Exchange programmes
We're a recognised institution in the Erasmus+ programme, and have links with universities across Europe. We also send students on exchange with North American universities through the International Student Exchange Programs (ISEP) scheme.
If you're a full-time student it's very likely you'll be able to take part in an exchange, but it's important to act early to give yourself the best chance of getting a place. Your exchange will usually take place in the second year of your studies, so you'll need to start preparing during your first year at Plymouth.
It's essential that you tell your programme exchange coordinator and/or subject tutor about your decision to take part in any exchanges, so they can make sure you have all the information you need and check that you meet the selection criteria. They'll also ensure that you're clear about the work you'll need to do whilst you're away and how it fits in with your studies and assessments here at University of Plymouth.
Selection and application process
Whether you can go on exchange will depend on your overall academic record for both studio and lecture-based work. You'll need to have achieved, or will be expected to achieve, 60 per cent to be considered.
Get in touch with us at international.office@plymouth.ac.uk for more information. You'll then need to visit Room 109 in the Roland Levinsky Building where a member of the Programmes Team will help you move the exchange process forward.
Find out more about Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business exchanges.
Be prepared
Once your application has been accepted you can start to get ready for your exchange placement and we offer a briefing session to help you prepare. Although academic and administrative staff can give direction on organising your exchange, a major element of the experience is that you're proactive and independent.
We recommend getting in touch with your host institution by email at this stage — and check out their website too.
Our partner institutions don't always have the infrastructure in place to help with living arrangements, which means you may have to organise your own accommodation. You'll be responsible for arranging your own travel, too. Don't forget to take advantage of student offers to stay within your budget.
Be aware that the timing of your placement may mean you arrive at the host institution during an assessment period and that your taught sessions will begin once this is complete.
Brief checklist:
- introduce yourself to your partner institution
- ensure you have a valid passport
- arrange insurance and medical cover
- make sure you have your bank cards and currency
- provide examples of work (if requested)
- take your Plymouth University student card
- find who you should report to when you arrive
- keep in touch with your home institution subject staff for guidance.