ShareUMD Exchange: University of Bristol (United Kingdom)
All students accepted to an Exchange program are automatically considered for an award of $1,000! See Cost tab for more information.
Host Institution
Founded in 1872, the University of Bristol has built and maintained a strong reputation as a teaching and research institution. The University is known for academics, excellent facilities, and a desirable location. League tables usually place Bristol within the top ten universities in the United Kingdom and it was ranked by 30th overall in the world in the 2011 QS World University Rankings. As a result, it attracts many academically gifted students. The University of Bristol's excellent academic program and quintessentially British cultural environment make this exchange a very fulfilling study abroad experience.
Host City
Located in southwestern England, Bristol is the largest center of culture, employment and education in the region. Bristol is a short distance from Wales and Bath and is about two hours by train from London. Rich in history and culture, Bristol is an ideal size, offering all the attractions of a big city set against the backdrop of a beautiful harbor that you can easily explore on foot or by bike. The cosmopolitan nature of the University is mirrored in the city too, with its restaurants, food shops, cultural societies and festivals all stemming from a large, permanently resident and highly participative international community.
Exchange programs are highly competitive and space in each program is limited. You must meet the following eligibility requirements in order to apply to this program:
- 3.0 GPA
- Completion of 2 semesters at UMD
Exchange programs are a good fit for students looking for immersion, personal growth, and the opportunity to strengthen qualities such as independence and adaptability.
Student Visa Information
A student visa is required for participation on this exchange. For more information, please visit our study abroad visa guide to view instructions for the country you will be visiting. Please note that visa information is subject to change and you are responsible for checking the embassy website for updates.
- Click "Apply Now" at the top of this page. You will log in with your UMD directory ID and password.
- Submit all application materials by the deadline listed below. This includes meeting with your EA advisor (listed at the top of this page), and may include requesting a faculty letter of recommendation, and submitting an official transcript. If a letter of recommendation and/or official transcript are required, it will be listed in MyEA once you start an application for this program.
- After the application deadline, we will review all completed applications and nominate students for available spots in each exchange program.
- If you are nominated to participate in this exchange, you will work with your EA advisor (listed above) to apply directly to the host university, who will formally admit you to the exchange program. Nominated students must complete the host university application in accordance with the host university’s stated deadlines and instructions.
- Nominated students will then work with their EA advisor (listed above) and our partner universities to coordinate all aspects of the stay at the host university such as course registration, visas and arrival.
Academic Planning
Visit the Academics & Study Abroad page which outlines key considerations for your academic planning as you navigate different phases of study abroad:
- Pre-Departure Course Selection & Approval
- Finalizing Course Enrollment Abroad
- Transcripts and Credits on your UMD Record
Coursework
International exchange students build their own program at Bristol by combining courses the colleges (Faculties) of Arts, Bio-medical Sciences, Health Sciences, Sciences, and Social Sciences and Law. Some departments have restrictions, so students should review the University of Bristol Study Abroad website carefully before choosing classes to take abroad. Note that it is not possible to take classes in the Medical, Vet or Dental schools.
There may be other course offerings on this program that are not currently listed in the Study Abroad Course Database (SACD). If you are interested in taking a course not listed in the SACD, please submit a transfer credit evaluation request.
Credit
All credit you earn on this program will count as transfer credit towards your UMD degree. Most courses at the University of Bristol will be converted as follows:
| University of Bristol Credit | UMD Credit |
|---|---|
| 1 UK credit | 0.3 UMD credit |
| 10 UK credit | 3 UMD credits |
The chart above was last approved by the UMD Transfer Credit Committee on June 10, 2014.
Grading
Undergraduates must receive a C- equivalent or better in order to be eligible for the transfer of credit.
| University of Bristol Grade | UMD Grade |
| 40 | C - |
UMD students participating in an Exchange program have the benefit of paying UMD tuition rates to attend an institution abroad. For specific information about this Exchange program, please reference the Cost of Attendance Chart.
Tuition and fees for exchange programs are charged directly to your UMD account, which means you can apply UMD scholarships, state and federal financial aid, and alternative loans towards the cost of an exchange. Housing costs are paid directly to the host institution or on-site housing agency.
You can use the cost of attendance comparison worksheet to view how study abroad programs compare to each other and the amount you pay on campus at UMD. As always, your EA advisor (listed above) is available to help you complete this worksheet and find affordable programs that fit your study abroad goals.
Exchange Scholarship
All students accepted to an Exchange program are considered for an automatic award of $1,000! To be considered for this scholarship, you must:
- Be a current degree seeking undergraduate UMD student (graduate students are not eligible for this award)
- Not currently receive full tuition scholarship/benefits (i.e. Banneker Key, tuition remission, Frederick Douglass Scholarship, etc.)
Additional Financial Resources
Maximize your time abroad by taking advantage of resources at your host institution!
Student Clubs and Organizations
The University of Bristol offers 400+ societies and sports clubs for students to participate in; one of the highest numbers of any university in England!
International Welcome/Orientation
A Welcome Week is arranged for students to meet society and sports club members and participate in events ranging from food festivals to movie nights.
Counseling & Health Services
The Students’ Health Service is a full doctor’s practice that supports students in their physical and mental health needs. Additional mental health services are available through the Student Counseling Service.
Resource Guide for Students with Disabilities*
Resource Guide for LGBTQ+ Identities*
*These resource guides provide general information about services at UMD’s partner institution. For more information, consult your EA advisor.
| Term | Year | Application Deadline | Admission Notification | Program Start | Program End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year (Fall-Spring) | 2023 | 03/01/2023 | 03/13/2023 | ||
| Fall | 2023 | 03/01/2023 | 03/13/2023 | 09/18/2023 | 01/20/2024 |
| Spring | 2024 | 09/25/2023 | 09/29/2023 |