Funded study at LUT, Finland

Receive Erasmus+ funding to study for a semester in Finland in AY2026-27! 

Welcome to the world of opportunities! 

Thank you for your interest in SMU Exchange! While you prepare your application, you may want to learn in advance what your (and the Global Learning Office’s) plans, expectations, and responsibilities are. This information guide will help you prepare for a well-planned exchange program. Please review this guide carefully and thoroughly so that your application is full and complete for the selection process. And remember, we are here to assist you throughout all phases of the exchange program! Please e-mail Miyuki.arai@smu.ca if you have any questions or concerns.    

Why should I study abroad?  

There are many reasons and benefits. When you study abroad, you not only enrich your academic experience but also develop intercultural communication skills, competencies and confidence. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience through which you build your resume, learn about different cultures, and make new friends from around the world. Besides you have the support of the home and host universities throughout the journey.  

What are the semester dates in Finland? 

• Autumn semester: September-December (orientation program in late August) 

• Spring semester: January-May (orientation program in the beginning of January) 

Is there funding?  

Yes! The funding program is called the “Erasmus+” International Credit Mobility. Read on below. 

Erasmus+ partner school option 2: LUT University

What is LUT University like? 

LUT University was founded in 1969 and is one of the top-ranked higher education institutions in Finland. LUT University describes themselves as, “We are trailblazers in promoting the energy transition and the regenerative use of natural resources, and we help build resilient communities, industry, and businesses through data, research, and education.” (see more here). LUT University welcomes every year around 200 exchange students to its Lappeenranta campus located by beautiful Lake Saimaa only two-hour train ride away from the capital Helsinki. The population of Lappeenranta is 73,000 inhabitants. See more information about Lappeenranta here. SMU and LUT have been exchange partners since 2005.

LUT University offers exchange studies for selected study fields at the Lahti campus in Lahti, even closer to the capital area. The population of Lahti is approximately 122,000 inhabitants.

What subjects are offered at LUT University? In what language? 

Fields of study for exchange students, many of which are in English, at the Lappeenranta campus include:

• Business (Business Administration)

• Technology (Chemical Engineering, Computational Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Technology, Environmental Technology, Industrial Engineering and Management, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering (only Master)

• Social Sciences (Social Sciences, Communication Sciences)

Fields of study for exchange students, many of which are in English, at the Lahti campus include:

• Industrial Engineering and Management (only Bachelor)

• Software Engineering (Bachelor and Master)

See more information about LUT University courses for exchange students here. 

Erasmus+ funding at LUT

Successful students can receive a grant of €5,688 (approx. CAD$9200) for 5months of exchange study at LUT.

Number of grants available for AY2026-27: 3

Three (3) successful applicants will be selected for the LUT exchange program, and those three students will receive an Erasmus+ mobility grant each. Each grant consists of 900euro-stipend per month for 5 months plus a travel subsidy of 1,188euros for a total of 5,688euros. Funding will be given by LUT after students arrive in Finland; therefore, students need to pay out of pocket any upfront expenses such as the residence permit application costs and international airfare. Top up grant for participants with fewer opportunities where available.

Can I receive transfer credits towards my SMU degree?  

It depends on which courses you have left to complete for your SMU degree. Please meet with your academic advisor (see here) as a first step. Your advisor will not be able to tell you which courses to take (-- it is up to you to research the partner university’s courses) but can 1) confirm if any of the remaining SMU program requirements can be completed abroad during the exchange program and 2) go over the Letter of Permission process with you.  

Note: LUT course credits are weighted differently from SMU courses. If you plan to earn 15 credit hours from the exchange semester towards your degree, you should aim to validate 30 “ECTS” credits at LUT.  

You must attain a grade of C or higher in most cases for the host university credits to be accepted by SMU. Please note that the host university’s grades will not be used in the calculation of your SMU GPA – the transfer credits will show on your SMU transcript with a code, “TR”, instead of a letter grade.   

What did former exchange students say about studying in Finland?  

Watch Caitlin’s testimonial here! Caitlin studied in Finland for a semester in the 2022-23 academic year. 

Am I eligible?  

