You can go on exchange studies both at the bachelor and master's level. At the bachelor level, you must study at a university for at least one year and that you have at least one semester's studies in political science or peace and conflict studies.
Also note that in some cases our partner university only accepts students at one of the levels.
How much should I study?
The exchange program assumes that your foreign studies correspond to full-time studies with a normal study pace, ie 30 credits / semester. This corresponds to 30 ECTS credits per semester in Europe. The number of courses that you need to study in order to come up with corresponding full-time studies varies between the partner universities. Please note that if you fail to complete the courses that correspond to full-time or semester studies, or if you cancel your stay, you may have to repay the entire Erasmus scholarship or part of it.
Where do I apply for exchange studies?
Exchanges applied for at the Department of Political Science: Exchanges in Europe as well as Ryerson University in Canada and Balwin Wallace College in the United States are sought at Rolf Hugoson. Students in political science also seek exchanges in the Nordic countries via Rolf Hugoson.
Exchange places applied for at the International Office, Umeå University:
Nordlys: Exchange studies in the Nordic countries applied for at the International Office.
NOTE! No matter where you apply for exchange studies or if you go out on your own as a freemover, you MUST inform Rolf Hugoson and also discuss course choices with him.
How does the application process go?
This is done in two steps: first you apply for exchange studies at Umeå University (either at Rolf Hugoson or at the International Office); If you are accepted, then you apply for the exchange university.
Where can I find the application forms?
For exchanges via Political Science agreements, you will find the application form under Exchange studies, Exchange program. You fill out the form on the computer and then print it. The form shows which attachments you should attach. If you have studied at a university other than Umeå University, you must obtain a Ladok extract that you enclose.
For exchanges within the Nordic countries and outside Europe, you go to the International Office where you search online. Instructions to the application can be found on the website. IMPORTANT! Inform Rolf Hugoson that you are applying for the International Office! It is necessary for you to be registered during the exchange period - and thus be entitled to study aid!
Can I apply for both the university's and the department's agreement?
Yes. However, if you are admitted to multiple exchange sites, you must decide as soon as possible which one you will accept so that someone else can get the place (s) you do not choose.
Can I apply to multiple universities?
Yes, but you should rank your options. If two or more of your options are equivalent, mention it in your personal letter. If you only have one request, justify this. The more accurate the information, the easier it will be to try to consider everyone's wishes as far as possible.
If the university I am interested in does not exist as a partner for Umeå University or for political science, how do I do that?
You can also go on your own (as a freemover). Then you must, however, arrange everything yourself. You also risk paying tuition fees. You cannot get the insurance that Umeå University pays for those who are abroad within the framework of our agreement.
How is the selection made?
It depends on whether you apply for exchange at the Department of Political Science or at the International Office at the University.
Criteria for political science:
Study successes generally and specifically in political science and peace and conflict studies. Reasons for study abroad, language level and other relevant qualifications.
Criteria at the International Office: See their information
How do I arrange housing?
If there is an agreement on exchanges between two universities, the host institution should help arrange housing.
Do I get a scholarship?
It depends on which exchange program you participate in. In Europe, the Erasmus grant is available. In exchange with the rest of the world, there are no scholarships through the university. The Erasmus scholarship is applied for at the International Office.
The scholarship is applied via a Cambro website
What rules apply to CSN?
You must apply for study grants for studies abroad. In addition, you may need to submit a form (Certificate of Participation in an exchange program) that you receive from Rolf Hugoson. You can also apply for additional study funds for the trip.
Is there any insurance?
Umeå University pays for an insurance (STUDENT UT) that applies to the place of study you will be in. If you plan to travel around the country, or temporarily go home to Sweden during your studies, then you must have an additional insurance!
Note! You must notify us of your travel times so that we can issue your insurance and send it to you.
How much forms should I fill out?
It is a lot:
application to the department or International Office
application to the guest university,
Possible application for housing,
application to CSN,
any scholarship application,
application for credit transfer.
In many cases, the applications are made on-line
Is there a requirement for a language certificate?
It varies. In Europe and the Nordic countries, such requirements are normally not set for Swedish students. In cases where certificates are requested, Rolf Hugoson can write one. For studies outside Europe, see the International Office website
How many points should I read abroad?
Within Europe, 30 ECTS applies, which is the same as 30 ECTS credits. In the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand you usually take 4 courses as full-time students
Can I take any course I want?
You should read courses that, with a generous definition, can be called for political science or peace and conflict studies. It doesn't have to be the same courses you would have taken here at home. On the contrary, it is good if you can take courses that we do not offer. Language studies are not approved.
Do I decide for myself what counts as courses in political science / peace and conflict studies?
No, you have to discuss course choices with Rolf Hugoson. This should preferably be done before you leave, if the course offering at the guest university is completed then. Otherwise, this is discussed by email with Rolf.
When do I choose courses?
It varies. Some universities want the student to apply for courses in connection with applying for their exchange. It is usually possible to change courses once you are in place. At other universities you choose courses only when the semester begins, sometimes you also have the opportunity to try out the courses at the first two weeks before you decide.
How do I register my credits into Ladok?
You must apply for a credit transfer when you have received your grades. This does not happen automatically!
