Outbound Exchange Students

Most countries place conditions on travellers, whether the travel is for recreation, study, or work. Requirements and application processes for visas or study permits are different for each country and how long the student expects to study there. 

Once the student has received the acceptance letter from the exchange partner university, the next step is to acquire the proper visa related documents. For security reasons, some countries are now requiring 'biometric' scans as part of the visa application process. This makes the visa application process more complicated as it typically requires travel to an embassy or consulate (generally located in Ottawa, Toronto, or Montreal). For this reason, it is wise to begin the visa application process as early as possible. 

The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade website lists the embassies and high commissions in Canada. Visa applications usually are processed through their consular offices and often require the applications to be submitted in person. 

Accommodations need to be arranged with the help of the host university international office as soon as the student has received confirmation that they will be studying at the host institution. 

Exchange students must purchase health insurance for the duration of their time abroad. Existing family insurance plans are acceptable if they provide international coverage for the full duration of the study abroad period.   

Students should research financial practices in the country where they will be studying. Find out the ways in which credit cards and debit cards are used for store purchases and the process for accessing cash via bank machines. In some countries, students may have to open a bank account to ensure easy access to money. If applicable, students must make formal arrangements for someone to care of student loan requirements. Renewable scholarships from StFX are recognized by StFX university only for one semester exchanges. 

Before finalizing course registrations abroad, students need to submit the course descriptions to the Education Abroad Advisor at StFX to receive permission to transfer course credits to their StFX degree.  It is the student's responsibility to communicate this information to the Education Abroad Advisor via email within the first two weeks upon arrival. 

The regulations and grading schemes of the exchange university apply to visiting exchange students in the same way as for local students.  Exchange students with academic concerns should discuss these with a representative of the International Exchange Office at the host university.  Students should make an effort to clearly understand the grading schemes of the courses taken and should not assume that StFX can influence course outcomes at exchange universities. 

Students who choose to participate in an exchange will be required to complete pre-departure workshops and attend one in-person pre-departure orientation before departing for their destinations. These sessions will cover: 

1. Logistical Planning and Preparation 

2. Risk Management and Safety Abroad 

3. Intercultural Competencies 

In addition to these sessions, students should take the time to research their destination. Well informed international travellers reduce potential risk and increase the likelihood of enjoying the exchange experience fully.