Study Abroad

If you're interested in expanding your education experience by studying abroad, check with your post-secondary institution first to learn about options and requirements. This is the best source of information and will guide you through an application process, provide travel resources and help determine if courses will meet program requirements.

• List of study abroad offices at B.C. institutions
• Financial help
• Transfer credit and recognized credentials

Student exchange programs allow students to earn credit towards a B.C. credential while studying abroad. Many B.C. institutions have partnerships with institutions around the world to facilitate students taking courses or programs for one or more semesters in another country.

Field schools allow students to participate in a structured group learning experience which takes place outside a classroom, and at times outside of Canada. Learning centres on topics which are enhanced by the resources available to integrate learning with the location. Here are a few examples:

• Humanities courses that visit historical sites in the Czech Republic
• Archaeology courses that have field trips to Chinese museums and archaeological sites
• Biology courses based at field stations and various locations in Malaysia

Note: Some field schools of B.C. institutions may also be open to students registered at a different institution in B.C. or another  Canadian province.

International co-op or internship is one way students are able to work overseas. 

For further information about options, including specific programs and how to apply, contact an institution's study abroad office or visit the British Columbia Study Abroad (BCSA) Consortium website.

• Contact a study abroad office at a B.C. institution
• Visit the British Columbia Study Abroad Consortium website

Other study and work abroad programs are also offered by organizations and institutions that are not directly linked to a student’s home post-secondary institution. Students who choose this option must manage the admission process themselves and should check with an academic advisor to learn if course credits can be transferred to B.C.

Resources

Make plans for a successful study abroad experience:

• Canadian Bureau for International Education
• Exchanges Canada
• Financial awards and help for students who study abroad
• Global Affairs Canada - Consular Affairs Bureau
• International Work Experience for Canadian students
• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization - Study Abroad Guide

Education systems in other countries: To learn more about the education system in a country that interests you, contact the embassy or consulate in Canada, or the government department responsible for post-secondary education.

Ranking of international post-secondary institutions: There are several sites that rank institutions around the world. Any reliable ranking site should clearly describe the methodology used, and also state any methodological problems or biases encountered.

Here are some popular global ranking of post-secondary institutions that many students use:

• Academic Ranking of World Universities - Institute of Higher Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University
• Times Higher Education World University Rankings