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Go Abroad with UCC
Are you interested in studying abroad with UCC?
- Study abroad is open to students during the third year of a four-year degree programme
- Students are welcome to apply to study abroad for a semester or an academic year with one of our exchange partner universities
- Application and deadline details are available under 'How do I apply?'
List of UCC exchange partners:
- Europe (Erasmus)
- Outside of Europe (Study Abroad)
Please click on the website (partner universities) or open the PDF files below.
- Search here UCC Partner Universities
- Please note: This search function is continuously being updated. Please also refer to the below PDF's

Students are not permitted to study at non-partner institutions.
Study in Europe
European Exchanges (Erasmus+)
Please click on the following links to download PDF list of partner universities:
BCOMM study abroad university partners here (EU and non-EU): Options for BCOMM students
Study outside Europe
Non-European Exchanges
- List of UCC's non-European Partner Universities (Right click to open)
- Australia: Only suitable for students studying abroad in semester 2
- University of California: Only students with a 1.1 will be considered (Deadline November)
- Non-European Universities require a minimum of a 2.1 (in 1st year including 1st semester of 2nd year).
- George Mitchell Scholarship- A semester at the University of Maine, USA (open to students studying abroad during 3rd year only)
*Application forms and deadlines are available below (Scroll down this page)
- Step 1- Research where you would like to go (Host university must offer suitable modules to exchange students- Student's responsibility to research)
- Step 2- Apply by completing the application form below (You must be currently in 2nd year)
- Step 3- The International Office will review your application and let you know of the outcome
- Step 4- Speak with your UCC academic coordinator about the modules you will be taking at the host university. They must approve them.
- Step 5- You must attend information sessions held by the International Office
- Step 6- Complete the host university's application form (This will take place after UCC nominate you to the host university)
*Application forms and deadlines are available below (Scroll down this page)
Studying abroad with UCC is not guaranteed and is subject to availability and academic achievements
Requirements:
- You must be a 2nd year student, registered for a four year degree at UCC and you are only permitted to study abroad during your 3rd year of your undergraduate.
- Students are not permitted to study abroad at an exchange partner whilst on a year out.
- Your 1st year and 1st semester of 2nd year exam results will be reviewed. .
- Mathematics- Students are required to also achieve a 2.1 in 2nd year to be considered for study abroad. Your first grades will also be reviewed.
- BEES and Engineering- You must achieve a 2.1 in first year and second year to be elgible to study abroad
- Studying outside the EU- You are required to achieve a 2.1 in first year and 1st semester of 2nd year to be placed in America, Australia, Canada, Singapore, Japan
- The host university you list on your application must offer modules suitable for your degree. It is the responsibilty of the student to research this before applying.
Attention:
Please see below list of degrees that apply directly to their UCC Coordinator and not to the International Office (unless instructed to by your coordinator). Your coodinator will speak with you about studying abroad during the first semester of 2nd year.
- Asian Studies- You must apply to the School of Asian Studies (They manage your study abroad period)
- BA International (Language and non-Language Students)
- BA European Studies
- BA World Languages
- BA Film and Screen Media
- BComm (language)
- BCL Law International
- Epidemiology & Public Health (Students will apply using the below application form but discuss with your coordinator first)
- BA Education Gaeilge (study abroad in semester 2)
Applications for academic year 2023/2024 will re-open November 2022
Application Form |
Deadline to submit application |
Which students are required to submit this application? |
University of California system |
CLOSED FOR 2023/2024 |
All Students *Only students with a high 1.1 in first year will be considered* Limited places available Click to research University of California here |
Study Abroad application You can list both European (Erasmus)+Non-European Countries |
CLOSED FOR 2023/2024 Email for information mb.murphy@ucc.ie |
All students *If your degree has a mandatory year abroad, please do not submit this application. Speak with your coordinator. |
George J. Mitchell Peace Scholarship A semester at the University of Maine, USA |
CLOSED FOR 2023/2024 Email for information mb.murphy@ucc.ie |
Have you worked/volunteered in your community? Open to undergradaute students studying abroad during their 3rd year |
Estimated Cost of Living
Please note: Students will be required to pay their normal UCC fees
Students will not pay tuition fees to the host university but will be subject to other expenses such as
- Accommodation
- Health Insurance
- Flights
- Orienation/Student ID card
- Books
- Meals (US universities may require you to purchase a meal plan)
- +more
Living abroad as an exchange student does not come free, and the costs vary from country to country, and according to the period of time you spend abroad. While you are not charged for tuition at the host university, you will need to budget for flights, accommodation, food and other general expenses.
