Shanghai

Sessions

You'll get a full schedule and a list of organisations closer to your departure. Sessions will generally run daily from 9am-5pm, with at least two visits or speakers a day.

Sessions will have a strong professional focus and will feature sectors like architecture, media, technology, business, consulting and others. They may take the form of:

• seminars
• workshops
• visiting the workplaces of alumni and partners
• Q&A sessions with alumni of the University
• activities that enhance your understanding and cultural knowledge of the city

Benefits

On the programme, you’ll have the chance to:

• experience working life in the city and gain insight into local employment culture and industry expectations
• ask professionals the questions that matter to you – from their international career journey to how they built confidence and made the most of their time at university
• Connect with students from other courses and explore the city's rich history and culture together
• Build your confidence and communication skills by practising networking in a professional international setting

Participation

To get the most out of the schedule, we ask that you:

• research speakers and organisations in advance
• aim to ask at least one question each day of the programme
• engage actively in every session (eg take notes, contribute to discussions)
• share your experience via social media, photos, videos or a blog post
• complete the Westminster Working Cultures reflective journal

During the programme, it’s your responsibility to:

• Attend both pre-departure briefing sessions - we'll send you dates if you're selected
• Respect the programme’s values, other participants, speakers and staff
• Be on time and take part in all activities and meetings
• Follow the business casual dress code (eg no jeans, crop tops, tracksuits, short skirts or flip-flops)
• Don't use mobile phones during sessions unless instructed otherwise
• Stay flexible and open-minded – plans may change during the programme
• Maintain the highest standards of behaviour while abroad – you'll still be expected to follow the Student Code of Conduct.
• Bear in mind that misconduct may result in removal from the programme or disciplinary referral

Travel

For most destinations, you'll travel by public transport – except for Mumbai and Cairo, which involve group coach travel.

Flights or trains will be to and from a London airport or station. Without exception, you'll need to travel with your WWC group both to and from the destination.

Your travel insurance will be covered free of charge by the University. The programme is subject to normal University risk assessments and regulations, such as those outlined in our fieldwork and offsite working guidance.

Costs

Our programmes are generously funded by the Quintin Hogg Trust. This means we'll pay for most of your costs including:

• flights or trains
• accommodation
• appropriate internal transport at your destination*
• meals that are part of the programme (eg breakfasts, most lunches)

Here's what you'll need to pay for yourself:

• Non-refundable £100 contribution towards the trip
• If required, your travel visa and associated costs
• Your own transport costs to and from the airport or station
• Costs you incur in your free time (eg food, entrance fees, any other costs)

*Please note, in Singapore, you'll need to cover the cost of public transport.

Accommodation

Accommodation will be in university-standard halls of residence or similar. You will be sharing a twin room with another student. Please note: we are unable to make exceptions.

You'll be joined by members of University staff who will support you throughout the programme.

We want to ensure fair consideration to all students, including those who have a disability or additional needs. 

Disclosing your needs can help us explore adjustments to the application process or overall experience.

Please email us at: [email protected]Email us about Westminster Working Cultures.

Group travel

You'll be travelling with a group of other students from various courses and backgrounds. You may not know anyone else on the programme beforehand, but you'll get to know everyone in the pre-departure session, through room sharing and during the programme itself.

While we're unable to create an individually tailored programme, if you prefer a different mode of travel or activities, you can view our range of working and studying abroad opportunities.

Photography

By securing your place on the programme, you agree to us using any image that may be taken of you during the programme to promote Westminster Working Cultures initiatives.

The University often uses photographs and videos of people in our educational activities, including Westminster Working Cultures. Potential publications could include the University website, our social media channels, brochures, prospectuses, leaflets, posters and advertisements in local and national media.

When applications are open, you'll see the key dates and an application button under the 'Next dates'.

To be considered for a place on the programme, you'll need to:

• be a current undergraduate student at the time of the programme
• complete the online application form by the published deadline – we're unable to accept late applications
• if shortlisted, attend a group interview, usually held in person
• agree to the responsibilities we've listed in 'About the programme'
• be available for the full duration of the programme

WWC speakers come from diverse backgrounds and industries, creating a rich learning environment. You’ll gain insight not only from them but also from fellow students.

We’re committed to securing you an inclusive experience and encourage undergraduate students from all backgrounds and courses to apply.

Here's how our selection panel works:

• Shortlisting is based mainly on the quality of your answers to the motivation questions
• We may consider any other work or study abroad experiences you've had as a Westminster student
• We might consider your academic performance
• We'll let you know the outcome after the application period closes
• We're unable to provide individual feedback if you aren't selected for the programme at this time

The WWC selection panel has the following top tips to help you write a standout application for this programme.

Show your personality

We’re not looking for a 'perfect' answer – we’re looking for your voice, your story and motivations.

Avoid generic AI content

If you rely on generative AI to write your answers, your application may blend in with dozens of others and won’t stand out.

Take your time

We'll be able to spot rushed, copy-and-paste answers immediately – this might give the impression that you aren't invested in the programme.

On the other hand, tailoring your application to the programme, and asking someone to check it for spelling and grammar will show your dedication and help you stand out. 

Do your research

Have you researched the destination? You can use what you found to answer questions like:

• How will this experience impact your studies or future career?
• What do you hope to get out of the programme?

Keep it relevant

You have 300 words per question – use them wisely. Be specific and make sure you answer the question we're asking by staying on topic.

Go deeper

If you mention something relevant like a career goal or a skill you want to build, explain why it matters. We want to know specifically which parts of this programme connect to your growth, interests or future plans.

Write at least 100 words

Give us enough detail to understand your motivations. Share your personality and what excites you about the programme.

Just start

If you're unsure how to start, try writing a quick list of your thoughts and organise them by which question they answer. You can flesh out this list by giving examples and specifics. 

Ready to apply? 

As we confirm destinations, you'll see key dates under 'Next dates' above, along with an application button.