What is an exchange student?

Exchange students are those who study at an institution of higher learning in a foreign country long enough to learn the language and absorb the cultural customs and social life of that country. This usually means spending an entire year in the country. In some cases, there will be special language classes and the emphasis will be on learning the language; in others, you may have your classes in English; and in a few cases, you have all your class work in the native language. Exchange study is not just "to get your feet wet" in another culture; it is for students who are mature, adaptable, able to confront the fear of foreign language immersion, and looking for a challenge.

What are the benefits of exchange study?

As an exchange students you will make friends your age in another country who will be friends for a lifetime. You will probably learn a second language and really be able to think and speak in that language. Your perspective will become global rather than local, as you will see the world from another standpoint. You will learn how to travel and how to survive internationally. You will see and hear firsthand many things that would otherwise exist for you only on TV, perhaps not at all. You will become a broader thinker and more knowledgeable person through experience.

What are the costs and terms of exchange study?

Basically, you will pay EKU tuition as usual, to remain enrolled as a full time EKU student. At your foreign university, you attend tuition free; in some cases, you also receive free housing and meals. You must purchase your passport, which is about $100, and your plane ticket, usually about $1500 to $2000 round trip. In many countries you can teach English and make extra spending money. You will find that many people will invite you to visit their homes, and you will be treated to many gracious gatherings and meals.

Where does EKU currently have exchange programs?

Liaoning University of Technology in Jinzhou, China, where you can study Mandarin Chinese and culture. Visit their website!

University of Yamanashi in Kofu, Japan, where you can study the Japanese language, engineering, arts and sciences, and education. Visit their website!

Hogeschool Avans in Breda, The Netherlands, where you can study international business, economics, and fine arts. Visit their website!

Taegu Haany University in Taegu, South Korea, where you can study the Korean language and culture. Visit their website!

The Magellan Exchange, featuring select institutions in Austria, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, The Netherlands, Finland, England, Australia, and Mexico, offering a variety of programs in business and technology. Visit their website!

Speak with Dr. Neil Wright (859-622-1478 or neil.wright@eku.edu) for more information on exchange programs.