Information for incoming students

The Exchange Programme 

We have six academic schools with a wealth of modules to select from as an exchange/study abroad student here at UEL. You can find our study abroad module offering here. Below you can find some further information about the programme and what you can expect. 

Duration of Programme

Our academic year is divided into two 12-week teaching semesters:

• Autumn semester: mid-September to mid-December
• Spring semester: January to May/June

You are able to join us on the exchange programme at UEL for a semester in the Autumn or Spring term or, for a fully immersive experience, you can join us for a full academic year.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment methods vary depending on your subject area but can include coursework, exams, presentations or projects.
 You will be assessed in the same way and at the same time as our full-degree students. This may include an examination in January and May/June.
The exam timetable for May/June is not usually published until later in the year, so if your module is assessed by examination you should not make any arrangements for returning home before you know the dates of your assessment and whether these must be attended in person.

So how does obtaining credit work?

The UK grading system may be different from what you are used to and will likely be different than your home institution. 
Each module (this is the term we use for 'course', don't worry, we'll help you master the British jargon when you join us), will be worth 20 credits. Each term, a student must obtain 60 credits and for a full year 120 credits. This means at UEL, a full course load comprises of 3-4 modules.

At the end of your studies with us, you'll receive a transcript with a breakdown of your awarded grades and credit.
UEL credits will be translated by your home institution into their own credit system (e.g. three credits per module for a 16-credit semester system).

Grades

We use the following grading system, when awarding credit and can provide further information in translating these grades into a similar format to your home institution, however they will ultimately make a decision on the conversion:

• 70% - 100%    First Class Honours
• 60% - 69%    Second Class Honours, First Division (also known as 2:1)
• 50% - 59%    Second Class Honours, Second Division (also known as 2:2)
• 40% - 49%    Third Class Honours 

How to apply 

We thrilled you're planning to join us for your study abroad experience! Please view the below information to find out further details about how to apply:

• Step 1. You need to be nominated by your home institution to participate in exchange. Please check with your study abroad advisor to your home institutions steps for applying. 
• Step 2. Once you have been nominated for exchange, please contact the Global Experiences team at UEL for the online application form at educationabroad@uel.ac.uk 
• Step 3. We'll receive and review your application form and will update you on the outcome within a few weeks. If you haven't heard from us or just require an update, you can contact us at the above email address.
   

Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

You should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent and will need to provide a copy of your transcript with your application. If you are graded on a different scheme, you are still welcome to apply – we welcome a range of applicants from different academic backgrounds! 

Language Requirements

If your first language is not English or you have not studied in an English-speaking education system, you will need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency by taking internationally validated tests, such as IELTS. 
The English language requirements for undergraduate (Bachelor) courses is a minimum IELTS score 6, or equivalent.

Deadlines

• Deadline for September entry: 21 May
• Deadline for January entry: 21 October

Applications may be considered after the application deadline if places are still available. It is recommended you apply as early as possible, as applications are considered on a rolling basis. Late applicants may not be able to obtain housing on campus or register for their preferred modules. Please contact us if you wish to submit a late application on educationabroad@uel.ac.uk.