MBA INCOMING EXCHANGE

Exchange students may attend either fall or spring semesters, though most students arrive in the fall. Please note that orientation is required and our fall orientation occurs earlier than many of our partner schools.

Semesters at Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management are made up of two seven-week periods, called mods. Exchange students are required to have at least 6 total courses and may enroll in up to 8 courses for the semester, depending on their university’s requirements. Each seven-week course meets two times a week for 1.5 hours per class. The methodology of these courses varies according to the content and style of the lecturers, but they include case studies, group work and presentations, all with a high level of participation.

For more information, please view our Academic Calendar.

Application Information

To apply for exchange, students from a partner university should first be nominated by their exchange coordinator. If you are eligible to be nominated by your exchange coordinator, students will receive the application and instructions.

Students will submit an official transcript showing courses and grades from the home university, a resume, a photo, immunization history, and a financial declaration showing proof of sufficient finances for the four-month period. Please note that exchange students are required to carry the Vanderbilt Student Health Insurance regardless of other coverage they may have.

Visas

All exchange visitors will be required to have a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa issued by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. You will be furnished with a letter showing to study on exchange for the semester you will be at Vanderbilt. Please note that an interview with the U.S. Embassy is required and require an appointment, please plan accordingly.

All visa matters are handled by the International Student and Scholars Services at Vanderbilt University (ISSS). For more information, please see the Vanderbilt ISSS website or visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in your country.

Accommodations

Vanderbilt does not have graduate student housing. Students are encouraged to begin their housing search as soon as possible.

There is no on-campus housing available for graduate students other than married students with families, but there are several apartments nearby where students live. The Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management exchange coordinator will provide a list of available apartments for rent.

Approximate Living Expenses:

Services

Exchange students will be provided with access to an email account, printers, and wifi during their studies at Vanderbilt.  Students should arrive with their own working laptops.

Visiting students will be issued a temporary email account and a university student ID card, which allows access to all libraries on campus. Students may also use their student ID to ride Nashville MTA Bus free of charge

Students have access to the fully equipped Recreation & Wellness Center with their student ID.  Camping equipment is also available for rent.

The Student Health Center is open 6 days a week during the semester.

Clubs & Community Activities

Exchange students are invited and encouraged to join the varied Vanderbilt Business clubs and the weekly social events as well as other University community activities. We hope you will get involved in student life at Vanderbilt.