Go Global 2026/27 Semester Abroad Guide
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MADELEINE WEBB GRAPHIC DESIGN NUOVA ACCADEMIA DI BELLE ARTI, ITALY
1 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
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What is a Semester Abroad? Our Semester Abroad Programme gives you the opportunity to do part of your degree at one of our partner universities abroad. You will remain a Bath Spa student while you are abroad.
Apply here
Your placement will be for one semester during the second year of your undergraduate degree. The semester at your host university is usually around 4 - 5 months. The application form can be found on the Bath Spa webpage:
Instead of the teaching and learning at Bath Spa, you would study and take the assessments at one of our international partner universities for one semester. Doing a semester abroad is an excellent opportunity to experience education in a different country, immerse yourself in a new culture, and have a life changing experience!
www.bathspa.ac.uk/students/international/go-global/ semester-abroad
To be eligible you need to: •
Have achieved a minimum grade of 55% at application stage, and 60% (2:1) average grade at the end of your first year of studies.
•
Apply by Wednesday 10 February 2027, at midday.
•
You will need to make a £50 deposit alongside your application. This will be returned to you when you arrive at your host university.*
•
Your attendance record will be taken into account.
ISSY JONES BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (MARKETING) WITH PPY *See terms and conditions on the application form.
HURON UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, CANADA
Please note that BSU’s Semester Abroad opportunities are only available to direct delivery students studying in Bath or at BSUL.
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 2
Who we are
Liz
LIZ PULLEN (SHE/HER)
Andy ANDY BOYNS (HE/HIM)
Global Exchange Advisor Pop in and see Andy if you are an inbound exchange student!
Global Exchange Advisor
Naomi NAOMI SANI (SHE/HER)
Global Exchange Advisor
Go Global Office G02
Chat with Naomi and Liz about going on your semester abroad!
The Go Global Office is in Main House, room G02, on Newton Park Campus. We are open Monday - Friday from 10am to 3pm, no appointment required! There will also be a member of the team at Locksbrook each Monday 10am-4pm in either the Café or The Street to chat with. Alternatively, if you would prefer to arrange a set time, just email us to book a one-to-one meeting on either campus: goglobal@bathspa.ac.uk For BSUL students you will be advised when we are at your campuses, and in the meantime, please email us!
3 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
How do I apply To apply, please download the application form from our website (www.bathspa.ac.uk/ go-global) and once completed, send it as an attachment to goglobal@bathspa.ac.uk and pay your deposit by Wednesday 10th February 2027, at midday.
Apply here
After we’ve received your application, you’ll be invited to attend a short interview (approximately 15 minutes) with members of the Go Global Team. Your application and interview will both be marked and the grades combined to help us allocate students to our partner universities. After your successful application, we will nominate you to your host university, which will then communicate directly with you from then on. The application process differs between host universities, but they will provide you will guidance notes. You need to stay in touch with your Programme Leader, the Go Global Team, and your host university throughout the application process and while you are abroad.
BETH BURTON JOURNALISM AND PUBLISHING QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, AUSTRALIA
There will be paperwork to complete, and a pre-departure session to attend before you go abroad. The Go Global
Team will be on hand to support you throughout your study placement abroad.
Top tips for writing a personal statement: •
Why do you want to study abroad?
•
Why have you chosen the universities in your preference list?
•
How is studying abroad relevant to your future plans?
•
What would you need to do to prepare to study abroad?
•
Meet the word limit and do not write the bare minimum
•
Use structured paragraphs and proof-read for spelling, punctuation, and grammar
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 4
Timeline 1.
Talk to the Go Global Team, research your options, and attend an information session.
APPLY HERE
Choose from one of these session dates: • Tuesday 8 December 2026, 9:30am or 5.30pm (in person), Main House, MH.1.11 • • Monday 25 January 2027, 2pm (online – email us to request the meeting link)
2.
Complete your application and submit this with your deposit by:
MIDDAY ON WEDNESDAY 10 FEBRUARY 2027
Decide your first, second, and third choice of host university.
BSUL students see page 21 for application deadlines
Submit a separate application directly to your host university according to their process so they can confirm your place.
Attend a pre-departure session with the Go Global Team.
5 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
7.
8. 9.
