Study/work international fund (SWIF)
SWIF funding is eligible to all students regardless of citizenship status. SWIF funding amounts largely depend on how long you will be gone but can award up to $2000.
SWIF deadlines
SWIF funding applications must be submitted at least one month prior to your departure date.
While SWIF funding is not guaranteed, your chances of receiving funding are highest if you apply by the following dates:
Fall semester opportunity: Apply by September 30th
Winter semester opportunity: Apply by January 31st
Summer semester opportunity: Apply by May 31st
How to apply for SWIF
There are several steps that you will need to complete in order to be eligible for SWIF funding:
Before you submit your SWIF funding application, you’ll need to complete a pre-departure course on Brightspace. Visit the International Learning Experience (ILE) funding page for more details.
Dal AC International can help get you enrolled in the course—just send a quick email to intdalac@dal.ca to request access.
has partnered with International SOS, a global travel medical and security service. If you're heading abroad, you'll need to sign up.
International SOS gives you:
- Medical and security advice before and during your trip
- Support in case of emergencies while you're travelling
- A platform to register your travel with
You can find step-by-step instructions on how to sign up on the ILE “Before You Go” page.
If you're heading abroad for an International Learning Experience, you’ll need to purchase Backpack insurance—it’s a required part of the process.
has teamed up with Backpack to offer students top-quality travel insurance and wellness support. The plan includes:
- Travel coverage
- Accidental death coverage
- Access to travel clinics and vaccines
- Coverage for medical care if you contract COVID-19 while abroad
(Note: COVID testing for travel purposes isn’t covered)
Bonus:
Your Backpack plan covers multiple -related trips within a one-year period. Just keep in mind—it doesn’t apply to personal travel.
Learn more about signing up for Backpack Insurance on the ILE site.
Reach out to intdalac@dal.ca if you need assistance.
Note: Only students who have received approval from for their planned international learning experience and met the pre-departure requirements will be able to purchase Backpack insurance.
- A [PDF - 142 kB] must be included with SWIF applications.
- Departmental and university-wide exchanges require an
