Study Abroad? It might sound cliche, but studying abroad can truly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The opportunity to pursue your academics in a foreign country allows you to not only travel, but also live as a local and immerse yourself in a new culture. Plus, studying abroad is the best way to learn a new language. However, as an international student you might be wondering what the difference is between an exchange program and a semester abroad. 

We’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the different programs to help you determine which option is the right one for you…

Difference between Exchange Program and Semester Abroad – The overview

Studying abroad  is the dream of many students as it gives a perfect opportunity to gain international exposure, learn about a new culture and access highly-acclaimed education programs. The study abroad and student exchange programs provide you with this opportunity; however, the two formats are different

Students who take part in exchange programs pay full-time tuition at their home institution, but they choose their courses and are subject to the policies of the institution they are visiting while on exchange. At the end of the semester or academic year, the grades are entered there and sent to the home university.

When studying abroad, all university policies and procedures apply to students who are enrolled in semester abroad programs. Prior to students arriving at university for the semester abroad program, they pay their university fees and choose their university courses that will be offered at the university.

What is a study abroad program?

When you enroll in a university which is based in a different country, you have to complete the admission process at that university. You will receive a confirmation letter if the university chooses you, allowing you to continue with the rest of the flight arrangements. Consider this scenario: You enroll in XYZ University, so you pay the tuition fees, make housing arrangements, and start the visa application procedure.

Exchange Semester – a partnership between universities

Doing an exchange semester is slightly different since it’s part of your degree from your ‘home university’. There are partnerships between several institutions and universities around the world including many several countries. Therefore, as part of the exchange programs, these colleges switch the students for a short time in order to help them broaden their perspectives and get new experiences – as part of a partnership. As an example, suppose you registered at XYZ University, which has a formal arrangement in place with another XYZ University to exchange students, you will officially be enrolled at XYZ University, but you will also have the option to enroll for a few semesters at XYZ University.

Types of an exchange and study abroad programs

You can choose from VET, diploma, graduate, post-graduate, and PhD programs when you decide to study abroad. International student exchange and academic student exchange are the two categories of possible student exchange programs. Unlike the later course, where students must enroll in a course that is aligned with their research domain, the former course allows students to choose their areas of specialisation.

What are the university fees for each program?

You will be required to pay the course costs to your university if you are enrolled in a study abroad program. On the other side, you are exempt from paying tuition to the host institution if you are participating in a student exchange program while attending a different university. On the website of your university, or during the application and admissions process, you will find information about the exchange program.

What’s the duration of the different programs?

Depending on the graduation, post-graduate, and PhD programs you choose, the length of study abroad programs will vary. Student exchange programs often last for less time, and will only run for one semester.

Who’s eligible?

Your university will set predetermined requirements for study abroad opportunities. For instance, in order to enroll in a full-time post-graduation course, you must have finished your degree program. The criterion is not necessary to participate in a student exchange program, though. As required by your university, you must instead complete a few semesters of your whole course.

Which countries can I study in?

There are a lot of things to think about when you choose to study abroad, including the curriculum, the universities, and the price of tuition. You must choose a nation that supports your academic and professional goals. The location for exchange students will rely on the affiliations with the universities. As a result, be sure partner universities and their locations fit your requirements before choosing a course.

Study Abroad & Exchange Program Student Accommodation

Once you’ve decided on studying abroad or doing an exchange program and selected your university and city of choice, it’s time to find the perfect student accommodation for you. At studentroomrentals.com we help international students find their student accommodation whether it’s student housing, student rooms, or luxury student accommodation. From cosy lofts to private rooms or entire studios and apartments there are plenty to choose from. Take a look at our range of accommodation options to make it easy for you to find the accommodation of choice. Our booking process is easy and our friendly customer support team is always on hand if you need assistance or have any questions.