Information about Selection Criteria
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of students applying to study and work abroad during their studies, and as a result places on our programmes have become competitive.
A number of different criteria is taken into consideration when allocating students to places on our study and work abroad programmes. Being offered a place depends on how many other students apply for the same place and how well you perform during the application and interview process.
Here are some of the main criteria that will be considered for selection:
Grades
To be considered for selection, students must demonstrate capability of rising to the academic challenge of studying in a different academic system and living abroad.
Motivation
A student’s motivation for applying to the study or work abroad programme can tell us a lot about how much they will benefit from the experience. Students should tell us about any academic or professional goals they have that studying or working abroad can help them achieve. We are also interested in hearing about personal goals but remember that this is an academic/professional experience, not a holiday.
Ambassadorial Qualities
The students who are successful in their application are considered to be representatives for ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ and we like to see students who are enthusiastic about representing ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ in a good light in an international environment.
Essential Skills
Studying or working abroad is always challenging, and we are looking for students with the skills to adapt to a new environment, such as good communication skills, independence and a sense of responsibility, resilience, and maturity.
Reference
A good academic reference always makes a good impression. Your referee will need to comment on whether or not they would recommend you represent ³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ at one of our partner universities or a company or institution abroad, as well as give information on your academic performance and engagement with your studies.
Should I apply?
Studying or working abroad can mean a significant change to the timing, structure, and content of your degree. It can be costly, and you may need to dedicate a lot of time and energy to preparing for your placement. It is important to consider the following points before you commit to making an application to study or work abroad:
- Can I afford to study or work abroad in the destination(s) I am applying for?
- What sources of funding, if any, would be available to me while I am abroad?
- What is the average living cost in the destination(s) I am applying for, and do I need to show evidence of affordability (e.g. bank statements) when applying for a visa?
- (Study only) Do the partner universities I have listed as preferred choices offer suitable modules?
- (Study only) Do the partner universities I have listed as preferred choices have entry requirements for exchange students such as a minimum GPA (Grade Point Average)?
- (Work only) Does the destination where I am applying to do a work placement have any official guidance against travelling there (click here to read the FCO Travel Advice)?
- Will I need to arrange support for a special need, disability or learning difference while I am abroad?
- What is the native language of the destination(s) I am applying for, and do I need to learn some of the language before going?
- (International students only) Are there any implications for my UK visa if I choose to study/work abroad?
- Is this the right time to apply?
This is not an exhaustive list of points to consider before applying. Many of the factors students need to consider will be individual to them. Please speak to the international co-ordinator in your academic school before making your application.
Study/Work/Abroad Information and Application Forms
For information please join our Study/Work Abroad Opportunities group on MS Teams .
Study Abroad - Application
Joining the group also allows you to download the application materials and leave messages for the International Exchanges Team.
Work Abroad only - Application
Please make your initial enquiry for the International Experience Year/Work Placement via the My³Ô¹ÏȺÖÚ Request Centre.