STAGE 1: DECISION TO APPLY FOR EXCHANGE

 

 

Firstly, you deserve a massive pat on the back just for educating yourself in the process of how to apply for exchange. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity that many students do not even consider. We have all heard our fellow uni students saying:

Australia has an amazing system that allows you to pay normal fees to your home university whilst attending a college in America, avoiding the expensive international student fees. With an increasing number of students participating in an exchange program abroad, why not take advantage of this and be on your way to the most incredible experience – one that is filled with personal growth, self-discovery, adventure, and most importantly....one heck of a good time!

 

What are the benefits of going on exchange?

Combine study and international travel

It is no secret that Aussies love to travel. If you ever go to another part of the world, you are highly likely to meet another Aussie. Why not combine your passion of travelling with studying abroad to get the best of both worlds? You can focus on your academic advancement whilst also having the opportunity to experience living in a new country.

Immerse yourself in a new culture

Even though we are in a word of globalisation and convergence, there is a distinct culture that separates the USA from Australia. The ability to witness the American college system is a unique opportunity that cannot be missed. It is not just a culture of beer pong and football, but more about understanding the deep American history, their customs and traditions, new foods, new ways of thinking, and most importantly developing new friendships.

Independence

Many students at Australian universities still live at home, have mum and dad do their washing and cooking, and frankly don't get to experience much of a social life at university. This is very different to America where students move out of home at the age of 18 and live independently on college campuses. This will not only be a great practice run for you for when you decide to take the plunge and move out of home, but build independence and resilient traits in yourself.

Build international connections

Going to a new country presents the opportunity to create lifelong friendships, potential future business partners, and point of contacts for when travelling abroad again. New doors can open from your exchange journey through your network of connections. Americans might not know what the word "mate" means (FYI they usually say the word "bro" or "dude"), but exchange is all about mateship!

Study great subjects at great schools

If you thought getting into a good university in Australia was competitive, the American system is even fiercer with millions of high school leavers competing for spots at top schools. Exchange provides an incredible opportunity for Australian students to get admission into some notable American schools. This also provides the possibility of studying unique and interesting subjects such as American History, American Politics etc...

Academic and job advantage

There is a tremendous amount of value that an exchange program can bring to your degree and resume. It shows your prospective employer that you are willing to go outside of your comfort zone, demonstrating your ability to face challenges, as well as your capacity for cultural sensitivity and ability to build relationships. Additionally, if you get accepted into a reputable American college, your chances of getting that job could be all the more sweeter. 

Key questions to ask yourself

Does my degree allow me to go on exchange?

  • Make sure that your university degree allows you to complete a semester abroad as part of an exchange program
  • Confirm that you can get credit towards your degree for these units directly with your exchange coordinator or faculty
  • Check if you need any background knowledge or pre-requisites from the university
  • Contact your university student centre or international services for all related eligibility information

Does it align to my degree?

  • When doing an exchange program, you will be required to enrol in a full time study load
  • Look at the consequences of doing an exchange program and how this will impact your degree. For example, you may need to adjust your subjects/majors

Are my marks good enough?

  • The minimum Weighted Average Mark (WAM) requirement for applying for an exchange program is around 65 for most universities (but check your university's requirements)
  • Maximise your chances of getting into your preferred school as most universities select participants based on marks
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Which Semester should I go for?

  • Think about what will be on during that semester in the USA. For example, football season is in Fall (semester 2)
  • Events and time of year – e.g. Thanksgiving (November), Halloween (October), and Spring Break (March) to name a few. If you decide to go in semester 1, there are usually some hot spots for each college for Spring Break shenanigans, so you may need to talk to some previous students about the best places to go
  • Travelling opportunity – many students like to go in semester 2 so they have the Australian summer to travel!
  • Consider the weather – up north it can get pretty cold from October to February
  • Would you consider going on exchange for a whole year as opposed to just 1 semester? Sometimes there is an option to extend your exchange for another semester. This depends on your university and how many subjects you have left of your degree

Can I afford it?

  • Life is full of opportunity costs and this is no different. Sure, you could save up some money for a deposit on a first home. However, true fulfillments come from buying experiences. Exchange is one of the greatest experiences that will leave you with pure joy and fulfillment. In saying this, it is important to ask yourself if you have the money to afford the exchange trip
  • OS HELP Loan – this is a Commonwealth Government-funded loan scheme designed to help support Australian students completing an exchange program. The total loan amount which you can receive is ~$6,567. Keep in mind there are certain requirements to obtain the loan (e.g. needing to come back to at least 6 credit points of your degree)

  • Keep an eye on the AUD to USD exchange rate. Fluctuations in the rate may make your exchange trip either relatively more or less expensive. Click here to view the latest exchange rate for AUD to USD conversion
  • Whilst you will pay no tuition fees (this will be paid back in Australia), there are numerous costs involved which you need to factor in such as visas, flights, insurance, accommodation, utilities, food, textbooks, fluctuations in the currency, and extra travelling. If you want to go on exchange, start setting a goal of saving a certain amount. See the estimate budget below which shows $15k AUD being a decent benchmark for 1 semester ($8.5k will be required if you are eligible for the OS HELP loan)

(Note: This is a example budget and your expenses may differ)