The Exchange Program is open to all SMU students (Canadian and Non-Canadian students, full-time or part-time) who are in good academic standing and have completed at least 30 credit hours at SMU. We welcome applicants of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Students who are eligible to receive transfer credits towards their SMU degree will be prioritized.  

Important: Your official transcript will be sent from the host university upon completion of the exchange program; however, it will take a couple of months for the transfer credits to be added to your banner account. Therefore, if you are in your final year of your Bachelor program, please discuss your graduation timeline with the academic advising office.  

What are my costs?  

You will be responsible for SMU tuition (paid at SMU for the transfer credit hours), $100 study abroad admin fee, international and in-country travel, travel insurance, housing, food, communication, passport application, Finnish immigration* application, any fees charged by the host university and miscellaneous/personal expenses.  

The average living expenses for a single student in Finland amount to about €700-900 (approx. CAD$1150-$1500) per month.  

Do I need a visa to study in Finland?  

Yes. Exchange students need to obtain a “Residence Permit” to study in Finland. The Residence Permit application process begins as soon as your acceptance letter is issued by the host university. Students need to prove that they have 800euros per study month. Important: After completing an electronic application, all applicants must visit a VFS Global application centre in person to prove their identity, NO EXCEPTIONS. For students in Nova Scotia, the closest VFS Centres to Halifax are in Montreal or Ottawa. Budget for your travel to a VFS Centre accordingly. See more information at:  

• Guide for students applying for a residence permit here   

• How to apply for a residence permit provided by the Finnish mission in Canada here  

• The VFS.GLOBAL Finland Residence Permit Application Centres here  

How do I apply? When is the application deadline? 

You will submit your application for the Erasmus+ Finland exchange program (Fall 2026 and Winter 2027) to the SMU Global Learning Office by March 2 2026 at 4pm*.  

To complete your application, you will: 

1. fill out your Study Abroad Application (https://studio.smu.ca/s/StudyAbroadApplication2021.pdf) 

1. write a one-page letter of intent. (Tip: book an appointment with The Writing Centre once you have a draft https://studio.smu.ca/wc-student-tutoring) 

1. print (in pdf) your unofficial transcript from banner 

1. prepare your resume, and 

1. secure two references (one must be from a SMU professor of one of your courses) – referees can email their letters directly to Global@smu.ca. Inquiries can be sent to Miyuki.arai@smu.ca. 

Once you have all four pieces of application documents (except for references), upload them at the application link here https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_55UpfboKu5sImUe. 

*If not all grants are allocated after the selection process, applications will continue to be accepted for the Winter 2027 exchange program on a first-come, first-served basis up to 4pm on August 31 2026. 

What happens after you apply? 

Once your application package is received, the Global Learning Office will be in touch to schedule a short interview. If you are selected, 1) you will be nominated to the host university as SMU’s Erasmus+ credit mobility grant recipients by the SMU Global Learning Office and 2) you will be instructed to complete a set of applications for the host university by late April (Fall Exchange Program) or by late September (Winter Exchange Program). Once the host university accepts you into the program, you will be provided with all program-related information.  

As soon as your acceptance is confirmed by the host university, you will start the Residence Permit application process with VFS Global.  

You will arrange your own international travel. 

You will also be expected to attend our pre-departure orientation meetings at SMU. The host university will also organize a mandatory orientation program at the beginning of the exchange semester. 

From Acceptance to Pre-departure  

Once you are accepted into the program by SMU and by the host university, there are other steps you will follow to prepare for your departure. Those steps include the following and additional information about each item will be provided later:  

• Request approval for taking host university courses for the transfer of credits (via a Letter of Permission Request Form) 

• Apply for a passport within 6 months of the expected end date of the exchange program.  

• If you are a non-Canadian student, ensure your Canadian Study Permit and Visa remain valid for re-entry to Canada after the exchange program. (If you are a Canadian Permanent Resident Card holder, check the expiry date, too.)  

