Eligibility, Application and Acceptance
Outgoing Students
Internationalize Your Degree!
Going on an International Exchange is a great way to travel without delaying graduation! Take classes towards your BComm requirements at one of our partner institutions, and see the world!
Get Ready to Apply
Ready to take your degree global? Here’s how to kickstart your international exchange journey:
- Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you've completed at least 60 units (20 courses) towards your BComm, including 3 of BTMA 317, FNCE 317, MKTG 317, OBHR 317, OPMA 317.
Pro Tip: Completing ENTI 317 and MGST 391 before you go is strongly recommended. - Maintain a Strong GPA
Aim for a minimum GPA of 2.90 on your last 30 units.
Note: Some partner schools require higher GPAs. - Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted online . For some competitive partner schools, you’ll also need to complete an additional questionnaire — if this applies to you, you’ll get an email with all the details.
Pro tip: The application system can time out without saving your progress, so we recommend copying the questions into Word (or your favorite text editor), drafting your answers there, then pasting them into the application before submitting. This way, you won’t lose your hard work!
Remember: Priority round applications are reviewed based on “best fit,” while secondary round applications are reviewed in the order received. - Understand the Selection Process
We select students based mostly on your application responses, not GPA. During the secondary round, it’s first come, first served.
Note: Some partners may close applications earlier than final deadlines. - Prepare for the Next Steps
Once accepted, you'll receive instructions for course registration, housing, visas, and more.
Not sure if you meet the eligibility criteria? Contact us before applying to discuss your situation.
Application Deadlines
Don’t miss your chance to spend a semester abroad! Submit your application by the deadlines below — the priority round is reviewed on “best fit” and gives you your strongest shot at getting into the most popular partner schools. Missed the priority deadline? No worries! Partners with space reopen for secondary round applications (reviewed in order received.)
Deadlines for 2026-2027 applications:
Summer Term
- Priority Round Deadline: November 10, 2025
Decision notification: Late November to December - Secondary Round Deadline: January 12, 2025
Decision notification: Early to mid-February
Fall/Full Year Term
- Priority Round Deadline: January 12, 2025
Decision notification: Mid- to late-February - Secondary Round Deadline: March 15, 2026
Decision notification: 2 to 4 weeks after application submission
Winter Term
- Priority Round Deadline: January 12, 2025
Decision notification: Mid- to late-February - Secondary Round Deadline: August 15, 2026
Decision notification: 2 to 4 weeks after application submission
*Note: Secondary round only available for select partners.
Application Guidelines
What to expect:
The application is your chance to show us who you are - you’ll answer questions about your goals, interests, and why you want to go on exchange. Be honest, thoughtful, and let your personality shine!
- Take your time—rushed applications don’t stand out.
- Reflect on your goals for the exchange and how it fits with your degree and future plans.
- Be specific—give examples that show your motivation and readiness.
- Proofread! Clear, error-free writing makes a great impression.
- We’re looking for students whose goals and values align with what the partner schools offer and who will thrive in their chosen environment. Our review process considers:
- Clarity and thoughtfulness of your answers
- Alignment with your academic and career goals
- Demonstrated motivation and adaptability
- Academic eligibility (GPA and prerequisites)
There are no “right” or “wrong” answers, but honesty and reflection go a long way! Check out our application guide for the full scoop on how we evaluate “best fit.”
What to Expect After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your exchange application:
- Application Review – Our team carefully reviews each application starting with your first-choice partner school. We only consider your second and/or third choices if necessary. We’re looking for thoughtfulness, preparation, and overall fit.
- Decisions – You’ll receive an email about your application outcome.
- Next Steps – Accepted students will get detailed instructions about confirming their spot, preparing documents, and moving forward with the partner school.
- Timeline – See the Application Deadlines section above for an estimate decision notification dates.
Remember: there are no “right” answers, but strong applications stand out for being specific, reflective, and realistic.
Application FAQs
Q: Can I apply to more than one partner school?
A: Yes – in fact, we recommend it! You can submit applications to multiple partners, but you will have to indicate which is your 1st/2nd/3rd choices. We review students for their 1st choice first and only consider other choices if needed.
Note: When you submit your 2nd choice application, the system will see the overlapping dates and ask you to indicate 1st and 2nd choice for your two submitted applications. The same will happen when/if you submit a 3rd choice application.
Q: What courses can I take abroad?
A: You can take both business and non-business courses (if offered at your partner school), but you need to complete at least 2 business courses during your exchange. You don’t need to know your exact courses when applying—just a rough idea. After acceptance, you’ll finalize course selection with your advisor’s help.
Q: How do I know what transfer credit I’ll get for my courses?
A: During your exchange prep, you’ll review our Exchange Course Guide and submit course outlines for transfer credit assessment at least 2 months before departure.
Want more details on courses and transfer credit? Check out the Prep for Takeoff page.
Q: Can I apply if I’m planning to graduate soon?
A: Absolutely! If you’re close to graduating, chat with us early in the process. We’ll help you plan your courses to meet graduation requirements and figure out how your exchange might affect your timeline.
Q: What if I miss a deadline?
A: Priority round deadlines are crucial, especially for popular partner schools. Some partners reopen for a secondary round with limited spots, but not all do. Make sure to submit on time to maximize your chances! Secondary round deadlines are usually firm, and late applications cannot be accepted.
Q: What funding is available for my exchange?
A: You can apply for awards and scholarships specifically for exchange students, plus government loans and travel grants. Don’t forget—you’re still a degree-seeking student here, so you can also apply for our regular awards and scholarships. Just make sure you meet all deadlines and requirements! For all the details, check out our Prep for Takeoff page.
Q: How do tuition and fees work during my exchange?
A: You’ll continue paying your regular UCalgary tuition and fees while on exchange — no extra international tuition at the partner school! You’re responsible for your own travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Some partner schools may charge small fees (like student union or activity fees); your partner school will send you more info during the prep process.
Note: Some partner schools offer “fee-paying” summer programs with different fee structures. If that applies to you, contact us so we can help clarify!
Q: Can I defer or cancel my exchange if something comes up?
A: We get it, life happens! Reach out ASAP if you need to defer or cancel — there are processes for this, but timing is key.