Direct Exchange Programs for JCU Degree-Seeking Students
What is Direct Exchange? JCU has direct exchange agreements with several universities worldwide. The program is open to all degree-seeking students who meet eligibility criteria to study abroad for a semester at any of our partner universities. JCU students pay JCU tuition inclusive of any financial aid awards. Students are responsible for the cost of housing, transportation, and living expenses while abroad. Students who reside on campus pay the cost of housing directly to the host university.
Students who are Federal Direct Loan recipients may be eligible to receive federal funding for a study abroad program. Please contact the Financial Aid Office at [email protected] for more information.
Application Deadlines
Fall 2025 applications: Period is open from November 14th, 2024 to January 20th, 2025.
Spring 2026 applications: June 20 - Application period is closed
For additional information, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Coordinator
of Direct Exchange Nadia Spagnoli at [email protected]
Global Experience
Studying abroad allows you to gain a unique global perspective while fostering your personal growth, independence, and resilience.
Build Your Resume
Enhance your resume with valuable international academic experience gained through coursework abroad, extracurricular activities, and participation in volunteer opportunities.
Pay Your JCU Tuition
You won't need to pay tuition to the host university, as you will continue to pay your JCU tuition for the duration of your semester abroad.
Earn Transferable Credits
Stay on track for graduation by taking advantage of the wide array of course options available at your host university and transferring the credits back to JCU.
DIRECT EXCHANGE UNIVERSITY PARTNERS
Adelphi University, Long Island, NY
Ball State University, Muncie, IND
Brooklyn College - CUNY, Brooklyn, NY *
California State University, Long Beach, CA *
California State University San Marcos, CA *
Inter American University, Puerto Rico
Kean University, Union, NJ
Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ
San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
Southern Utah University, Cedar City, UT
Texas Tech University, TX
The New School - Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, New York, NY
University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, TX
University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA
University of Miami, Miami, FL
University of Mount Saint Vincent, Bronx, NY
University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
University of San Diego, San Diego, CA
Virginia Wesleyan College, Norfolk, VA
Willamette University, Salem, OR
* US and dual US citizens are not eligible to attend Brooklyn College or California State University on exchange.
Eligibility guidelines
In order to apply, students must meet the eligibility guidelines outlined below; students who do not meet the eligibility criteria will be considered on a case-by-case basis:
- Completion of English Composition III (EN110) with a grade of B or higher by the time you apply.
- Completion of 30 undergraduate credits or more by the time you participate in the program.
- Completion of 15 or more credits at JCU.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00.
- If you will be going abroad during the first semester of your senior year at John Cabot University, please make an appointment with your advisor to fill out the Petition for Exemption from Academic Policy to waive the last 30-credit residency requirement. Please note that going on direct exchange during the first semester of your senior year may delay your graduation at JCU.
How to apply
Participation in the Direct Exchange Program involves two application phases: students who meet the requirements outlined above must first submit an internal application to the JCU Admissions Office to be approved to participate in the program. Once approved and nominated, students will be asked to apply for admissions to the partner university according to the instructions provided.
Step 1: Have a talk with your academic advisor to see how studying abroad will help you further your academic goals and to get approval to move forward with the application process.
Step 2: Complete and submit the Direct Exchange Program Application along with all required documents by the deadlines. Applications submitted after the deadlines will NOT be considered.
Step 3: The JCU Admissions Office will be in touch with you regarding a nomination decision. If you have been approved to move forward, you will need to apply directly with the partner university you have been nominated for according to the instructions provided by the JCU Admissions Office.
Step 4: Once you have been accepted into a university abroad, you will need to fill out a Course Away Form. The form must be approved by the Registrar’s Office before attending the partner university.
PLEASE NOTE:
- Students participating in the Direct Exchange program will need to register for JCU courses as normal for the semester they plan to study abroad as a precaution in case they are unable to go abroad due to an unforeseen event. Students will be asked to drop the classes prior to the start of the semester.
- Partner universities provide us with limited spots each semester. There is no guarantee that students will be selected to participate into the program nor be selected for their university preferences.
DISCLAIMER:
JCU is not responsible for any delay in graduation due to participation in the Direct Exchange program.
FAQs
I am taking EN110 but won’t have a grade before the application deadline, can I still apply? No, you must have EN110 by the time you apply.
I have a GPA of 2.99, can I still apply? Yes, we will review your eligibility accordingly.
Can I go abroad during my last year? Yes, as long as it is your first semester of your senior year and have submitted the petition for exemption from academic policy.
Can I go for a full year? Yes, students can extend their exchange for a second semester. Please contact [email protected] while abroad.
Can I study abroad during the summer? No, we do not offer direct exchange opportunities during the summer.
Why are other students already applying to their universities, but I still haven’t heard anything? It is because all university partners have their own admissions application timelines.
What if I can’t go at the last minute? We will accept cancellations only for unforeseeable reasons such as, health issues or family reasons.
I didn’t get nominated but I still want to go, what can I do? You can reapply for the direct exchange program for a future semester, or you can look into doing a study abroad experience independently. For more information on independent study abroad, please visit our website at Independent Study Abroad | American Universities Abroad | JCU (johncabot.edu)
Testimonials
During my time abroad at the University of Miami, I had a rich cultural experience as I interacted with diverse individuals from various backgrounds.
Maria Paz Wandemberg
During my time abroad at the University of Miami, I had a rich cultural experience as I interacted with diverse individuals from various backgrounds. The challenging and engaging classes provided a stimulating academic environment, while the warm and welcoming community made me feel at home. The expansive campus with its myriad amenities and activities showcased the university's commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where students actively participated in a wide range of activities, contributing to a strong sense of camaraderie.
Maria Paz WandembergBeing a part of the direct exchange program offered by JCU is to participate in something bigger than yourself.
Olivia DeLaura
Being a part of the direct exchange program offered by JCU is to participate in something bigger than yourself—not only does it broaden your personal borders culturally, linguistically, and educationally, but it allows you to step into a global exchange of ideas, art, institution, and cultural legacy that is unforgettable. My time spent in Paris as an exchange student at AUP was a crucial step of personal fulfillment towards understanding just what it means to be a “global citizen.”
Olivia DeLauraStudying abroad is an opportunity to explore a new country and learn about a different culture.
Naomi Vitiello
Studying abroad is an opportunity to explore a new country and learn about a different culture. JCU offered me this experience that made me grow as a person and made me focus even more on my interests, making me realize how important they are to me. I participated in interesting activities and classes, making wonderful memories that I will keep forever in my heart. I shared my ideas with students from all over the world and learned from their different perspectives.
Naomi Vitiello