On-Location Resources

Student Housing Information

The University of Alberta Residence Services provides on-campus housing for both undergraduate and graduate students. Our communities offer convenient access to campus, the chance to live with your peers and programs that enhance social, academic and personal development.

For more information, visit www.ualberta.ca/residence. Additionally, explore alternative housing options, including off-campus accommodations, through resources available on our International Students Services website.

Student Services

International Student Services

The International Centre and the Alberta School of Business International Office collaboratively offer diverse support services to ensure that exchange students have an enjoyable and hassle-free stay. We organize a comprehensive 3-day orientation in late August and a one-day orientation in early January to help new international students acclimate to life and studies at the U of A. International Student Services also provide Welcome Services upon arrival and opportunities for interested students to get involved with the local community. These initiatives aim to facilitate interactions between international students and Canadians.

Academic Advising

Academic advising is available at the Alberta School of Business prior to and during your exchange semester. International student advisors are also available at the International Centre.

Campus Facilities

The University provides all students with a student identification (ID) card, granting access to various amenities, including Campus Recreation and Fitness Centres, libraries, photocopying and printing resources, campus laboratories and a variety of other academic and recreational facilities. Additionally, students can utilize the University Health Centre (UHC), a walk-in medical clinic offering comprehensive physician, nursing and pharmacy services.

Buddy Network

The Business Exchange Association (BEA) is a student association dedicated to supporting and integrating international students at the Alberta School of Business. The association plans regular events and social gatherings throughout the semester, providing exchange participants with opportunities to connect with other students, build friendships, and have fun. Additionally, they organize a "buddy" program that pairs incoming students with a Canadian student. This buddy can assist with airport pickup, transportation and accommodation during the initial days in Edmonton. For more information, please visit the BEA website at www.uofabea.com.

Insurance

All students attending the University of Alberta for less than 12 months and who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents are required to participate in the University of Alberta Health Insurance Program (UAHIP). Upon confirming your registration, you will be automatically enrolled in UAHIP. For more information, please visit the Health Insurance website.

Supplementary Insurance

Due to limitations in UAHIP's coverage, we encourage you to obtain supplementary coverage for your exchange before leaving home, as options for purchase in Canada will be limited.

U-Pass (public transit)

The Universal Transit Pass (U-Pass) will give students unlimited access to regular Edmonton, St. Albert, and Strathcona County Transit services for Fall (September - December) and Winter (January - April) academic terms. All students registered at the University of Alberta Edmonton Campuses are automatically enrolled in the U-Pass system. Fees are assessed and collected from exchange students by the International Centre upon arrival. Your University of Alberta Student Identification Card (ONEcard) with a U-Pass validation sticker is used as your transit pass. For more information, please visit the U-Pass Homepage.

Estimated Living Expenses

The following is a break-down of estimated living costs while on exchange to the University of Alberta. Estimates do not include airfare, travel or preparatory expenses.

Approximate Basic Living Costs per semester (in Canadian dollars)

1. Based on valid bilateral partnership agreement. Incoming exchange students will pay tuition and fees to their home institution.
2. Please visit U of A Residence Services for a complete price listing of student housing and more information on applying to campus residences. Many residences have both furnished and unfurnished options. Some residences include optional meal plans. 
3. Health Insurance is mandatory for all University of Alberta exchange students. For more information, please see UAHIP (University of Alberta Health Insurance Plan).
4. Local Transportation Student Pass (U-Pass) is mandatory for all University of Alberta exchange students. For more information, please see the University of Alberta U-Pass Homepage.
5. Travel to/from Canada, visa fees, entertainment, recreation, and other expenses not included.