Independent Study Elsewhere
Independent Study Elsewhere
Students can pursue study abroad opportunities through universities with whom McMaster does not have a formal exchange agreement*.
*McMaster is not affiliated with any institutions or programs through which students may study abroad independently. Students are responsible for following the policies, procedures, and regulations of their host school, as well as any travel advice and advisories issued by the Government of Canada.
Independent study abroad is our most popular option for the spring/summer terms.
GO BACKEligibility
Students must meet the admission and eligibility requirements of the host school. Students must also meet the minimum criteria at McMaster to study at another school for transfer credit. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Good academic standing
- First-degree student (students pursuing a second degree are not eligible for transfer credit)
- Within the transfer credit limit (i.e. students are eligible for a maximum of 60 units of transfer credit towards their degree)
GO BACKApplication and Payment
All courses taken abroad must be approved in advance of departure by the Faculty of Humanities for transfer credit to be considered. Any coursework completed without prior approval from the Faculty cannot be guaranteed for transfer credit.
Students may only pursue elective coursework while studying elsewhere independently.
Unlike McMaster’s MacAbroad Exchange Program, all tuition and fees for independent study abroad are paid to the host institution. Keep in mind that international fees and tuition can cost a great deal more than your typical tuition at McMaster. Students are solely responsible for admission, registration, and payments to the host school.
Meet with the Academic Advisor for Study Abroad before applying to any study abroad programs or courses.
Book Your Appointment NowGO BACKTransfer Credit
The Faculty will not guarantee approval for transfer credit for courses taken outside McMaster unless you have received prior approval. If a student takes courses for which they have not received permission, transfer credit may not be awarded.
During your term abroad, the course(s) will appear on your transcript as ‘IP’ meaning In Progress.
When the courses are complete, they will be marked as either ‘T’ for transfer credit or ‘NC’ for No Credit. Students must achieve a grade of at least ‘C-‘ in their course(s) to receive the transfer credit.
Grades from courses taken at other institutions are not factored into your GPA at McMaster.
