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Exchange Application Process

Once you have been formally nominated to participate in an exchange program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, You should have received the link via email from your home university.. Here are some important things to know about the application process before you get started.

Who You Will Work With

When you apply as an exchange student, you will work with Illinois Abroad and Global Exchange (IAGE), an academic college’s study abroad office, and International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). It is important to understand the difference between these offices. Click the boxes below to learn more about each office.

Illinois Abroad and Global Exchange (IAGE) is the campus study abroad office at the university. Your exchange student application may be initially processed by IAGE.

Contact Information for IAGE

Your application may be processed by an academic college’s study abroad office, depending upon your university’s exchange agreement. Upon acceptance to the university, all students will work with an academic college more directly. You can find their contact information and websites on the College Study Abroad Offices page.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is responsible for immigration services for all international students at Illinois, including exchange students. You will be required to submit documentation, complete federally-mandated check-in, and attend orientation with ISSS, as outlined in the application process.

Contact Information for ISSS

  • Mailing Address: International Student and Scholar Services
    432 Student Services Building MC-306
    610 E. John St. Champaign, IL 61820  USA
  • Email: isss@illinois.edu
  • Phone: +1-217-244-0530

Deadlines

The application deadline is cyclical—occurring every year on the following dates.

  • Fall and Academic Year (August start): March 1
  • Spring and Calendar Year (January start): September 15

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

  • Enrollment as a full-time undergraduate student at an institution that has a bilateral student exchange agreement with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. To find out if your university has an active agreement, contact the office or individual who coordinates such exchanges on your home campus.
  • Nomination from your home university to participate in the exchange programs.
  • A 3.0 out of a 4.0 grade point average or a "B" average in all courses.
  • Completion of one year of university education prior to commencement of the exchange program.
  • English language proficiency (see "English Language Proficiency Verification" on the Instructions & Components page).
  • Certified evidence of financial support (see "Certification of Financial Support" on the Instructions & Components page).

Instructions

All incoming exchange students must submit their applications electronically. You should have received the link via email from your home university. Visit the Instructions & Components page for next steps in the application process.