Studying outside Europe
The International Office has provided an estimated cost of living outside the EU Guide. Information provided is based on information received from partner universities.
A survey was conducted of UCC students studying in the US and Canada about the costs involved- Please right click here for results Cost of studying abroad survey 2021/2022
Studying in Europe
The International Office has produced a guide for Estimated Cost of Living for Partner Universities. Students may also view an Estimated Cost of Living per CountryThe figures are a guideline only to the cost of living in the relevant city/country. These figures are based on the experiences of previous students who have studied abroad.
Students will find further detailed up-to-date information on the partner university website.
Students may also find the following website usefull to in order to learn about the average cost of living abroad: Cost of Living

Click here do download the Erasmus Information Guide: Studying in the EU- Essential Information (ERASMUS)
Does my UCC department have a partner university in Europe?
Please click on the following links to download PDF list of partner universities:
Are all students placed?
- You must be registered for a four degree at UCC and you are only permitted to study abroad during your 3rd year.
- Studying abroad with UCC is not guaranteed and is subject to availability and academic achievements.
Do I get a grant to study in Europe?
All students participating in the Erasmus+ programme are entitled to apply for an Erasmus grant. The Erasmus grant is intended as a contribution to the overall cost of the year abroad, to cover the cost of living differential associated with living abroad. The grant will be calculated based on the total number of days at the host university rather than total number of months. During the academic year students will be required to submit certificates to UCC confirming date of arrival and date of departure.
Click here for more information
Erasmus Grant
What are my responsibilites as a student to succesfully complete my Erasmus?
Students must submit the following documents- please note, this information will be sent to your UCC email address
- Contact Details Form
- Certificate of Arrival Form
- Learning Agreement (Your modules need to be approved by your UCC Academic Coordinator and your host university)
- Certificate of Attendance Form
- Acknowledgement of Erasmus Student Mobility Grant Form
- Final Report
- Erasmus Online Language Assessment
- Request your transcript of records from the host university after examinations
Where can I get an idea of what modules I need to take while abroad?
Please check here for what modules would be taking place for your course in 3rd year
https://www.ucc.ie/admin/registrar/calendar/
If your course has a mandatory year abroad, your academic advisor will discuss with you what you are required to take.
If I need mental or physical health assistance while abroad, who do I contact?
Firstly, contact the host university. They will provide you with relevant information and resources available on campus. They will also provide this information at orientation so it is important to attend that at the start of the semester. If you feel the need to reach out to UCC, please do. We are here to help.
Before going abroad, we recommend bookmarking this great UCC resource https://www.ucc.ie/en/keep-well/
Do I need to meet certain academic requirements to study outside the EU?
- Non-European Universities require a minimum of a 2.1 (overall grade of 60%) in 1st year including 1st semester of 2nd year.
Do I need a visa to study outside the EU?
- Yes, you will need a visa or study permit. Your host university will provide information and paperwork to assist you with this.
- As part of your application to the host university, you will be required to show proof of finances. This can range from 3,000-24,000Dollars (USA) and 10,000CAD (Canada).
- Your host university along with the UCC International Office will assist you with your visa/study permit. We will run an information session in April.
Are all students placed?
- You must be registered for a four degree at UCC and you are only permitted to study abroad during your 3rd year.
- Studying abroad with UCC is not guaranteed and is subject to availability and academic achievements.
Can I apply for the Erasmus grant?
- No, the Erasmus grant is onlyopen to students studying in the European Union
- The International Office does not provide funding. Please check with your college/department directly.
Do I need health insurane?
- Yes, as per immigration and UCC policy, you need to have health/travel insurance.
- Your host university may require you to take out their own insurance. Many of the US and Canadian Universities will have mandatory health insurance and will not waive your Irish health insurance policy.
How much does it cost to study abroad outside the EU?
- You will pay your normal UCC fees (do not pay tuition fees to the host university), however, you are expected to cover all other costs such as student ID card, orientation, visa, flights, health insurance, accommodation, books etc.
- Click here to view each university's estimated costs: Estimated Cost of Living Guide
How do I know if a university is suitable for my UCC studies?
