University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program: Complete Guide for Incoming & Outgoing Students
The University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program offers students a powerful opportunity to gain global academic experience without disrupting their degree progress. Whether you are an international student coming to uOttawa or a current University of Ottawa student planning to study abroad, this guide clearly explains both exchange pathways, eligibility requirements, application steps, costs, and key deadlines.
This all‑in‑one resource is designed to help you understand which exchange program applies to you and how to apply successfully.
Why Choose the University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program?
The University of Ottawa is one of Canada’s leading bilingual universities, offering instruction in English and French and partnerships with 100+ universities worldwide. Through its exchange programs, students benefit from:
- Studying abroad or in Canada without paying international tuition fees (exchange-based)
- Earning transferable academic credits toward their home degree
- Access to a diverse, multicultural campus in Canada’s capital city
- Development of global competencies such as critical thinking, adaptability, collaboration, and intercultural awareness
- Strong institutional support before, during, and after the exchange
You can also find other International Studies & Exchange Programs in Canada here
What Are the Types of University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program?
There are two distinct exchange programs, depending on your student status:
- Incoming Exchange Program – for students from partner universities coming to study at uOttawa
- University of Ottawa Enrolled Students Exchange Program – for current uOttawa students going abroad
Each program has different eligibility rules and application processes, explained clearly below.
Incoming Exchange Program (Study at the University of Ottawa)
The Incoming Exchange Program is designed for international students from partner institutions who want to study at the University of Ottawa for one or two academic terms, while remaining enrolled at their home university.
Each year, uOttawa welcomes hundreds of exchange students from around the world.
Participation Period
- One term:
- Fall (September–December)
- Winter (January–April)
- Two terms:
- September–April (full academic year)
Internships are not permitted during an exchange stay at uOttawa.
Eligibility & Requirements for the University of Ottawa Incoming Exchange Program
To be eligible, you must:
- Be nominated by your home university (mandatory)
- Come from an institution with a signed exchange agreement with uOttawa
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program (excluding PhD)
- Have completed at least one academic year of university studies
- Meet the minimum academic requirement (normally 2.7/4.0 or 12/20)
- Receive home institution approval for your course selection
- Meet language proficiency requirements (English or French)
Restricted Faculties and Courses
Exchange students cannot enroll in:
- Telfer School of Management
- Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Education (undergraduate)
Some mandatory or high-demand courses may also be restricted and assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Language Proficiency Requirements For The University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program
Courses at uOttawa are taught in English or French. If your chosen language of instruction is not your mother tongue, you must submit a recognized language test taken within the last two years.
Failure to submit results on time may result in rejection.
Course Selection Rules
- Undergraduate students:
- Submit 5 courses per term
- Enroll in 4–5 courses per term (1000–4000 level)
- Graduate students:
- Submit 3 courses per term
- Enroll in 3 courses per term (5000 level or above)
Final enrollment depends on availability and prerequisites.
How to Apply for the University of Ottawa Incoming Exchange Program
- Home University Nomination
- Your international office submits your nomination
- Application via MoveOn Platform
- Once nominated, you’ll receive a link to complete your application through the MoveOn portal
- Upload transcripts (English/French)
- Language test results (if required)
- Passport or national ID
- Additional documents for specific programs
- Submit Complete Application
- Incomplete applications will not be reviewed, and no follow-ups will be made.
Check here for details regarding the Incoming Exchange Students – uOttawa
Application Deadline
- March 31 (Fall, Winter, or full academic year)
Check here for official dates and deadlines
Scholarships for Incoming University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program
Non‑Canadian students may apply for Government of Canada scholarships:
- Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)
- Canada‑ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
Scholarship applications are separate from the exchange admission process.
Tuition, Insurance & Living Costs
- Tuition: Exempt (exchange status)
- Mandatory insurance: University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)
- Other costs: Housing, food, books, travel, and personal expenses
Exchange students may opt into the U‑Pass for unlimited public transit in Ottawa and Gatineau.
Immigration, Housing & Student Life For University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program
- Begin immigration procedures immediately after acceptance
- Housing options include on‑campus or off‑campus residences
- Access mentoring, cultural clubs, recreational activities, and wellness services
University of Ottawa Enrolled Students Exchange Program (Study Abroad)
This exchange pathway is for current University of Ottawa students who want to study abroad at a partner institution for one or two terms while continuing their degree program.
