Frequently asked questions

It's a three-week program where you live like a real university student: you take a university course, you stay in residence, and participate in activities and outings.

You're eligible if you're 16 or 17 years old at the start of the program, in high school (in Canada or internationally), have good academic results (80% general average or equivalent on your latest report card), and can provide the required documents (transcript, letter of recommendation, and completed participation questionnaire).

From July 5 to 25, 2026 for the French-speaking cohort and from July 26 to August 15, 2026 for the English-speaking cohort.

Each language offers two fields of study: one in social sciences focused on diplomacy and one in management focused on entrepreneurship. You indicate the field of study that interests you in your participation questionnaire, and the course will be determined based on that choice.

No, the course is determined by the field of study you choose.

Yes, you will receive 4.5 university credits if you successfully complete the program. These credits can be used later during undergraduate studies at the University of Ottawa.

Because you discover university life, meet young people from around the world, and have a unique experience.

Yes, you'll be with other young people your age, from Canada and abroad. It's a great opportunity to build friendships.

Yes, you earn your first university credits and better understand what it's like to study at university.

CAD $6,500 plus taxes, for a total of $7,345.

Payment for the program is made online by credit card.

Participants must make a deposit of $1,000 by May 1, 2026 at the latest to reserve their spot. This deposit is non-refundable. This amount will be deducted from the total cost of the program. A final payment for the balance of the program must be made by May 31, 2026 at the latest.

Course, course material, workshops and sociocultural activities; accommodations in campus residence (individual bedroom in a double occupancy unit); accommodation in a double occupancy hotel room or university residence during the Montréal (1 night) and Toronto (2 nights) weekends; meals (except during selected outings); transportation to activity locations during the program; transportation to and from Ottawa's train station, airport and bus station before and after the program; security, guides, professors and instructors throughout the program; and an exclusive application package.

Via the online form on the University of Ottawa website. You'll need to provide your transcript, a letter of recommendation and complete a questionnaire.

Generally in spring 2026 (April-May), but early registration is recommended as spaces are limited. Check the website for the exact date.

Yes, the number of participants is limited to ensure a quality experience and proper supervision.

If you cancel before the program begins (until June 1, 2026), you will lose the $1,000 deposit, but the rest will be refunded. After June 1, if you must leave during the program, or in case of extreme weather conditions or other exceptional circumstances, no refund will be granted.

You will stay in one of the University of Ottawa residences. You will have a private bedroom, but you will share the bathroom with a roommate who will be assigned upon arrival. You can explore the University of Ottawa's Henderson residence online.

Yes, you will have access to washing machines. No need to budget money for this: the use of washing machines is free.

Most meals will be served at the Dining Hall (buffet style) on the University of Ottawa campus. There's something for everyone! Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options will be served. Please note that some meals will be taken off campus during outings.

Yes, but travel light. You will soon receive a detailed list of what to bring for the three weeks.

Basic furniture (bed, desk, chair), sheets and towels. You must bring your personal items (toothbrush, shampoo, etc.).

Yes, you will always be supervised either by your professor in the morning, or by the activity team for the rest of the day. Members of the activity team will sleep in the same residence as the youth to always be available in case of emergency. There will also be a night surveillance service to ensure everyone's safety once everyone is in bed.

Only during organized outings. You cannot leave campus alone for safety reasons.

Yes, but usage will be supervised to encourage social interactions and learning.

We ask participants to arrive before 5 p.m. An orientation session will be offered at 5 p.m. with important information about how the three weeks will unfold. It is important not to miss this session. However, we remain flexible, knowing that some participants are coming from far away.

Participants must leave by 1 p.m. at the latest for organizational purposes with the residence and coordination with the shuttle service to the train station, airport, or bus stop.

Most meals are provided by the program (see the "What's included in the price?" section for details). Participants will need spending money for some meals during outings, purchasing souvenirs and other extras. It's up to you to decide how much you want to give them!

Sports, cultural activities, workshops, themed evenings, and excursions around Ottawa.

Parliament visit, museums, outdoor activities, a weekend in Montréal (1 night) and a weekend in Toronto (2 nights).

Some activities are mandatory, others are optional based on your interests.

Yes, sports and recreational activities are regularly organized.

Yes, WiFi is available throughout campus, including in the residences.

We recommend bringing a laptop for the course, but the team can provide one if necessary. You are also allowed to bring tablets and other electronic devices. 

Please check with your airline (if applicable) for weight limits and the number of bags allowed.

There is no safe available. We recommend not bringing valuables. This information will be repeated during the pre-departure orientation.

The choice of format (cash, debit card, prepaid card) is at the parents' discretion.

There is one activity leader for every 15 participants.

Activities are co-ed. Rooms are assigned by gender: girls with girls, boys with boys.

Medical staff are available and there are health services on campus.

Yes, health and travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially for international participants.

You must indicate them during registration. The cafeteria can accommodate most dietary restrictions.

Yes, strict rules are in place to ensure your safety and that of other participants. All rules and the code of conduct will be presented during the pre-departure orientation and upon arrival.

Youth can communicate by phone or message at certain times of day.

Generally, there are no visits during the program to foster independence and immersion.

Emergency contact information will be provided and staff are always available.

Yes, safety is an absolute priority with constant supervision and strict protocols.

Yes, the program is open to international students.

It depends on your country of origin. You must check requirements with the Canadian embassy. Visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

You must have a sufficient level to follow a university course in the chosen language.

Yes! A shuttle service with accompanying staff will be there to welcome youth whether at the train station, airport, or bus stop. Our activity leaders and volunteers will accompany participants to their residence, so no need to book a taxi! The team will also be present on campus, in the lobby of Henderson residence, for arrivals by car. The same shuttle and accompaniment service will be in place on departure day.

Transportation is provided for all outings and excursions.