Completing an exchange of students or studying abroad program offers a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and see the world while still a student. If you wonder what it is all about student exchange and study abroad, here's what you need to know.

What is the difference between an exchange of students and studying abroad?

Student exchange programs allow you to complete a part of your studies at an overseas partner institution under a formal agreement. You remain enrolled with your home organization during this period, and continue to pay your daily fees. You may usually study overseas for one or two semesters, although the duration varies. You must be accepted by your home institution to conduct student exchange, and studies carried out overseas usually count against your back home course. Study programs abroad allow students to pursue study at an institution overseas, but typically without a formal agreement between institutions. This means students are required to postpone their payments to the overseas institution and pay them upfront.

How do I apply to study abroad?

Student-exchange applications can be sent directly to your college. When you apply to study abroad, you will need to submit applications to the appropriate institutions outside of the country. Your home institution will hold a student information session that will usually cover everything you need to know before submitting your applications. This will include tips on choosing an institution and country, as well as accommodation and financial support information.

What are the eligibility criteria?

Overseas opportunities are available to students through study at all levels — VET, undergraduate, postgraduate, and higher degrees. You would usually need to have completed a total of two semesters of full-time study at your home institution to be eligible for student exchange or study abroad. Certain criteria may also need to be met, such as subject prerequisites, minimum academic achievement and language proficiency. Such requirements vary between courses and should be reviewed with the institution concerned at all times. Specific non-academic requirements, such as obtaining a visa and arranging health insurance and vaccinations, are also available.

Where do I get to study?

If you're considering an exchange program for students, you'll be able to choose from a variety of partner organizations similar to your tutor. Most institutions have a wide variety of exchange partners across all continents, particularly large universities. Study programs abroad can be completed at any institution worldwide, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. It can take some work to pick a country and an institution. Your decision may be influenced by your desire to study in some part of the world, or to attend an English-speaking institution, the cost of living, or the links of an institution to your study area.

What are the advantages of studying abroad?

One of the greatest benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to expand your horizons and experience life in a new place. There are also different educational advantages, such as learning in a new context about your field of study, or picking up electives that are not accessible at your home institution. You will also have the opportunity to pick up a new language or develop existing skills if you choose to study in a non-English speaking country. You will also make new friends and develop skills that will be very useful when competing against other job market graduates including versatility, endurance, creativity and problem-solving.