How to apply

La Trobe University has over 80 international exchange partners offering wide-ranging programs and nearly all offer courses in English.

Students should research their institutions by exploring the partner university website for unit availability and features of the institution.

If you want to network socially with other exchange students, visit the La Trobe University Exchange Program Group on Facebook (search for "La Trobe University Exchange Program Group").

Important dates and deadlines
For Deadline / date
Exchange During Semester 1, 2012 Apply By 30 July 201
Compulsory Acceptance Reception 5 August 2008, 6pm -8 pm, Undercroft Lecture Theatre
Compulsory Getting Started Session for Accepted Students 20 August 2008, 3pm ・4.30pm, Social Sciences Building 232
Exchange During Semester 2, 2012 Apply by 20 December 2011
Compulsory Acceptance Reception Date / time / venue TBA
Compulsory Getting Started Session for Accepted Students Date / time / venue TBA

Application form

Once you have researched your exchange destination, you will need to complete the out-going exchange application form (pdf 84kb). The application form will require the following information:

  • Academic transcript: An updated academic transcript demonstrating a 65 (C) or above average.
  • Study plan: A detailed study plan approved by your course and  faculty advisors
  • Reference: One academic and one personal reference. Please ensure that the academic is willing to do this, understands your motivation to be part of the exchange program, and is given sufficient notice.
  • Personal statement: This should cover your motivations, why you want to study at your chosen University, your interest in that particular country and what you feel you will learn from the experience.

Please note that international students are not permitted to apply for exchange programs in their home countries.

Submitting your application form

This application form must be submitted to the Education Abroad Advisor by the application closing date. It is advisable for students to book an appointment in advance, so that there is enough time to discuss their application. Within 2 weeks of the application closing date, students will receive an email indicating whether they have been accepted into the La Trobe University Exchange Program.

Acceptance reception

All successful applicants are required to attend the Acceptance Reception for their approved exchange period. At the reception, students will be provided with their host institution application, information clearly detailing the conditions and responsibilities of the Exchange Program, and essential information for this stage of the Exchange process. Please see the Acceptance Reception dates (these dates may vary each year).

Getting started session

Approximately 2 weeks after the Acceptance Reception, students are required to attend a Getting Started session. This session allows accepted students to ask questions of students who have already been on exchange.

Completed host institution applications must also be handed to La Trobe International at this session. The Education Abroad Advisor will then forward students' applications to the relevant host institution offices.

The Education Abroad Office will be the students' first point of contact until they receive a formal letter of offer from their desired institution. This process can take some time (up to six weeks). If documentation is received directly from the host institution, please notify the Education Abroad Office.

Pre-departure session

The Pre-departure session is the final compulsory session for students before they depart on exchange. This session has been tailored to ensure that students are fully prepared for their semester overseas and covers: health and safety; academic requirements; culture shock; and additional information that will help students during their exchange.

Visas, flights, travel/risk forms, and accommodation

All flight, visa, and accommodation arrangements are the responsibility of the student.

  • Visas
    La Trobe is unable to provide advice on visa requirements. It is recommended that students contact the appropriate Consulate for additional information.
  • Flights
    We strongly recommend that students refrain from making flight or travel insurance bookings, or payments, before receiving an official letter of offer from the host institution. La Trobe University takes no responsibility for any financial loss associated with flight and/or travel insurance bookings.
  • Travel/risk forms
    It is a condition of La Trobe University that all exchange students must submit a travel form at least 28 days prior to their departure. Students traveling to destinations that have been deemed 'Medium' risk and above, must also complete a Risk Form. Please see the City Brief website for the most up to date country information. Additional forms and guidelines are available via the University's Insurance website.
  • Accommodation
    In most cases, accommodation is organised as part of a student's exchange. Students generally choose to live in residential colleges, dormitories, or apartments on or very close to their host university campuses. Some host institutions do not have on-campus housing, but do have services to assist students with accommodation.

Please note that not all Exchange partner institutions are able to guarantee housing.

Travel insurance

It is a condition of La Trobe University that all exchange students must have comprehensive travel and health insurance. Some host institutions may also require that students take out a Health Insurance policy. Students should ensure that they carefully review the acceptance information regarding insurance requirements. All travel and insurance documents must be submitted to your Education Abroad Advisor at least 28 days before you leave. More information is available at the LTU Insurance Office.

Organising credit transfers

When a student finishes their exchange program, the host institution will send an official academic transcript to the Education Abroad Office at La Trobe. This is sent to the student's faculty for assessment. Grades will not be transferred until the student has successfully submitted their final Photo Journal, Video, or Travel Report to the Education Abroad Office.

For further information - visit us at the Global Lounge

Students at Melbourne (Bundoora) campus can access more information on exchange partners at the La Trobe Global Lounge (located on the upper West side of the Agora - next to the Student Guild Office). The office is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11am-3pm.