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Direct Exchange Semester Programs
All direct exchanges are offered in the spring or fall semesters only. No summer exchanges are possible.
All inquiries regarding Direct Exchange Programs should be made to dstepan1@gmu.edu or 703.993.2154
NOTE: If you are an international student who is interested in studying at George Mason University through a direct exchange program, please refer to Information for Incoming Direct Exchange Students.
Information for Outgoing Direct Exchange Students
Direct Exchange semester or year-long programs make the most financial sense to in-state Mason students as you can study abroad while paying your regular in-state George Mason tuition. In most cases, financial aid will apply, but you are advised to seek assistance from your Financial Aid Counselor for details.
Eligibility
To be eligible, applicants must have at least second-semester George Mason sophomore standing (have acquired 45 credits) and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (some programs require a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or 3.3 minimum - see program pages for specifics).
The Experience
No Mason faculty member will accompany you when you study abroad through a direct exchange. You could be the only student going on your particular program, so make sure to consider the challenge of participating in a direct exchange. Note that each host institution has a study abroad and/or international student office that is responsible for incoming exchange students and most offer orientation programs upon arrival, buddy systems, and other activities/excursions to assist and include exchange students.
How Direct Exchange Works
Students enroll in the host institution's courses alongside local and other international students and earn 12 to 16 transfer credits per semester. Courses are taught in many different disciplines, either in English or the host country's language, depending on the site. Programs to Spanish language countries are entirely in Spanish so applicants must be advanced level to qualify. Participants pay their Mason tuition and an administrative fee to the Center for Global Education. Room and board are paid to the host university. Students are also responsible for their International airfare, visa fees, health insurance and other personal expenses.
Please Note
Due to the nature of the exchange program, only a small number of Mason students can study abroad via Direct Exchange each semester. George Mason can only send as many students as each partner institution sends to Mason so space is very limited and programs fill up quickly. Applications are considered on a first come, first served basis so it pays to plan in advance - don't miss out on this opportunity. If you think direct exchange is for you, go ahead and begin planning a full semester or even a year ahead!