Student Experiences Abroad
Want to dip your toe into studying abroad?
University is about more than earning a degree, it’s a chance to explore new cultures, gain confidence, and build experiences that stand out to employers.
At De Montfort University, students can take part in international placements, study exchanges and overseas experiences through DMU Global, our award-winning global opportunities programme.
Whether it’s a law placement in Switzerland, forensic science in the USA, or a short study experience overseas, international opportunities are built into many DMU courses.
Get a global perspective
Travel, study and experience the world through DMU Global.
What is DMU Global?
DMU Global gives students the chance to take their learning beyond the UK.
Through it students can:
- study abroad at one of our partner universities
- take part in international placements or internships
- join short overseas academic trips or summer schools
- volunteer internationally
- study short modules abroad, including opportunities at our Dubai campus on some business, law, and finance courses
You don’t need to decide anything now, these opportunities are something you can explore as your degree progresses - they usually take place in your second year.
I had the best time in Switzerland. My time there helped me academically and increased my confidence and social skills. I met people from all over the world and travelled across Europe. I highly recommend it.
Shakira Ryan, Law BSc (Hons)
Living in the USA gave me independence and confidence I never had before. It helped me grow academically and personally and will make a real difference to my future career.
Madison Hudson, Forensic Science BSc (Hons)
Where could you go?
Fancy teaching English in Thailand, joining a summer school in Japan, volunteering in Tanzania, or studying in Europe or the USA?
DMU students have travelled to destinations including:
- USA
- UAE
- Japan
- Vietnam
- China
- Malaysia
- Netherlands
- South Korea
- Spain
- Germany
- Sri Lanka
Your destination depends on your course and the type of experience you choose.
Common questions
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How does an international experience fit into my degree?
Most international opportunities take place during your second year or as part of a placement or optional study period. They are designed to complement your course academically and give you the chance to broaden your network, develop cultural awareness, and build strong interpersonal skills - which will make you stand out to employers.
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Who can take part in a student exchange?
To study on exchange, students usually need to:
- be studying an eligible undergraduate course at DMU Leicester
- be in their second year of study
- be performing well academically, typically working towards a 2:1
- show an interest in learning about new cultures
- be engaged in student life, such as clubs, societies or volunteering
Don’t worry - you’ll get full guidance and support before you apply.
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How long do international placements last?
DMU Global experiences vary in length and can include:
- short academic trips
- summer schools
- volunteering experiences
- work placements
- semester-long or year-long study exchanges
There’s flexibility depending on your course and goals.
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Does it cost anything?
International experiences are supported through funding and financial guidance.
The Turing Scheme, the UK government’s programme for studying and working abroad, provides funding to help with travel and living costs during international placements.
If you study abroad:
- you do not pay tuition fees to the host university
- you pay a reduced tuition fee to DMU, which includes access to student support, library services, wellbeing support and the Students’ Union
Example fee: £1,465 tuition fee for a year abroad in the 2026–27 academic year (home and international students).
Learn more about DMU Global
If this sounds like something you’d be interested in during your studies, learn more about DMU Global here.
DMU Global – Travel. Discover. Learn.
Terms and conditions
Some professionally accredited courses, such as Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Pharmacy and Architecture, may not offer a year abroad due to course requirements. However, alternative international opportunities may still be available. Always check with your programme team for guidance.
Find out more about employability at DMU.
Learn more about international placement opportunities at our next open day.