Students remain registered at uOttawa and do not pay international tuition at the host university.
Eligibility & Requirements for University of Ottawa Enrolled Students
You must:
- Be an undergraduate or master’s student in:
- Arts, Engineering, Law, Science, Social Sciences, or Health Sciences
- Be enrolled in a regular uOttawa program
- Maintain a minimum CGPA of 5.0 (C+)
- Have no financial holds on your account
- Have sufficient remaining credits for full‑time enrollment abroad
Some destinations require a higher CGPA (6.0 or above).
Students in Telfer, Medicine, or Education must contact their faculty directly.
Mandatory Exchange Information Workshop
Attendance at the Exchange Information Workshop is compulsory.
It helps you:
- Understand the exchange process
- Select destinations
- Prepare your application correctly
Missing this step makes you ineligible.
You can also find some Top Facts About Queen’s University Student Exchange Program in Canada here
How to Apply for the University of Ottawa Enrolled Students Exchange Program
Step 1: Confirmation of Eligibility
- Submit the Confirmation of Eligibility form
- Indicate up to three destination choices
- Receive faculty approval
Step 2: Preliminary Course Selection
Provide:
- Course titles, codes, credits, hours
- Term dates and course load requirements
Step 3: Online Application
Upload:
- Motivation letter (500 words, first choice only)
- Language proficiency proof (if applicable)
- uOttawa transcript
- Co‑op approval (if required)
- Administrative fee payment
Incomplete applications are not accepted.
Competitive Destinations
For high‑demand universities, selection is based on:
- Letter of motivation – 75%
- CGPA – 25%
After Acceptance: What Happens Next?
- Accept your uOttawa exchange offer
- Get nominated to the host university
- Apply directly to the host institution
- Receive official acceptance
- Attend pre‑departure and travel safety training
Your exchange is confirmed only after host university acceptance.
Incoming vs Outgoing Exchange: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Incoming Exchange | uOttawa Enrolled Exchange |
| Direction | Study at uOttawa | Study abroad |
| Tuition | Exempt at uOttawa | Exempt at host university |
| Application | Via home university | Via uOttawa Student Mobility |
| Scholarships | ELAP, SEED | Destination‑specific |
| Duration | 1–2 terms | 1–2 terms |
University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the University of Ottawa exchange program free?
Yes. Students participating in an official University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program do not pay international tuition fees at the host university. Incoming exchange students are exempt from uOttawa tuition, while outgoing uOttawa students continue paying regular tuition to the University of Ottawa.
Can international students apply directly to the University of Ottawa exchange program?
No. Incoming University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program students must be nominated by their home institution if there is an exchange agreement. Students from non-partner institutions may apply as visiting international students and pay international tuition.
Does the University of Ottawa offer fully funded exchange scholarships?
The University of Ottawa participates in Government of Canada-funded exchange scholarships, including ELAP and SEED, which can partially or fully fund short-term exchanges depending on eligibility.
What GPA is required for the University of Ottawa exchange program?
Incoming University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program students typically need a minimum equivalent of 2.7/4.0, while uOttawa enrolled students require a CGPA of at least 5.0, with some destinations requiring higher.
Can I work during my exchange at the University of Ottawa?
University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program students may work only if permitted by their study permit. Immigration authorization is required before engaging in any on- or off-campus employment.
Check to see if if you’re eligible to work off-campus without a work permit
University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program Final Thoughts
The University of Ottawa International Student Exchange Program offers two powerful pathways to global education, designed for both incoming international exchange students and University of Ottawa students seeking study abroad opportunities. Whether you’re planning to study in Canada as an exchange student at uOttawa or participate in the uOttawa study abroad exchange program at one of its global partner universities, careful planning and timely application are essential for success.
By clearly understanding the difference between the uOttawa incoming exchange program and the University of Ottawa enrolled students exchange program, meeting all exchange eligibility requirements, and following the official application process and deadlines, students can enjoy a life-changing international academic experience. The program allows you to earn transferable academic credits, avoid paying international tuition fees, and gain valuable global skills and intercultural experience—all while staying fully on track with your undergraduate or master’s degree.
For more exchange opportunities, scholarships, and study‑abroad guides, explore Scholarshiplane.com.