# Visiting Student Researchers (VSRs)

**Source**: https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/gse/faculty-staff/visiting-student-researchers-vsrs
**Parent**: https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/gse

Students can apply as a Visiting Student Researcher (VSR) if they are an active graduate student at another post-secondary institution and are interested in conducting research activities at the University of Calgary, while under the supervision of a host UCalgary faculty member, in fulfillment of meeting graduation requirements for their home degree programs.

[VSR Information](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/graduate/admissions/visiting-student-researchers)
[Apply Now](https://apply.ucalgary.ca/StudentAdmission/default.aspx)

## VSR Processing Timeline

\*\*Click the above image to be directed to the IRCC Visa/Permit Processing Time Calculator tool

## Application Deadlines

## VSR Application Requirements

### Written Invitation from UofC Faculty Member

A faculty member who is interested in hosting a visiting student must provide written confirmation to the student that they are willing to supervise them. This is done through the Supervisor Confirmation of Interest Letter. Please note that this letter is not a formal admission letter.

[Supervisor Confirmation of Interest Letter](https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/sites/default/files/teams/13/2025-Supervisor%20Confirmation%20of%20Interest%20Letter-Template.docx)

### Required Supporting Documents from Student

1. Students must be currently enrolled in a thesis-based graduate program (Masters or PhD) at a recognized, accredited post-secondary institution.  The applicant will be required to provide proof of current registration as part of the application process.
2. Unofficial Transcripts
3. Up-to-date CV
4. Research Plan Statement

### Student Confirmation of Funding

UofC Faculty members must complete a Confirmation of Funding form for their visiting student. Funding must come from the applicant's home institution, the UofC supervisor, or from a 3rd party institution and must meet the minimum requirements of the GSE Funding Policy

[Confirmation of Funding form (for supervisors)](https://survey.ucalgary.ca/jfe/form/SV_8zVGVcnRoXcRpga)

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## Steps for Student to Apply

### [1. Initial Communication between Student/Supervisor](#collapse18781871)

1. Contact prospective supervisor(s)

   As noted above, all Visiting Student Researchers must have supervision from a current U of C faculty member.
2. Supervisor Letter of Invitation

   Once a faculty member has agreed to supervise a visiting student, the supervisor should complete the template for an official "Confirmation of Interest Letter" Please note that this letter is not an offer of admission.

### [2. Student Gathers Required Documents](#collapse1546375869)

The following documents are required for all VS-R applications:

1. Unofficial Transcript(s) and Letter of Enrollment

   All students must submit a current, unofficial transcript or grade record showing activity in a current graduate program.  **If the transcript does not show that the student is currently registered, a letter of enrollment verification is also necessary.**  Because most transcripts do no verify current enrollment, it is recommended that the applicant submit an enrollment verification letter as part of the initial application package to expedite processing.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

   A current Curriculum Vitae can be copied into the application, but it is recommended to include it as an attachment to ensure that formatting and content remain unchanged.
3. Statement of Research Intent

   The Statement of Research Intent is a document written by the applicant and/or U of C supervisor that outlines the research that the applicant intends to carry out while at the University of Calgary.  The statement should clearly outline how the research being conducted will fit into the applicant's research program at their home institution.
4. Proof of Funding

   If the student will receive funding from their home university or from a 3rd party funding source, documentation needs to be submitted that demonstrates that the funding to be received meets the minimum requirements set out in the [GSE funding policy](https://cumming.ucalgary.ca/sites/default/files/teams/13/CSM%20GSE%20Funding%20Policy%20Mar%202024%20FINAL.pdf).

### [3. Student Submits Application](#collapse674736123)

The application process consists of the following steps:

1. Submit Application

   Once all pre-application requirements have been met and all necessary documents have been gathered, the Visiting Student Researcher can submit an application.  In most cases, the application is submitted to the program where the U of C supervisor has supervisory privileges.  When applying, please select the **Visiting Student - Thesis (GSVST) application.**

   [Online Application](https://apply.ucalgary.ca/StudentAdmission/Info.aspx)
2. Pay Application Fee

   Directions for payment of the application fee are provided on the application form itself.  NB: application processing cannot begin until the application fee has been paid.
3. Upload Required documents

   Upload all documents requested above to your application.

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#### Faculty of Graduate Studies

The Faculty of Graduate Studies is the faculty of registration for all graduate students at the University of Calgary.

[FGS Future Students](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students)

#### International Student Services

International Student Services has a wealth of information for international students and are the only office and campus that are authorized to advised on immigration matters.

[ISS](https://ucalgary.ca/student-services/iss/iss)

#### Living in Calgary

Click here to find some resources to help you find the right home during your time at UCalgary. Please note that on-campus housing is generally not available to VSRs in the Fall/Winter terms.

[Housing Options](https://ucalgary.ca/student-services/iss/settling-calgary/housing)