Field Schools

Field Schools provides the opportunity for students to embark on immersive cultural experiences while travelling and completing NIC course(s) abroad. Students travel as a group and are led by an NIC faculty. Because field schools are shorter than exchanges (2-3 weeks), the cost of participation is usually significantly less.

Upcoming Field Schools

North Island College is a member of The Western Canada Mobility Network (WCMN), a study abroad network that includes nine Canadian colleges and institutes. The initiative was established in 2023 with initial funding from the Global Skills Opportunity Innovation Fund. Being a student at any one of the member institutions means you are eligible to apply for any WCMN study abroad program offered through any of the partner institutions and can apply for transfer credit for the associated courses. Access to the WCMN provides NIC students more opportunities for study abroad. If you have any questions, please email istudyabroad@nic.bc.ca.

Completed Field Schools

How to Apply

1. Complete the OGE Field School application form
2. Submit your completed application form via email to istudyabroad@nic.bc.ca
3. Check your NIC email for important communications and next steps

Please note, as we often have more applicants than available seats for field schools, there is often a selection process (eg. interview with field school leaders).

If selected, students will be required to complete the following as part of participation in the Field School program:

Make an initial deposit payment to secure their seat in the Field School
Ensure all applicable payments are made in full two weeks prior to the start of the Field School program dates

• Attend three mandatory pre-departure sessions with OGE
• Complete various pre-departure forms and activities with the support of OGE
• Provide copies of their passport and government-issued photo ID to OGE
• Complete a Registration of Canadians Abroad (or comparable with your country's government) and send copy to OGE
• Complete any academic activities developed by the field school leader
• Complete various financial aid support documents (if applicable)
• Complete various post-travel forms and activities with the support of OGE

Costs and Financial Support

Costs of field schools vary, but because they are shorter in length, they are often more financially accessible than a full exchange program.

OGE has various Study Abroad financial supports available. If you are selected to participate in a field school, you will have the opportunity to review these options with an OGE team member.

Field School program fees often include the following:

• Flights
• Shared accommodations
• Meals
• Travel insurance
• Course tuition
• In-country transportation
• Program and administrative fees

Contact Us

Have questions or need some support? Email us at istudyabroad@nic.bc.ca.

Are you a faculty interested in leading a field school? Learn more here.