To help you make the best possible application to study on exchange we have prepared some guidance to support you through the application process.
How to choose the right universities to apply for?
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. We recommend that you check our partner matrix for an overview of the programmes on offer at each university.
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. To help you understand costs better we have included a cost comparison to the UK on each partner university advert.
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.
What do I need to do before applying?
Start researching about the student exchange (application process, host universities, finance etc.) as early as possible. We recommend that you do this six to twelve months before applying.
Contact your personal tutor and programme leader for advice, and to check that you can study abroad as part of your degree.
Attend a mandatory information session to learn about the process, destinations on offer and to hear from former and current exchange students. After doing so, you can book a 1-1 appointment for more personalised advice.
How do I write a good application?
You will need to choose two preferred host universities in your application. We recommend that choose you universities with different ‘competitiveness ratings’ to give you the best chance of being successful. Research your choices and make sure you can demonstrate this in your answers.
Be specific in your responses, and avoid making general comments about why you want to study abroad. Instead, focus on your why you want to study at that particular university.
Talk about what you will do to be a good representative of DMU whilst you are on exchange. This may include getting involved in societies and student life, volunteering and your study interests.
Click here to find out more about the application form and find further tips. Please note, this guidance is applicable to all DMU Global opportunities.
Prepare, draft and revise your answers before submitting the application form. There is no need to rush the application submission, but also try to avoid leaving it to the last minute.
How does the selection process work?
The Global Mobility Office will review your answers alongside feedback about your academic performance and attendance.
In cases where we receive many applications (usually universities in North America and Asia) 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 their preferred university. 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.