• Apply for a Finnish Residence Permit  

• Arrange travel insurance (mandatory)  

• Purchase airline tickets  

• Attend pre-departure briefing meetings and learn to manage travel risks  

• Register in courses at the host university  

• Apply for housing as directed by the host university 

• Get to know other SMU students who will be on exchange in the same semester  

• Inform the Global Learning Office if applying for a student loan, and keep in touch with the SMU Financial Aid & Awards Office  

• Research the host country and region  

• Request accessibility services to the host university, as required  

• Register your travel  

• Complete the waiver form  

• Attend the orientation at the host university (mandatory)  

• Pay SMU tuition and $100 fee at SMU 

• Review the post-experience reporting requirements and book a re-entry workshop  

• Receive an official transcript from the host university so your credits will be added to banner  

If there are any questions or concerns, email Miyuki.arai@smu.ca.  

We look forward to receiving your application!  

---

Contact Information:  

Miyuki Arai, Global Learning and Intercultural Support  

Email: Miyuki.arai@smu.ca  

Office: Atrium 106  

Funded study at University of Jyväskylä, Finland

Receive Erasmus+ funding to study for a semester in Finland in AY 2026-27! 

Welcome to the world of opportunities! 

Thank you for your interest in SMU Exchange! While you prepare your application, you may want to learn in advance what your (and the Global Learning Office’s) plans, expectations, and responsibilities are. This information guide will help you prepare for a well-planned exchange program. Please review this guide carefully and thoroughly so that your application is full and complete for the selection process. And remember, we are here to assist you throughout all phases of the exchange program! Please e-mail Miyuki.arai@smu.ca if you have any questions or concerns.    

Why should I study abroad?  

There are many reasons and benefits. When you study abroad, you not only enrich your academic experience but also develop intercultural communication skills, competencies and confidence. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience through which you build your resume, learn about different cultures, and make new friends from around the world. Besides you have the support of the home and host universities throughout the journey.  

What are the semester dates in Finland? 

Autumn semester: September-December (orientation program in late August) 

Spring semester: January-May (orientation program in the beginning of January) 

Is there funding?  

Yes! The funding program is called the “Erasmus+” International Credit Mobility. Read on below. 

Erasmus+ partner school option 1: University of Jyväskylä

What is University of Jyväskylä like? 

University of Jyväskylä (JYU) is an internationally ranked research university and is one of the largest and most popular multidisciplinary universities in Finland. JYU provides a genuinely supportive and enjoyable environment for studying. JYU has 14 300 students from about 100 countries. They believe that interaction with people from different cultures and backgrounds is an essential part of academic studies and the university experience. The population of Jyväskylä is around 148,000, and the city is located about 170km north of the capital city, Helsinki. See more information about Jyväskylä here. SMU and JYU have been exchange partners since 2006.

What subjects are offered at JYU? In what language? 

Many courses for exchange students are offered in English by the following Centre/Faculty: 

• Centre for Multilingual Academic Communication 

• Faculty of Education and Psychology 

• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences 

• Faculty of Information Technology 

• Faculty of Mathematics and Science 

• Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences 

• School of Business and Economics 

See more information about courses for exchange students here. 

Erasmus+ funding at JYU

Successful students can receive a grant of €4,788 (approx. CAD$7,750) for 4months of exchange study at JYU.

Number of grants available for AY2026-27: 4

Four (4) successful applicants will be selected for the JYU exchange program, and those four students will receive an Erasmus+ mobility grant each. Each grant consists of 900euro-stipend per month for 4 months plus a travel subsidy of 1,188euros for a total of 4,788euros. Funding will be given by JYU after students arrive in Finland; therefore, students need to pay out of pocket any upfront expenses such as the residence permit application costs and international airfare. Top up grant for participants with fewer opportunities where available.

Can I receive transfer credits towards my SMU degree?  

It depends on which courses you have left to complete for your SMU degree. Please meet with your academic advisor (see here) as a first step. Your advisor will not be able to tell you which courses to take (-- it is up to you to research the partner university’s courses) but can 1) confirm if any of the remaining SMU program requirements can be completed abroad during the exchange program and 2) go over the Letter of Permission process with you.  

Note: JYU course credits are weighted differently from SMU courses. If you plan to earn 15 credit hours from the exchange semester towards your degree, you should aim to validate 30 “ECTS” credits at JYU.  

You must attain a grade of C or higher in most cases for the host university credits to be accepted by SMU. Please note that the host university’s grades will not be used in the calculation of your SMU GPA – the transfer credits will show on your SMU transcript with a code, “TR”, instead of a letter grade.   

