Eligibility and how to apply

Interested in studying abroad?

Most full-time, degree-seeking undergraduate students at DMU can choose to study at a range of universities globally for a full academic year. Students on programmes that are externally accredited are recommended to check with their programme leader if they are eligible, prior to applying.

Applications to participate on student exchange are submitted in the second year (Level 5) of undergraduate study. Accepted students are then required to complete their final year (Level 6) of studies upon returning from the year abroad. Please note, studying on exchange is an additional year that extends your degree duration to four years in total.

This page will guide you through everything you need to apply—from checking eligibility to choosing a host university and submitting a strong application.

Who can apply?

To study on exchange, you will need to:

Be studying in the second year of an undergraduate programme at DMU Leicester on a course eligible for exchange
Be performing well academically, averaging a grade of 2:1 or above and on target to progress to the next level of study
Demonstrate an interest in learning about new cultures and languages
Be actively and engaged in student life and/or initiatives at DMU (e.g. clubs, societies, volunteering)

Application process

Before you apply, start preparing early and research your exchange options carefully. We suggest starting six to twelve months in advance, click here to learn more about the things you should consider. Remember to also check with your personal tutor and programme leader to make sure an exchange fits into your degree.

Key dates

Applications open at 9am on Monday 27 October 2025
Applications close at 9am on Monday 12 January 2026

How to apply

To apply, you will need to complete the below three steps:

Attend an information session

It is mandatory to have attended one information session before you submit an application.

Check out the dates

Submit online application form

Here you can select your two preferred host universities and provide some required details.

Launching soon

Submit video application via Shortlister

Here you can showcase why you want to study abroad and how you’d represent DMU overseas.

Launching soon

In order for your application to be considered, both the form and video must be submitted by the deadline. If either is missing, your application will be invalid.

Further information

How to choose the right university

When applying to study on exchange there are a number of factors you need to consider to make sure you choose appropriate host universities. Outlined below are some of these key factors that we recommend you explore further when looking at universities and speaking with our team.

Academic offer – your chosen universities will need to offer courses and modules that broadly align with your studies at DMU. To explore your options, please check our [Where You Can Study] page for an overview of partner universities and links to their academic offer information.
When reviewing this information, focus on the modules available, as these are what you will study during your exchange. Each university structures its pages differently, so we recommend using the links provided to locate module details. Please note that not all modules listed online may be available every year, but this research will help you decide if a university is a good academic fit.
Location – consider whether you would benefit from being closer to home with access to cheap flights back to the UK, or if you are comfortable with being further away with less opportunities to travel home throughout the year.
Finances – the cost of living varies significant by country; therefore, we recommend you think carefully about your personal financial circumstances and potential budget.
Disability & wellbeing support – If you currently receive disability support or have a diagnosed condition that requires support or adjustments, this will be an important factor to be mindful of when selecting your university. While support may be available at the universities, it may not be readily available in English or to the same extent that it is at DMU. We recommend you contact our team or the DMU Global Disability Officer at disglo@dmu.ac.uk who will be able to provide support and guidance on this.
Teaching & assessment style – be aware that teaching and assessment methods can differ, such as greater emphasis on independent study, oral exams, or group work. Consider whether this suits your learning style.
Cultural experience – think about what you’d like to gain outside of your studies, such as opportunities to travel, join student activities, or experience life in a new culture.
Accommodation – housing options can vary. Some universities guarantee student housing for exchange students, while others may require you to arrange private accommodation.

How do I submit a good application?

Your application consists of two parts: selecting two preferred host universities in your application form, and then submitting a video application responding to set questions.

A strong application shows thoughtfulness, preparation, and enthusiasm. When preparing yours, consider:

Research your options – explore the academic offer, student life, and culture at your chosen universities.
Reflect on your motivation – think about why studying abroad matters to you and what you hope to gain.
Consider what makes each choice meaningful – this could include academic interests, personal growth, cultural experiences, or language learning, where relevant.
Think about how you will represent DMU – reflect on ways you might engage with your host community and make the most of the exchange.
Demonstrate adaptability and curiosity – consider how you approach new challenges and different cultures.
Plan ahead – give yourself enough time to prepare and submit both your form and video application, and avoid leaving it until the last minute.

Applications that show careful thought, genuine interest, and engagement with the opportunities on offer are more competitive.

Application timeline

November – December 2025

Attend an information session

Before 9am on Monday 12 January 2026

Submit your application

January – February 2026

Application reviews

February 2026

Exchange confirmed

How does the selection process work?

The Global Mobility Office will review your video application alongside feedback about your academic performance and attendance.
In cases where we receive many applications, you may be invited to attend a short interview with our team. This will allow us to find out more about your motivations, interests and suitability.
You will receive the outcome of your application within two weeks of the deadline passing.
The application process is competitive as there are limited places available at each partner university. This means that not all applicants who meet the criteria will be offered a place to study on exchange at one of their preferred universities. Where possible, we will try to offer you an alternative destination.
If you are successful, you will receive comprehensive support in preparation for your student exchange journey, including pre-departure sessions and 1-to-1 appointments.

Mandatory information sessions

This is your first step to learning about how exchange works, hearing from past participants, and getting guidance on how to apply. It is mandatory to have attended one information session before you submit an application. The session will cover:

An overview of student exchange, including funding, fees, and how to select the right university
Practical tips on the application process
Advice from students who’ve been on exchange
Opportunity to ask any questions

Date	Time	Location
Monday 27 October	12:30pm-1:30pm	The Yard, Room 1.02
Tuesday 4 November	1pm-2pm	The Yard, Room 1.02
Wednesday 12 November	12:15pm-1:15pm	The Yard, Room 1.02
Thursday 20 November	10:30am-11:30am	The Yard, Room 1.02
Friday 28 November	11:30am-12:30pm	Bede House, Room 0.16
Wednesday 3 December	11am-12pm	Vijay Patel, Room 1.11 (PD)

If you can’t make any of the information sessions, please email studentexchange@dmu.ac.uk.

Interested in studying abroad in the USA through ISEP? Join one of our briefing sessions to find out how the programme works. Upcoming sessions:

Wednesday 5 November, 12pm-12:45pm, The Yard 1.05
Thursday 20 November, 12:15pm-12:45pm, The Yard 1.02