How long is the exchange?
Normally, it lasts for one semester. Participating students with extremely outstanding academic performance and under exceptional circumstances may be considered for studying abroad for one academic year. However, note that both the University and the College/Departmental funding support will be provided for one semester, and eligible students may obtain approval only once.
What is the difference between institutional-level exchange programmes and College/departmental-level exchange programmes?
Institutional-level exchange programmes are based on exchange agreements signed between CityU and a partner institutions. All full-time undergraduate students enrolling at CityU from all compatible disciplines can apply for those programmes at institutional-level.
College-level exchange programmes are based on the exchange arrangements signed between the College and partner institutions, e.g., CSE and College of Engineering of University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. All full-time undergraduate students enrolling in CSE programmes of relevant disciplines are eligible for applying for those programmes at College-level.
Departmental-level exchange programmes are established between a specific academic department and partner institutions, e.g., AP Department of Physics, Umea University. Only full-time undergraduate students of that particular department can apply for those exchange programmes.
I understand that I have to fulfill the English language requirement. What is that all about?
Students who wish to participate in exchange programmes using English as the medium of instruction and assessment must meet one of the following requirements BEFORE commencing the exchange studies. Students also need to follow specific language requirement(s) set by the partner institutions, if any.
- A minimum TOEFL score of 213 (computer-based test), 550 (paper-based test) or 79 (internet-based test); or
- A minimum IELTS overall Band 6.5; or
- Grade C or above in one of the following subjects:
(a) HKALE Use of English / English Literature
(b) GCE A/AS Level English Language/English Literature/English Language and Literature (Grade B for subjects at GCSE level); or
- Grade C or above in an English course approved by the Senate for fulfilling the University's language requirement.
I know that I may take the prescribed English courses offered by the Department of English in order to fulfil the English language requirement. Will these courses be offered in the summer term?
Yes, some of these courses will be offered in the summer. However, please make sure that the course that you intend to take is one of those courses approved by the Senate for fulfilling the English language requirement. Note that these courses are not necessarily equivalent to the English proficiency requirement set by your host institution. Please check with your exchange coordinator.
Can I apply for exchange studies if I have not met the English language requirement before the application deadline?
Yes, you can put in the application. However, you are advised to think about ways to fulfill the English language requirement as early as possible. Failure to fulfill the language requirement will result in the withdrawal of the student exchange funds by the University, the College and your programme department.
I have taken a language course entitled Introduction to Journalism. It is not on the approved list of English Courses? Can I use it for fulfilling the University language requirement?
No. To fulfill the University language requirement, you must take and obtain a Grade C or above in one of the approved English courses.
Can I get credit transfer for courses that I take at my host institution?
It depends very much on the level and relevancy of the courses you take in that university. To be sure, you should identify and discuss in detail with your programme leader about the courses that you would like to take at your host institution. Please visit the Academic Regulations and Records Officeˇ¦s Website for the details of applications for credit transfer.
Is academic result a major selection criterion? What I mean is that does a student with a CGPA of 4.1 stand a higher chance than that with a CGPA of 2.9?
Not necessarily. It depends on your performance in the selection interview.
Do I have to pay tuition to the host institution?
No. However, you have to pay tuition fee as well as study-related costs to CityU in order to maintain your student status here. Additionally, please check with your exchange coordinator if you are required to pay some fees to your host institution (e.g., student organisation fee, transportation fee etc), and take these fees into account when budgeting your exchange.
I am currently a second-year degree student. Can I go on exchange during my final year of study?
Subject to the approval of your programme Department and the host institution, you may go on exchange in any semester which fits your study plan. However, please discuss with your programme leader to see if it is practicable.
I will be a final year student next year and would like to participate in the exchange programme. How can I handle my final-year project?
In this case, you should talk to your final-year project supervisor. It may be possible that you start the project earlier, say in the summer term, and complete it when you return. Alternatively, subject to the approval of your project supervisor AND your host department of the partner institution, you may undertake part of your project under the supervision of the College member of the host institution.
Is it easy to find accommodation?
Some overseas universities do not provide accommodations for exchange students. You should approach the International Office/Study Abroad Office of your host institution for assistance.
Although there are subsidies provided by the University and the College, what if I finally find myself not being able to afford my exchange? Is there any loan available to successful applicants? If yes, how to apply?
Yes, there is a CityU Temporary Student Loan for Outbound Exchange Students or Overseas Internship/Activities administered by the Student Development Services. Please click here for details.
I am a student from the Mainland. Can I join the student exchange programme?
As long as you meet the basic requirements (see Eligibility), you may apply for exchange studies. However, you are not eligible for the University exchange funds.
I am a self-financing student. Can I apply for exchange studies?
If you are a full-time student on a self-financing programme, you are eligible to apply for exchange studies but are not entitled to the University exchange funds. However, the College and your programme department will partially finance your exchange expenses on the condition that you meet the credit requirement. For details, please click here.
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