Application

1st year of study Start talking to your Study Abroad Coordinator. Be aware that to be considered for International Exchange you must have a 2:1 average (60%).
Check 'Where can I study abroad?'
1 February Submit an internal application form to the Study Abroad Coordinator in your College/discipline with your personal statement and two academic references.
8 February Students will be notified and provided with the relevant host institution's application form.
1 March Submit your completed host institution application form to the Study Abroad Manager in the International Office with any required supporting documentation required. 
March (date to be confirmed) Attend compulsory visa session.
March-June Follow procedures from your host university for booking accommodation and registering for courses. Apply for your visa (if necessary) book your flights, contact Student Finance to seek any additional financial support and organise travel insurance.
May (date to be confirmed) Attend the compulsory pre-departure briefing
July-September Courses commence.

Internal application process

Please see the schedule above. It is essential that you forward the internal application form 2013‌ to your Study Abroad Coordinator by 1 February with your supporting documentation. Please note that this needs to be completed promptly, accurately and be accompanied by all official documents required.

Host institution application

Your completed host institution application should be forwarded to us by 1 March. We will forward your application to your chosen university and keep you advised on progress.

Visas

Start filling out the forms and gathering the documentation necessary in April. Do not wait until you have received your acceptance letter from your proposed host university before you start looking at the paperwork requirements. If you have any problems filling out the forms please make an appointment with us. You will not be able to apply for your visa until you have received written acceptance from your host university.

You may be able to apply for your visa online. However, if you are travelling to the US you will be required to attend an interview at the US Embassy in London. You must ring to make an appointment.

To obtain a visa you may be required to leave/post your passport with the Embassy whilst your visa is being prepared. Please check the requirements and do not plan any travel whilst applying for your visa.

Pre-departure/Visa briefing

A pre-departure/visa briefing is held in March for all international exchange students going abroad to help you prepare, and a ‘social’ is held immediately afterwards giving you the opportunity to meet students who have been to your host university and students from the host university.  Details will be emailed to you nearer the time.  We are always here if you have questions or concerns about the process.