear program positioning, transparent fee structure, relatively comprehensive local support, and access to UWI’s formal campus system. The drawbacks are that the available materials do not specify payment methods, application deadlines, transcript or certificate arrangements, credit transfer details, or guidance on visas and credential recognition for Chinese students. It is best suited to undergraduates or university program coordinators who already have a study abroad plan, are interested in Caribbean society, culture, and regional studies, and want an in-person university course experience.

Access from China and Alternatives

Website accessibility from mainland China, payment availability, and support for Chinese bank cards or cross-border payments are not disclosed, so access from China is currently unknown. Chinese students should further confirm visa requirements, credit recognition, overseas insurance, and payment routes. Comparable alternatives include university-run exchange programs, direct application programs at Caribbean or Latin American universities, and third-party study abroad providers such as CIEE and IES Abroad.