Applications for exchange in 2024–25 are closed. Applications for 2025-26 exchange will open on 2 December 2024 at 5:00pm. In the meantime, students can view full eligibility and further information on Global Opportunities Blackboard (current students only).
Please note that all students must now apply for an exchange at the same time. This is regardless of whether you wish to go abroad for Semester 1, Semester 2 or the full academic year.
Applying for an exchange
In advance of completing the exchange application we would recommend you undertake the following steps in preparation:
- Research the institution(s) or countries you are interested in by going on the ‘Global Opportunities’ section on Blackboard
- While researching, consider potential costs of the host country and host institution(s). Remember to factor in accommodation costs, living costs, travel costs and other costs such as those associated with insurance and visas
- Look at module catalogues on Blackboard for the institutions you have selected and find out who your Academic Exchange Coordinator is
- Please contact the Disability Learning Support Team if you require any additional support or adjustment; the Student Mobility Team works with them to ensure that all students make the most of their exchange opportunity
- Be aware that where possible, students are allocated one of their three choices. However, exchange places are subject to availability and cannot always be guaranteed
More detailed advice and guidance on how to apply can be found on Global Opportunities Blackboard
Eligibility/approval criteria:
- You must be fully enrolled as a Westminster student to take part in an exchange
- You must be enrolled on a programme in which a placement abroad in 2024–25 is either a compulsory requirement or is an optional route on the programme
- If you are excluded or withdraw from your studies at any stage, your exchange place will be terminated
- You must be in good academic standing - this means maintaining an average of 55%. Participation is also contingent on progression into the academic year in which you will go abroad
- If you are not able to progress to the next academic year due to a referral or failed module, your exchange place will be withdrawn
- If you are required to complete a referral and are holding a place at a university in the Southern Hemisphere where the programme of study commences in July or August, the place will be withdrawn
- Please note that some exchange partners require students to be holding an average mark of above 55%
- You must apply for exchange on time via the Engage online application. Applications after the deadline will not be considered
- You must ensure that you are selecting universities that are open to your programme of study
- You must ensure that you meet any language requirements of the institutions you are applying for. This is particularly important if the language of instruction is not English
- Before applying, you should ensure that you are aware of the financial undertakings of the year abroad and that you have researched and budgeted and made your choices accordingly
- Follow advice and guidance from your Academic Exchange Coordinator regarding the most suitable study abroad options for you
- If you are successful, the terms and conditions you must adhere to before, during and after your time abroad can be found on our Terms and conditions page
Students with additional needs
If you have additional needs and have found an exchange that fits with your degree, the first step is to discuss it with your Course Leader or your Academic Exchange Coordinator to find out what support they can give you.
You can also contact our Disability Learning Support team for confidential advice.
The Student Mobility Team would also be happy to meet with you and help you prepare for your exchange.
Next steps
Once you have been confirmed to go abroad, have a look at our pages on what to do before, during and after your trip. These pages will provide you with helpful checklists and tips to ensure that you are fully prepared for your experience.
- Before you leave – What you need to do prior to leaving
- While you’re away – What you need to do when you’re away
- When you return – What you need to do once you have returned
The Student Mobility Team will also provide advice, guidance and support through each stage of your mobility journey.