Learning Abroad

Whether it be through the McMaster Exchange Program or a work, volunteer or research abroad experience, there is funding available. Available funding includes:

  • Global Experience Awards
  • Exchange Ambassador Awards
  • University-Specific Exchange Awards
  • McMaster Bursaries
  • Travel & Exchange Scholarships
  • Special Programs Funding

To get started, check out the online webinar about the McMaster Travel Awards.

The GEA is a new award developed to promote global engagement opportunities and the development of intercultural and personal growth.

This award is available to all undergraduate and graduate students wishing to participate in an international work opportunity (including research, co-op, internships, placement), volunteer, service learning, or leadership development opportunities (conference, job shadow). Preference will be given to approving non-traditional cultural experiences.  Applications will be accepted all year, no later than 1 month prior to the travelling date.  This award is open to returning students completing their academic studies.  Opportunities must be a minimum duration of seven days. Applicants will be notified within five business days of a complete application submissions.

All Students receiving GEA will be required to provide a Personal Reflection on the experience and may be called upon as Ambassador to promote Global Engagement.

Learn about the GEA

This award provides funding to support McMaster exchange participants in their study abroad endeavour while creating an opportunity for self-reflection on their exchange experience. McMaster Exchange Ambassadors provide valuable peer mentorship for future participants in the McMaster Exchange Program. Preference will be given to outbound applicants who reflect the diversity of McMaster’s exchange destinations, academic departments and student community.

Learn more about the Exchange Ambassador Awards

The Office of the Registrar offers a number of travel and exchange awards available to students who are going on the McMaster Exchange Program.

Learn about available awards

If you are studying abroad, there are university-specific awards that you can apply to. Learn about this year’s awards on the Exchange Program page.

Learn more about University-Specific Awards

Special Programs Funding includes:

  • McCall MacBain International Fellowships: For one year, this program provides students with the funding to immerse in another culture to learn the language, enhance academics, and gain employment experience that develops their curiosity, grit, resilience, and understanding of the world around you. The program offers up to $23,500 per student.
  • Killam Fellowship Program: This program provides an opportunity for exceptional undergraduate students to spend either one semester or a full academic year as an exchange student in the other country. The award covers a significant cost of the exchange as well as health and travel allowance.
  • Universitas21 Scholarships: Students interested in completing a summer study program at a Universitas 21 partner, are often eligible for tuition discounts/scholarships as part of their participation. Students attending the ‘featured’ U21 school are eligible for an estimated 70% discount on program fees.
  • Ontario Universities International: Through the Ontario Universities International (OUI) exchange programs, students are automatically granted scholarships as part of their participation in each program. Scholarships are provided through the Government of Canada’s Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development and are available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents only. International students may still participate but will not be eligible for financial assistance.
Learn more on the Exchange Program page

There are many ways that you can save money while abroad:

  • Open an overseas bank account
  • Buy a local SIM card
  • Smart food shopping
  • Savvy socializing
  • Thrifty travel
  • Make cut-price visits to other cities

We also recommend checking out Mac’s Money Centre. This is a free resource for McMaster students and alumni. Services include workshops and one-on-one money coaching.

You are strongly advised to have comprehensive travel and health insurance cover when you go abroad. Hospital and medical bills can be a significant cost, even for minor problems, so it is essential that you get adequate and appropriate coverage. You should tell us what your insurance arrangements are prior to leaving Canada.

Some host universities have policies which may seem expensive but will cover all items relevant to the country. If your host institution doesn’t have a compulsory policy you should purchase a comprehensive policy designed for the country you are visiting.

We can’t recommend specific insurers, but suggest you include specialist student insurance companies in your research, alongside any of your existing policy issuers. You should also make sure that the policy covers the whole period you are away, including any additional travel plans you have.

Keep us informed as you plan your global experience. McMaster University may provide a comprehensive medical and travel cover. We will inform you about this cover once you have been allocated a place for your internship or volunteer period abroad.

Learn more about travel insurance