UBC offers various exciting study abroad opportunities for students, categorized as Exchange, Summer Abroad, Research Overseas, and Global Seminars. Each program has its own unique features and application procedures. Here’s a brief overview to get you started:
General Details:
- Who can apply: UBC undergraduate and graduate students in good academic standing.
- Program types: Exchange (semester or year), Summer Abroad (short programs abroad), Research Overseas (independent research abroad), Global Seminars (faculty-led short programs abroad).
- Destinations: Over 400 partner universities in more than 50 countries worldwide.
- Application deadlines: Vary depending on program type (October 4 for most programs, December 13 for early deadlines).
- Studying abroad at UBC provides a unique opportunity to experience
- Enhance your employability
- Travel and explore
- Develop new skills
- Studying abroad is a great way to meet new people
- Gain a global perspective
- Studying abroad looks great on your resume
- UBC offers a variety of programs
- Frequently Asked Question
Popular Programs:
- Exchange: Immerse yourself in a new academic and cultural environment for a semester or year at a partner university. Popular destinations include Australia, China, Japan, France, and Germany.
- Summer Abroad: Take intensive courses abroad for a few weeks, focusing on specific themes or disciplines. Options include language immersion programs, field studies, and internships.
- Research Overseas: Conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member at a foreign university or research institution. Ideal for pursuing specialized research interests.
- Global Seminars: Join faculty-led trips abroad for focused academic experiences linked to specific courses or themes. These programs often combine classroom learning with experiential activities and cultural immersions.
Studying abroad at UBC provides a unique opportunity to experience
Studying abroad at UBC provides a unique opportunity to experience a multitude of things, depending on your individual interests and chosen program. Here are some possibilities:
Immersion:
- Vibrant culture: Embrace a new way of life, immersing yourself in diverse customs, traditions, and languages that will broaden your perspective and challenge your assumptions.
- Stunning landscapes: Explore breathtaking natural beauty, from majestic mountains and glacial lakes to bustling cityscapes and serene coastlines.
- Academic excellence: Learn from world-renowned faculty at a top-ranked university, gaining valuable knowledge and enriching your academic journey.
Personal growth:
- Independence: Develop your self-reliance and resourcefulness, navigating a new environment and culture on your own.
- Confidence: Step outside your comfort zone, overcome challenges, and build resilience through new experiences.
- Global perspective: Gain a deeper understanding of the world and your place within it, fostering empathy and intercultural competence.
Career edge:
- Enhanced resume: Distinguish yourself from the crowd with international experience, demonstrating adaptability, cultural awareness, and problem-solving skills.
- Network building: Connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds, expanding your network and opening doors to future opportunities.
- Specialized skills: Develop language proficiency, cultural fluency, and industry-specific knowledge depending on your chosen program.
Unforgettable memories:
- Lifelong friendships: Forge meaningful connections with people from around the world, creating lasting memories and cherished friendships.
- Adventure and exploration: Discover hidden gems, embark on exciting journeys, and push your boundaries, filling your life with adventure.
- Personal transformation: Return home with a newfound sense of self, confidence, and a broadened worldview that will enrich your life in countless ways.
Enhance your employability
Develop in-demand skills:
- Technical skills: Master relevant software, programming languages, or technical tools for your chosen field.
- Soft skills: Hone communication, teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and time management skills.
- Industry-specific expertise: Gain specialized knowledge and certifications relevant to your target industry.
Build experience:
- Internships: Seek internships in your desired field to gain practical experience and build your network.
- Volunteer work: Contribute to causes you care about while acquiring valuable skills and showcasing your commitment.
- Freelance projects: Take on freelance gigs to showcase your skills and build a portfolio of past work.
Network effectively:
- Connect with professionals: Attend industry events, conferences, and workshops to meet potential employers and mentors.
- Utilize online platforms: Build your online presence on LinkedIn and other professional networks.
- Seek career guidance: Talk to career counselors, mentors, and alumni for advice and support.
Craft a compelling resume and online presence:
- Highlight your skills and achievements: Tailor your resume and online profiles to each job application.
- Quantify your accomplishments: Use metrics and data to demonstrate the impact of your work.
- Showcase your personal brand: Present yourself as a professional and well-rounded individual.
Continuously learn and adapt:
- Stay updated: Keep your skills current by attending courses, workshops, and reading industry publications.
- Embrace new challenges: Be open to learning new things and taking on new responsibilities.
- Demonstrate growth and initiative: Highlight your willingness to learn and adapt in your applications and interviews.
Travel and explore
Travel and exploration are an incredible bonus to studying abroad at UBC, even without the visual aids. Here’s a closer look without images:
Vancouver as your Launchpad:
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant city life, stroll through Gastown’s cobbled streets, or discover vibrant art in Yaletown.
