About Study Abroad Programs

Study Abroad Programs are an integral part of the International Programs Office at the University of Waterloo. 

The International Programs Office acts as the principle contact point for internationalization initiatives at the University of Waterloo and operates jointly through the Office of Research and Waterloo International.

The Study Abroad unit administers over 150 study abroad and exchange programs in 35 countries worldwide, with more than 700 student participants every year, including semester-long, full-year, or short-term summer programs. 

Some of the functions of the Study Abroad unit of the International Programs Office include:

• Facilitating the establishment, management, and review of international study abroad, exchange, and mobility programs, academic linkages, and agreements.
• Central contact and liaison with international offices at partner universities abroad for study abroad and exchange programs.
• Developing university-wide international risk management protocols and maintaining related records.
• Providing regular pre-departure and re-entry briefings for students going abroad on University sanctioned programs.
• Facilitating international visitor protocols, monitoring and providing information on the University's current activities in these areas.
• Managing a resource centre for study abroad, exchange, and mobility programs.
• Organizing an annual Study Abroad Fair

We welcome you to visit the Study Abroad unit housed within Waterloo International, Needles Hall Room 1101.