"Every day was an adventure lived through seeing and breathing a complete new culture different to my own. I met friends I will have for life, connections which one day will be invaluable and memories which will last a lifetime."
— Freya Flindell
Study Abroad USA
International Exchange
The International Exchange programme allows University of Chester students to study for a full academic year abroad at one of our bilateral exchange partners or through ISEP, a network of over 300 additional higher education institutions worldwide.
Our Study Abroad team will work with you to determine the most suitable route to increase your chance of admission.
Why study abroad?
Personal Development
- Life changing experience which will enhance your confidence, independence and organisation skills
- New friends and contacts from all over the world
- Opportunity to explore new interests and exciting challenges like trekking or scuba diving
Academic Development
- Gain decision making capabilities, increased academic interest and open mindedness
- Varying perspectives on your area of study
- Broaden your academic portfolio
Professional Development
- Better prepared for the global job market than vast majority of UK students
- More likely to be employed in graduate level work after graduation
- Employers universally value 'transversal' skills when hiring
- May contribute towards the Chester Difference Award through fund raising, destination specific tasks, ambassadorial activities, and much more.
Study Destinations
Bilateral Partners
You can study abroad for a full academic year at one of our bilateral partners, or even at a different institution each semester:
Australia
- Charles Sturt University in New South Wales: This university is the regional university of New South Wales and provides study in five areas: Health Sciences, Science and Agriculture, Education, Commerce, Art across 6 campuses including a coastal campus in Port Macquarie, located on the mid-north coast of New South Wales.
- Federation University Australia: Mt. Helen campus: Located 10 kilometres from the Ballarat city centre, and 90 minutes by car or train from Victoria’s capital city Melbourne; FedUni Mt. Helen is surrounded by park and natural bushland and is attended by more than 4,500 students. Study is available in courses from the Faculty of Business, Faculty of Education and Arts, the Faculty of Science; and the Faculty of Health.
USA
- Alverno College, Milwaukee: A female-only college, Alverno was described by The New York Times as one of the best higher education institutions serving the needs of students. Milwaukee is only one hour north of the city of Chicago, and is situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan.
- State University of New York, Plattsburgh: Situated in the beautiful Adirondack region of New York State, half an hour's drive from Canada's Quebec border, Plattsburgh offers a variety of undergraduate programmes.
- Wichita State University, Kansas: A co-educational university, situated in the heart of the Midwest. Set in an attractive campus, Wichita State teaches similar subjects to those taught at Chester.
ISEP
The ISEP (International Student Exchange Programme) offers opportunity at additional study destinations around the world. With over 300 institutions in the ISEP network, you're sure to find a university that suits you.
**If you are interested in participating in a student exchange within the European Union, please contact the Erasmus office at erasmus@chester.ac.uk.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for your international exchange year are just 15% of your usual fee. You will continue to pay these tuition fees directly to the University of Chester.
There is also an ISEP exchange fee due the 15th February when your application is submitted, and an additional fee when you accept your final placement. See ISEP for details.
Expenses
There are additional costs which you should be aware of prior to your application. They vary significantly by destination, so please research these thoroughly, and speak to the Study Abroad team for any clarification.
These can include:
- Accommodation
- Subsistence
- Books and supplies
- Medical Insurance
- Travel (including flights home during holidays)
- Visa
- Immunisations
Funding
You may continue to apply and receive Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loans, just as you would do if studying here at Chester.
How to Apply
Deadlines and Important Dates for year abroad exchanges taking place in 2023/24
Applications Open |
1st August 2022 |
Application Priority Deadline |
15th November 2022 |
Application Final Deadline |
30th January 2023 |
Study Abroad Information and Application Q&A Session |
October 2022 |
Welcome to Study Abroad Session |
November/December 2022 |
ISEP Application Q&A Session |
January 2023 |
Final Document submission to UoC Coordinator |
15th February 2023 |
Attend lectures for XXX016: Study Abroad Preparation |
March & June 2023 |
One-to-One Getting Reading to Go Session |
From June 2023 |
Application Process:
- Read the Study Abroad Handbook
- Complete an application form here
Please note this application form is for students who will be studying at level 5/second year in the 2022/23 academic year only. You will need to log in to your University account to access this - You will then be invited to a one-to-one Meeting with the Study Abroad Team
- Attend information sessions
- Apply to placement provider
- Complete all required paperwork/administrative tasks
- Attend lectures
- Attend one-to-one Getting Reading to Go Session
- Go Abroad!
- Share your experience once you have returned from your placement – write a blog, case study or attend Open Days and other events.
Please see the handbook for further information on the application process