What did former exchange students say about studying in Finland?  

Watch Caitlin’s testimonial here! Caitlin studied at JYU for a semester in the 2022-23 academic year. 

Am I eligible?  

The Exchange Program is open to all SMU students (Canadian and Non-Canadian students, full-time or part-time) who are in good academic standing and have completed at least 30 credit hours at SMU. We welcome applicants of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Students who are eligible to receive transfer credits towards their SMU degree will be prioritized.  

Important: Your official transcript will be sent from the host university upon completion of the exchange program; however, it will take a couple of months for the transfer credits to be added to your banner account. Therefore, if you are in your final year of your Bachelor program, please discuss your graduation timeline with the academic advising office.  

What are my costs?  

You will be responsible for SMU tuition (paid at SMU for the transfer credit hours), $100 study abroad admin fee, international and in-country travel, travel insurance, housing, food, communication, passport application, Finnish immigration* application, any fees charged by the host university and miscellaneous/personal expenses.  

The average living expenses for a single student in Finland amount to about €700-900 (approx. CAD$1150-$1500) per month.  

Do I need a visa to study in Finland?  

Yes. Exchange students need to obtain a “Residence Permit” to study in Finland. The Residence Permit application process begins as soon as your acceptance letter is issued by the host university. Students need to prove that they have 800euros per study month. Important: After completing an electronic application, all applicants must visit a VFS Global application centre in person to prove their identity, NO EXCEPTIONS. For students in Nova Scotia, the closest VFS Centres to Halifax are in Montreal or Ottawa. Budget for your travel to a VFS Centre accordingly. See more information at:  

• Guide for students applying for a residence permit here   

• How to apply for a residence permit provided by the Finnish mission in Canada here  

• The VFS.GLOBAL Finland Residence Permit Application Centres here  

How do I apply? When is the application deadline? 

You will submit your application for the Erasmus+ Finland exchange program (Fall 2026 and Winter 2027) to the SMU Global Learning Office by March 2 2026 at 4pm*.  

To complete your application, you will: 

1. fill out your Study Abroad Application (https://studio.smu.ca/s/StudyAbroadApplication2021.pdf) 

1. write a one-page letter of intent. (Tip: book an appointment with The Writing Centre once you have a draft https://studio.smu.ca/wc-student-tutoring) 

1. print (in pdf) your unofficial transcript from banner 

1. prepare your resume, and 

1. secure two references (one must be from a SMU professor of one of your courses) – referees can email their letters directly to Global@smu.ca. Inquiries can be sent to Miyuki.arai@smu.ca. 

Once you have all four pieces of application documents (except for references), upload them at the application link here https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_55UpfboKu5sImUe. 

*If not all grants are allocated after the selection process, applications will continue to be accepted for the Winter 2027 exchange program on a first-come, first-served basis up to 4pm on August 31 2026. 

What happens after you apply? 

Once your application package is received, the Global Learning Office will be in touch to schedule a short interview. If you are selected, 1) you will be nominated to the host university as SMU’s Erasmus+ credit mobility grant recipients by the SMU Global Learning Office and 2) you will be instructed to complete a set of applications for the host university by late April (Fall Exchange Program) or by late September (Winter Exchange Program). Once the host university accepts you into the program, you will be provided with all program-related information.  

As soon as your acceptance is confirmed by the host university, you will start the Residence Permit application process with VFS Global.  

You will arrange your own international travel. 

You will also be expected to attend our pre-departure orientation meetings at SMU. The host university will also organize a mandatory orientation program at the beginning of the exchange semester. 

From Acceptance to Pre-departure  

Once you are accepted into the program by SMU and by the host university, there are other steps you will follow to prepare for your departure. Those steps include the following and additional information about each item will be provided later:  

• Request approval for taking host university courses for the transfer of credits (via a Letter of Permission Request Form) 

• Apply for a passport within 6 months of the expected end date of the exchange program.  

• If you are a non-Canadian student, ensure your Canadian Study Permit and Visa remain valid for re-entry to Canada after the exchange program. (If you are a Canadian Permanent Resident Card holder, check the expiry date, too.)  

