Want to find out more about the Go Abroad scheme? We've got all your questions answered.
Who is eligible for Go Abroad?
Current UG students enrolled at Birmingham City University are eligible to apply to undertake a period of mobility. You will need to speak to your Course Director or Faculty Mobility Coordinator about the best time to undertake the proposed mobility. Contact your Course Director or Faculty Mobility Coordinator to check the best time for you to participate. Please note that if UG students participate in a semester abroad, this must usually be undertaken in their second year of study.
Please note, deadlines will apply each academic year.
How long can I spend abroad?
You must discuss your interest in participating in a mobility with your Course Director or Faculty Mobility Coordinator and obtain approval for your application.
What if I don't speak a foreign language?
Don't let it put you off! Most of the courses we have links with abroad are taught in English. One of the main objectives of the going abroad is to improve linguistic ability so if you do decide to go abroad it is well worth considering learning a little bit of the basics before you travel.
It may be worth checking whether the partner University offers any pre-sessional language courses. Although your classes will probably be taught in English, it will only enrich your experience to learn some of the local language!
How much does it cost?
Students are responsible for the costs of participating in a mobility abroad, such as accommodation, travel, visa, insurance and living expenses. You won’t have to pay tuition fees on exchange to the partner university, but you will pay your tuition fees to BCU as normal. Please be aware that some countries have specific requirements relating to insurance and you may be required to purchase an additional policy at an additional expense e.g., Australia and the USA. This can be costly, so please bear this in mind when selecting your destination.
Students studying abroad can continue to apply for their student loan and potentially be entitled to apply for travel grants to cover some of your travel expenses if you normally live in England. There’s a different process if you’re a student from Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. For further information see the Student Finance England website.
Will I have to pay university fees?
You won’t have to pay tuition fees on exchange to the partner university, but you will pay your fees to BCU as normal.
Some partner institutions do charge for some services which are not included in their tuition fee costs but these should be highlighted to all students by the partner university upon application. Students are responsible for the costs of participating in a mobility abroad, such as accommodation, travel, visa, insurance and living expenses. Please be aware that some countries have specific requirements relating to insurance and you may be required to purchase an additional policy at an additional expense e.g. Australia and the USA. This can be costly, so please bear this in mind when selecting your destination. For more information please contact the Go Abroad Team.
Will my period abroad count towards my degree?
You will need to discuss and agree this with your Course Director and/or Faculty Mobility Coordinator, but usually you would be working towards obtaining credits at the partner university. If you are to obtain credits, the modules will need to be agreed with your Course Director and/or Faculty Mobility Coordinator to ensure you can meet the learning outcomes of your BCU degree.
What happens once I've been accepted?
Once you've been accepted to participate in a mobility you will receive further information from your Faculty and the Go Abroad Team about the practicalities of your period abroad, including how to apply, accommodation, travel and insurance requirements. You will also be required to complete an exchange application and a Learning Agreement to agree the details of your time abroad.
Will I get accommodation?
Generally our partner institutions offer accommodation to rent within the campus or with local contacts to find your own accommodation. The partner university you plan to apply to will provide further details, but accommodation may not be guaranteed.
Can I apply with my friends?
In many of our partner universities there is more than one place available for students. You may be able to apply with friends but please note that places are subject to availability and handled on an individual basis.
You will be welcomed to the partner university by their support services and the international teams, helping you to adjust to the new environment and to make new friends. There will be plenty of opportunities to get to know new people and to interact with local and international students, so we encourage you to make your own decision about what and where is best for you!
I have another question...
If you have questions about your personal circumstances or just want to chat to a member of our Go Abroad team, get in touch with:
Virginia Garcia
Senior Partnerships Officer
goabroad@bcu.ac.uk
Lucy Stubbs
Senior Partnerships Officer
goabroad@bcu.ac.uk
Kyla Townsend
Senior Partnerships Officer
goabroad@bcu.ac.uk