Outgoing Exchange Students

Bachelor of Accounting typically earn credits for their general education electives on exchange, although some partner universities have equivalents of FMGT electives courses as well.

Bachelor of Business Administration typically earn credits for their general education electives on exchange, although some partner universities have equivalents of BCIT core (option) courses as well.

Diploma in Business Administration (Global Studies Option) in the Global Studies option have the opportunity to participate in an exchange program as part of their academic experience. It is strongly recommended that students schedule an appointment with an International Programs Advisors before selecting their Discipline Preparation courses, ensuring that their choices align with their study goals and exchange plans. To be eligible for the exchange term abroad, students must have completed a minimum of 45 credits.

Diploma in Broadcast and Online Journalism have the opportunity to complete their January/February internship through the International Communication, Media and Design (ICMD) program at  Artevelde University of Applied Sciences.  If you are interested in this opportunity, please apply by October 1.

Please note that additional documents may be required:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Want to learn more about Belgium? Join Emilia, a 2023 exchange student, as she takes you on a journey through her immersive experience in the heart of Europe. Discover Belgium’s rich culture, vibrant cities, and hidden gems in The Belgium Exchange: A Cultural Series. 

Diploma in New Media Design and Web Development students can participate in the level 5 New Media Exchange program at Stuttgart Hochschule der Medien (HdM).

The level 5 curriculum for BCIT students at HdM includes the following

• Introduction to International Business
• Strategic Management
• Specialist Project
• Specialist Project Intensive or Interdisciplinary Project
• German Language Course *

*Students who are enrolled in Level 4 during the January term will not be eligible to take this German language course.

Prepare to pay your BCIT tuition: While on exchange, you will pay regular BCIT tuition (or full-time program equivalent) during your semester on exchange.  

Partner institutions fees: Some partner universities may charge students an administration fees (such as mandatory student association fees charged to all students) or for an additional optional language course which are small or nominal fees. While it is strongly encouraged that all students take a language class abroad to successfully immerse in the local experience, this choice is up to you if there is an extra cost involved. Most of our partners offer these language courses at no cost.

Consider Cost of living: In addition to the regular BCIT full-time tuition fees, you will be responsible for all other costs, including accommodation, food, books, transportation, etc. The cost of living abroad can vary significantly depending on the country. For example, Vancouver has a relatively high cost of living, which means many international destinations may seem more affordable in comparison. Do some research to compare the differences in costs between your destination and what you’re used to. Be sure to also factor in currency exchange rates, as they can impact your overall expenses and banking experience at your destination.

Eligibility for Financial Aid: If you plan to apply for government financial aid, please make an appointment with BCIT Financial Aid for more information. Some partner institutions may not be eligible for BC Student Aid. You may be eligible for financial aid when on exchange registered full-time, however, it is your responsibility to schedule an appointment with a BCIT Financial Aid advisor. Government financial aid refers to government student loans/financial aid you apply for through BCIT Financial Aid. This is different from scholarships and grants, which are external.

Scholarships and Awards: Scholarships and grants are available for students participating in Exchange, Double Degree programs, or Summer Field Schools. While some scholarships are administered through BCIT, others may require you to apply directly to the sponsoring organization. To review the full list of available opportunities, please visit our scholarship and awards webpage.

Student authorization is often required to study in another country. To obtain student authorization (i.e., student visa, residence permit, etc.), contact the embassy or consular office in Vancouver for more details. You may also receive additional information about this process from your host exchange institution. Please note some consulate services in Europe such as Italy, Spain, etc. have long wait times for appointments and/or may not be located in Vancouver. It is crucial to be prepared 4-6 months in advance. Meet with a Global Relations Advisor to prepare and avoid delays in your exchange travel.

Here is a list of some consulates located in Vancouver:

France – Consulate General of France in Vancouver

Germany – Consulate General in Vancouver – Federal Foreign Office

Italy – Consulate General of Italy in Vancouver 

Japan – Consulate-General of Japan in Vancouver

South Korea – Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Vancouver

Switzerland – Consulate General of Switzerland in Vancouver

Disclaimer on Visa & Consular Services: Please note students participating in exchange in Spain must travel to the Consulate General of Spain in Toronto for in-person appointments. Appointments are not processed in Vancouver.

Spain – Consulate General of Spain in Toronto

Transfer Credit While on Exchange: As an exchange student, you mainly transfer general education elective credits for your term abroad. You can take business, select courses in other areas open to exchange students and foreign language courses to apply towards your program’s general education requirements.  All courses will be taught in English.

Selecting you Courses: Once you have been accepted to the Exchange program, you will receive information about what courses will be offered based on your program, partner selection and term abroad. Meet with your program administrator/head prior to meeting an International Programs Advisor to determine what courses you need or have left to complete for your program to plan your exchange term accordingly. If you are in a full-time program at BCIT, you will move to flex-learning upon your return from your Exchange term.

Apply for / Find housing: Housing options will vary greatly depending on your destination and the partner university you will be attending.

• Some partner universities have limited dormitory space available for incoming exchange and double-degree students.
• If you are interested in living in the university dormitory, it is recommended that you apply for these rooms as quickly as possible, as it is often on a first-come-first-served basis.
• This information will usually be sent to you by the partner institution directly when we nominate you. However, you can do your research in advance on the partner institution’s website.
• On the other hand, other partner universities may not have rooms for exchange students, and you will be responsible for your own accommodation. In this case, you can:
  • Reach out to the Partner: Contact the host university for any recommendations, a housing group you can join, or some useful websites
  • Do your Research: Research the areas where you would like to live and the average housing cost in these areas, such that you will not be overcharged
  • Be Cautious of Scams: Reach out to your host institution for further information if you suspect a potential scam. Do not make payments for accommodation until you are sure.

Plan early: In order to allow more time for the accommodation search, you may also organize a temporary residence before your arrival, such as a hostel, hotel or Airbnb. If you need to apply for a visa/study permit, keep in mind that the visa consulate may require you to show proof of accommodation at your interview.  Thus, planning early is crucial for you to obtain your desired housing.