• Apply for a Finnish Residence Permit  

• Arrange travel insurance (mandatory)  

• Purchase airline tickets  

• Attend pre-departure briefing meetings and learn to manage travel risks  

• Register in courses at the host university  

• Apply for housing as directed by the host university 

• Get to know other SMU students who will be on exchange in the same semester  

• Inform the Global Learning Office if applying for a student loan, and keep in touch with the SMU Financial Aid & Awards Office  

• Research the host country and region  

• Request accessibility services to the host university, as required  

• Register your travel  

• Complete the waiver form  

• Attend the orientation at the host university (mandatory)  

• Pay SMU tuition and $100 fee at SMU 

• Review the post-experience reporting requirements and book a re-entry workshop  

• Receive an official transcript from the host university so your credits will be added to banner  

If there are any questions or concerns, email Miyuki.arai@smu.ca.  

We look forward to receiving your application!  

---

Contact Information:  

Miyuki Arai, Global Learning and Intercultural Support  

Email: Miyuki.arai@smu.ca  

Office: Atrium 106  

Frankfurt Summer Universities 2026

SMU students are invited to join Frankfurt Summer Universities 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany!

Program Venue: Frankfurt, Germany

Program Theme/Name: Frankfurt Summer Universities

Program objectives and options

Frankfurt Summer Universities are open to international students from around the world. Students and working professionals are invited to apply for courses that match their academic background or current job.

Review the links for each course for information about the course content, target audience, pre-requisites, costs, dates, etc. All courses offered within Frankfurt Summer Universities are worth academic credit.

[Hessen: ISU] Project Management in Information Systems

• March - April 2026 (Online) / 24 May - 6 June, 2026 (On-Campus)

• 5 ECTS / 680€ Participation Fee

• Course at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences

• Apply to the host university by 28 February 2026

Be the Change - Advancing Urban Sustainability and Health in Metropolitan Regions (BIP)

• 18 May - 22 May, 2026 (On-Campus)

• 5 ECTS

• Course taught at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences

• Apply to the host university by 10 March 2026

[Hessen: ISU] High Impact Environments

• 24 May - 6 June, 2026

• 6 ECTS / 680€ Participation Fee

• Course taught at Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences

• Apply to the host university by 30 March 2026

[Hessen: ISU] Sustainable Aviation Management

• 21 June - 4 July, 2026

• 7,5 ECTS / 640€ Participation Fee

• Course taught at House of Logistics and Mobility, Frankfurt

• Apply to the host university by 20 April 2026

German Language and Culture

• Course dates will be made available soon

• 6 ECTS

• Course offered online

• The German Language and Culture course is available at no additional cost to all students participating in any of our academic Summer University courses. Apply to the host university and indicate your interest in the host university’s Mobility Online registration form.

Students will earn ECTS credit points as indicated above upon successful completion of the course.

During Frankfurt Summer Universities, you will be offered an exciting social and cultural program that ensures participants can make the most of their stay in Frankfurt.

Eligibility/Language Requirements

This program is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in good standing who will have completed 1 year of Bachelor studies by the end of Winter 2026. Please also check the prerequisites for each course.

Language of instruction: The program is delivered in English.

Program website: Please visit https://www.frankfurt-summer-university.de/en/.  

Dates: Courses are offered on various dates and duration from May through July 2026.

Program Fee: See the program website to check the program fee amount and what is included in the fee. Accommodation is not included in the program fee. Students are additionally responsible for accommodation, meals, airfare, insurance, local transportation between the university and accommodation, and daily expenses.

If academic credits are earned, students will not be assessed a separate SMU tuition at SMU for the transfer credit hours.

Canadian passport holders and those who hold citizenship from countries eligible for a visa-free entry may enter Germany without a visa for the duration of the program. If a visa is required, the host university will provide the necessary supporting documents (note: please consider the costs of applying for a visa; it may be necessary for those who need a visa to travel to a visa processing centre in another Canadian city to apply in person, so budget accordingly). Please see the Immigration section below.

