Travel & Study : Quick Guide to UP Exchange Programs Part 1

Hey Future International Student!

Thinking about joining an exchange program? Let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! 🌍✈️ As a student at University of the Philippines (UP), there are so many international opportunities just waiting for you. Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know and why you should totally go for it.

Contents

1. Why Be an Exchange Student?
2. Types of Exchange Programs
3. Lengths of Exchange Programs
4. How to Apply
5. Required Documents
6. Getting a VISA
7. Insider Tips & FAQs

Why Be an Exchange Student?

First off, besides the obvious bragging rights and killer Instagram pics, an exchange program is a chance to experience new cultures, make friends from all over the world, and maybe even learn a new language. Plus, it looks awesome on your resume!

Group selfie with local and foreign students of SLAM Club of National Chengchi University, Taiwan

Types of Exchange Programs

At UP, you’ve got options. Here are some of the programs you can choose from:

• Semester Exchange Programs: Perfect if you want a deep dive into a new culture and complete courses full-time.
• Summer Schools: Short and sweet, usually 1-2 months.
• Language Programs: Learn a new language while living it!
• Competitions & Conferences: Great for boosting your academic cred.
• Research Fellowships: Get your nerd on in a new country.
• Short-term Classes & Workshops: Perfect if you’re tight on time.

If you're not from UP, don't fret! Info on this blog is for everyone.

If you're a foreign student who wants to study in the Philippines, that will be a separate blog. Stay tuned!

How Long Can You Go? Lengths of Exchange Programs

• 1 Year or 2 Semesters: Only the first semester is financially supported by UP. If you’ve got the funds and don’t mind staying longer, it’s a fantastic experience.
• 1 Semester: The most common choice. You get full sponsorship and less delay in your studies.
• Midyear Programs or Summer Schools: 1-2 months during the midyear, perfect for a quick but impactful experience.

How to Apply

So, you’ve decided to go for it. Awesome! Here’s a step-by-step of what you need to do

1. Check Your Eligibility: Make sure you meet the criteria for the program. Usually, you you need to be presently enrolled in UP.
2. Research Your Options: Rank your choice of universities based on academic ranking, affordability, and timeline.
3. Prepare & Submit Documents: You should send your application to UP OIL, OIL Diliman, or your college. Depends on who handles the program you're eyeing.
4. Nail the Interview: If you get shortlisted, you’ll need to impress the exchange coordinators.
5. Get Nominated: Once nominated, submit your application to the host university aka your new university overseas.
6. Apply for Financial Assistance: MOVE UP Financial Assistance can help with costs. This is not required, but the trouble’s worth it!

Required Documents

Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need (based on AY 2023-2024, UP Diliman’s LIPAD ARAL  exchange program)

• 1-page Curriculum Vitae
• Latest True Copy of Grades or Official Transcript
• GWA Certification
• 2 Recommendation Forms from Professors
• 500-word Essay on Why You Want to be an Exchange Student
• Photocopy of Form 5 and Passport Bio-page
• Additional documents may be needed at later stages, like English as Medium of Instruction Certificate, Study Plan, Certification of Remaining Units, UP ID etc. 

With local high school students of Hsinchu, through the ICL volunteer program of Taiwan

Getting a VISA

Once you’re nominated and have your Acceptance Letter from your host university, you can apply for a VISA. Requirements vary, so check with your host country’s embassy and coordinate with UP and your host university to avoid delays.

Insider Tips & FAQs

Ready to dive in but need more tips on the application process? Head over to my Insider Tips and FAQs for all the first-hand tips to make your exchange journey stress-free. 

You may also leave a comment below for your questions! It's a great alternative to asking reddit.

So there you have it, future exchange students! Embarking on an exchange program is an incredible adventure that’ll leave you with memories and experiences to last a lifetime. Whether you’re aiming for a semester abroad or a quick summer stint, UP Diliman has got you covered with a variety of programs to suit your needs.

Happy travels and see you around the globe! 🌍✈️

Travel & Study : Quick Guide to UP Exchange Programs by Asian Travel Sense

Tags: Exchange Program Philippines, UP Diliman, Philippine Exchange Student Program, UP Study Abroad, University of the Philippines, Exchange Student UP Diliman