- Witness breathtaking views from Queen Elizabeth Park or hike the Stanley Park Seawall for coastal panoramas.
- Kayak False Creek to admire the cityscape from a different perspective, or delve into Chinatown’s bustling markets and delicious cuisine.
Beyond the City Limits:
- Hike the legendary Grouse Grind for a challenging climb and rewarding vistas, or cycle the scenic Sea to Sky Highway towards Whistler.
- Escape to the serene Gulf Islands, kayak alongside playful orcas, or explore the rugged beauty of the Sunshine Coast.
- Journey deeper into the province, hike through ancient glaciers in Garibaldi Provincial Park, or discover the wild tranquility of Yoho National Park.
Immerse yourself in BC’s Wilderness:
- Trek through the lush rainforests of Clayoquot Sound, spot majestic grizzly bears in Knight Inlet, or camp under the star-studded skies of the Chilcotin Coast.
- Paddle through the glacial waters of Jervis Bay, explore the mystical landscapes of Cathedral Lakes, or kayak among the hidden gems of the Great Bear Rainforest.
- Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Fraser River, go mountain biking in Whistler’s Bike Park, or climb challenging peaks in the Purcell Mountains.
Venture Beyond Borders:
- Take advantage of UBC’s extensive network of exchange programs and explore the world. Discover the ancient wonders of Rome, delve into the bustling streets of Tokyo, or learn to samba in Rio de Janeiro.
- Study French in the Eiffel Tower’s shadow, immerse yourself in German culture in Berlin, or experience the vibrant chaos of Bangkok’s street markets.
- Each international destination offers unique experiences, from historical and cultural treasures to diverse cuisines and landscapes.
Develop new skills
Studying abroad at UBC can be an incredible opportunity to develop new skills beyond your academic focus. Here are some exciting possibilities:
Language skills:
- Immerse yourself in a new language environment and practice daily, boosting your fluency and confidence.
- Take language courses offered by the host university or local language schools.
- Connect with native speakers and engage in conversations to enhance your pronunciation and understanding.
Cultural fluency:
- Learn about the customs, traditions, and etiquette of the local culture.
- Participate in cultural activities like festivals, workshops, or volunteer work.
- Interact with people from different backgrounds and develop your intercultural communication skills.
Practical skills:
- Hone your independence and resourcefulness by navigating a new environment on your own.
- Develop budgeting and financial management skills as you handle your expenses abroad.
- Learn new travel planning and logistics skills through exploring your surroundings and organizing trips.
Professional skills:
- Gain valuable international experience that boosts your resume and makes you stand out to employers.
- Network with professionals in your field of interest during internships, conferences, or workshops.
- Develop teamwork and communication skills through collaborating with diverse peers on projects.
Personal growth:
- Step outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself in new ways, building resilience and self-confidence.
- Discover new interests and talents as you try different activities and experiences.
- Gain a broader perspective on the world and develop a deeper understanding of yourself.
Studying abroad is a great way to meet new people
Shared experience: You’ll be in the same boat as other students, navigating a new environment and culture together. This shared experience creates a natural bond and fosters opportunities for connection.
Diverse backgrounds: Studying abroad brings together people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. This diversity enriches your social circle and exposes you to new perspectives and ways of thinking.
Openness and willingness: Students venturing abroad are often more open to meeting new people and trying new things. This creates an atmosphere where friendships can blossom organically.
Built-in opportunities: Many universities and programs offer events, activities, and clubs specifically designed to help international students connect with each other and locals.
Here are some specific ways to meet new people during your study abroad adventure:
- Join clubs and societies: Find groups that align with your interests, whether it’s sports, music, debating, or volunteering.
- Attend university events: Orientation programs, cultural festivals, and student-organized activities are great places to mingle and meet new faces.
- Live in a dorm: Dorm life fosters close-knit communities and provides numerous opportunities for spontaneous interactions and friendships.
- Explore together: Organize outings with classmates, roommates, or fellow travelers to discover hidden gems, local attractions, or nearby cities.
- Embrace technology: Utilize social media groups and apps designed for international students to connect and find common interests.
Gain a global perspective
Expanding your worldview is one of the most enriching aspects of studying abroad at UBC! Here are some ways your perspective will blossom during this incredible experience:
Cultural immersion: Living in a new environment exposes you to diverse customs, traditions, and ways of life. This challenges your assumptions and broadens your understanding of the world beyond your own cultural bubble.
Exposure to different viewpoints: Engaging with people from various backgrounds will introduce you to new perspectives on everything from politics and social issues to everyday life. This fosters critical thinking and empathy, enriching your worldview.
Appreciation for diversity: Immersing yourself in different cultures cultivates a deeper appreciation for human diversity and the beauty of different approaches to life. This inspires tolerance and understanding, making you a more open-minded and informed individual.
