Student exchanges and Covid-19
In light of the latest UK lockdown, and continuing travel restrictions, the University is currently able to endorse Semester 2 travel only for students with a mandatory study/work abroad component to their degree programme.
Approval will be subject to individual assessment by the Study and Work Away (SWAY) Service and on condition that the destination country has no prohibitive entry requirements (and, if outside Europe, is not in a state of emergency or under national lockdown).
Unfortunately, optional study/work abroad placements cannot be supported at this time due to the current national lockdown which permits only 'essential' travel as of 5 January.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to spread globally, with travel restrictions and local and national lockdowns being implemented with little or no notice, any decision the University makes regarding travel must ensure our duty of care to all students is not compromised. Whilst the University’s commitment to supporting international activities for students has not changed, the current unprecedented situation requires us to balance this carefully against the risk and feasibility of international travel during the current outbreak.
The ever-changing nature of restrictions being implemented globally show no signs of slowing, and it is very likely that travel will continue to be disrupted through 2021. We cannot, therefore, guarantee that 2021/22 study and work abroad activities will go ahead as planned. Students are advised not to make any firm arrangements or financial commitments far in advance of their planned activity. SWAY will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as circumstances change.
For more information, check the latest travel updates and guidance on working and studying abroad.
Exchange applications
Applications for exchanges taking place in the academic year 2021/22 are now closed.
Following the end of the Brexit transition period and the announcement of the UK government’s decision not to participate in the new Erasmus programme (2021 – 2027), students planning to study or work abroad from 2021 onwards should familiarise themselves with new guidance regarding immigration, funding, insurance and more.
Questions about going abroad?
Our services and support
Until it is safe to resume student exchanges, feel free to browse options and advice about how our programmes work so you can plan ahead for future adventures.
Going on exchange? Follow us on social media!
Find people going to the same location you are, ask questions and get hints and tips on having an international experience.
Learn about the different types of exchange offered at the University of Edinburgh.
There are other options for going abroad during your degree, such as Work Abroad, NICE and INCiTE.
Our exchange programmes are open to most students in the Colleges of Arts, Humanities and Social Science, and Science and Engineering. There are various eligibility conditions, such as your subject and linguistic requirements.
People and resources to support you before and during your exchange.