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1. Do I get academic credit for my studies abroad?
2. Why should I participate in an exchange program?
3. Who can participate in an exchange program?
4. What about students in the Schulich School of Business, Osgoode, and Glendon?
5. Why is it preferred that I study abroad during my third year?
6. Where do I start the application process? How do I get an application?
7. If I only speak English, can I still go on exchange?
8. How long will I be away?
9. Will participation in an exchange delay graduation?
10. How much will it cost to go on an exchange?
11. Is there any financial assistance for students on exchange?
12. How are students selected for exchange?Do I get academic credit for my studies abroad?
Credits earned while on exchange are transferred to your York degree. Grades for courses taken at external institutions are not listed on your York University transcript and are not included in the calculation of your York grade point average.
Why should I participate in an exchange program?
Participating in an exchange program provides you with the opportunity to gain a varied perspective on your course of study. You will gain global competencies that will enhance your marketability and provide you with a competitive edge. Everyone has their own reasons. Explore yours!Who can participate in an exchange program?
• Undergraduate students in an Honours program and graduate students of any discipline.• Students who have a minimum B average (6.0 GPA).
• Students who have proficiency in the host country’s language (if necessary).
• Part-time students at York may participate, however, you must study full-time while abroad.
• It is recommended that you apply during your second year to spend your third year abroad.
• Some exchanges are restricted to certain disciplines.
What about students in the Schulich School of Business, Osgoode, and Glendon?
• Students in the Schulich School of Business can apply only to exchange programs offered by Schulich.
• Osgoode Hall Law School students can apply to both York International administered and Osgoode International administered programs.• If you are only applying to Osgoode International administered exchange/s, please use the Osgoode International’s application only (see Osgoode International’s website)
• If you are only applying to York International administered exchange/s, please use York International’s application only. You must attend a York International Exchange Program Information Session in order to receive an application.
• If you are applying to both Osgoode International administered and York International administered exchanges, you must fill out BOTH application forms. References can be submitted with the application that is your first choice.
• Glendon College students can apply to both York International administered and Glendon College administered programs.
Why is it preferred that I study abroad during my third year?
By third year, you should have adapted to the demands of university life and have the skills required for study in a foreign teaching environment. Students finishing their first year of studies often do not have the prerequisites to pursue studies at the host institute. Those in their final year have less flexibility in course selection and may have difficulties finding courses abroad. There may be exceptions to the above. Attend an Exchange Information Session for more information.
Where do I start the application process? How do I get an application?
In order to receive an application you must attend an Exchange Information Session. Sessions are offered regularly between September and December.
If I only speak English, can I still go on exchange?
Yes, the language of instruction at many of York’s partner universities is English. Some partner universities offer intensive language training before or during the semester to improve your language skills. By planning ahead, you could start language training in your first year and enhance it through immersion at a foreign university in your senior years. Specific language requirements are noted on each university’s profile.It depends on the program. The majority of students spend one academic year abroad, however, it is possible to participate for one semester.Will participation in an exchange delay graduation?
Study abroad planned appropriately and in consultation with your academic department is intended to be an integral part of your degree program without delaying graduation. Students wishing to pursue interests outside their degree program through a year abroad may need to extend the duration of their degree program. Please note, however, that if you go on exchange in the final year of your degree, your graduation will probably be delayed due to the time required for processing transfer credit.
How much will it cost to go on an exchange?
You will pay tuition fees to York based on your student status.Other expenses include:
• Airfare and travel• Health and travel insurance
• Fees for visa, passport and other documents
• Accommodation, food, entertainment, books and general living expenses. The cost of living in your host country may be higher or lower than Canada’s.
• Student service fees at the host university
Is there any financial assistance for students on exchange?
• OSAP recipients retain their eligibility.• The York International Mobility Award is available to all students who demonstrate financial need.
• There are major awards valued from $1000-$4000 for participating exchange students who have demonstrated academic excellence.
• Students remain eligible for York’s undergraduate bursaries and scholarships.
How are students selected for exchange?
A York selection committee reviews the applications and interviews qualified applicants. Candidates are ranked and offered placements at partner universities based upon:• Academic ability• Seriousness of interest
• Personal adaptability
• Suitability of the host institution’s program for degree requirements
• Participation in university and community life
The number of placements varies from school to school and year to year.
