WHAT IS IT?

An international experience allows students to turn the world into their classroom. The University of Toronto offers a diverse range of opportunities for students to go abroad. Students may be interested in a course exchange, a research placement, an international co-op work term, or an international academic internship.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS 

Eligibility: 

• Eligibility criteria will vary depending on the international experience chosen.

Duration:  

• From a week-long program to opportunities that allow students to spend a full year abroad, there are various length and timing options available.

Recognition and / or compensation:  

• Course-based international experiences will offer course- or program-credit. Co-curricular international opportunities may provide recognition through the Co-Curricular Record. If a student is participating in a co-op opportunity abroad, they will have an employment contract and compensated by the third party organization.

Accessibility:

• Inclusion in EL is achieved when an experience supports learning for all students. In keeping with the Ontario Human Rights Code, the University of Toronto has a commitment to an equitable learning environment for people with disabilities. It is important to engage in an interactive process to determine the optimal and most appropriate accommodations for individual students engaged in experiential learning.
• If a student requires an accommodation related to an international experience, you may wish to connect with one of the accessibility services offices at the University of Toronto. Staff at these offices will advise you on the disclosure of accommodation requirements as well as support you through the process of determining and negotiating effective accommodations for the student’s individual circumstances.
• Student support offices strive to create a safe and comfortable community where students have opportunities to discuss navigating barriers, find peer support and learn about various academic and social opportunities. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Review the Guidelines & Procedures page to further understand which partnership agreements, insurance and liability coverage and health and safety policies are applicable to international experiences. The Experiential Learning Risk Management Matrix provides a one-page overview.
• Workplace insurance coverage depends on the circumstances of the experience. Check with your divisional office or email the Safety Abroad office: safety.abroad@utoronto.ca.
• General liability insurance coverage depends on the circumstances of the experience, instructors or program coordinators should contact the Risk Management and Insurance Department.