1. How long?
The first question you should ask yourself is: how long do I want to stay abroad? For example, during your bachelor’s (or master’s) at the University of Twente, you can choose to do an exchange semester in your elective space and study at a partner university abroad for half a year. Another option is pursuing a double degree, where you’ll complete part of your studies at the University of Twente and the other part at a university abroad. You could also opt for an internship abroad or carry out your graduation project at a partner university or company overseas. Prefer a shorter stay abroad? Then check out ECIU University, where you can participate in shorter programmes abroad – lasting, for example, a week or a month. Partner universities also often offer winter or summer schools you can attend.
There are plenty of possibilities – so think carefully about how much time you want to spend abroad and at what stage of your studies you want to do this. Do you see yourself building a career abroad? Then it might be wise to plan your stay towards the end of your studies so that you can start building a network.
Tip: have a chat with your study adviser or your faculty’s exchange coordinator – there may be opportunities you haven’t even considered yet!
2. Where to go?
The key question: where to go? Perhaps you have always had a dream destination in mind, or maybe you want to be surprised by an out-of-the-box location. The University of Twente has more than 250 partner universities in over 50 countries. Visit our website to see which universities have exchange agreements with UT for your specific programme.
When choosing the right destination, it is important to ask yourself: what do I want to gain from my experience abroad? And where would I feel at home? Do you prefer to stay within Europe, or venture beyond? Do you want to study in a country with a culture similar to the Netherlands, or are you open to a culture shock? How about safety? And is it easy to find accommodation?
Not only the country but also the university plays a crucial role in your decision. For example, is a degree from this university globally recognised? How does the university rank? What does the education system look like, and does it suit you? And more importantly: does the university offer courses that will truly benefit your future? After all, you are there to learn ;)
Tip: visit UT’s study abroad fair ‘Let’s GO!’ to learn more about the opportunities to study abroad. It is held every year in November.
3. Finances
Studying abroad can become quite expensive if you don’t pay attention. An exchange semester during your bachelor’s or master’s is often a financially attractive option. If you go on an exchange to a partner university of the University of Twente, you continue to pay your regular tuition fees for your studies at UT and do not have to worry about potentially (much) higher tuition fees abroad. If you decide to study abroad independently – for example, for an entire master’s programme – pay close attention to tuition fees and student finance options in the respective country.
Besides tuition fees, there are many other costs to consider. Think about housing, daily expenses, insurance, and other everyday costs. You will likely go on many trips – and you may even want to travel before or after your studies abroad. These are all additional expenses to consider. So, do your research in advance and create a financial plan in Excel. This way, you will know how much you need to save – you don’t want to come across any financial surprises!
Tip: visit our website to check which scholarships are available for studying or doing an internship abroad.
4. Deadlines
Always important to note when applying to a university: deadlines. How unfortunate would it be if you prepared everything down to the last detail but missed the application deadline? So, make sure to check the deadlines in time. If you choose an exchange semester during your elective space in your bachelor’s or master’s at UT, make sure you start gathering information on time. To give you an idea: if you want to start an exchange semester in September, applications usually need to be submitted before the end of January. So, start your preparations 9 to 12 months in advance. The sooner, the better!
Tip: attend the information sessions (usually held in autumn) organised by your faculty’s exchange coordinator. Check the study-abroad page on Canvas for more information.
5. Accommodation
Studying abroad also means living abroad. In some cases – for example, if you go on an exchange – a (partner) university arranges accommodation for you, but sometimes you will need to find a place yourself (with or without help from the university). Find out in time how this works at your university and start your search in time if necessary.
6. Other matters: insurance, visas, permits, and vaccinations
Made your choice and ready to go? Before you depart, there are some important things to arrange. Insurance is one of them. Additionally, in some cases, you will need to apply for a visa or – if you’ll do an internship – arrange a work permit. Another crucial aspect: vaccinations. In some countries, certain vaccinations are even mandatory to obtain a visa. Want to know more about what to arrange when studying abroad? Check out the website of the University of Twente or the website of the Dutch government (in Dutch).
Tip: attend the pre-departure meeting you will be invited to as your exchange semester approaches. This session covers essential information you need to prepare for your stay abroad.
