Global Learning Opportunities

Are you passionate about both learning and travel? Looking to combine them into an enriching global experience? Do you thrive on discovering new and diverse perspectives? 

Whether you're passionate about experiencing new cultures, expanding your global perspective, or enhancing your career prospects, U of GH offers dynamic ways to combine learning and travel. Explore our Semester Elsewhere program to study abroad and earn academic credits in destinations like the Netherlands, Austria, and Ireland. From international experiences to collaborative learning, discover how you can build your future while exploring the world.

We believe in preparing students for a global future, which is why our international partnerships are such a key part of what we offer. Through these collaborations, students have the chance to engage with different cultures, participate in exchange programs, and work on global projects. This not only enhances their academic experience, but it also helps students build critical skills like communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness. 

The following global learning opportunities are available to all current U of GH students:

U of GH International Field Study Courses (previously Study Abroad)

Join the University of Guelph-Humber’s AHSS*3500 International Field Study course in the summer semester and step out of the classroom to explore diverse cultures! You can choose from various countries, allowing you to customize your experience to your interests. Earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience and making meaningful connections. Don’t miss this chance for an unforgettable journey with us!

UofGH International Field Study are 0.5 credit General Elective courses offered during the summer semester. All current U of GH students can apply for ONE study tour.

Information about 2027 course offerings will be available soon!

Semester Elsewhere 

Apply for an international exchange and earn academic credit while spending a semester abroad. The University of Guelph-Humber offers partnerships with schools around the globe, including in the Netherlands, Austria, and the United Kingdom, Spain, South Korea and Belgium. 

Below you will find all the necessary information relating to the University of Guelph-Humber’s International Exchange program.

Who is eligible to go on exchange?

Any University of Guelph-Humber student in good academic standing can participate in the Semester Elsewhere program.

What are the requirements?
  • Good academic standing
  • Minimum cumulative GPA defined by the host institution
Why is it beneficial to participate in the Semester Elsewhere program?
  • Experience a new culture while studying abroad
  • Gain a new global perspective
  • Opportunity to travel and see the world
  • Learn and grow personally and professionally
  • Build an international network
  • Develop your leadership skills
  • Learn new language skills
  • Discover possible international career opportunities
  • Form new and rewarding relationships
  • Great for resume
When can you go?

Student can participate in the international exchange program in the fall, winter, or summer semester.

Where can you go?
  • Avans University of Applied Sciences – Netherlands
  • University of Cumbria – United Kingdom
  • Hanze University of Applied Sciences - Groningen
  • Universidad de San Andres – Argentina
  • Haute Ecole Ephec  (Ephec University College) - Belgium
  • Soka University - Japan
  • Institute Quimic De Sarria Cets (IQS), Fundacio Privada - Spain
  • Management Center Innsbruck "MCI" – Austria
  • Pontifical Catholic University of Peru - Peru
  • Leuphana University - Germany
  • University Colleges Leuven-Limburg – Belgium
  • University of Ribeirao Preto - Brazil
  • Solbridge International School of Business - Daejeon, Republic of Korea
  • University of Ulster – Northern Ireland
  • University Center of Anj/Polis (aka UniEVANGELICA) - Brazil

Guelph-Humber students can apply to study elsewhere for a semester at any accredited university with Program Chair approval via a signed Letter of Permission. Semester Elsewhere is not limited to partner institutions, though students intending on studying at a non-partner institution will pay the host school's tuition and potentially higher international fees. Students must also conduct more research, as the chosen institution may be unfamiliar to Guelph-Humber administration.

What should you consider when choosing an exchange program/institution?
  • Courses available at host institution and their equivalency to a specific course within your current program
  • Host institutions academic dates and requirements
  • Availability of courses in the semester you intend to study abroad
  • Cost of living
How do I apply?

Step 1: Explore Your Global Opportunities

Exchanges are open to all GH students, but the Academic Institution available to you and the courses you can take abroad will depend on your program of study. Please see the list of institutions listed above to explore your options. 

Deadline to apply for Exchange programs varies. Please check the application deadline date for your host institution. We recommend you submit your applications by mid- to end April for Fall and mid- to late September for Winter. 

Step 2: Complete the Application and Letter of Intent

You can find the online application form here. This link includes detailed instructions on the application process, guidelines to writing a Letter of Intent, Terms and Conditions and the Application Form. You will also need to make an appointment with your Academic Advisor to get a Letter of Permission. Click here for more information on Letter of Permission.

Step 3: Complete the Interview

The Guelph-Humber Global team will review your application and letter of intent and invite you to attend an interview. The purpose of the interview is for our team to get to know you and to understand your reasons for studying abroad. Please review your Study Plan and Letter of Intent prior to coming to the interview.

What Happens Next?

All successful candidates nominated for a Semester Abroad will receive a notification of recommendation within 2 – 4 weeks after the application deadline. This notification will list the host institution you have been recommended to and information regarding next steps which will include (but are not limited to):

  • Cost & expenses: Costs will vary by country and the host institution. Please conduct some research to estimate the costs associated with your trip. Here are some of the major costs and expenses you should consider when deciding on an exchange program.
  • Tuition: Students participating in an exchange program generally pay tuition fees to the University of Guelph-Humber. In some cases, students currently pay tuition fees directly to the host institution. Please check the tuition fees requirements and deadline with your host institution. Students are responsible for other expenses such as books.
  • Accommodations: Students may have access to residence at their host institution. In general, the International office at all host institutions assist students in finding accommodations.
  • Travel: Your provincial health plan will probably not cover you the entirety of your medical expenses while travelling. Check if the host institution offers health coverage to visiting students. If not, we strongly suggest you to purchase a good, comprehensive, private health insurance before you go.
  • Other Fees: Students are responsible for any other fees such as visas, passport, and vaccinations not covered by your provincial health plan.
Humber's Global Summer School (GSS)

The University of Guelph-Humber offers students the chance to participate in Humber’s Global Summer School for three weeks from July 13 - 31 2026. This intensive summer program brings together over 700 students from 40+ countries for daily courses on intercultural communication, among other subjects. Students will gain valuable skills for working internationally, make lifelong connections, and experience Canadian culture through both classes and optional activities.

The intensive, three-week Global Summer School courses meet daily (Monday-Friday) from 8:30am 11:30am at Humber Lakeshore Campus.

2026 Humber Global Summer school courses available to UofGH students are as follows:

Why Join Humber's Global Summer School?

  • Work on real-world projects for elective credit
  • Expand your professional and personal global network
  • Learn from Humber faculty and industry experts
  • Enhance your intercultural communication skills
  • Flexible learning option - earn academic credit in an intensive 3-week course (Monday to  Friday from 8:30am - 11:30am) + an official Certificate of Completion

Limited space available for each course, and admission is not guaranteed. To apply, connect with your Academic Advisor for help with the application process. The deadline to apply is May 11, 2026.

 

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) 

The University of Guelph-Humber offers Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) programs that connect our students with peers from around the globe. Through these online collaborations, students engage in meaningful projects and discussions, allowing them to gain diverse perspectives and cultural insights without the need for travel. This innovative approach enriches their learning experience, enhances their global competence, and helps them develop essential skills like communication and teamwork in a multicultural context. By participating in COIL programs, students not only broaden their horizons but also build valuable connections that can benefit their future careers in our increasingly interconnected world.

 

Have questions? Want to Learn More? We're here to help you explore your options and plan your global experience! Email us at global.learning@guelphhumber.ca