The university you choose must offer suitable modules for your UCC degree. Students must contact their UCC Academic Coordinator and discuss if their preferred university offers suitable modules. Your UCC Academic Coordinator needs to approve of your host university.
Where can I get an idea of what modules I need to take while abroad?
- Please check here for what modules would be taking place for your course in 3rd year
- https://www.ucc.ie/admin/registrar/calendar/
- If your course has a mandatory year abroad, your academic advisor will discuss with you what you are required to take.
Can I go for a semester instead of a full year?
- Yes, students are permitted to study abroad for one semester (September-December Semester)
- There may be an opportunity to study abroad for semester 2, but this is subject to approval by your UCC Academic Coordinator.
- Not all UCC degrees are permitted to study abroad in semester 2 due to work placement etc.
- If your UCC degree has a mandatory study abroad year, then you must go abroad for the full year.
I am going on a J1 to the US for the summer, do I have to come back to Ireland before flying back out?
- Please consult with your J1 summer provider (USIT etc). We do not provide assistance with the J1 summer visa.
- We only provide information on the J1 study visa.
If I need mental or physical health assistance while abroad, who do I contact?
Firstly, contact the host university. They will provide you with relevant information and resources available on campus. They will also provide this information at orientation so it is important to attend that at the start of the semester. If you feel the need to reach out to UCC, please do. We are here to help.
Before going abroad, we recommend bookmarking this great UCC resource https://www.ucc.ie/en/keep-well/
What next?
- The International Office will review your application.
- If you are successful, we will email you offering you a place in one of our partner universities.
- If you accept the offer, we will nominate you to the host university.
- The host university will inform us of their decision following our nomination.
- If the nomination is accepted, they will then ask you to complete their application and upload supporting documents.
- For US universities, from the time you are offered a place by UCC to submitting your application to the host university, the turnaround can be very tight due to their early deadlines. Please familiarize yourself with their application requirements as soon as you can to be prepared.
Are all students placed?
- Studying abroad with UCC is not guaranteed and is subject to availability and academic achievements.
Click below to find out more!
Study Abroad Checklist- What to expect

Responsibility / Code of Conduct
- Be patient- with the paperwork, UCC/Host university staff, yourself and your parents.
- Be proactive- Internet research, make lists, read the information you are given.
- Be respectful to staff- With both UCC and the host university. We are here to assist you throughout the process so we expect you to show respect.
- Email v Text Message- Do not email UCC or the host university using text speech. Address the staff member correctly especially at your host university where they may not tolerate informal emails.
- Take responsibility- As a student in 3rd year, your study abroad period is your chance to step up and take responsibility for yourself. All requirements should be completed by you, the student.
- If you are away for the summer (J1 in the US etc), it is your responsibility to have your paperwork completed in advance. We will not facilitate your parents or friends completing your paperwork on your behalf during the summer while you are abroad.
Registration at UCC and your host university
- Students are required to register and pay their normal UCC fees
- Students are required to register and enrol in classes at their host university
- Students are not required to pay tuition fees to the host university (exchange agreement) but will be responsible for all other costs
Academic Requirements
- You must discuss your module choices with your UCC Academic Coordinator. It is very important that you register for classes suitable for your UCC degree
- You must request an academic transcript (list of your grades) from your host university after your exams and submit them to UCC
- You must pass second year (including repeat exams) to study abroad in 3rd year
Important Forms for Students
The International Office will email you with these forms prior to your departure along with further information.
- New contact details form
- Insurance policy details
- Statement of Responsibility Form
Important Forms for Erasmus+ Students (Students going to Europe)
The International Office will be in contact directly about these forms.
- Certificate of Arrival Form
- Learning Agreement
- Certificate of Attendance Form
- Acknowledgement of Erasmus Student Mobility Grant Form
- Final Report
- Erasmus Online Language Assessment
Visa/Study Permit
Applying for a study visa/permit must be completed by the student. You cannot do this until you recieve information from your host university.
Health Insurance
All students must purchase health/travel insurance.
Please note, the US and Canadian universities may require you to purchase their insurance. This is mandatory for many of our partners and will not grant a waiver.
Meeting deadlines set by UCC and your host university
Students are responsible for meeting deadlines given to you by UCC or your home university.
Knowing where to go if you need assistance while abroad
Firstly, contact the host university. They will provide you with relevant information and resources available on campus. They will also provide contact information at orientation so it is important to attend that at the start of the semester. If you feel the need to reach out to UCC, please do. We are here to help.
