Prepare to Study Abroad
Unlock endless potential with life-changing global experiences. This international study opportunity has been made possible by the Government of Canada’s new Global Skills Opportunity Program.
The project supports you on your study abroad journey by providing a short-term, funded field trip to a university in a different country. Initially, you will participate in a tuition-free Prepare to Study Abroad course where you will gain basic intercultural communication and language skills. Current language options available are Spanish and Japanese, with more to come.
Once you complete this training, you will embark on the trip of a lifetime. You will visit one of TRU’s partner universities for a one- to four-week language and culture program and experience what it’s like to study in a different country.
We encourage all students who are interested to apply! Applications for the winter semester program are now closed. We are currently accepting applicants for our next Prepare to Study Abroad program beginning May 9, 2022.
Who is eligible?
- Undergraduate students registered in a full or part-time program
- Students in good academic standing
- Students who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents
- Students who are 18 or older
Program costs
The purpose of the Global Skills Opportunity fund is to break down barriers that have existed for students to study abroad. You are eligible for up to $5,000 to cover the costs of your field trip. If you ar a low-income student, student with a disability or an Indigenous student, you are eligible for up to $10,000.
Program details
- Start date: May 9, 2022
- Cost: free
- Introductory language instruction. Languages offered: TBC
- Intercultural competency instruction
Info sessions
Check back later for future information session dates to learn more about the program and how to get involved.
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of this program?
This program supports students who are interested in studying abroad or having a cultural experience but would not otherwise have the opportunity. It is open to all domestic students who are interested a cultural experience and we encourage everyone to apply.
How do I qualify for funding for the short-term guided experience?
To qualify for funding, you must:
- be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- be enrolled full-time or part-time in an undergraduate program at TRU
- be in good academic standing
- bet 18 or older
- complete both the intercultural communication and language portion of Prepare for Study Abroad program with an 80% participation rate
What costs are covered for these trips?
All costs directly related to your participation in the experience may be covered. Some examples include:
- program tuition
- living expenses
- dependent care
- health insurance
- immunizations
- transportation
- accommodations during the trip
I’m on student loans. Will this program affect my eligibility?
No. Grant funding received through the Global Skills Opportunity will not have an impact on your eligibility for Canada Student Loans or Grants.
Will I be travelling by myself?
No. You will be travelling with a group of 15 – 20 students from TRU and will be accompanied by a TRU staff or faculty member. This person will be with you for the entire program to support you if you run into problems.
Will I receive course credit for this program?
No, this is a non-credit program and you will not receive credits for participating.
I speak this language or have taken this language class. Can I just complete the intercultural communication section?
Yes, but you must provide proof of course completion to qualify for funding.
Only one of the classes fits into my schedule. Can I take one now and the other next later?
Yes. You must complete both the intercultural communication and language component before you are eligible to apply for the short-term guided experience.
Where are we going on the trip?
TRU will be arranging short-term guided experiences to our partner universities around the world. Current options include Mexico and Japan, but these will expand as the program continues.
When will the trip take place?
All trips will be planned outside of study periods. Most will occur during Reading Week and spring/summer.
What will we be doing?
Each trip will be customized with exciting classes, cultural experiences and tours. You will also have some free time to explore on your own.
How long will the trip be?
Trips scheduled during Reading Week will be seven to 10 days. Spring/summer trips may be as long as three to four weeks.
Can I go more than once?
You can only participate in one short-term guided trip, but you can apply for other field schools and study abroad opportunities afterward.
International Training Centre
CAC 354
(Campus Activity Centre, third floor)
globaltraining@tru.ca
250-377-6103
