# How to Apply for Reciprocal Exchange Programs

**Source**: https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/apply/how/exchange
**Parent**: https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/apply/how

Students interested in reciprocal exchange programs should complete the steps outlined on this page. Our goal is to match you with the best learning opportunity. Admission decisions are typically confirmed within two weeks after the application deadline has passed. Your Program Coordinator begins reviewing applications after the application deadline. Some exchange programs are competitive.

## How to Apply

1. ### Explore

   Watch the required [Explore - Education Abroad 101](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/apply/advising) session and view the [regional survey presentations](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/apply/advising#presentations). Attend the [How to Apply session](https://global.utexas.edu/events/search?keyword=exchange+affiliate) (held daily through March 15.) For other questions, attend a [Live Q&A session](https://global.utexas.edu/events/search?unit=2170) or walk-in advising with [Peer Mentors](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/about/peer-mentors-program) at 2400 Nueces St., Suite B.
2. ### Use Self-Guided Resources

   Use the [Explore Education Abroad checklist](https://utexas.app.box.com/v/ExploreChecklist) and [Ready To Apply Exchange checklist](https://utexas.box.com/s/grwn6eqdj8g72qcefpy7j8un0db9jl6y) checklists as self-guided resources.
3. ### Apply for a Passport

   Apply now to [get or renew your passport](https://global.utexas.edu/passport). Wait times may be long, so get started early.
4. ### Get Ready to Apply

   Watch the required [Ready to Apply session](https://utexas.app.box.com/v/ReadyToApplyGuidance). Explore all [scholarships and funding resources](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/funding/scholarships) at UT Austin.  If you have questions, come to drop-in advising with [Peer Mentors](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/about/peer-mentors-program) or attend a [Live Q&A session](https://global.utexas.edu/events/search?unit=2170).
5. ### Choose a Program

   [Open your application](https://utdirect.utexas.edu/io/abroad/stud_auth/index.WBX) for the exchange program using the application code on the [program search page](http://utdirect.utexas.edu/io/abroad/pgm_list/ "Program Search"). Pick a first- and second-choice program. If an exchange is one of your top two choices, the exchange must be your first-choice to ensure you submit a full application.
6. ### Complete UT's Online Application

   Complete the [MyAbroad](https://utdirect.utexas.edu/student/abroad/shared_start.WBX) online application by the deadline. Exchange applications comprise [two essays](https://utexas.box.com/v/essay-instructions) and two academic recommendations from UT professors. [Apply to any scholarship](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/funding/scholarships) you are eligible for at UT Austin.

   **Note:** Your Program Coordinator's name can be found in the program details from the [program search page](http://utdirect.utexas.edu/io/abroad/pgm_list/).

   **Language eligibility requirement:** Confirm on the program page if your program requires language proficiency. Students can meet this requirement through coursework *or* a language evaluation with a UT professor.
7. ### Complete the Host Institution Application

   Upon acceptance and nomination into the program, complete the host institution application by the stipulated deadline. Follow the acceptance materials received from your Program Coordinator and/or your host institution. Host institution deadlines vary so pay close attention.

   You will need a transcript for this step. [Request your transcript at Texas One Stop](https://onestop.utexas.edu/student-records/transcripts-other-records/official-transcripts/how-to-order/). Verify with your host institution or provider which method is best, as they have differing requirements for how they receive transcripts.
8. ### Complete the Restricted Regions Request Process

   If your program is in a [restricted region](https://global.utexas.edu/risk/travel/restricted-regions/list "Restricted Region List"), you **must complete** the [Restricted Regions Request process](https://global.utexas.edu/risk/travel/restricted-regions/request/student "Restricted Region Process").
9. ### Apply for Scholarships

   You should apply for scholarships at the same time you are applying for programs, not after admissions. Scholarship applications are available on the [Scholarships page](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/funding/scholarships),  [LASSO](https://utexas.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com/CMXAdmin/Cmx_Content.aspx?cpId=1564) scholarships database, and [Gilman Scholarship page](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/funding/scholarships/gilman).
10. ### Pre-read the After Acceptance Information

    Familiarize yourself with pre-departure and health and safety workshops to help prepare you before you leave for your program. Learn more on the [After Acceptance page](https://global.utexas.edu/abroad/apply/after-acceptance).

    **Reminder:** all exchange students pay their College's tuition rate and a **$500 fee per term**.