
Why go on an international exchange
Gain skills employers value
In an increasingly connected world, employers are looking for graduates who can thrive in multicultural environments. Through an exchange, you’ll gain valuable skills like cross-cultural communication, adaptability and global awareness — qualities that make you a standout candidate in any field.
“Being immersed in EU and Irish law opened up an entirely new field of interest for me. Luckily, this newfound interest developed into a fellowship over the summer, where I worked on the exact issues we were debating in the classroom. The career exposure broadened my horizons, showing how my degree could be used in unconventional ways and globalizing my professional network.”
Brynn Hopper, Maynooth University, Ireland

Expand your academic horizons
Studying in another country gives you the chance to explore new perspectives within your field and even discover subjects outside your program. This enriching academic experience can deepen your understanding and expand your knowledge base, making your educational journey even more rewarding.
“I learned more from this exchange than I ever could’ve imagined. My host university specializes in political science. It was amazing getting to learn so much about global and European politics, and to hear the opinions and points of view of each student from each different country. It expanded my knowledge and understanding of the world exponentially.”
Claudia Rochon, Sciences Po Lille, France

Grow as a person
Living abroad challenges you to step outside your comfort zone — and that’s where real growth happens. You’ll learn how to adapt to unfamiliar situations, solve problems creatively and become more independent.
“There is no doubt that you will learn more about the world, the country you are visiting, its customs, its people, its upsides and downsides. But the exchange will also help you learn about yourself. How do you react when confronted with a new challenge in an unfamiliar environment? How do you navigate your new city, with all its nooks and crannies? Can you successfully order a meal in your non-native language while avoiding any inevitable language mishaps? For me, all these challenges and more helped me discover more about myself.”
Nikita Serikov, Waseda University, Japan

Discover the world
One of the most exciting parts of studying abroad is immersing yourself in a new culture. And the adventure doesn’t stop there — many students take advantage of their exchange to visit nearby countries and discover even more cultures, landscapes and experiences.
“Although I technically completed my study abroad in Geneva, I feel like my exchange happened all over Europe! The opportunity to travel around so many new countries, from Portugal to Denmark, was the best part of my experience. Doing so alongside new friends from all over the world was also an amazing bonus.”
Mukazi Ntagungira, University of Geneva, Switzerland

Build lifelong connections
Studying abroad introduces you to people from all walks of life. You’ll make friends from around the globe, share stories and learn from each other’s experiences. Many students form lasting friendships and build international networks that endure long after their studies end.
“Without a doubt, the best part was the people I met along the way. I made incredible friends from all over the world — and I even met my partner. During my time abroad, I visited 22 countries and often had a place to stay in almost every city thanks to the connections I’d made. These friendships have lasted long past my exchange; I’ve visited many of them in their home countries, and we still keep in touch regularly. The world feels much smaller now, and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.”
Madelyn Owens, Sorbonne Nouvelle University, France

Want to hear more from our students?
Explore

Apply for exchange
Discover everything you need to know — from eligibility and our partner institutions to required documents and how to apply.

Find a destination
Discover our exchange partner institutions and see where your studies can take you.

Exchange scholarships
Find out about our exchange scholarships.

Mobility drop-in sessions
Meet with our student mobility advisors and get answers to your questions about exchanges.
Contact us
InfoService
550 Cumberland Street, Room 129
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 6N5
Canada
Hours of operation
September 1 to May 31:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
June 1 to August 31:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Please note that the University of Ottawa offices are closed during statutory holidays and during the winter break. Visit the Important academic dates and deadlines page for more information.