If you are interested in studying abroad, UVic’s exchange program is a great option to consider. It may be one of the most affordable chances you’ll get to spend time abroad.
Travelling and living abroad is expensive, but if you have the means, going on an exchange may be your most affordable opportunity. The way the exchange program works is you pay your regular UVic tuition to study at your host university, regardless of your host universities’ tuition rate. Being able to avoid international student fees is a huge advantage. This means the additional costs outside of a regular semester will be airfare, residence and insurance/visa. While some big costs are unavoidable, there are ways to minimize some of them. Applying for scholarships can help lessen some of the financial burdens of an international exchange. UVic has a $500 scholarship for exchange students to apply for and a $1000 scholarship for exchange students who are going to study abroad in Asia. There are also scholarship opportunities in the country you are planning to study abroad in. Depending on where you go, amenities such as cell phone plans can be much cheaper than in Canada. Pick up a sim card when you get there and enjoy a cut in your phone bill! Simply being a student can get you travel discounts if you look in the right places. Look at StudentUniverse for affordable flights for students only!
What really makes going on exchange worth it is that it’s an opportunity for personal growth. If you have never travelled by yourself or have never planned a trip, an exchange is a great starting point. The International Centre for Students (ICS) program, for humanities, social science and science students, walks you through everything you need to consider when going to study abroad while giving you the independence to plan and execute everything yourself. Other faculties can study abroad as well, the ICS website has more information about reaching out to your academic advisor. This can be a necessary jump. You will gain confidence when you see how your preparation and labour have paid off, because when you get off the plane, navigate customs and arrive at your new address for the next six to twelve months the realization hits you that you are capable of a lot. Navigating a new place is difficult, but while you will have more challenges you will have more wins as well. Every public transportation system, cultural custom and language you figure out will feel like an accomplishment. Growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone, and an exchange can bring you there in a safe way.
It’s likely you won’t be the only person from UVic studying abroad at your host university, but even if you are, an exchange is a wonderful and easy way to make friends. Your host university will have an orientation for all the exchange and international students to meet one another. These students are all having the same experience as you are, being alone in a new country. This means friendships form fast. Often there are group outings to which everyone is invited. An exchange allows you to meet people from all over the world and create lasting connections.
An exchange can enhance your education by not only allowing you to experience another education system with a different approach to learning, but it can also give you a different national perspective on your field. This is a great way to enrich your learning in a way that you can’t experience by staying at your local university. It can also be a great addition to your resume!
Exchange is an incredible opportunity that UVic offers, giving students a more affordable way to study abroad. Studying abroad is an incredibly enriching experience that can positively impact your studies as well as your personal growth. To learn more about the exchange program at UVic visit the International Centre for Students webpage under the UVic exchange program.