Program types
While there is generally a lot of variety in short-term programs, they can broadly be classified into six main program types.
Short-term Exchange
Short-term exchange involves studying at an exchange partner for less than a regular semester, usually a summer or winter school program. In these programs you are enrolled into an Adelaide University exchange course, pay tuition fees to Adelaide University and receive credit towards your Adelaide University degree.
As short-term exchange options are made available you can view them through the Global Learning website.
Short-term Independent Study Abroad
Short-term Independent Study Abroad programs are study experiences that generally run in the June-July or December-January breaks, but are not part of an exchange agreement. This means you’re not enrolled in an Adelaide University course, and you pay all fees directly to the host institution or provider. Generally, if approved, credit will be applied to your Adelaide University degree upon your return – once evidence of successful completion of the program has been provided and any other requirements have been met.
After being approved by Adelaide University, you may apply directly to the overseas university, or the third-party provider who is facilitating the program. Programs offered by third party providers often include additional support services, which you may like to consider when comparing programs.
Some of our exchange partners also offer short-term programs that are not part of our exchange agreement. In this case, these are promoted as Independent Study Abroad experiences and you will follow study abroad processes and fee requirements.
Further information can be found on the Independent Study Abroad brochure.
Overseas Work Integrated Learning
Overseas Work Integrated Learning programs give you the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in your field and form part of academic requirements of a program or course. These programs combine international experience with real world learning as part of your degree, and can take many forms – including internships, placements, fieldwork, community service learning, and more.
Further information can be found on the Overseas Work Integrated Learning brochure.
Overseas Voluntary Placements
Overseas Voluntary Placements give you the chance to gain international workplace experience in your field of study outside of their formal degree program. While these placements are primarily unpaid and do not contribute to academic credit, they can be a valuable way to build professional experience and expand your global perspective.
Further information can be found on the Overseas Voluntary Placement brochure.
Overseas Not-For-Credit Activity
Overseas Not-For-Credit Activities are experiences sit outside of your degree requirements and do not meet the definition of an Overseas Voluntary Placement. You still need to register and receive approval for these activities to meet Adelaide University’s travel requirements. Typical examples include attending an overseas conference or completing a short course at an overseas institution where credit cannot be granted.
Further information can be found on the Overseas Not-For-Credit brochure.
International Study Tours
International Study Tours are short, intensive overseas programs led by Adelaide University academic staff. They provide you with a flexible and accessible way to incorporate an international experience into your degree, supporting diversity in overseas program opportunities.
Typically running for 2-4 weeks, Study Tours offer you the opportunity to study in a new international environment alongside fellow Adelaide University students, while earning academic credit toward your degree.
Recent study tours and those currently open for application.
Short-term program eligibility
Specific eligibility requirements vary, depending on the program – please visit the specific program brochure. Before you apply for any short-term program, please read through the information on the institution or provider's website carefully to make sure you meet the general criteria to participate. In some cases, Adelaide University or your specific College may have additional requirements.
Also remember that program eligibility may be different to funding eligibility. Visit the Global learning costs and funding webpage to find out more.
