*Whilst we do not foresee any major changes to the information provided below, please be aware that some information may be subject to changes*
The handbooks contain information on departments, modules and credits and specific study information.
120 UK credits are approximately equivalent to:
Kindly note: the credit equivalency guidelines above are for the full academic year. Students attending for a part (half) year exchange, should adjust their load accordingly (in agreement with their home university). These students should also be be aware if selecting a module that ordinarily runs for the full academic year and are given permission to only complete one term only, they will receive a reduced amount of credit for that module compared to the advertised full year weighting.
Durham has 27 different academic Departments where incoming exchange students can study. Exchange students should choose modules from a maximum of three different subject areas.
As teaching at Durham is in English all students must be able to prove they have a sufficient level of English to be able to cope with the course from the beginning.
If you are an exchange student from a European partner and not from an English speaking country you will be required to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. To do this, you will need to have a Statement of Language Proficiency Form (part of the Durham application form) completed by the (European) Exchange Coordinator or an academic member of staff from their home university. This form should be submitted with the application form.
We recommend that all exchange students visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) 'Do I need visa?' website to check whether you need a visa to study in the UK. Whether you need a visa will depend on your nationality, the length of your intended stay and other factors.
Should you have questions or uncertainty after checking the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) 'Do I need visa?' website Durham's Student Immigration Service will be able to assist.
Two common visa routes for exchange students are:
Please, however, be aware that:
Some postgraduate programmes may require approval from the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
Please be aware that if you are not an EU national, you will need to provide evidence of English Language proficiency in order to obtain a visa. Please use the guidance given here or in the main Learning and Teaching Handbook.
Should you have any questions please contact the Student Immigration Service via email immigration@durham.ac.uk.
The academic year at Durham runs from October to June. We recommend that you arrive in time to attend the Orientation Session, see above for further details.
Induction/Term Dates
Postgraduate Business students only, exams will take place between 3 - 16 January 2025 (Michaelmas Term) and during May 2025 (Epiphany Term). Dates TBC. The dates will be provisional and are subject to change.
Orientation Session
The International Office will hold an in person compulsory Orientation Session for all incoming exchange students. All new incoming exchange students are expected to attend. The session covers important information such as registration, module enrolment and other practical arrangements.
Michaelmas arrivals
Friday 27th September 202411am - 12noon
Applebey Lecture Theatre (W103), Geography Building
Epiphany arrivals
Monday 13th January 2025Time TBC
Venue TBC
University Induction Planner
Each student can create a personal induction planner to help you plan when, where and what you need to be doing in your first week. The university will release an Induction Planner nearer to the time of your arrival.
County Durham is one of the most affordable places to live in England but we recommend applicants consider costs when applying to study in the UK.
While County Durham is one of the most affordable places to live in England, you should consider living costs (in addition to your tuition and accommodation costs). We recommend a further £5,000 - £6,000 per year to cover the costs of books, clothing, socialising etc.
Approximate weekly/monthly living expenses are highlighted in the table below.
The National Health Service (NHS) is the means by which healthcare is provided in the UK. The level of cover will depend on reciprocal arrangements with your home country.