The International Centre for Students (ICS) is probably well-known to international students, because it provides them with resources and services to help them in their journey to Canada (and their subsequent transition and settlement), but ICS also has a lot to offer non-international students.

Through ICS, U of M students can participate in an extensive range of international programs.

“The ICS Exchange Program is an excellent opportunity for U of M students. With partner schools on every continent, students can spend one to two semesters abroad, earning credit towards their U of M degree, all while paying U of M tuition fees,” explained Breanne Guiboche, the student mobility and exchange coordinator.

“U of M students who have completed 30 credit hours and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher are eligible.”

According to Guiboche there is over $80,000 in scholarships and awards available to assist students who qualify to participate in the program.

About 50 to 70 students partake in the program (inbound and outbound) every year.

ICS also has an international internship program through Students Without Borders in Vietnam and Malawi, and has plans to add Peru.

“We also run international service learning programs, a type of experiential learning where students work with an NGO on various needs-based projects,” shared Guiboche.

“Most recently, we had four students participate in Girl Power, a six-week service learning experience in Tanzania. Our students worked in two schools, delivering a curriculum on women’s rights, sexual health and relationships.”

ICS also runs the World W.I.S.E (Work, Internship, Study, Exchange) Resource Centre, where students can go to get information about all the international opportunities available to them.

World W.I.S.E. Resource Centre also holds events, such as World Opportunities Week in October and International Development Week in February.

If you’re interested in getting involved with ICS and studying aboard Guiboche invites you to make an appointment—as early as first year—to discuss the opportunities available to you.