Complete your risk assessment and other mandatory paperwork.
3.
Attend an interview with the Go Global Team in mid-February 2027.
4.
Receive your results and accept your place by the deadline!
Your performance in the interview combined with your application will impact which university you will be nominated to.
5. 6. If you accept the host university you’ve been given, we will send your name and contact details to this university. This is called the nomination process (see our Semester Abroad guide for details)
Meet other students taking part in a Semester Abroad at our Go Global mixer on Wednesday 10 March 2027.
10. GO ABROAD! Keep us up to date with photos and videos. GET YOUR DEPOSIT BACK!
11. Attend a returners session and Go Global social, relive your experience with other students, and provide advice and guidance for future exchange students.
Our partner universities You must apply to one of Bath Spa's approved partner universities. Please note that the exchange partners listed are subject to change and cannot be guaranteed. We advise that you research a range of destinations when choosing where you would like to study abroad; when you apply you will be asked to select your top three choices. Please check the host university's admission requirements for up to date information, as subjects and modules are always subject to change.
See more information online at our partner directory. Don’t forget to double check the language requirements of the universities you are interested in!
7 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
For combined courses, please look at both of your subject options for information on where you can study on your Semester Abroad. If your host university teaches both your subjects, you may be able to study both. Otherwise, you can split the year so that you study one subject during your semester abroad, and one subject during your semester at Bath Spa. We recommend that you also speak to your Programme Leader to find out where previous students have gone on exchange for your subject. Your Programme Leader may also be able to offer specific guidance on what to look out for in a good course fit for your subject.
AUSTRALIA
MEXICO
• •
•
Queensland University of Technology (2 spaces) University of Technology Sydney (6 spaces)
Tecnológico de Monterrey (2 spaces)
NAMIBIA
AUSTRIA
•
• •
THE NETHERLANDS
University of Art and Design Linz (3 spaces) University of Salzburg (4 spaces, semester 2 only)
CANADA • • •
Concordia University (4 spaces) Huron University College (2 spaces) Mount Royal University (2 spaces)
DENMARK • • •
Aarhus University (2 spaces) Roskilde University (2 spaces) University of Southern Denmark (2 spaces)
FINLAND • •
University of Eastern Finland (2 spaces) University of Turku (2 spaces)
GERMANY • •
Kassel University (4 spaces) ABK Stuttgart (2 spaces)
GHANA •
Ashesi University (4 spaces)
IRELAND •
Maynooth University (5 spaces)
•
University of Namibia (2 spaces) Radboud University (4 spaces)
NORWAY •
Volda University College (2 spaces)
POLAND •
SWPS University (2 spaces)
PORTUGAL •
University of Lisbon (3 spaces)
SINGAPORE • •
Lasalle College of the Arts (2 spaces) Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (2 spaces)
SPAIN • •
Rovira i Virgili University (4 spaces) University of Vic – Central University of Catalonia (8 spaces Vic Campus & 4 spaces Manresa campus)
SWEDEN • •
Stockholm University (2 spaces in each the English and History departments) Linnaeus University (5 spaces)
ITALY
SWITZERLAND
•
• •
•
Nuova Accademia Di Belle Arti (2 spaces, semester 2 only) University of Rome Tor Vergata (2 spaces)
JAPAN • •
Shinshu University (1 space, semester 2 only) Seian University of Art and Design (3 spaces, semester 2 only)
St. Gallen University of Teacher Education (6 spaces) Thurgau University of Teacher Education (3 spaces)
USA • • • •
Bennington College (3 spaces) Columbia College Chicago (10 spaces) Montana State University Billings (2 spaces) Oklahoma City University (4 spaces)
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 8
Where can I study for my subject? BATH BUSINESS SCHOOL If you're studying on a Business and Management pathway, you can explore any of the partner universities listed for BA Business and Management. 1
Business and Management
8
Business and Management (Marketing)
2
Business and Management (Accounting)
9
Business and Management (Tourism Management)
3
Business and Management and Economics
10
Fashion Marketing and Management - Sem 2 only
4
Business and Management (Entrepreneurship)
11
Law
5
Business and Management (Festivals and Events)
12
Marketing - Sem 2 only
6
Business and Management (Human Resource Management)
13
Sports Management
7
Business and Management (International Business)
MADDY LAWRENCE BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (MARKETING) TOR VERGATA, ITALY
9 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
Ashesi University
COURSE 1
2
3
4
Ghana
Columbia College Chicago
USA
Concordia University
Canada, MT
Huron University College
Canada, ON
Lasalle College of the Arts
Singapore
Linnaeus University
Sweden
Maynooth University
Ireland
Montana State University Billings
USA, MT
Mount Royal University
Canada, AB
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti
Italy
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
Radboud University
Netherlands
Roskilde University
Denmark
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
Netherlands
SWPS University
Poland
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico
The University of Salzburg
Austria
University of Rome Tor Vergata
Italy
University of Rovira i Virgili
Spain
University of Southern Denmark
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
5
Denmark
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
University of Turku
Finland
University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia
Spain
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 10
SCHOOL OF CREATIVE AND CULTURAL ARTS 1
Creative Arts Practice - Sem 2 only
8
Fine Art
2
Creative Media
9
Journalism and Publishing
3
Creative Writing
10
Media Communications
4
English Literature
11
Photography
5
Fashion Photography
12
Publishing
6
Film and Screen Studies
13
Sports Media Production
7
Film, Television and Digital Production
BLISS GRYCE-BURSTON FINE ART SEIAN UNIVERSITY OF ART AND DESIGN, JAPAN
“I learned from my time abroad that I am twice as confident and ambitious as I knew myself to be. My ability to carve out a life for myself in a foreign country with no previous connections, to find community, make work and learn every day was really affirming and boosted my ambitions to continue to pursue international work.”
11 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH COURSE
UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
Aarhus University
Denmark
ABK Stuttgart
Germany
Bennington College
USA, VT
Columbia College Chicago
USA, IL
Concordia University
Canada, QC
Huron University College
Canada, ON
Kassel University
Germany
Lasalle College of the Arts
Singapore
Linnaeus University
Sweden
Maynooth University
Ireland
Montana State University Billings
USA, MT
Mount Royal University
Canada, AB
Nanyang Academy of the Arts
Singapore
National Taiwan University of Arts
Taiwan
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti
Italy
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
Roskilde University
Denmark
Seian University of Art & Design
Japan
Stockholm University
Sweden
SWPS University
Poland
Taipei National University of the Arts
Taiwan
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico
The University of Salzburg
Austria
University of Art and Design Linz
Austria
University of Lisbon
Portugal
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia
Spain
Volda University College
Norway
*Only suitable for joint hons Creative Writing and English Literature students
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 12
BATH SCHOOL OF DESIGN Please note that due to the accreditation of the degree, we are currently unable to run exchanges for students studying Architecture. 1
Computer Science - Sem 2 only
6
Fashion Design - Sem 1 preference *
2
Creative Computing
7
Fashion Textiles*
3
Creative Computing (Gaming)
8
Games Development
4
Creative Computing (Web Technologies)
9
Graphic Design*
5
Cyber Security - Sem 1 preference
10
Interior Design*
11
Product and Furniture Design - Sem 2 only*
*You should speak with the Critical Design Thinking Studies coordinator (Rachel Bynoth/Rachel Evans) if you are going in Sem 2 as you will miss the CDT5000-20 module. This is fine but you should be made aware and see if your host university offers something similar.
PEARL BAILEY GRAPHIC DESIGN NUOVA ACCADEMIA DI BELLE ARTI, ITALY
“Studying abroad in one of the world’s most beautiful cities has honestly been such an amazing experience. Before coming here, I was really worried about not making friends, but I’ve met some of the most inspiring and incredible women, and I know these friendships will last a lifetime. Living abroad has pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me grow so much as a person, and for that, I am extremely grateful.”
13 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH COURSE
UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
ABK Stuttgart
Germany
Bennington College
USA, VT
Columbia College Chicago
USA, IL
Concordia University
Canada, QC
Kassel University
Germany
Lasalle College of the Arts
Singapore
Linnaeus University
Sweden
Maynooth University
Ireland
Mount Royal University
Canada, AB
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Singapore
National Taiwan University of Arts
Taiwan
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti
Italy
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
1
2
3
4
6
7
8
9
10
Australia
Roskilde University
Denmark
Seian University of Art & Design
Japan
SWPS University
Poland
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico
The University of Salzburg
Austria
University of Art and Design Linz
Sweden
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
University of Turku
Finland
11
University of Vic - Central University of Spain Catalonia
Volda University College
Norway
5
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 14
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION AND HUMANITIES Please note that due to the accreditation of the degree, we are currently unable to run exchanges for students on the QTS course, please do speak to the Go Global Team about other summer opportunities available to you. 1
Education
2
History
3
International Relations and History
4
International Relations and Politics
5
Philosophy and Ethics
CIBELL CISZEK EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDIES THURGAU UNIVERSITY OF TEACHER EDUCATION, SWITZERLAND
"I had a lovely time in Switzerland where I was able to meet many different people and build friendships during my semester. I really enjoyed my time there, and if I had the same opportunity again in the future, I would definitely choose to study abroad again. I gained so much experience and different views on life but also on different education systems. Through the placement provided by the university, I was able to visit a Swiss setting, which was very exciting and a time where I was able to learn so much."
15 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH COURSE
UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
Aarhus University
Denmark
Ashesi University
Ghana
Bennington College
USA, VT
Concordia University
Canada, MT
Huron University College
Canada, ON
Maynooth University
Ireland
Montana State University Billings
USA, MT
Mount Royal University
Canada, AB
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
Radboud University
Netherlands
Roskilde University
Denmark
Shinshu University
Japan
St Gallen University of Teacher Education
Switzerland
Stockholm University
Sweden
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico
The University of Salzburg
Austria
Thurgau University of Teacher Education
Switzerland
University of Eastern Finland
Finland
University of Rome Tor Vergata
Italy
University of Southern Denmark
Denmark
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
University of Turku
Finland
University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia
Spain
Volda University College
Norway
1
2
3
4
5
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 16
BATH SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS 1
Acting
6
Drama
2
Commercial Music
7
Drama (Musical Theatre)
3
Creative Sound and Music Production
8
Music
4
Creative Sound and Music Production (Games)
9
Music (Performance)
5
Dance
10
Theatre, Festival and Event Production - Sem 2 only
MADDISON HILL DRAMA BENNINGTON COLLEGE, USA
“Bennington is a Liberal Arts College, meaning I studied Chinese, Dramaturgies of Care, Dance, and I had the opportunity to study a variety of Visual Arts classes such as Sculpture and Printing. I would never have gotten to do this as a part of my course at Bath Spa. As a creative, I think this was a perfect way to expand my horizons but also turn the spotlight inwards and focus on what types of art or performance I wanted to pursue. I am glad to be back in Bath with this mindset shift and a refined sense of self."
17 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
Bennington College
COURSE 1
2
USA, VT
Columbia College Chicago
USA, IL
Concordia University
Canada, QC
Lasalle College of the Arts
Singapore
Maynooth University
Ireland
Montana State University Billings
USA, MT
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Singapore
National Taiwan University of the Arts
Taiwan
Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti
Italy
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
Taipei National University of the Arts
Taiwan
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 18
SCHOOL OF SCIENCES Please note that due to accreditation of the degree, students studying Psychology (including Psychology as a joint honours) or Forensic Science cannot participate in the Semester Abroad Programme. For any student within the School of Sciences, you must confirm with your Programme leader which semester you can participate in. The information in this brochure is indicative only and may be subject to change. 1
Biology - Sem 2 only
7
Human Nutrition - Sem 2 only
2
Biomedical Science - Sem 2 only
8
Sociology
3
Criminology - Sem 2 only
9
Sport and Exercise Nutrition
4
Environmental Science - Sem 2 only
10 Wildlife Conservation - Sem 2 only
5
Food with Nutrition
6
Geography - either semester, but course preference for Sem 1
AMBER SLATER WILDLIFE CONSERVATION HURON UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, CANADA
“It’s the adventures you take that stay with you. From city life in London to solo trips through Canada’s mountains and snow, this journey has been nothing short of life changing.”
19 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH COURSE
UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
Bennington College
USA, VT
Columbia College Chicago
USA, IL
Concordia University
Canada, QC
Huron University College
Canada, ON
Maynooth University
Ireland
Montana State University Billings
USA, MT
Mount Royal University
Canada, AB
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
Radboud University
Netherlands
Roskilde University
Denmark
Shinshu University
Japan
University of Eastern Finland
Finland
University of Lisbon
Portugal
University of Namibia, Katima Mulilo campus
Namibia
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
University of Turku
Finland
University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia
Spain
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
9
10
8
*
* Lectures delivered in Portuguese but full support and exams in English.
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 20
BSUL HACKNEY AND BSUL CANARY WHARF 1
Business and Management (Hackney & Canary Wharf)
2
Computing (Canary Wharf only)
3
Health and Social Care Management (Hackney & Canary Wharf)
Intake
When you can go
When you can apply
September intake
In either your semester 1 (autumn 2027) or 2 (spring 2028) of level 5 depending on your personal restrictions
Midday, Wednesday 10 February 2027
March intake
In your semester 2 of level 5 only (autumn 2028) of level 5
Midday, Wednesday 29 September 2027*
June intake
Due to the term date clashes, we are unable to run exchanges for June intake students. Please do reach out to the Go Global Team about other opportunities available to you.
* Please note: due to the later application deadline for the March intake students, some of the spaces listed here may have been taken by the main Bath Spa deadline. The Go Global Team will provide an up to date list of the spaces available later in your semester 1.
21 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
THIS IS FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ONLY - PLEASE DO ADDITIONAL RESEARCH COURSE
UNIVERSITY
COUNTRY
Ashesi University
Ghana
Bennington College
USA, VT
Columbia College Chicago
USA
Concordia University
Canada, MT
Huron University College
Canada, ON
Linnaeus University
Sweden
Maynooth University
Ireland
Montana State University Billings
USA, MT
Mount Royal University
Canada, AB
Oklahoma City University
USA, OK
Queensland University of Technology
Australia
Radboud University
Netherlands
Roskilde University
Denmark
Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
Netherlands
SWPS University
Poland
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Mexico
The University of Salzburg
Austria
University of Rome Tor Vergata
Italy
University of Rovira i Virgili
Spain
University of Southern Denmark
Denmark
University of Technology Sydney
Australia
University of Turku
Finland
University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia
Spain
1
2
3
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 22
GEORGE CALVER EDUCATION UNIVERSITY OF STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
REBECCA FARRELL MUSIC (JAZZ) COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO, USA
23 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
Academic considerations Is my place at my host university guaranteed?
You will need to apply separately to your host university after we nominate you, and although it’s extremely rare, they are not obliged to accept you. If you are a student of a subject like Fine Art or Creative Computing, you may also be asked to submit a portfolio of your work.
What does nomination mean?
After you have given us your application form and we’ve seen you for an informal interview, we will allocate you to a host university and get in touch with them to let them know we want to send you there – this is called nomination. They will get in touch with you after that with a separate application process that will be your responsibility to complete.
What will it be like at my host university?
You will take the same subject as you do at Bath Spa, but there may be differences – class size, teaching style, assessment mode, and module type all vary from university to university. It might be harder or easier, depending on your personal style of learning, but your semester abroad is pass/fail, so you bring back credits rather than grades. This means that your grade for your second year rests on the grade you achieve during the semester you are at Bath Spa. Remember that your second year grade counts for 30% of your degree, which means that you won’t be able to ‘drop’ your lowest average marks in your second year.
Which semester should I go abroad in?
Where possible, we generally recommend that you go in your first semester. This is because it reduces the academic risk (see examples below), semester dates don’t always line up perfectly, and it is also usually easier to find single semester accommodation in Bath in the second semester. However, some universities only take students for the second semester, and some courses have module requirements that mean you will need to be at Bath Spa in one semester or the other. Check with us to be sure!
EXAMPLE: You go to Stockholm University in Sweden for the first semester of your second year. Their semester begins in September rather than October. The modules there are worth 15 European credits (ECTS) each, which means you have to take two, because 30 ECTS = 60 BSU credits. You pass your modules and come home. During your second semester you get an average grade of 2:1, which means your final grade for your second year is a 2:1. EXAMPLE: You get a 2:1 average at Bath Spa for the first semester of your second year, and go to Adelaide University in Australia for your second semester, where you have to take five modules because 12 Units = 60 BSU credits. Unfortunately, you fail one of those modules. This means you must complete an additional assignment to make up the missing credits. This can either be done over the summer or at the start of your third year to make sure you have enough credits to progress into your third year.
What else do I need to consider? Visa
Mental health and wellbeing
Please also bear in mind that we are not visa specialists, and you should seek guidance from the international team at your host university. There may be additional costs related to medical considerations such as translation of medical certificates (Spain) or getting a private x-ray (Namibia). You should also check which medications you are allowed to take into your host country.
While you are away, you will still have access to BSU’s Wellbeing Services, as well as any wellbeing support your host university offers, including their international office. If you’re not feeling happy or well in yourself, talk to someone!
As soon as the host university sends you your official offer letter, you should apply for your visa or residence permit. It’s important to do this as soon as possible, as this can take several months. It is normal as part of the application process to prove you have access to sufficient funds in a bank account and to visit the embassy of the country you want to go to.
Sometimes when you arrive in your host country it can be overwhelming and there is an urge to immediately return home. It’s really important that if you are feeling uncertain, you contact us for help. If you have received funding for your semester abroad and you return early, you may have to pay back some or all of your grant money, which is never fun.
Medications and prescriptions
It’s important when going abroad that you have your prescriptions ready before you leave and check the host country’s regulations on incoming prescription medicine. You may need to apply for permission to take medicine into the country, even if you have a prescription for it. Many countries require a doctor’s note to allow you to take more than a month’s supply of any prescription medication into the country, which you will need to organise ahead of time. In some countries, all stimulant medications are prohibited, which includes many common ADHD medications. You may need to switch to a different medication.
25 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
Many countries require vaccinations – scan to check what you’ll need, and ask your doctor for evidence of vaccinations you’ve already had.
Safety and accessibility For managing your mental health abroad, check out Study Abroad’s support guide:
When doing research into your exchange possibilities, don’t forget to consider your personal needs. Reproductive health, LGBTQ+ rights, and disability access can vary widely from country to country.The laws and customs in your host country may be very different to those in the UK, so make sure you familiarise yourself with them in advance.
Insurance
Students undertaking a semester abroad are automatically covered by BSU’s insurance with UMAL. We recommend getting personal travel insurance as well as not everything is covered by UMAL, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Many universities require proof of insurance coverage before they will allow you to enrol with them. Emergency Alert Services such as UMAL’s Crisis24 Horizon provides real-time travel alerts, including those related to safety, security, and travel disruptions. You can select specific countries, regions, or cities to receive notifications.
Check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website for specific advice for your destination country:
Gov.UK foreign travel advice for LGBTQ+ travellers
Gov.UK foreign travel advice for disabled travellers
Medication information
Disability:IN
If you are concerned that a health, wellness, or safety matter may hold you back from going abroad, or if you have any further questions, please reach out to the Go Global Team! SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 26
What does it cost? Regardless of where you study abroad, you'll continue to pay your tuition fees to Bath Spa University. No tuition fees are paid to your host institution, but there are other costs to consider. You'll need to do some research about your financial position and the cost of living in your host country. As a budget starting point, you should factor in the cost of: •
Travel (flights, trains, buses, taxis)
•
Passport and visa fees
•
Health and travel insurance
•
Accommodation costs in host country (including refundable deposits and utility fees)
•
Accessories for housing if not provided (bedding, kitchen supplies)
•
Food costs
•
Additional course fees, books, and supplies (not tuition fees)
•
Additional living expenses (travel around the country, shopping, and going out)
27 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
LOIS BREW ER MEDIA CO M AND PUB MUNICATIONS LISHING SEMESTER A VOLDA U BROAD, NIVERSIT Y COLLEG NORWAY E,
"In terms o f fin surprised to ance, I was find that m y rent in Norway w as very che ap (around £300), wh ich was a m ass difference to what I w ive as paying in Bath! Alth ough food is expensive I still think , I sa Norway vs ved money being in Bath, a win win!.”
Most of our partner universities offer help and guidance in estimating your living expenses prior to your departure, but we also encourage you to do your own research to ensure that you'll be able to fund your time abroad. For example, consumer prices in the USA are higher than in the UK. This means that staple items, such as eggs, bread, or pasta, could be considerably more expensive than you are used to!
Student Finance
You will continue to receive any loans and grants you normally get from Student Finance. Please be aware that when you reapply for your loan in the summer before your semester abroad, you will need to let Student Finance know that you’re doing a semester abroad and complete any paperwork they require to support that.
Health Insurance
We recommend that all students get a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) - this is free through the NHS, but does not replace travel or medical insurance. Universities in some countries (such as the USA, Canada, and Australia) will require you to purchase specific health insurance as part of their enrolment process.
Double Funding
Please be aware that students who receive Turing funding are not allowed to receive funding from other pots for the same element of their trip (i.e. airfare, accommodation, etc). For example, students who apply for SFE Travel Grants will not be eligible for the Turing Scheme’s WP Travel Uplift or the additional ‘Readiness to Travel’ funding. If you’re unsure, reach out to the Go Global Team and we can talk you through it.
Find out more about the GHIC
Deposit
A deposit of £50 must be paid when you submit your application for your semester abroad. The deposit will be refunded once you arrive at your host university, so you can make use of this money while you are away!
AZRE SMITH BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT (ENTREPRENEURSHIP) TECNOLÓGICO DE MONTERREY, MEXICO
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 28
Other funding Erasmus+ and the Turing Scheme The UK Government will not be extending the Turing Scheme past 2026/27, but we are rejoining Erasmus+ to replace it. The Go Global Team is currently working to secure access to the programme for Bath Spa students during the 2027/28 academic year. If we are successful in securing Erasmus+ funding for Semester Abroad in 2027/28, this funding will only be to support students studying with our exchange partners in Europe.* Please note this funding is not guaranteed, and we advise that you plan initially as if you are not receiving this additional contribution your semester abroad costs.
I’m funding this entirely with my own savings and earnings – I don’t need any extra funding.
I know what I want to do! What now?
Investigate the cost involved! • Documents like visas, passports, and health insurance • Travel costs • Accommodation (utility fees and essentials like bedding, kitchen items, etc.) • Placement or course fees • Additional course books and supplies • All the things you already pay for here (food, shopping, going out)
29 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
C B b
I need extra funding.
Go on your Glob al Adventure !
Check out our BSU grants and bursaries:
Before you go, don’t forget: • Apply for funding as soon as you can, ahead of the deadline. • Make sure you are not double funding. • Complete all your pre-departure paperwork.
Don't forget there’s money available outside of BSU: • Student Finance Travel Grant • Local Rotary Clubs (look at your hometown as well Bath/London) • Royal Commonwealth Societies across the UK and internationally • GANE Trust (for Art and Design students) • BUTEX annual scholarship competitions • Twinning associations • Talk to local businesses and charities where you live for sponsorship
*Under Erasmus+ funding regulations, if we do not spend our entire budget on European placements, we are allowed to spend up to 20% of that budget on students studying outside of Europe. BSU is prioritising Africa as a strategic priority, but in the instance that this funding is not used, we will then use this to support students studying with our partners in Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan, in that order of priority. Where student demand outstrips funding, funds will be distributed based on those strategic priorities and allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Go on your Glob al Adventure !
Don’t forget to complete any post-trip paperwork!
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 30
R: the law REMEMBE rs; d for rente has change er to rent easi it is much r te sector fo in the priva s now (a riod shorter pe s). of 2 month minimum
Here’s a message from a Bath Spa student letting the Go Global Team, and you, know how they organised their tenancy takeover.
Hi Go Global! Hope you're well, I did in fact manage to find somebody to take my room for semester one. Charlotte sent me a list of the names of everyone going on exchange & I sent a mass email to everyone asking if they were looking for a room (focusing on the fact I am leaving in Semester One, so they would have to be on a Semester 2 exchange). It was pretty easy as thankfully someone did need the room and pretty urgently, so we exchanged Instagram handles and did a call the next day just to clarify everything.
Then she came to meet me and some of the other flat mates in person over coffee, and it went really fantastic! I think I got very lucky and she has signed the lease now with our landlord, who was also very understanding. Cheers, Emily
EMILY CARTER • FILM, TV AND DIGITAL PRODUCTION 31 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
Where will I live? Check out our partner directory to find out more!
