If you're an undergraduate student, you may be able to spend a semester or year abroad studying at one of our partner universities.
When you can go
If you spend a semester studying abroad, you'll usually go in the second semester of your second year.
If you spend a full year abroad, you'll go between your second and third year – this will turn your degree into a four-year programme.
Options and timings will vary depending on your degree.
Where you can go
The university you can go on an exchange with will depend on your course.
You can find out what your options are in the Global opportunities section on Blackboard.
If your course doesn't have the option of an exchange, you can still explore other short-term opportunities to work or study abroad.
What you'll study
You'll study a course that's either closely related to your degree or that broadens your academic studies.
You’ll receive academic support from your Academic Exchange Coordinator both before you go and while you’re abroad.
Will it count towards my degree?
Year-long exchanges
Grades from your host university won't be converted into UK marks, but you'll gain 120 UK credits after you complete your year abroad.
Your degree title will also reflect your experience. For example:
BA (Hons) Spanish and International Relations with International Experience
Semester exchanges
Marks from many partner universities will be converted so they can count towards your degree.
Speak to your Academic Exchange Coordinator for full details based on your course – you can find their details on Blackboard.
Fees and funding
Full-year exchanges
Depending on the Westminster college you study at, you may be eligible for a discounted tuition fee. For details, contact the Student Centre.
You may also be eligible for funding via the Turing Scheme.
You won't pay any tuition fees to your host university.
Semester exchanges
You'll pay your tuition fee to the University of Westminster, and you won't pay any tuition fees to your host university.
UK student loans
Going on an exchange does not affect your eligibility for a UK student loan.
Most Local Education Authorities (LEAs) don't offer extra funding, but some might. It's worth getting in touch with yours to check.
If you are eligible for funding through Student Finance England, make sure you let them know you'll be studying or working abroad. They may ask you to fill out a form, which you'll need to get signed by the Student Centre.
How to apply
Find out when applications open, how to prepare and what happens if you're offered a place on our How to apply for a study exchange page.
Student stories
Get inspired by students who've studied abroad by reading their stories on the Westminster Abroad blog.
Contact us
For general help and advice, get in touch with our Student Mobility Team via the Student Centre.