Global interconnectedness: Studying abroad makes you acutely aware of the interconnectedness of our world. You’ll witness how global issues like climate change, economics, and political conflicts impact us all, fostering a sense of global citizenship.
Personal growth: Stepping outside your comfort zone and navigating a new environment promotes personal growth and resilience. You develop adaptability, problem-solving skills, and resourcefulness, giving you a new perspective on your own capabilities.
Here are some ways to maximize your global perspective gain while studying abroad:
- Seek out cultural experiences: Participate in local festivals, visit museums, and attend traditional events to immerse yourself in the culture.
- Travel beyond the city: Explore different regions of your host country to experience diverse landscapes, communities, and ways of life.
- Connect with locals: Engage in conversations with people from all walks of life to understand their perspectives and experiences.
- Volunteer or work abroad: Contribute to local communities and gain firsthand experience of social and cultural realities.
- Reflect on your experiences: Take time to process your observations and learnings, journaling or discussing them with others to deepen your understanding.
Studying abroad looks great on your resume
Studying abroad at UBC doesn’t just broaden your horizons, it also gives your resume a major boost, making you stand out from the crowd in the job market. Here’s why:
Demonstrates initiative and independence: Choosing to study abroad requires initiative, planning, and resourcefulness. Employers value these qualities, seeing them as indicators of self-reliance and adaptability.
Global perspective and cultural awareness: Living and learning in a new environment shows adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and an ability to navigate diverse situations. This is highly desirable in today’s interconnected world.
Enhanced communication and problem-solving skills: Immersing yourself in a new language and culture strengthens your communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, all crucial for professional success.
Broader skillset and experiences: Depending on your program and activities, you may gain technical skills, leadership experience, volunteer work, or involvement in research projects, enriching your resume and demonstrating additional strengths.
Unique talking points and standout factor: Studying abroad adds a unique and intriguing element to your resume, giving you a distinct advantage over competitors and sparking conversation during interviews.
Improved academic performance: Studies often show that students who study abroad return with improved academic performance, demonstrating dedication and a strong work ethic.
Here are some tips to maximize the resume-boosting potential of your UBC study abroad experience:
- Quantify your achievements: Use numbers and data to showcase the impact of your experiences, like how many countries you visited, volunteer hours you logged, or awards you received.
- Tailor your resume to each job: Highlight specific skills and experiences relevant to the position you’re applying for.
- Use keywords: Include relevant keywords used in job descriptions to ensure your resume gets noticed by applicant tracking systems.
- Prepare to talk about your experience: Be ready to discuss your learnings, challenges, and accomplishments during interviews.
- Get involved in student organizations: Participate in clubs or associations related to your field, demonstrating leadership and initiative.
UBC offers a variety of programs
UBC boasts a diverse and exciting array of study abroad programs to cater to your specific interests and academic goals. Here’s a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of opportunities:
Program Types:
- Exchange: Immerse yourself in a partner university for a semester or year, experiencing a new academic environment and cultural immersion. Popular destinations include Australia, China, Japan, France, and Germany.
- Summer Abroad: Dive into intensive short programs abroad, focusing on specific themes or disciplines. Options include language immersion programs, field studies, and internships.
- Research Overseas: Conduct independent research under the supervision of a faculty member at a foreign university or research institution. Ideal for pursuing specialized research interests.
- Global Seminars: Join faculty-led trips abroad for focused academic experiences linked to specific courses or themes. These programs often combine classroom learning with experiential activities and cultural immersions.
Destinations:
With over 400 partner universities in more than 50 countries worldwide, the possibilities are endless!
- Asia: Explore dynamic megacities in China, delve into ancient traditions in Japan, or learn Thai cuisine in Thailand.
- Europe: Climb the Eiffel Tower in France, study art history in Italy, or hike through the Scottish Highlands.
- Latin America: Experience the vibrant culture of Brazil, immerse yourself in Spanish in Argentina, or learn salsa in Colombia.
- Africa and the Middle East: Discover Morocco’s rich history, trek through the savannas of South Africa, or study Arabic in Jordan.
- Oceania and the Pacific: Learn about indigenous cultures in Australia, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, or volunteer in Fiji.
Additional Programs:
- Joint academic programs: UBC offers unique joint programs with partner universities, granting dual degrees or specialized certifications.
- Virtual exchange: Connect with students abroad online, collaborating on projects and fostering intercultural understanding.
- Go Global Fellowships: Apply for funded opportunities to support research, internships, or volunteer work abroad.
Frequently Asked Question
- Most UBC undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to participate in study abroad programs, with good academic standing and specific program requirements. Check individual program pages for details.
- Exchange programs, Summer Abroad programs, Research Overseas projects, Global Seminars, and virtual exchange options are available, offering diverse durations, themes, and academic focuses.
- Deadlines vary depending on the program. Typically, fall programs have deadlines in March/April, and spring programs in October/November.
