McMaster OIA Summer Programs 2026

McMaster University – International Learning Experience: OIA Summer Programs 2026 (Canada)

1. Program Overview

McMaster University’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) offers short, intensive Summer Programs 2026, delivered on campus in Hamilton, Canada. These International Learning Experience programs are aimed at students and faculty from partner institutions who wish to combine academic study with English language and cultural immersion in a structured, supportive environment.

2. About the Program

All 2026 offerings use a common International Learning Experience: Summer Programs Application Form, through which applicants select their desired track and dates. The portfolio includes themes such as Digital Transformation, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Medical Research & Digital Health, Sport Science & Leadership, IGNITE Health, and English & Cultural Immersion, blending classroom teaching, experiential learning, and cultural activities.

The online application form is available at: Application Form (Microsoft Forms). A PDF preview of the application questions can be downloaded from: 2026 Summer Program Application Form (PDF).

3. Financial Details

• A non-refundable registration deposit of 300 CAD must be paid at the time of application.
• If a Canadian visa application is refused, the deposit can be refunded upon proof of refusal, minus a 50 CAD administration fee.
• Payment of the remaining program fees is due no later than 15 June 2026.
• An online payment link is provided after submitting the application form and is also accessible via the OIA Summer Programs webpage.
• Standard program fees include: tuition, on-campus accommodation, a limited meal card, weekend excursions, university health insurance, access to university services, and airport pick-up and drop-off.
• For the July English & Cultural Immersion programs, a tuition-only option is available; students selecting this option must arrange their own accommodation, food, local transport, and services.
• Illustrative Entrepreneurship & Innovation program fees: 12 July – 2 August 2026: 5,100 CAD; 18 July – 2 August 2026: 4,450 CAD (all-inclusive packages).

4. Program Tracks

Applicants can choose from the following 2026 tracks within the application form. Brochures for each track are linked below.

• Strategic Digital Transformation
  2 weeks: Brochure – Digital Transformation for Entrepreneurs (2 weeks)
  3 weeks: Brochure – Digital Transformation for Entrepreneurs (3 weeks)
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation (Science & Engineering)
  2 weeks: Brochure – Entrepreneurship & Innovation Sci/Eng (2 weeks)
  3 weeks: Brochure – Entrepreneurship & Innovation Sci/Eng (3 weeks)
• Medical Research & Digital Health
  Brochure – Medical Research and Digital Health (2026)
• Sport Science & Leadership
  2 weeks: Brochure – Sport Science & Leadership (2 weeks)
  3 weeks: Brochure – Sport Science & Leadership (3 weeks)
• IGNITE Health Program
  Brochure – IGNITE Health Program (2026)
• English & Cultural Immersion
  July options: Brochure – English and Cultural Immersion (2 & 3 weeks)
  August option: Brochure – English and Cultural Immersion (3 weeks, August)

Many tracks offer multiple date/length options, and the Entrepreneurship & Innovation program allows applicants to select specific combinations within the form.

5. Eligibility Criteria

• Designed primarily for undergraduate and graduate students from partner institutions; some tracks may also suit faculty or staff groups.
• Applicants must meet the academic and language expectations of their chosen track, as outlined in the brochures.
• Participants must be able to obtain the necessary Canadian visa and approvals from their home institution.

6. Program Structure

• Most programs run between the second week of July and the second week of August 2026, with durations from 1 to 4 weeks.
• A typical week combines lectures, workshops, projects, guest speakers, visits, and cultural activities.
• The application form captures the selected track, dates, and package.

7. Available Departments & Thematic Areas

The Summer Programs draw on expertise from McMaster’s Health Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Business, and interdisciplinary units.

8. Application Processes and Deadline

• Applicants complete the form at Microsoft Forms – Summer Programs Application.
• A PDF reference is available at Application Form (PDF).
• A 300 CAD deposit is paid immediately.
• Full payment deadline: 15 June 2026.
• Some tracks may close earlier if full.

9. Required Notes

• Applicants certify information accuracy; misrepresentation may cancel admission.
• McMaster may change schedules or cancel courses; fees refunded if cancelled.
• Keep copies of documents and payment records.

10. Selection Timeline

• Applications processed after form and deposit.
• Confirmed students receive a Letter of Acceptance for visa and institutional use.
• IIT Madras may set earlier internal deadlines.

11. Program Benefits

• Exposure to digital transformation, innovation, health research, sport science, and English communication.
• Structured international experience with accommodation and services.
• Build intercultural competence and networks.

12. Additional Resources

• OIA Summer Programs – McMaster University
• Online Application Form
• Application Form (PDF)
• For assistance: oia@mcmaster.ca
• For IIT Madras processes, contact the Office of Global Engagement.