Self-directed Research Abroad

What is self-directed research abroad?

Students take part in research at a recognized university or research institute under the supervision of a host academic. A student or UBC faculty member wishing to send students abroad for the purposes of academic collaboration can start a placement. While away, students build an international network of academics in their research area. There is no set time frame or deadline for planning and doing research abroad; however, it's recommended that students begin preparing 3 to 6 months in advance of anticipated departure.

Funding: Go Global Self-Directed Research Abroad Award

Go Global offers a Self-Directed Research Abroad Award valued at $1000 to support students participating in self-directed research placements on a competitive basis.

Eligibility criteria

• UBC degree-seeking student in good standing
• Research activity takes place at a recognized university or institute outside of Canada (i.e. accredited university, or university- or government-affiliated research institute)
• Obtain an academic supervisor at the host institution (supervisor must hold a Ph.D.)
• Placement must be at least 4 weeks in duration
• Preference is given to students participating in unpaid, full-time research (30 – 40 hours per week)
• Obtain support or supervision from a UBC faculty member
• Meet the requirements of the host institution to be a visiting researcher or student (vary by institution)
• Students must review the UBC Student Safety Abroad Learning Modules, attend a UBC Student Safety Briefing offered by Go Global, and complete the UBC Student Safety Abroad Travel Registry prior to departure
• Submit a completion survey one month following the research placement
• Students are eligible to receive one Self-directed research abroad award per UBC program

What type of activity is not eligible for this award?

• Field research that is not specifically supervised by a host supervisor at a recognized research institution (e.g. data collection in the field)
• Attendance at research conferences or workshops
• Academic courses
• Internships at community organizations, businesses or governmental agencies

Selection Criteria

Awards are offered on a competitive basis to students that demonstrate how the research experience connects with their educational and career goals. Students should demonstrate financial need through the submission of a detailed budget accounting for all funding sources and costs.  

How to apply

Students are encouraged to review the Mitacs Globalink Award to determine if your research experience may be eligible for 

Apply online using Go Global’s Gateway System by searching for the “Self-Directed Research Abroad”. You will need to include:

• A research plan outlining your duties and role at the host institution
• A personal statement describing the value of the research placement as it relates to your academic studies and career goals
• The location and dates of your research visit
• Host supervisor contact information
• A letter from your research host supervisor confirming their supervision of you during the research period
• A detailed budget outlining the projected costs associated with the placement listing any other sources of funding (i.e. salary, stipend, other funding). 

Budget Template (xlsx)

Faculty Endorsement Form 2019 (pdf)

Additional Funding Sources: 

Mitacs Globalink offers additional funding for student research abroad. Please review this site to learn more about the eligibility criteria and how to apply. Any questions related to Mitacs awards should be directed to the team at Mitacs. 

How to find a host supervisor

Fees

Host universities may charge administrative or registration fees to visiting students. In some cases, these fees can be waived under the terms of an existing agreement between UBC and that institution. Please contact the Research Abroad Advisor for further information.