Transfer credits:

Students may be able to earn credits to the extent that those credits are applicable to the program requirements of your SMU degree. Please meet with your academic advisor of your program (visit https://www.smu.ca/academics/academic-advising.html) to see if any of your remaining degree requirements can be completed at another university. If your advisor confirms that there is room for credits from another institution in your degree requirements, you will request approval to take courses for transfer credits by submitting a Letter of Permission Request Form (found at https://www.smu.ca/academics/student-forms.html) and course descriptions to the SMU Academic Advising Office as soon as your acceptance is confirmed.

Note: Normally 6ECTS is needed to earn 3cr at SMU. Discuss the course detail (found on the website) with your academic advisor so that they can review the instructional hours, learning outcomes, etc. to determine if SMU credits can be considered. Alternatively, if not transferring credits, you may receive recognition for extra-curricular experiences through the Co-Curricular Record (see here).

Funding: Limited funding ($500 on average) may be available. Students who are accepted to the program will be invited to request funding.

Immigration: Citizens of certain countries are required to apply for a visa before entering Germany, while visas are waived for others. Questions related to immigration should be directed to the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/einreiseundaufenthalt/-/231148) and the German Embassy in Ottawa (https://canada.diplo.de/ca-en/consular-services/visa).  

If you need a visa, your visa application will require a Letter of Acceptance by Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences. The program administrator at Frankfurt Summer Universities will provide you with all necessary documentation as soon as you have successfully registered for the Frankfurt Summer Universities and have paid your program fee.

Number of SMU students accepted: Up to the enrollment limit of the program

How to apply:

Apply to the host university at https://www.frankfurt-summer-university.de/en/apply-now/ by the specific deadline for each course or as soon as possible. After you complete your application, email Global@smu.ca to inform the SMU Global Learning Office of your application submission.

What happens after you apply?

Once the host university accepts you into the program, they will provide all program-related information as well as instruction for the payment of the program fees. You will arrange your own international travel.

Questions?

Email the Global Learning Office (Global@smu.ca or Miyuki.arai@smu.ca).

Four-week Manga Art Summer Institute in Japan

Kansai Gaidai University (KGU) in Japan is offering SMU students a chance to participate in a 4-week Summer Program on Manga – discover the art, culture, and creative process of Japanese manga!

View Program Poster or View Program Fact Sheet

Program Venue

Kansai Gaidai University, Hirakata-city, Osaka, Japan

Program Name

“Manga Art Institute” Summer Program 2026

Program objectives

Throughout the program, students receive practice-based instruction in:

• Drawing fundamentals and visual storytelling

• Manga panels, transitions, and pacing

• Narrative structure, including 4-koma manga

• Character design and illustration

• Storyboarding and layout design

• Inking tools and techniques

• Screentone and typography for manga

No prior manga experience is required.

Eligibility/Language Requirements

This program is designed for undergraduate in good standing who will have completed 1 year of Bachelor studies at SMU by the end of Winter 2026.

The Manga Art Institute is best suited for students from around the world who are passionate about creativity, storytelling, and Japanese culture. To that end, during the application process with the host university, you will be asked to:

1. describe your creative background and experiences that led you to apply for the Manga Art Institute (600 words)

2. provide plans for how to apply the skills and knowledge gained through manga creation to your future work as well as your objectives for studying manga (300 words)

3. describe your intended audience and discuss the strategies you use to connect your work with them (300 words)

4. upload 3 examples of your work

Language of instruction

The program is delivered in English. Basic Japanese language ability is recommended (but not required).

Program website

https://www.kansaigaidai.ac.jp/asp/academics/manga-program/

Dates:

June 23 – July 18, 2026 (4 weeks)

Program Fee

600,000JPY (approx. CAD$5300)

The program fee includes tuition and accommodation.

Students are additionally responsible for meals, airfare, insurance, local transportation between the university and accommodation, and daily expenses. A $100 SMU Study abroad admin fee will be charged on banner.

If academic credits are earned, students will not be assessed separate SMU tuition at SMU for the transfer credit hours.

Canadian passport holders typically do not need a visa to enter Japan for a 4-week program. If a visa is necessary (depending on your citizenship), consider costs of applying for a visa. It may be necessary to travel to Montreal to visit the Consulate General of Japan in Montreal and apply in person. Please see the Immigration section below.

