This page has information on the required steps before you can start getting matched to host schools.
Remember: There will be a lot of information to process as you explore going abroad. We recommend using our TravelGoose tool to help you stay organized!
1. Attend a mandatory information session
Applications for Round Two will open February 1, 2024 and close February 29, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Spots will be available for the winter 2025 and spring 2025 terms only.
To be considered for an exchange match, you need to review a pre-recorded mandatory information session. This Go Abroad Information Session will open January 2, 2024 and close February 28, 2024, at 2:59 p.m. ET.
To access the session:
- Find Go Abroad Info Session* in LEARN under Self Registration
- Please review the entire 40-minute session
- Complete the Acknowledgement Quiz
- Access to the exchange application will be given within two business days of viewing
- If you attended an info session last year, you need to attend again. The information in these sessions changes every year
*Last day to review the information session is February 28, 2024, at 2:59 p.m. ET
Note: Due to LEARN limitations, students will still be able to self-register for the Go Abroad LEARN course after the course closes on February 28 at 2:59 pm. While registration is still possible, access to the course will not be granted. You will NOT be able to complete the course after the deadline. We will NOT reopen the course under any circumstances.
Attend a drop-in Q&A sessions to chat with a Global Learning Coordinator:
2. Use waterloo passport to research potential host schools
Check Waterloo Passport for a listing of all available opportunities around the world. Start by researching term dates, course availability, eligibility requirements, and the average cost of living at the host schools you're interested in. You should also check the likelihood of being matched with the host schools you apply to. If you are a graduate student, you should verify in Waterloo Passport that the program you are interested in is open to graduate students.
AND
Get advice from the right people
We recommend undergraduate students connect with their faculty exchange representative and graduate students connect with their graduate supervisor before starting the application process.
| Information you need | Who can help |
|---|---|
|
General exchange program related questions Information about the host schools that you can't find on Waterloo Passport |
Global learning coordinators: studyabroad@uwaterloo.ca |
|
Exchange program advice specific to students in your faculty Information about the course matching process |
Faculty exchange representatives: |
|
Information about course sequencing and requisites How going abroad might impact your graduation |
Academic advisor |
Other resources that can help you decide on a program and destination
- Search your faculty's international exchange page.
3. Complete your application
Graduate students
If you are a graduate student, complete a change of enrolment status/withdrawal form and have it signed by your supervisor before you apply in Waterloo Passport.
Undergraduate and graduate students
If you are interested in going on exchange for the 24/25 academic year, applications for first round will open in Fall 2023. There will be ONLY two application rounds for the 24-25 academic year.
| Go abroad during | Application round | Open |
|---|---|---|
|
First - Your best chance of getting your first choice | October 1 - 31, 2023 |
|
Second - Only spots for Winter and Spring will be available. | February 1 - 29, 2024 |
When applying for an exchange program, you are encouraged to list up to four schools in one application. After you’ve submitted your application, pay your $150 non-refundable application fee immediately. Your application fee must be paid by the application deadline (e.g. October 31, 2023 for first round applications) in order for your application to be considered and endorsed by your faculty.
Frequently asked questions about the fee
- Why do I have to pay a fee?
- The fee covers the costs associated with your mobility program application and is in line with other Canadian institutions. It is an application fee, not a match or placement fee.
- I applied last year and paid the application fee, but didn’t go on exchange. Do I have to pay again this year?
- Yes. You must pay the application fee associated with the application year cycle you are applying.
- When am I eligible for a refund?
- You’re eligible for a refund if: a) you don’t get endorsed by your faculty; or b) your exchange is canceled by the University of Waterloo or your host school for travel or safety reasons.
- If I decline my match, but I’m interested in going somewhere else, do I have to pay the fee again?
- No, you would not pay the fee again. You pay once in the application year’s cycle and you can request to be considered for a new match if there are available places at that host school.
4. Wait for academic endorsement
While you wait, research how you can make the most of this experience. Join the Go Abroad Waterloo Facebook group to connect with other students.
Undergraduate students
The appropriate contact in your faculty will review your application to assess if you're academically fit for exchange. You must be endorsed by your faculty before the global learning team can match you to a host school. No action on your part is required, but you can check the status of your application by logging into Waterloo Passport and clicking the my application tab.