Before going abroad, we recommend bookmarking this great UCC resource https://www.ucc.ie/en/keep-well/
Click here: Study Abroad Checklist- What to expect
Before going abroad, we also encourage students to take a look at UCC's Keep Well website:
https://www.ucc.ie/en/keep-well/
Make a list of what you need to prepare for your time abroad
- What paperwork do you need to complete? (Check your emails from host university/UCC)
- Housing address in your host country
- Keep a realistic budget
- Check if you need a visa. If so, what is the process and cost?
- Take note of any deadlines you have (host university and UCC deadlines)
- Academic requirements (Modules, registration, enrolment etc)
- Exam structure of host university
- Your mental and physical health plan while abroad.
Accommodation and Flights
Do not book your flights or accommodation until you have received your letter of acceptance from the host university or your visa (if applicable)
Tuition Fees
- You must pay your normal UCC fees.
- You are not required to pay tuition fees to your host university as we have an exchange agreement in place, however, you will be expected to pay for books, health insurance, orientation fees, visa's, flights and accommodation etc.
Estimated Cost of Living
Studying outside Europe
The International Office has provided an Estimated Cost of Living Guide.
Studying in Europe
The International Office has produced a guide for Estimated Cost of Living for Partner Universities. Students may also view an Estimated Cost of Living per Country
- The figures are a guideline only to the cost of living in the relevant city/country.
- Students will find further detailed up-to-date information on the partner university website.
Health and Travel Insurance
All students going abroad are advised to have comprehensive health and travel insurance policy for the duration of the study period abroad. Students must be covered for hospitalisation and repatriation. Students should check the information received from the host university as many universities require students to sign up for the university insurance policy.
Students studying in non-European countries- Your host university normally requires students to purchase their mandatory insurance. Please check with the host university as many universities do not waive this requirement.
Visa Requirements
- Students travelling to countries outside the EU will require a study visa or study permit.
- The International Office will provide an information session regarding requirements.
- You cannot apply for your visa until you have received a letter of admission and visa documents from your host university.
Academic Requirements
Please keep in close contact with your departmental coordinator regarding your courses when you are abroad. If you encounter any problems, it is important that you contact UCC immediately.
Return of Examination Results from Host Institution
Examination results from your study period abroad should be submitted to the International Office as soon as they are available.
Important: Some institutions forward transcripts to UCC, others do not. Please ensure that you are clear about the procedure at your host institution before you return to Ireland. It is the responsibility of the student to prove that they have successfully achieved the required number of credits at their host institution.
Important Forms for Students
- Studying in Europe- Erasmus paperwork
- All students: New contact details, statement of responsibility. (Emailed to you before departure)
COVID-19
Please make sure you are aware of the following:
- Flight restrictions/entry to the country rules (Negative PCR test, Vaccination, Flight waiver (Check if passengers from Ireland are permitted to fly into the country)
- Quarantine measures in place (How many days you need to quarantine, hotel or self-obtained accommodation, Covid-19 tests etc)
- Campus/Accommodation guidelines- Some host universities will require that you are vaccinated to gain access to accommodation/campus/in person class. Please contact your GP.
Erasmus+ is a European education programme that promotes exchanges between university students (both undergraduate and postgraduate), teaching staff and administrative staff throughout participating countries.
This provides opportunities for academic and administrative staff to travel to work or teach at partner institutions. Please see the "Teacher/Staff Mobility" section below for further information.
Click below for more information
Erasmus for UCC staff Information Guide

The Erasmus+ programme enables students to spend a placement period between 2 months and 12 months in an enterprise or organisation in another EU participating country as part of a degree course.
Student 'placement' is an alternative term to the widely used term 'traineeship' or 'internship'.
Click below for more information
Information guide for the Erasmus work placement
The International Office will be your point of contact for:
- Applying to the host university
- After acceptance
- Erasmus documentation (European partners only)
- Travel and Health insurance
- Visa information
- Obtaining your transcript of records after your studies
Studying in Europe (ERASMUS)
Clare Murphy
Erasmus Coordinator
Email: claremurphy@ucc.ie
Tel: +353 214904726
Studying outside the EU
Mary-Brid Murphy
Study Abroad Coordinator
Email: mb.murphy@ucc.ie
Tel: +353 214904723
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