Exchange Programs

What is an Ohio University Exchange Program?

OHIO Exchange Programs are special partnerships that Ohio University has developed with institutions around the world. Exchanges offer students the opportunity to take classes alongside host-country students and other international students, building on intercultural competencies and cross-cultural communication. Students will have a variety of courses to choose from (typically the entire catalog of courses or those primarily taught in English) for transfer credit.

• Funding - During eligible terms, you are able to use your entire OHIO financial aid and scholarship package.
  • NOTE: Most financial aid is NOT available for the summer. Some federal aid can be used/extended (ie. Pell Grants) and some OHIO specific scholarships or stipends may be used. You can also apply for study away scholarships. 
• Credit -  You will earn Transfer Credit. Transfer credit does not affect your GPA.
• Terms -  Programs through our exchange partners are great for semester and year long options.

Who are our Exchange Partners?

Europe

• Denmark: Danish School of Media and Journalism (Photojournalism & Journalism)
• Denmark: University of Southern Denmark (all majors)
• Germany: Augsburg University of Applied Sciences Exchange  (VISCOM only)
• Germany: Leipzig University (all majors)
• France: ESC Dijon (CoB students only)
• Spain: Universidad de Sevilla (Spanish Graduate students only)
• Spain: Institute Qimic de Sarria Barcelona (CoB students only)
• United Kingdom: Swansea University, Wales (all majors)

Asia

• China: Hong Kong Baptist University (all majors)
• Japan: Chubu University (intensive Japanese language study)
• Japan: Musashi University (all majors)

Why go on an Exchange Program?

There are many different reasons students choose to attend an ExchangeProgram, including:

• Greater independence and flexibility of daily schedules that on a short-term OHIO Credit Program. 
• Wide-array of course offerings, as you get to choose from a full curriculum of courses at overseas universities (some exceptions may apply). 
• Excellent opportunity to work alongside host-country nationals and other international students at the institution abroad.
• Develop friendships and connections with faculty and professionals around the world.
• Experiences are immersive and allow for a semester or year in Europe or Asia.
• Programs tend to be cost-effective. Tuition rates are the same as your tuition rate at Ohio University or less! We have some tuition-free exchange options in Europe (Southern Denmark University and Leipzig University).
• Free application process (and you can even apply to multiple programs before accepting and committing to one!) 

How to go on an Exchange Program

1. Narrow down options and select a program.
   • Review program details, cost, and application requirements on the Browse by Program Page.
   • Come in for advising to help compare different opportunities.
2. Apply online!
   • Applications for Exchange Programs can be found in the OGO Student Portal.
   • Application requirements vary by program. You may be required to submit a personal statement, list of intended courses, and/or provide letters of recommendation/reference information. 
   • Applicants will interview with exchange coordinator, Kirsten Dabelko, to determine if the program and student are a good fit for each other. 
3. Accept nomination and pay deposit
   • Program director(s) and the exchange coordinator will review applications and select the students they wish to nominate for the program. Student are then offered a spot on the program via email.
   • Students who wish to participate on the program must confirm their spot by (1) Accepting their nomination in the OGO Student Portal AND (2) Paying their deposit to secure their spot on the program. 
     • Typically, nominated students have two weeks to confirm their spot by completing the steps outlined in the nomination email. After that point in time, other students may be nominated in their place.
4. Complete the Global Experiences Transfer Credit Approval Process in the OGO Student Portal. 
   • The Admissions Approval and Academic Approval tabs outline a pre-approval process required for all students participating in an international program who plan to receive transfer credit for their experience. This process assists students to:
     • Maintain enrollment as an Ohio University student while away.  
     • Set realistic expectations regarding transfer credit and determine how courses may transfer back to Ohio University.
   • NOTE: This process may be completed by a student before they apply, or during the application and nomination process.
5. Prepare and GO!
   • Finalize your application in the OGO Student Portal by week 10 the semester prior to departure.
   • Complete mandatory Bobcats Abroad pre-departure orientation to prepare for your exciting travels!
   • Enroll in International SOS MyTrips and submit travel details. 
   • Participate in any additional pre-departure meetings for OHIO Exchange programs.
   • Once on-site, complete a Verification of Overseas Enrollment Form. 

Did you know? We have a recommended 1-credit hour Pre-Departure Course: INST 1001 "Cross-Cultural Preparation for Study Abroad." This half-semester course can be taken the semester prior to departure and helps students prepare for their experience abroad!