Exchange Programs

How it works

We partner with the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), which in the last 40 years, has grown into the largest global community for study, intern and volunteer abroad programs. ISEP’s partners include over 300 universities in more than 50 countries. With ISEP, students have unmatched access to high-quality academic opportunities, authentic local experiences and exceptional support. Here’s a breakdown of how our partnership with ISEP works:

1. Consider your Study Abroad Goals: First, let us know your academic goals, personal interests, and program preferences through an Intent to Study Abroad form.
2. Begin the Advising Process: Based on your profile and preferences, Ursinus Study Abroad advisors will recommend several ISEP Exchange programs that align with your academic, professional and personal goals.
3. Rank Your Top Programs: You’ll rank up to 10 programs in order of preference. While placement at your top choice isn’t guaranteed, about 85% of students are placed in one of their top three choices.
4. Prepare for an Exciting Placement: Once accepted, ISEP uses your list of preferred programs to place you at one of their host universities. 

 

Our Approach

Our “Purpose-Over-Place” approach ensures that every student’s experience is meaningful, with placements that align with academic or career goals. Instead of focusing on a specific location, we prioritize:

• Academic Growth: Placement at institutions that offer courses relevant to your field of study.
• Career Development: Opportunities for internships, fieldwork, research, or volunteer work to gain hands-on experience.
• Language & Cultural Immersion: Placement in settings that help you expand language skills or experience new cultural perspectives.

This approach allows you to explore new destinations and prepare for a global career while building a strong academic foundation.

 

Things to consider

Studying abroad on a semester exchange program requires open-mindedness, flexibility, and independence. Here are a few important points to keep in mind:

• Open to Adventure: Since ISEP makes placements based on availability, flexibility with location is essential. Many students find that being open to new destinations is rewarding!
• Independent Spirit: Unlike some study abroad models, exchange students often attend universities independently, without a cohort from our college. We encourage students to take advantage of extracurricular activities and student clubs at their host university to make connections and new friends on campus.

 

Financial details

During your semester exchange program, you’ll continue paying your usual Ursinus College tuition, room, and board with your financial aid package applied. If you do not currently pay room and board to Ursinus College, you will be required to pay Ursinus room and board while abroad to cover the cost of accommodations and meals at your host university.

Additional Costs to Budget For:

• • Round-Trip Airfare: Plan for flights to and from your host country.
  • Passport and Visa Fees: These are necessary for international travel and entry into your host country.
  • Books and Supplies: Textbooks, notebooks, and other class materials needed for your courses abroad.
  • Local Transportation: Public transit, taxis, or other travel within your host city.
  • Personal Spending: Funds for dining out, cultural experiences, and other personal expenses.
  • Leisure Travel: If you plan to explore nearby cities or countries, budget for this additional travel.

 

Application Process

Our application process is designed to ensure your readiness and match you with the best options for a meaningful semester abroad. Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Step 1 – Submit our Intent to Study Abroad Form: Fill out the form with your personal information, academic profile, and program preferences by November 25, 2024.
2. Step 2 – Receive Program Recommendations: Based on your goals, your UC Study Abroad Advisor will email you a tailored list of recommended programs by December 6th.
3. Step 3 – Internal Application: Submit your internal (Ursinus) application, including your transcript, advisor recommendation, and details regarding your learning goals.
4. Step 4 – ISEP Application: Once approved by our college, submit your external application to ISEP. You’ll rank your top 10 program choices, and ISEP’s algorithm will place you based on exchange space available and the academic fit of each host institution on your list.

 

Your journey to a life-changing semester abroad begins here. This will be an enriching experience that prepares you to think globally, engage confidently with other cultures, and open up doors to so many exciting opportunities. Let’s get started— click the button below to complete your Intent to Study Abroad form today and start exploring the world with us!