II. B. Academic/Work Exchange Placements

There are exchange models in which students complete periods of academic study as well as co-op work terms while in the foreign country. Typically, the students first complete a number of courses which apply to their degree programs back home, and then obtain jobs in fields related to their studies through the hosting institution's co-op program. If it can be shown that the period of employment is an integral component of the students' education (which will be the case if the student has been admitted to the co-op program) then the students can convert their student visas into valid work permits with supporting documentation from the institution.

the exchange agreement can include tuition fees, so students need only pay regular fees to their home institution;

during their period of academic study, foreign students are available for pre-placement activities and interview periods;

since the students' status is established, work permits may then be easier to obtain;

foreign students have more time to adjust to the new culture before beginning employment.

it may be difficult for the receiving institution to offer courses that transfer to and satisfy the home institution's degree requirements;

it may be difficult for students to meet living costs during the study period.

Academic exchange agreements can also be arranged by educational institutions working with their respective governments for support in funding and visa requirements. An example of one such arrangement was between universities in Canada and Fiji. The agreement included exchanges of students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for periods of study and of work, and of faculty selected to teach disciplines not offered by resident staff.

A Guide for Developing International Co-op Programs