Overseas exchange

Studying overseas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that goes far beyond the classroom. Swinburne offers two main types of exchange programs: semester-long exchanges and short-term exchanges (during winter or summer breaks).

As an exchange student, you’ll study at one of our partner universities overseas while:

• Taking approved units toward your Swinburne degree (credit is granted, but grades aren’t transferred)
• Remaining enrolled at Swinburne and paying your usual tuition fees
• Not paying tuition fees to the host university
   

This makes exchange a cost-effective way to live and study abroad. There are many benefits- on exchange, you can:

• Immerse yourself in a new culture and broaden your global perspective- build independence, adaptability, and life skills by living abroad
• Travel to nearby cities or countries during breaks
• Learn a new language or improve your language skills through daily life or structured classes
• Discover new academic perspectives and take courses not offered at Swinburne
• Enhance your resume with international experience and cross-cultural competencies
• Meet new people from around the world and form lifelong friendships

Whether you're after personal growth, global connections, or a fresh academic adventure- exchange has something to offer every student.

Both semester and short-term exchanges offer you the chance to study overseas while earning credit toward your Swinburne degree- but they differ in cost, duration, flexibility, and how they fit into your course plan.

A semester exchange allows you to study at one of Swinburne’s partner universities for one or two full semesters (usually 4–6 months per semester). Semester exchanges are ideal if you:

• Want to fully experience a new culture and university life abroad — from clubs and student events to campus facilities and life as a local
• Have the flexibility to be overseas for a longer period
• Have enough units in your course plan to take 3–4 units (per semester) overseas
• Are interested in building deeper connections in a different culture and environment
   

Short-term exchanges run for 2–6 weeks during the summer or winter breaks and are often more structured or themed. These programs typically include intensive study, cultural activities, industry visits, or project-based learning. Some are taught in English, while others offer language immersion. Short-term exchanges are great if you:

• Have limited time to travel due to work, personal commitments, or course requirements
• Want a taste of studying abroad without committing to a full semester
• Are interested in using electives to study niche topics or classes not offered at Swinburne
• Want to gain international experience between semesters
• Prefer a more financially accessible global experience (lower travel, accommodation, and daily living costs)

In short, semester exchanges offer a deeper and longer academic and cultural experience, while short-term programs are more condensed, flexible, and accessible for students with tight schedules or limited elective space.

Exchange programs are designed to complement your Swinburne degree, meaning you can study equivalent units overseas and receive academic credit when you return.

What you can study depends on:

• Your current course and major/minor
• The partner university you’re interested in and their courses
• How many core, major, or elective units you have available
• Meeting any academic or language requirements of the host institution
   

Academic credit

You’ll need to complete an exchange study plan before going on exchange. This outlines the units you'll be approved to study overseas and how they will count towards your Swinburne degree. You can:

• Complete core or major units (if a good match is available)
• Use your elective units as unmatched units in your field of study, or to explore new areas or study topics outside your main discipline
• Use a mix of both core and elective units.

Some students choose a host university that offers unique or interesting courses not available at Swinburne — a great way to broaden your academic and cultural experience.

Study area

Partner universities offer a wide range of subjects. Some courses may be open to students from any study area, while others may be restricted to specific faculties or disciplines. Availability may vary by semester, so it’s important to do your research.

Be sure to explore the opportunities available to you as a Swinburne exchange student by visiting our list of partner universities.

Language of instruction

Many partner universities offer classes taught in English, even in non-English-speaking countries. However, in some cases:

• English-taught options may be limited
• Some courses may be taught entirely in the local language

Always check the language of instruction and ensure you meet any language proficiency requirements. You may need to submit a test score or enrol in a language course before or during your exchange.

Academic requirements

Each partner university sets their own eligibility criteria, which may include:

• A minimum GPA
• Proof of academic knowledge or study background in certain fields (i.e. one year of study in your Bachelors)
• A portfolio (for design/film & tv programs)
• Specific language proficiency

Be sure to read the partner’s profile on our website and visit their official page for incoming exchange students for the most up-to-date information.

Planning your finances is a key part of preparing for an overseas exchange. When choosing a country or university, carefully consider your overall budget, as living costs can differ greatly between destinations. Expenses will depend on factors like location, duration of stay, and your lifestyle. Major cities may have a higher cost of living, while some locations or countries may be more affordable.

While you’ll continue paying your regular Swinburne tuition fees (and not to the host university), you’ll need to budget for your own expenses including:

• Flights and airport transfers
• Accommodation (on or off campus)
• Daily living expenses (food, transport, phone, etc.)
• Travel insurance and visas (if applicable)
• Passport costs (if applicable)
• Optional travel and leisure activities
• Emergencies and unexpected costs
   

We recommend creating a sample budget early using cost-of-living estimates from your host university, along with other online tools and resources.

Yes- you’ll be supported by both Swinburne Abroad and your host university throughout your exchange journey.

When you are overseas, your host university will provide on-the-ground support, which usually includes:

• An orientation session or welcome program
• An international or exchange coordinator and team
• Access to academic support and wellbeing services
• Assistance with housing or local living questions
• Student clubs or buddy programs to help you make connections
   

If you’re ever unsure where to turn for support, Swinburne Abroad will be your first point of contact. We can guide you on who to approach and liaise with your host university on your behalf if needed, helping to resolve any academic, wellbeing, or logistical issues.

Swinburne Abroad remains in contact during your program and is available to assist with:

• Emergencies or unexpected issues
• Any questions related to your exchange program
• Assistance if you need to return home early or change plans