Transfer credits:

Students may be able to earn credits to the extent that those credits are applicable to the program requirements of your SMU degree. Please meet with your academic advisor of your program (visit https://www.smu.ca/academics/academic-advising.html) to see if any of your remaining degree requirements can be completed at another university. If your advisor confirms that there is room for credits from another institution in your degree requirements, you will request approval to take courses for transfer credits by submitting a Letter of Permission Request Form (found at https://www.smu.ca/academics/student-forms.html) and course descriptions to the SMU Records Office as soon as your acceptance is confirmed.

Alternatively, if not transferring credits, you may receive recognition for extra-curricular experiences through the Co-Curricular Record (see here).

Funding

Limited funding ($500 on average) may be available. Students who are accepted to the program will be invited to request funding.

Immigration:

Citizens of certain countries are required to apply for a short-term visa before entering Japan, while visas are waived for others. Normally, Canadian citizens are not required to obtain a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Questions related to immigration should be directed to the Consulate General of Japan in Montreal at https://www.montreal.ca.emb-japan.go.jp/en/consular/visa_menu_en.html. See also https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/.

Number of SMU students accepted:

Placements are limited to 30 participants from around the world; a place for SMU students is not guaranteed.

How to apply:

Apply to the host university at https://kansaigaidai-university.form.kintoneapp.com/public/manga-art-institute by March 15 2026 or as soon as possible. After you complete your application, email Global@smu.ca to inform the SMU Global Learning Office of your application submission.

What happens after you apply?

The host university will release the selection result on April 1 2026.

Once the host university accepts you into the program, they will provide all program-related information as well as instruction for the payment of the program deposit of 300,000 JPY (due April 15 2026) and the balance payment of 300,000 JPY (due May 15 2026). You will also be expected to attend our pre-departure orientation meetings. You will arrange your own international travel.

Questions?

Email the Global Learning Office (Global@smu.ca or Miyuki.arai@smu.ca).

Call for Applications: 2026 Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program

Offered by Global Affairs Canada and China’s Ministry of Education, the Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program (CCSEP) aims to foster deeper mutual understanding, build strong academic and professional ties between Canada and China, and develop future Canadian leaders with expertise and experience in China. CCSEP alumni are part of a distinguished network of professionals who have gone on to build impactful careers in academia, public service, business, and other fields that contribute meaningfully to Canada-China engagement.  

The program provides an excellent opportunity to learn Chinese, and/or pursue post-secondary studies or research at leading institutions across China.  

Candidates must be Canadian citizens to participate in the outbound component of the program.  

Who is eligible to apply? 

• Students at the post-secondary level 

• Faculty members and researchers  

• Mid-career professionals 

Last year, the program introduced new components to expand eligibility and create new opportunities for participants: 

• Longer Stays for Graduate Students: Graduate students can now stay in China for up to 24 months with the option to obtain a graduate degree from designated learning institutions in China. 

• Shorter Stays for Professionals: The minimum stay requirement for faculty, researchers, and mid-career professionals has been reduced from 2 months to 1 month, offering greater flexibility for those seeking short-term professional development opportunities. 

The deadline to apply on the My EduCanada portal is January 12, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EST. Apply today to start your extraordinary adventure in China!  

For more information:

• Review application guidelines: Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program

• Register for the online info session on November 18 at 2:30 p.m. EST:  Webinar - Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program 2026-2027.

• Program Flyer

• Presentation Slides

For any questions about the program, please contact: scholarships-admin-bourses@international.gc.ca. 

Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge

Empowering the next generation of ocean innovators

Created and powered by the International University of Monaco, the Oceanographic Institute, Prince Albert I of Monaco Foundation, Monaco Impact and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge is an international business plan pitching competition for students, fresh graduate & young entrepreneurs showcasing new business concepts with a measurable, positive impact on the ocean .

Learn more here: https://www.monaco-opc.com/

UArctic 2026 Calls for Applications

UArctic is excited to share the 2026 Calls for Applications for three Canadian UArctic Project Funds administered through Memorial University and supported through Global Affairs Canada. The funds aim to strengthen collaboration and networking between UArctic members and their Indigenous and Northern partners by supporting projects that address priority issues in Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework while upholding UArctic values and Memorial University’s Policy on Research Impacting Indigenous Groups. These opportunities are open to Canadian UArctic member institutions. 

