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Student Exchanges

With an academic exchange, you can spend 1 or 2 semesters (4–8 months) in another country, earn credits toward your York degree, and see your field from a whole new perspective abroad.

If you’re in the Faculty of Health, there are exchange programs with strong ties to your program so you can feel right at home while exploring something totally new.

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Awards are available to help offset the costs of student programs abroad. Learn about the York International Mobility Award, endowed scholarships and external awards available to students.

Explore, Engage, Experience!

The Western Norway University of Applied Sciences

Nursing in Norway

Western Norway University of Applied Sciences

Gain hands-on clinical experience in Norway through supervised nursing placements. Courses are taught in English during spring and fall semesters, focusing on patient care.

The Fulda University of Applied Sciences

Global Health in Germany

Fulda University of Applied Sciences

Study global health systems, policies, and human rights at Fulda University. Courses are taught in English and designed for international students. The scenic German setting enhances this globally focused learning experience.

Kinesiology building at Brunel University of London

Kinesiology in the UK

Brunel University of London

Explore mental health, brain function, and behaviour through psychology courses at Brunel. With a focus on sport and health contexts, this London-based program connects kinesiology with psychology and real-world application.

Health building at King's College London

Global Health in the UK

King’s College London

Tackle global health challenges at one of the UK’s top universities. King’s offers specialized courses in health equity and social sciences, right in central London. A strong fit for students passionate about global change.

Health Science building at Avignon Université

Health Science in France

Avignon Université

Study biology, chemistry, or health sciences at Avignon Université, with courses taught by leading researchers. Located in southern France, the program offers academic depth and cultural immersion. Explore a UNESCO-listed city as a base to discover Europe. Open for one semester or full year.

Psychology Building at Justus Liebig University

Psychology in Germany

Justus Liebig University

Join the English-taught "Mind, Brain and Behaviour” program. Dive into psychology, neuroscience, and behavioural sciences with hands-on research and theoretical study. Ideal for students aiming for research or applied careers.

Health Building at the University of Copenhagen

Health Policy and Management in Denmark

University of Copenhagen

Focus on health policy, economics, and digital systems at a leading Nordic university. Copenhagen’s program blends theory with innovation, preparing students to address modern healthcare challenges through policy design and data systems.

Health Building at the University of Trinidad and Tobago

Kinesiology in Trinidad & Tobago

University of Trinidad & Tobago

Explore kinesiology and sport science through a Caribbean lens. UTT offers aligned courses in health, sport management, and education—great for students aiming to develop global experience in health and social development fields.

Frequently Asked Questions

All Health Faculty students are eligible to apply through York International if they meet the basic requirements: minimum B average (5.5 GPA), completed at least 18 credits at York, and are in good academic standing. Visit the York International eligibility page for complete details.

Our featured partnerships include exchanges specifically aligned with Health disciplines: Nursing in Norway, Global Health in Germany and the UK, Kinesiology in the UK and Trinidad & Tobago, Psychology in Germany, and Health Sciences in France and Denmark. Browse all 300+ global partners at York International's destination list to find additional options.

Start planning 12-18 months before your intended departure. This allows time to research programs, budget, and organize documentation. Applications are due 8-10 months in advance through York International, with specific deadlines posted on their exchange deadlines page.

Not necessarily. Many of our featured Health Faculty exchanges offer courses taught in English. However, language requirements vary by destination and program. Check the specific language requirements for your chosen university and consider whether you want to take courses in the local language for additional immersion.

Housing arrangements vary by destination and are coordinated through your host university. York International provides guidance on navigating housing applications and deadlines. Start this process early as popular options fill up quickly.

All outgoing exchange students are required to purchase Guard.me insurance as a mandatory requirement for York University programs abroad. Details about coverage and enrollment are provided through York International's Safety Abroad program.

This depends on your course selection and degree requirements. If you choose courses that transfer as major requirements or relevant electives, you can stay on track. For academic planning support and to understand how exchange fits your degree timeline, connect with the Office of Student Advising Services (OSAS) early in your planning process.

Work with your academic School or Department using York International's Course Assessment Form process. Submit course information from your host university to your School or Department for approval before departing. The earlier you complete this process, the better - allow 4-6 weeks for assessment.

York International offers the York International Mobility Award (YIMA), endowed scholarships, and information about external funding. Visit their funding page for comprehensive financial support options. Remember that costs vary significantly by destination, so budget accordingly.

Yes! Over 70% of students who participate in exchange programs are OSAP recipients. Since you'll be paying York University tuition while abroad, your OSAP funding continues as normal. Some host universities and countries may require proof of funds for visa applications - York International covers this information in their sessions and advising appointments.

York International's Global Learning Coordinators provide ongoing support from application through return. They offer drop-in advising sessions (Tuesday-Thursday, 1:00-3:30pm) and virtual appointments. Email goglobal@yorku.ca for personalized guidance throughout your exchange journey

Student Experiences

Emery's Global Health Exchange at King's College London

As a Global Health student at York University, Emery spent a semester abroad at King’s College London, where small class sizes and supportive professors helped her build confidence in the fast paced city of London.

"This experience has helped me become more confident in my authentic self, which has helped me make more personal connections I otherwise would have never made. Getting the chance to experience a different side of healthcare through the unique courses at KCL has introduced me to a new perspective that has enhanced my experience as an undergrad in Global Health."

Emery Alday — BSc, Global Health

Emery Alday, Global Health undergraduate
TréAnn Billings-Shaw, Psychology undergraduate

TréAnn's Psychology Exchange at Brunel University

As a fourth-year Psychology student at York University, TréAnn spent a semester abroad at Brunel University in the United Kingdom, where she explored psychology intersection in sexuality, forensics, gender, and feminism, through a global perspective.

"Gaining a perspective on my psychology studies from a different corner of the world, I learned how these subjects in psychology are uniquely perceived across various global contexts. Participating in a student exchange program in a different country is an invaluable experience that everyone should embrace. It not only facilitates meaningful connections, but also offers an exploration of diverse perspectives within your chosen area of study"

TréAnn Billings-Shaw — BA, Psychology

Kaye's Psychology Exchange at Justus Liebig University

While completeing a double major in Psychology and Linguistics, Kaye took part in a virtual exchange with Justus Liebig University in Germany. Despite not traveling abroad, the experience gave her meaningful cross-cultural engagement and new academic insight.

“The student exchange program has been one of the best experiences during my time at York University. Both courses helped me envision my future goal as an ESL teacher in countries outside of Canada. Students should seek out international experiences which are widely available at York — it allows you to think outside of the box, widens societal perspectives and fosters a culture of growth.”

Kaye Trisha Canoy — BA, Psychology

Kaye Trisha Canoy, Psychology undergraduate