Short-Term Exchange Programs

In July 2012, the Study Abroad and Exchange Office began offering a selection of intensive Short-Term Exchange Programs for eligible students who are currently enrolled at the University of Sydney.

If you have been concerned about fitting a traditional semester or year-long exchange into your degree, are uncertain about embarking on a long trip overseas or just want to fit in another fantastic international opportunity, these programs could be for you.

Students will study for 2–6 weeks during either the summer or winter break at one of our exchange partner universities and, in most cases, receive credit towards their University of Sydney degree.

This page will be updated as programs become available so check for updates regularly.

Register your Interest

If the deadlines are not yet open, you may still register your interest in a short term program. If you do not see a course that suits you, you can complete the registration and select 'Other', explaining what kind of course you would like to attend and we will contact you if one becomes available.

January 2014 Summer Programs

Applications will open for Summer 2014 Short-Term Exchange Programs in August 2013. Please check back later for more details and an updated list of destinations on offer.

Past Programs

Listed below are programs that have since closed but were offered to past participants.

July 2013 Winter Programs

January 2013 Summer Programs

July 2012 Winter Programs

Short Term Program FAQ's

1. If I go on a short-term program can I still apply for another semester or full year exchange?
   Yes, if you still meet the eligibility requirements for a traditional exchange, you may apply.
2. Can I apply for a short-term program and a full exchange semester/year back to back?
   Depending on the program, the answer could be yes. If you meet the eligibility requirements for both exchange programs then you can apply. Please note that there are different application processes for the two programs – please see our website for more details.
3. I’ve found my own short-term program – can I go to this one instead?
   If you would like to go on a short-term program that is not offered through the University of Sydney, there are a number of issues to consider. Firstly, you will need to pay tuition fees as only programs which are part of the official University Exchange Program have the host tuition fees waived. Secondly, you will need to arrange credit approval and enrolment with your Faculty directly. The courses which are offered by the University of Sydney Exchange Program have credit pre-approved (if credit is available - see individual information sheets for details). Finally, if you are taking a course which is not part of our Exchange Program, we are unable to give any endorsement or advice regarding the content.
4. What is involved in the application for short term exchange?
   Applications are submitted online. You will need to provide your personal details as well as your course details plus a 500 word statement of purpose. We also ask you to include your subject selections where relevant. Once your application has been received by our office, you may be invited to participate in an interview. If you are successful in gaining a place, you will need to complete the application form for the partner institution also.
5. What are the eligibility criteria for short term exchange?
   Applicants will need to have gained at least a credit average (65%) over their degree to date. If you do not meet this requirement, you may be permitted to apply for special consideration. Please contact us to discuss further. Individual programs will have separate eligibility criteria (e.g. some programs may require you to have completed a certain number of years study).
6. How will my enrolment work?
   We will advise you of this procedure once your acceptance into a short-term program is finalised.
7. Can I stay on in the host country after my short-term exchange?
   Yes, if there is time before your next semester begins. You may need to fit in travel before your program starts or on weekends during the course. You could also apply for leave of absence from your degree if you wish to travel for a longer period but you should discuss this with your Faculty before making a decision as it could have implications on the continuity of your degree.
8. Can I still apply for a short term exchange if I don’t meet the academic requirements?
   Yes. If you have strong reasons why an international experience would benefit your degree despite not having a credit average (65%), you may apply for special consideration.
9. I have only taken one year of language classes – can I apply for a short term language program?
   Yes, these language programs are designed for students in first or second year of their language study. The program aims to boost students’ language skills and enhance their language major. Having stronger language skills may boost your chance at a semester/year long exchange place in the future.
10. What costs will I have to pay for the short-term program?
    Tuition fees are waived at the host institution under our exchange program. You will be enrolled at the University of Sydney during your exchange and pay tuition fees in your usual way . However, you will still need to budget for travel, accommodation, activities, meals and personal expenses. Some programs have packaged costs for accommodation and activities etc. Please see individual course information sheets for more details. Some scholarships will be available for applicants to the short term programs and students may also be eligible for OS HELP loans through the Australian Government.