Students of Faith Communities
The following information has been adapted from Toronto Metropolitan University
UofA strives to ensure that all students experience equal opportunity in their academic career; however, in situations of global travel, the safety and opportunity to thrive may vary based on local laws and cultural attitudes.
Participating in global learning activities provides opportunities to connect with diverse communities internationally, some of which may reflect differences in religious expression and practice, representing the diversity of faith communities and religions globally. When preparing to travel abroad, it is important for students to explore how their faith is perceived, treated and practiced in their destination country, region or community.
Below are some resources to assist you in researching your destination country and learning more about the experiences of students of faith abroad.
- What do you know about the religion(s) of your destination country and the role religion plays in society?
- What is the attitude of people in your destination country towards other religions and/or your religion?
- How is wearing religious symbols or clothing treated in your destination country?
- How are religious holidays observed and celebrated? Will you want to participate?
- How will people perceive your religion? Are there legal issues with your religion in your destination country?
- Will you have access to your religion’s places of worship or religious groups? If not, how will you adjust your religious practice while abroad?
- Will your religion’s holidays be observed and celebrated in your destination country? If not, how do you plan to observe holidays?
- Will your religious dietary restrictions be accommodated in your destination country?
- If you plan to live in a homestay while abroad, are you open to living in a homestay with a similar or diverse religious background from yourself? How will this impact your religious practice?
- University of Alberta: Interfaith Chaplains' Association
- Religious Diversity Abroad - Considerations regarding religion in the host country before traveling abroad
- Religion & Spirituality - Find religious and spiritual groups abroad; provided by Northwestern University
- The Pluralism Project, Harvard University - Hub of resources of religions and spirituality
- International Religious Freedom Reports - U.S. Department of State
- Religion & Spirituality Resources for Being You Abroad - IES Abroad
- 6 Essential Tips for Muslim Students Planning to Study Abroad – 2023 Guide - Aquila Style: Isabel Updegraff
- MUSLIMS ABROAD: Resources for Muslim Students - Rutgers University
If you know of additional resources that assisted you in your preparation to go abroad or would like to share your personal story of learning abroad, please contact goabroad@ualberta.ca.
- Religion – Study Abroad Student Blogs
5 Things Jewish College Students Wish They Knew Before Studying Abroad - heyalma: Maddy Albert - Faith & Studying Abroad - CEA Study abroad blog: Rohanna Foote
Take the next step: talk with an Education Abroad Advisor
U of A International's Education Abroad advisors are ready to help you go abroad:
- Get answers to your questions
- Assistance with the application process
- Advice on destination and program choice