University sign and campus

The University of Alberta is located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is a top 5 Canadian university and home to 40000 students in a wide variety of programs. Alberta has a continental climate, with more sunshine than any other Canadian province, with temperatures ranging from mid 20s to -30s by Winter. There are more than 450 student organizations and clubs, covering a wide range of interests. Make sure you support the Golden Bears and Pandas by wearing their signature colours of green and gold. 

It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.

Who can study here?

Students from the following subject areas may have the opportunity to study at this university on exchange: Biosciences*, Business*, Chemistry, Computer Science, Criminology, Economics, Education, Engineering*, English Language & Linguistics, English Literature, Geography*, History & Classics, Law, Maths, Philosophy, Physics, Politics & International Relations, Psychology, Sociology and Sports Science.

* Biosciences: for students studying Biosciences degrees (Biological Sciences, Biology, Marine Biology, Zoology)
* Business: for all School of Management students
* Engineering: for all Engineering students
* Geography: includes Environmental Sciences

Spaces are not guaranteed, can be limited and all students on a year abroad programme are subject to a university-wide, competitive selection process.

Important information

ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs September to April. 

COSTS: The average cost of living per month will vary depending on the type of accommodation and meal plan you select. 

VISA: You will need a Study Permit and will be required to provide financial evidence of at least CAN$22,895 (subject to change). The Study Permit application fee is approx. CAN$150. Your host university will provide you with more information about the application process. You must allow enough time to complete the study permit application and for your study permit to be processed and sent to you. The process can typically takes three months however, there can be significant delays so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to Canada without it. More information is available via our visa and study permit webpage.

ACCOMMODATION: On-campus accommodation offers a very typical North American experience. Off-campus housing provides opportunities to live in the local community. More information on options of accommodation whilst at Alberta can be found here.

HEALTH INSURANCE: The University of Alberta requires all incoming exchange students to enrol in the University of Alberta Health Insurance Plan (UAHIP).

USEFUL LINKS: