International opportunities
Studying abroad can enhance your understanding of literature, language, media and culture while helping you develop the intercultural and professional skills valued by employers and graduate programs. English students have access to a wide range of international learning opportunities through exchange, summer programs and international co-op.
International exchange
The International Centre for Students (ICS) coordinates exchange programs for students in the faculties of Humanities, Fine Arts, Science and Social Sciences. Study at one of our 80+ partner universities around the world while gaining credits at UVic and paying UVic tuition fees.
Questions?
Through UVic's International Centre for Students (ICS) Exchange Program, you can study at one of more than 80 partner universities around the world while earning credit toward your degree and paying UVic tuition.
Exchange opportunities for English and Professional Communication students include:
UK
- University of Leeds – strong in English literature, cultural studies, media and communication.
- University of East Anglia – internationally recognized for literature and creative writing.
- University of York – known for its strengths in literary studies and the humanities.
- University of Liverpool – a member of the Russell Group with a broad range of offerings in literature, culture and communication.
- Aberystwyth University – offers a long-established humanities tradition and a wide range of literature, language and cultural studies courses.
Netherlands
- Utrecht University – a great option for students interested in culture, communication and interdisciplinary humanities.
Singapore
- National University of Singapore – an internationally ranked university offering a global perspective on communication, culture and the humanities.
Australia
- Australian National University – one of Australia's leading universities, with strong programs across the humanities and social sciences.
These are just a few examples. English students can choose from a wide range of exchange destinations across Europe, Asia, Oceania and the Americas.
International co-op
Apply your writing, research and communication skills in a global setting through international co-op opportunities. Working abroad can help you gain professional experience, expand your network and develop intercultural competencies that complement an English degree. Find out more on the Co-op website.
Questions?
Student Stories
Want to learn what an international experience is really like? Hear directly from UVic students who have studied and worked abroad.
- Follow uvicinternational on Instagram for student perspectives, exchange stories, travel tips and updates on international opportunities.
- Explore Journeys Across Borders, a collaborative StoryMap from the International Centre for Students and Co-op and Career Services showcasing the experiences of UVic students on exchange and international co-op placements around the world.
Whether you're considering a semester abroad, a summer program or an international work term, these stories can help you imagine where your own global learning journey might take you.
Summer abroad programs for English students
Short-term international summer programs allow you to explore new cultures, develop language skills and earn transferable academic credit while staying on track with your degree. Opportunities are available at partner institutions in Europe, Asia and Latin America. Keep an eye on our summer school site where we regularly update opportunities at our partner universities.
One example is the University of East Anglia Summer University, which gives students the opportunity to study in Norwich while taking courses in areas such as literature, creative writing, media, history and culture.
To be eligible to receive credit at UVic, you must obtain a letter of permission before beginning your summer program. For more information, contact your academic adviser.
Funding for international opportunities
A range of funding opportunities is available to help make international experiences more accessible.
Learn more:
You are encouraged to start researching funding early, as application deadlines and eligibility requirements vary by award.
Immigration info for international students
Before you arrange to travel outside of Canada, make sure your immigration documents are valid for your return.
This includes:
- Canadian study permit
- required entry document (electronic travel authorization or temporary resident visa, as applicable)
Find more information on planning your travel.
Need help?
International Student Advisers can help you with your Canadian immigration documents. They can also explain how studying abroad may impact your post-graduation work permit.