As part of this year’s call, we are pleased to launch a new round of project funding, offering up to $100,000 over five years to support collaborative, community-driven research and education initiatives across the Circumpolar North.

Note: Funding availability for this call is subject to approval from Global Affairs Canada. Final award decisions will only be confirmed once funding has been approved. Funding cannot be applied retroactively or used for previously completed activities.

1. Indigenous and Northern Relationship Development Fund

Deadline: April 24, 2026
Funding: Up to $15,000
Project Period: September 2026 – September 2028

This fund is designed to build or strengthen relationships between academic researchers and Indigenous or Northern partners. Projects may include meetings, workshops, or other activities that establish or deepen collaborative relationships, with an emphasis on respectful, ethical, and community-led engagement in line with Memorial University’s Policy on Research Impacting Indigenous Groups.

·       Open to researchers from any Canadian UArctic member

·       Designed to build relationships between academic researchers and Indigenous or Northern partners

·       Projects focus on relationships outcomes rather than research outcomes

·       Projects must be completed 24 months from start of project activities

For more information, including funding guides: CLICK HERE

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE

2. Indigenous and Northern Collaborative Research and Education Engagement Fund (Stream A: Two-Year Projects)

Deadline: April 24, 2026
Funding: Up to $40,000 (maximum of five awards per year)
Project Period: September 2026 – September 2028

This stream supports shorter-term collaborative projects that strengthen partnerships and knowledge exchange in Northern and Indigenous research and education. Projects should address priorities within Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework and reflect UArctic’s values of collaboration, inclusion, and respect for Indigenous knowledge systems.
Who can apply:

·       The lead applicant must be from a Canadian UArctic member institution.

·       Collaboration between multiple UArctic member institutions (including international partners) and partners is required

·       Researchers from Northern and Southern institutions are encouraged to apply.

·       Only one active project award may be held at a time.

Eligible activities include:

·       Developing or strengthening UArctic Thematic Networks

·       Creating joint courses or programs relevant to Northern communities

·       Advancing online and flexible education initiatives

·       Supporting networking and collaborative research across UArctic members

For more information, including funding guides: CLICK HERE

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE

3. Indigenous and Northern Collaborative Research and Education Engagement Fund (Stream B: Five-Year Projects) *NEW*

Deadline: April 24, 2026 *five-year projects are awarded only in 2026
Funding: Up to $100,000 (maximum of six awards)
Project Period: September 2026 – September 2031

This stream supports longer-term, multi-partner collaborations designed to create sustainable research and education initiatives across the circumpolar North. Proposals should include at least three UArctic partners (with a Canadian lead) and align with UArctic values and Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework. Additional information is required for this stream; review the Funding Guide and Application Form for full details.

Who can apply:

·       The lead applicant must be from a Canadian UArctic member institution.

·       Collaboration between multiple UArctic member institutions (including international partners) and partners is required

·       Researchers from Northern and Southern institutions are encouraged to apply.

·       Only one active project award may be held at a time.

Eligible activities include:

·       Developing or strengthening UArctic Thematic Networks

·       Creating joint courses or programs relevant to Northern communities

·       Advancing online and flexible education initiatives

·       Supporting networking and collaborative research across UArctic members

For more information, including funding guides: CLICK HERE

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE

We will be hosting an information session on the funds on January 28th, 2026. For help connecting with other Canadian UArctic member institutions or identifying potential partners, please reach out to me directly: lgoulet@mun.ca

Applications for all three funds must be submitted through Memorial University’s online application portal by April 24, 2026 (23:59 CEST).

If you would like more information, please contact Miyuki.Arai@smu.ca

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships available to Canadian students

November 7, 2025 – Are you a Canadian student interested in obtaining a master’s degree abroad? Scholarships are available to top-ranked students from around the world who are admitted to the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programs.

These prestigious and innovative programs are jointly designed and delivered by leading universities across Europe and beyond, and include opportunities for study, research, or traineeships at multiple partner institutions.

The highly competitive scholarships for admitted students cover:

• Participation costs

• Travel expenses

• Visa fees

• A living allowance

For more information, visit: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters.