Student Exchange is an experience which will be useful in all fields of life. Knowledge in languages, culture and countries, intercultural communication, new contacts - everything the working life appreciates highly. At best, exchange studies provide opportunities for independence, personal growth, open-mindness and tolerance towards different cultures.
Student Exchange is a study period in which exchange students follow normal teaching in their exchange institution of higher education. In addition, the exchange institution might arrange orientation periods or language studies for exchange students.
An exchange study period is usually from three months to one year (3-12 months). Depending on the faculty, the exchange period may begin on the second or third year of studies. At that point, students should have basic knowledge of their professional studies as well as good command on the language the studies will be conducted in abroad. For non-English speaking countries students should have at least knowledge of the basics of the foreign language. Students should be able to cope independently, as well as have their financial and private life in order, and be willing to study abroad.
There are different Exchange Programmes, such as Erasmus, Nordplus, North-South-South. Studies can also take place under a bilateral exchange agreement. The idea behind programmes and agreements is that partner institutions have been accepted by the student's own Degree Programme and they fit in the student's study plans. Also, there are no tuition fees between partner institutions. Some bilateral agreements might have exceptions.
Students who don't have possibilities to take part in Exchange Programmes can get international experience through Internationalisation at home. International activities include also different projects, intensive courses, studies in a foreign language, Degree Programmes taught in English, language studies, international Degree students, foreign lecturers, international organisations and networks, diverse collaboration with foreign universities and other institutions of higher education.
Student Exchange
Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is one of Finland's most international Universities of Applied Sciences. International activities include outgoing and incoming Student, Work Placement and Teacher Exchanges.