Join a network of Xaverians making an impact worldwide.

When you study at StFX, you become a global citizen

Our campus is in a small university town, but the perspectives, friendships, and opportunities you’ll find here reach far beyond Antigonish. Each year, StFX welcomes international students from many different countries, creating a campus community where you can learn alongside people with a wide range of backgrounds. 

If you’re hoping to broaden your horizons, our international partnerships also offer StFX students the chance to study abroad and experience life in other parts of the world.

That means your undergraduate career can feel both personal and far-reaching. You’ll be part of a campus where it’s easy to get to know people while also building connections that span countries. For many students, that global outlook becomes an important part of what makes StFX full of possibilities.

StFX Student abroad

Earn credit abroad

StFX has partnered with 30 institutions across 20 countries—from Nord University in Norway to the West Indies in Barbados—giving you the opportunity to undertake an international exchange as part of your undergraduate degree.

Explore Exchange Programs

Benefits of global learning

Develop the academic, cultural, and professional skills that prepare you for a global career.

Experience new cultures

Live and study in another country while broadening your worldview and global perspective.

Practice languages daily

Learn and refine language skills naturally through immersive real-world conversation.

Build a global network

Make lifelong international friends and professional connections across the globe.

Earn academic credit

Fulfill degree requirements and earn credits toward graduation while studying abroad.

Strengthen your resumé

Stand out to future employers and graduate school admissions with international experience.

Grow as a global citizen

Gain independence, adaptability, and confidence that last far beyond graduation.

Violet Silva
Violet Silva Honours | Class of '25

Exchange in Japan

"Thanks to the amazing professors and faculty in the program, I get to go on an international exchange trip to Japan and still complete my honours degree."

International students

With 80% of graduate students coming from outside Canada, StFX is committed to ensuring that international students have the support they need to be successful and engaged throughout their studies.

More Information

International students work together in class

What you will gain

Comprehensive support designed to help you excel.

Immigration guidance

Complete management for study permits, entry visas, and off-campus or co-op work permits.

Orientation & arrival

Dedicated arrival support and warm orientation programs to help you settle smoothly into campus life.

Academic & social advising

Personalized guidance to navigate your academic program and foster wellness and connection.

Housing assistance

Tailored support finding comfortable on-campus residences or off-campus accommodations in Antigonish.

Cultural engagement

Vibrant social events, multicultural celebrations, and community engagement opportunities.

Post-Grad pathways

Explore career planning and post-graduation work permit options to build your future in Canada.

Student Testimonial
International Student Class of '25

StFX Graduate

"Coming to StFX as an international student was the best decision I ever made. The Office of Internationalization made my transition seamless, and the community here truly feels like a home away from home."

Global Community Leaders

Coady Institute

Connecting diverse perspectives, cultures, and leaders to drive meaningful impact globally and locally through shared learning and empowerment.

Explore Programs

Core pillars

Guiding principles behind Coady global initiatives.

Dignity & sovereignty

Recognizing each person’s or group’s inherent dignity and self-determination.

Educational tools

Giving people the tools and knowledge to improve themselves through learning.

Personalized pathways

Providing opportunities for students to pursue areas of genuine personal interest.

Cultural sensitivity

Ensuring education respects and reflects the diverse cultures students exist within.

Systemic reform

Driving fundamental positive changes within existing social and economic institutions.

Inclusive leadership

Empowering youth and women leaders to create lasting local and global impact.

Trang Thi Nhu Tran
Trang Thi Nhu Tran Global Change Leaders 2022

Coady student

"Coady brought me a mindset changing experience. Thanks to the Global Change Leader program, I learnt valuable lessons, theory, and practice from my peers and experts globally

StFX Graduation and Alumni holding up their X-Rings

Engaged alumni

As a StFX student, you will benefit from being part of the most engaged alumni in Canada, empowered by our prestigious X-Ring. With more than 40,000 members worldwide, you will find opportunities for career advancement long after graduation.

About Alumni Affairs

Alumni testimonials

StFX alumni establish strong careers and lifelong connections.

Victoria Morgan
Victoria Morgan Government of Nunavut

Alumni Voice

"I can't imagine having gone to any other school. It shaped who I am and gave me the work ethic, communication skills, and confidence I have since carried into the jobs I have had post grad."

Rachel Ettinger
Rachel Ettinger Unilever | Activist & Founder

Alumni Voice

"The BBA program gave me the foundation (learning, group work and cases) I needed to help navigate my career path, complete my graduate degree, and have confidence as a founder and activist."

Frequently asked questions

How do StFX students benefit from international partnerships?

Our extensive network of global university partnerships means you can pursue university exchange programs worldwide while earning direct credit toward your undergraduate degree. Studying abroad allows you to learn new languages, experience different cultures, and strengthen your resume for graduate school or career placement—all while remaining fully part of the StFX community.

Can I study abroad without delaying my graduation timeline?

Yes. StFX partners with institutions worldwide to ensure your coursework transfers seamlessly. By working closely with academic advising and our international office, you can find study abroad programs Canada approves for credit, allowing you to explore the world and still graduate exactly on schedule.

What resources are available to help incoming international students adjust to life in Canada?

Moving to a new country is a major step, which is why the international student support Canada universities offer is so critical. StFX's Office of Internationalization handles everything from arrival logistics and student orientation to Canadian visa and immigration document management, housing support, and social programming, helping you feel at home in Antigonish.

How can international students connect with the local community?

Through tailored social and cultural engagement initiatives, StFX international students quickly build strong ties both on campus and within the town of Antigonish. Additionally, the presence of the world-renowned Coady Institute right on our campus brings together global changemakers and community leaders, creating a unique environment for local and international collaboration.

How does the StFX network help students after graduation?

Long after you receive your X-Ring, you will benefit from being part of the most engaged alumni network Canada has to offer. With over 40,000 members across the globe, you will have immediate, lifetime access to an exclusive community ready to assist you with global professional development, mentorship, and international career advancement.

Where to next?

Continue learning everything that makes StFX stand out.