Apply Now – Other Opportunities

Dalhousie University students are given opportunity to complete an Independent Study Abroad at another institution even when there is no formal partnership in place. Ideally, students will find a suitable opportunity from the list of our International Learning Experiences, but it is understandable that an opportunity may arise that’s not included on the list of options provided.  

If you are interested in studying abroad at an institution not included on our list of International Learning Experiences please note the following:

1. You will need to verify that the host university/college offers university credit

2. You must confirm:

  • The host university offers a “visiting, non-degree” student status for which you can apply.
  • You meet the host university’s admission criteria.
  • You can afford the host university’s tuition fees.

3. You will need to consult your academic advisor to obtain guidance on your course requirements and to discuss the ideal term to be completing courses at another institution. It is also important to determine what required courses must be taken abroad, if any.

NEXT STEPS...

1. Select your courses for your host institution

  • Make sure you're clear about what they call a course (modules, papers, subjects, etc.).
  • Be clear about how many courses constitute a full course load. At some universities a full course load is 2 courses per term, and you take each course one at a time. Select accordingly.

2. Arrange for academic transfer

  • Before you leave, follow the procedure for receiving academic credit from Dalhousie for the courses you will take abroad.
  • You will need to complete a Letter of Permission.  
  • Plan for last minute errors.
  • Have more classes approved by Dalhousie than you can actually take at the host institution so you can make changes when you arrive. It's more difficult to get classes approved for equivalencies once you are abroad. If you must register for a class that you do not have pre-approved, email LOP@dal.ca with your new course selection and syllabi for assistance.
  • Once you complete your term abroad, the Registrar Office receives your final transcript and they will assign credit and update your record accordingly.

3. Apply to host university

  • You must apply according to their stated deadlines and you must meet their academic standards.
  • Be prepared to provide several documents that they request for their admission process. These might include: transcripts, passport-sized photos, a letter of intent, a reference letter, a copy of your passport, etc.

4. Meet Dalhousie's pre-departure requirements

  • As soon as you have received an admission letter from the host institution you can start your pre-departure work.

5. Apply for bursaries, scholarships, and grants

Once you're accepted by the host institution, and are beginning to think about booking plane tickets and your visa, you should consider the funding options available.