Participating in International Exchange programs is one of the most rewarding experiences for undergraduate students. It gives them the benefit of developing academically, opening new career opportunities, and getting exposed to diverse cultures. If you’re looking for such an experience, this is the guide for you to follow.
What is an International Exchange Program at CU?
At Constructor University, the International Exchange Program is a semester abroad at one of our official partner universities while remaining enrolled at CU, meaning the tuition continues to be paid to CU. Your credits will certainly transfer as long as the courses you want to take are pre-approved.
This program is usually done in your 5th semester after completing your required coursework from the 1st to 4th semester of your studies, while maintaining a good academic performance. And of course, depending on the program you want to go to exchange at, you might need additional GPA or language requirements.
There are different types of exchange programs that you can participate in:
- Partner-University Semester Exchange
- Erasmus+ Programs (within the EU)
- Bilateral Programs outside EU (e.g. USA, South Korea, Japan, UAE, South Africa)
- Internship Abroad (must be coordinated through Career Services and your Academic Advisor)
How It Works – Step-by-Step Process
Step 1 – Speak to Your Academic Advisor
It is highly recommended to discuss your interest in the program with your advisor, preferably in your 3rd or 4th semester. So, book your appointment via email or the advising booking tool. This will clarify your eligibility, help you confirm what subjects you need to complete for your major abroad, and receive application deadlines and supporting documents.
Step 2 – Choose Your Top 3 Host Universities
To choose what your top 3 host universities are go to: → Moodle ➝ “Study Abroad” Page ➝ “Partner Universities List” (filtered by major) Check out the universities’ course catalogs to ensure there are enough major-specific courses available. Some universities might limit course enrollment depending on the department you want to apply for.
Take a look at the credit conversions:
In the EU, credits use ECTS (1:1 conversion)
Outside the EU: use CU Credit Conversion Table and “Study Abroad Credit Transfer Evaluation Principles”
You may ask “Why should I select 3 universities?”.
Well, since you can only be nominated to one university, having 3 options will increase your chances of being placed into one of the universities.
Benefits
The program will provide many benefits whether academic, personal, cultural, or professional. As long as your courses are approved and you complete the required credits, you won’t have to worry about delaying graduation.
Academic advantages:
- Access to specialized courses and labs not offered at CU
- Learn new teaching methods and assessment formats
- Widen your academic perspective beyond the CU curriculum
Personal and cultural advantages:
- Real-life cultural immersion; living in a different environment
- Development of life skills: independence, adaptability, intercultural awareness
- New friendships and international network beyond the CU community
- Increased global awareness and empathy
Professional advantages
- Employers value international experience and cross-cultural skills as exchange students are perceived as proactive, adaptable, and independent
- Gaining skills in communication, teamwork in multicultural environments, and language proficiency.
- Opens up internship/job opportunities for you during your studies or after.
Exchange Student Program Cost
You don’t have to pay any tuition abroad as you will continue to pay your CU tuition. However, you should consider the costs of housing in your host city, daily living expenses (groceries, transportation, phone plan, etc.), and visa and health insurance (depending on the country you go to).
To prepare yourself financially, you can compare costs using the CU cost comparison sheet to get a better idea of your expenses. Additionally, you can prepare a monthly budget for yourself in advance and explore any external funding options if needed.
What costs should I consider?
- Housing in host city
- Everyday living (groceries, transport, phone plan, etc.)
- Visa and health insurance (depending on country)
Although the International Exchange Program isn’t a requirement at Constructor University, it is still a great opportunity for students to grow in different aspects. The process starts with one simple action of meeting with your advisor, and taking it from there you will end up experiencing one of the most memorable and transformative escapades throughout your years in university.
