BC-GCU Glasgow Exchange

Brooklyn College Exchange with Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) (Glasgow, Scotland)

The Brooklyn College exchange program with Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is open to all undergraduate students. Participants will have the unique opportunity to study for a semester or year in Scotland while paying CUNY tuition, travel, and onsite living costs. With its exciting mix of culture, architecture, music, and events, Glasgow is a great city for students from all backgrounds and cultures to study. This program is competitive, and spaces are limited.

Eligibility

This program is open to all college students, though preference is given to Brooklyn College students. Applicants should have:

  • a 2.70 minimum GPA, and
  • a clear academic and disciplinary record.

Academic Credit and Course Offerings

Students receive credit and grades for the courses taken at Glasgow Caledonian University. Prior to the end of the semester before studying abroad, all participants should obtain written approval for credit equivalencies. The Study Abroad Course Equivalency Form (pdf) provides information on how to do so. Participants who are not Brooklyn College students should confer with their home university’s study abroad office for instructions on attaining equivalencies.

As an exchange student at GCU, you are able to choose from more than 1,000 modules (classes) offered by the university. Courses are available in areas of business, fashion, finance, multimedia, natural and social sciences, urban sustainability, and more. Visit the GCU website for a full list of course offerings.

GCU Academic Calendar/Program Dates

GCU operates on a trimester basis. Trimester A is equivalent to the fall semester, and Trimester B is equivalent to the spring semester. Trimester C is not open to undergraduates.

  • Trimester A: September–January
  • Trimester B: January–May

Estimated Costs for One Semester (2015–16)

Glasgow Caledonian University reports that the average student should budget approximately 4,600 British pounds (US$6,200) per month for accommodation and other living expenses. Keep in mind variations in personal lifestyle and spending preferences.

  • CUNY tuition and fees
  • Roundtrip Airfare: $580–$1,014
  • Housing (various options): $2,900
  • Meals and Laundry/Household Amenities: $978
  • Books and Supplies: $217
  • Personal Expenses (local travel, Internet, phone, events, etc.): $1,369
  • CUNY mandated CISI Health/Travel Insurance (pdf) ($42.58 per month): $170.32

* Dollar estimate based on GCU average costs in pounds multiplied by currency exchange of one British pound is equal to US$1.45 (as of January 6, 2016). Students should be sure to check online for the most current exchange rates.

† There are plenty of resources online for referencing cost of living and student expenses in the United Kingdom. For example, the Student Calculator is a good place to gain insight about the costs of living and studying in Scotland.

We also suggest that students visit OANDA for up-to-date currency conversion rates. Once on the site, click on Currency Converter at the top of the page.

How to Apply

  • Complete and submit the Notification of Study Abroad/Brooklyn College Study Abroad Application.
    • IPSA applications must be submitted to IPSA no later than April 1 for fall semesters, and October 1 for spring semesters. Due to limited spaces, interested students should submit their applications as early as possible.
  • After initial acceptance by IPSA, students will need to submit a GCU online application directly to Glasgow Caledonian University.
    • Glasgow Caledonian University applications must be submitted no later than June 3 for fall semesters, and November 3 for spring semesters.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Most scholarships and financial aid that a student receives for semester study at Brooklyn College can be applied on semester abroad exchange programs. Students should consult the Office of Financial Aid about specifics on how their financial aid applies. Scholarships are also available for semester study abroad. Refer to the IPSA website or visit the Brooklyn College Office of Scholarships. If you are not a Brooklyn College student, any financial aid you are currently receiving is administered by your home institution’s Office of Financial Aid. Questions about financial aid should be directed to that office.

Housing Information

Students have multiple housing options both on and off campus at Glasgow. Students can either apply for a place in Caledonian Court (the on-campus residences) or rent accommodations in Glasgow from a private landlord. The Student Accommodation Office will help you find the perfect home away from home.

Student Visa Information

Students planning to study for fewer than six months will need a Student Visitor Visa (SVV). Students can obtain their SVV free of charge upon arrival at the airport in the United Kingdom. To enter Scotland and receive the SVV, students must show their original GCU acceptance letter and proof of sufficient funds for the full semester in Scotland. U.S. nationals do not need to complete an application in advance.

Students planning to study for a full year will need to apply for a Tier 4 visa in advance of their departure from the United States. Visit the U.K. Government website for more information on Student Visitor Visas and Tier 4 visas.

For More Information

International Programs & Study Abroad
1108 Boylan Hall
P: 718.951.5189

Glasgow Caledonian University Resources

Glasgow Caledonian University Study Abroad
Cowcaddens Road
Glasgow
G4 0BA
Scotland, United Kingdom
E: ExchangeEnquiries@gcu.ac.uk

Note that all information listed above is subject to change at any time.

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