Accommodation abroad Accommodation at our partner universities varies widely in style, so you will need to do some research to find out what is available. Check and confirm with your host university about accommodation options and procedures. We are here to help, but organising your accommodation abroad is your responsibility!
Accommodation in Bath Finding accommodation in Bath will depend on which semester you are away. The flowchart below may help you.
Decide to go in S1 Do you need accommodation in Bath in S2?
Decide to go in S2
Will you commute from home for your semester in Bath?
Do you need accommodation in Bath in S2? Note: BSU halls are not usually available for semester 1 only contracts.
No further action required
Want to live in university halls?
Apply to the BSU Accommodation team to go onto the accommodation waiting list for when rooms become available for a semester 2 only contract
Want to live in private accommodation?
Organise your own accommodation Think about buddying up with a student going abroad in the opposite semester to you and organising a tenancy takeover (you will need written permission from your letting agency/landlord). Be prepared to join another house or friendship group rather than expecting someone else to come to you. You can meet other students at our Go Global Socials, or reach out to students outside of those channels completely – consider Joint Living or SpareRoom, or check out the Bath Student Housing Discord server.
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 32
Sustainable travel Many placements, whether they are work, travel, or research-based are accessible by sustainable travel routes. We encourage you to consider how you travel. Why it matters Travel is often the biggest source of carbon emissions for exchange students. Small choices – like taking a train instead of a plane and travelling light can add up to a meaningful impact. Just making one or two of these changes helps support a more sustainable world.
Rail Travel in Europe Map of rail routes:
If you are travelling long distance: • • •
Fly direct when possible — avoid extra take-offs/ landings Look for newer aircraft like the Airbus A350 or Boeing 787, which use less fuel Pick airlines that share information about their sustainability policies or use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Pack light • •
Less weight = less fuel used Take only what you need - ask about shopping locally for essentials
If you are travelling within Europe... • •
Could you use the Eurostar or ferry? Use public transport for travel from Bath to the airport
While you are studying/travelling abroad When possible, walk, cycle or use public transport. Using public transport also allows you to experience local culture and landscapes during your travels!
33 | BATH SPA UNIVERSITY
Eurostar:
Rail Europe:
Seat61:
Interrail:
Things to note •
You will need a valid passport prior to travelling with at least six months left on it after the date of your return to the UK.
•
You are responsible for sourcing your own accommodation both at home and abroad, check out our Partner Directory webpage for how accommodation is approached at each host institution.
•
BSU nominating you to your host university does not guarantee your space. To secure this you will need to apply separately to them after we nominate you.
•
You need to ensure that you are communicating with your Programme Leader, in case you are required to participate in a specific semester at BSU.
•
It is your responsibility to double check that the host university you apply to offers your subject.
•
Attendance at our pre-departure and returners sessions is compulsory.
•
You need to be achieving at least 55% in your first year when you apply, and then achieve a 2:1 (60% or higher) for your first year overall. If you don’t meet these requirements, we may withdraw your space on the programme.
•
You must complete the equivalent of 60 BSU credits during your semester abroad. Your second year grade will be based on the modules you take during the semester you are at Bath Spa.
•
Researching your host country’s laws, healthcare provision, and political climate is both essential and your responsibility. Use trusted sources like news outlets, not just social media sites.
•
Your BSU university email address will be shared with other students on the programme as part of our pre and post-departure activities.
•
If you withdraw from the Semester Abroad Programme, you may have to pay back any funding you’ve received.
•
Very occasionally a few spaces may become available in the summer. If you have missed the main deadline, reach out to the Go Global Team to see if there anything available for you. You may then be able to apply in line with the applicants from BSUL March intake (see page 21). Please note the BSUL students will be given priority at this stage.
•
Make sure you read the terms and conditions on your application thoroughly!
Partner Directory
KATHRYN SYMONDS CONTEMPORARY ARTS PRACTICE UNIVERSITY OF ART AND DESIGN LINZ, AUSTRIA
SEMESTER ABROAD GUIDE | 34
ILLUSTRATIONS BY SOPHS WEBB GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS GRADUATE 2023 @sophsillustrates
www.bathspa.ac.uk/go-global goglobal@bathspa.ac.uk
Information correct at time of printing - summer 2026