Program Overview

Introduction to the Baden-W³rttemberg/North Carolina Exchange Program

The Baden-W³rttemberg/North Carolina Exchange Program is a unique opportunity for students from North Carolina to study in Germany and for students from Baden-W³rttemberg to study in North Carolina. This program operates as a direct exchange, allowing students to remain enrolled in their home university while studying abroad.

Why Study in Germany?

Students choose to study in Germany for a variety of reasons, including the opportunity to learn the German language, experience German culture, and take advantage of specific programs offered by partner universities. Germany is also one of North Carolina's most important partners for international trade, with over $5.3 billion in German goods imported in 2023 and 230 German firms operating in North Carolina, employing almost 45,000 people.

Program Costs

The program operates as a direct exchange, meaning that students will pay their normal tuition and fees to their home university. Financial aid can be used to cover the costs of participation, and students are encouraged to apply for housing through the "Studierendenwerk" at their host university. The cost of housing varies by location and room type.

Scholarships

Baden-W³rttemberg provides a one-time 700 Euro scholarship to participants from North Carolina, based on availability of funds. Students can also use their financial aid and scholarships to cover the costs of their enrollment. Additionally, some UNC System universities offer travel grants for study abroad, and students may be eligible for external scholarships, such as the Gilman Scholarship.

Language Requirements

Students do not need to speak German to participate in the exchange program, as most universities in Baden-W³rttemberg offer courses in English. However, knowledge of German may be helpful in navigating day-to-day life, and students are encouraged to consider enrolling in preparatory German-language courses offered by their host campus.

Academic Programs

Students can review the individual campus profiles for information on areas of study open to exchange students. Some courses may only be offered in German and require a high level of language proficiency. Students should check that their area of study is open to exchange students at specific universities, as some subjects may be closed to exchange students.

Semester Schedule

The German academic calendar differs from the American calendar, with a winter semester from October to February and a summer semester from April to July. UNC System students generally deal with the alignment of semesters in one of three ways: studying during the fall or spring semester at the University of Mannheim, studying abroad during the spring semester/German summer semester, or studying for a full year in Germany.

Housing

Students are encouraged to take advantage of housing options offered by the Studierendenwerk at their host university. Housing can fill quickly, so students should submit a housing application promptly after receiving information with their admission.

Insurance

Students are required to have health insurance that meets German requirements. In the past, students have been recommended to enroll in both GeoBlue and a German health insurance plan to address gaps in both policies. However, GeoBlue has recently introduced an unlimited policy that may be sufficient for students to obtain a waiver for the insurance requirement.

Internships

Although students are welcome to pursue internship opportunities on their own, the BW/NC Program does not arrange internships and does not offer them as an official component of the exchange program.

Application Process for North Carolina Students

To apply, students should start by reviewing information on the program website and speaking with the responsible study abroad advisor on their campus. Students will need to complete the application for incoming students from North Carolina to Baden-W³rttemberg, which includes filling out the form, having their advisor complete their form, and providing supporting documentation.

Application Process for Baden-W³rttemberg Students

Baden-W³rttemberg students should start by reviewing information on the program website and speaking with the responsible study abroad advisor on their campus. Students will need to complete the application for incoming students from Baden-W³rttemberg to North Carolina, which includes filling out the form, having their advisor complete their form, and providing supporting documentation.

Participating Universities

• UNC System universities:
  • UNC Chapel Hill
  • NC State
  • UNC Charlotte
  • UNC Wilmington
  • Other participating universities
• Baden-W³rttemberg universities:
  • University of Mannheim
  • Other participating universities

Program Benefits

• Opportunity to study abroad in a unique cultural and academic environment
• Chance to learn or improve German language skills
• Access to a wide range of academic programs and courses
• Opportunity to experience German culture and way of life
• Chance to make new friends and connections in Germany and North Carolina

Program Requirements

• Students must be enrolled in a participating university
• Students must meet the academic requirements of their home university
• Students must have a good understanding of English or German, depending on the language of instruction
• Students must be willing to adapt to a new cultural and academic environment

Conclusion

The Baden-W³rttemberg/North Carolina Exchange Program is a unique opportunity for students to study abroad and experience a new culture. With its rich history, vibrant cities, and world-class universities, Germany is an ideal destination for students looking to broaden their academic and cultural horizons.