Outgoing exchange
The International Centre for Students (ICS) Exchange Program allows current students to study at one of our 70+ partner universities around the world while gaining credits at UVic and paying UVic tuition fees.
We coordinate outgoing exchanges for these faculties only:
- Humanities
- Fine Arts
- Science
- Social Sciences
Students in these faculties work with their undergraduate or graduate adviser to plan international exchanges:
Why go on exchange?
- immerse yourself in a new culture
- make new friends and travel to interesting places
- develop your skills in a second (or third!) language
- experience independence and tackle new challenges
- gain international perspectives in your field of study
How to apply
Your first step is to apply to participate in the UVic ICS Exchange Program. After you are accepted, we will lead you through the steps to apply directly to your chosen host university.
Application deadlines:
- February 1 for first term or full year exchanges
- August 1 for second term exchanges
- be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program in the Faculty of Humanities, Science or Social Sciences at UVic
- Economics: If you are a student in the Department of Economics, please refer to the department website for additional information specific to your program and exchange
- French: If you are a student in the Department of French, please contact your department to discuss your exchange before you apply
- Graduate Students: If you are a graduate student, please consult with your department before you apply
- Students in departments outside of the tri-faculties (Humanities, Science and Social Sciences): If you are registered in Business, Law, Nursing, Engineering or other professional programs, please consult with your department before you apply
- be registered as a full-time UVic student
- in order to be eligible, students must be enrolled full time as defined by the UVic calendar. Students registered with the Centre for Accessible Learning may have an accommodation to take a reduced course load and still be considered a full time student for academic purposes.
- have completed at least one year of study at UVic (12.0 units) before you leave for your exchange
- meet good academic standing as outlined in the current UVic Undergraduate Calendar
- have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and have received a minimum sessional GPA of 2.0 in your most recent term
- review our partner universities for detailed information about where you can study
- check the exchange credit histories for our partner institutions
- use the application documents as planning tools to help guide your research
Questions?
- connect with your Exchange Student Adviser, visit the ICS (Jamie Cassels Centre B202d) or email us
- make an appointment with an academic adviser to discuss your exchange pertaining to your degree requirement, declaring your major, understanding your Curriculum, Advising and Program Planning report and exchange credits
Your first step is to apply to participate in exchange. After you are accepted into the program, we will lead you through the steps to apply to your chosen host university.
Prepare for departure
After you have been selected to participate in the UVic ICS Exchange Program, you'll work closely with us to prepare for your departure and upcoming cultural and academic experiences.
Returning home
Returning is just as much a part of the exchange experience as leaving. When you plan your departure, allow adequate time and energy for administrative details, travel arrangements, farewell parties and other important tasks.
Make sure you consider the steps that you will need to take both before and after your return.
Stay in touch
Sign up to receive emails about studying on exchange at a partner university. We will send you information about events, application deadlines, funding opportunities and more! Also follow us on social media @uvicinternational
Storymap project - student experiences
The ICS exchange team is excited to capture exchange student experiences on our StoryMap site.
The Journey Across Borders storymap is a project from students for students. Check out the preview below or go directly to the site.
Participate and share your story!
Have you participated in an exchange and would like to share your story? Follow the steps below or get in touch with us!StoryMaps is an online storytelling tool that allows you to easily create compelling interactive content that combines maps, multimedia and text.
It can be used to share stories about your exchange, capture memories and inspire future student to study abroad.
Creating and sharing your exchange story is easy with StoryMaps.
Watch this very brief video on how to get started, create a free account and start telling your unique exchange story.
Here are some ideas to help you get started:
- The Beginnings: Reflect on your initial feelings, expectations, and the moment you set foot in your host country. What were your first impressions, and how did they evolve over time?
- Cultural Connections: Share stories of cultural encounters, whether it's a local tradition, a favorite dish, or a festival that left a lasting impression.
- Academic Insights: Describe the courses, professors, or projects that stood out to you during your exchange program. How did this experience contribute to your academic growth?
- Unexpected Discoveries: Highlight any surprises or unexpected adventures that you stumbled upon during your time abroad. What did you learn from these experiences?
- Friendships and Connections: Introduce us to the people who made your exchange memorable. Share anecdotes about the friendships you formed and the connections you'll cherish forever.
- Personal Growth: Reflect on the ways in which this exchange program has influenced your personal development. Did it challenge you, inspire you, or lead you to newfound passions?
- A Glimpse into the Future: Share your aspirations and how this exchange program has shaped your future goals, both personally and professionally.
Once you have published your story – share the link with us (and your friends and family of course)!
With your permission, we will highlight your StoryMap on our UVic International StoryMap and on social media!