Overview
UBC is a hub for outstanding researchers from around the world. We welcome Visiting International Research Students (VIRS) to join our community of inquiry. The VIRS program is for international students conducting full-time research at UBC under the supervision of one of our UBC faculty members. UBC has welcomed more than 2,500 VIRS students from 650 universities and 85 different countries since 2014. Go Global manages VIRS.
While registered as full-time UBC students, VIRS students cannot enroll in academic courses for credit or formally audit courses.
The VIRS admission process is ongoing and there are no deadlines. Submit your applications at least 15 weeks before your intended date of arrival. Read more about eligibility requirements.
Prospective students
Find out if VIRS is right for you, review VIRS eligibility criteria, learn how to find a UBC supervisor and about the Joint Doctoral Research Scholar Designation
VIRS fees, iMED & budgeting
All VIRS students pay a program fee and for iMED health insurance, plus need to set money set aside for accomodation and personal costs
Applying for your initial study permit
Some VIRS students might need to get a study permit. Scan this guide on how to start that process
Info for current & accepted students
Learn about registration at UBC, what to do if you are delayed, program withdrawal and extension, completion letters and other essential information
Info for UBC supervisors
If you are a faculty member supervising a student, get the background on VIRS and how you can support VIRS participants