Exchange Semester Abroad for OST Students
Are you studying at Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences (OST) and looking to gain international experience during your studies while giving yourself a decisive advantage on the job market?
OST offers you numerous opportunities for a semester abroad at one of our many partner universities around the world – often without extending your study duration – or an internship abroad at one of OST's partner insitutions. You continue paying your tuition fees at OST while gaining valuable international experience, discovering new methods, and expanding your network.
In addition, various scholarship programs are available to provide financial support for your time abroad.
During your studies at OST, there are various information events taking place all over the university:
- International Week 2026 with International Fairs on all camppuses (13 and 14 October 2026)
- Information sessions during lectures
- International Coffee Corners
and other events to help you find out more about an exchange semester. On top of that, you can arrange an individual advising session with the International Office of your degree program.
Scholarship Opportunities
SEMP (Swiss European Mobility Programme)
Students enrolled at a Swiss higher education institution have the opportunity to apply for a SEMP grant (Swiss European Mobility Programme). This is handled directly through your International Office at OST.
SEMP grants* (Swiss European Mobility Programme) are financial subsidies for students planning a semester abroad or an internship abroad. They serve as a replacement for the European Union's Erasmus+ programme, in which Switzerland, as a non-EU country, no longer directly participates. The grants are funded by the Swiss federal government through Movetia.
If you complete an exchange semester in Europe, you are generally guaranteed a grant. For stays outside of Europe, you may also apply for SEMP grants, though the subsidy will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The amount of the grant depends on the duration of your exchange semester - the exact start and end dates are relevant here. From 3 months and 1 day onwards, you will receive a flat rate of CHF 1,900.00.
If you complete an internship abroad in Europe, you are also generally guaranteed a grant. For stays outside of Europe, you may likewise apply for SEMP grants, though the subsidy will be reviewed. The amount of the grant depends on the exact number of internship days, with a minimum duration of two months. You can often expect an amount between CHF 880.00 and CHF 1,400.00.
In both cases, you can increase your grant by CHF 100.00 if you travel sustainably!
For both the exchange semester and the internship abroad, you are required to complete a Learning Agreement and a Declaration of Commitment. The Learning Agreement guarantees that the modules you complete and pass during your time abroad will be credited towards your degree at OST. With the Declaration of Commitment, we nominate you for a SEMP grant - the Learning Agreement is a mandatory component of this.
*SEMP grants are dependent on federal funding and cannot be guaranteed.
Government Scholarships via swissuniversities
swissuniversities regularly publishes information on government scholarships on their website. These are aimed at different target groups and are available not only for your studies but also for research stays. Find out more directly on the website.
Other Scholarships
Depending on your degree program and study location, additional scholarship opportunities may be available. Please contact your International Office.
io-eng@ost.ch (for all study programs under the Schools of Technology, Computer Science, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Spatial Planning)
Testimonials from OST Students
“My exchange semester in Singapore broadened my horizon both academically and interpersonally. The research work, company visits, and many conversations with international students have left a lasting impression on me and help me better understand global connections and cultural differences. I am convinced that these experiences will also strengthen me in a private sector environment. This motivates me to actively seek out international collaboration in the future.”
Samuel Gasser, Mechanical Engineering and Innovation, Exchange Semester at NTU Singapore, Fall 25
“Doing an exchange semester is more than studying abroad – it’s a unique opportunity to grow personally, academically, and culturally. My time in Lisbon has challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, connect with people from all over the world, and experience a new way of learning and living. From inspiring lectures to spontaneous sunset moments by the ocean, an exchange semester creates memories, friendships and perspectives that will stay with you long after your studies. ”
Sina Brick, International Management, Exchange Semester at NOVA Lisbon, Fall 25
Find your International Office Based on your Study Program
School of Technology
Are you enrolled in one of the following study programs?
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Renewable Energy and Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering and Innovation
- Mechatronics
- Industrial Engineering
- Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
School of Computer Science
Are you enrolled in one of the following study programs?
- Computer Science
- Digital Design
- Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
School of Health Sciences
Are you enrolled in one of the following study programs?
- Nursing
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
School of Architecture, Civil Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Spatial Planning
Are you enrolled in one of the following study programs?
- Architecture
- Civil Engineering
- Landscape Architecture
- Spatial Planning
- Master of Science in Engineering (MSE)
FAQs
Where can I go for an exchange semester?
OST has a wide range of partner universities - at least one on every continent. To find out about the partner universities of your department, please visit your International Office's website (find it above), attend an information event, or arrange a consultation appointment with your International Office!
What are the benefits of an exchange semester?
- Gain a new academic perspective and discover different methods and approaches
- Gain international experience and get to know other cultures and ways of life
- Improve your language skills quickly and in a practical setting
- Better career prospects, as many employers value international experience
- Foster personal development, build self-confidence, and grow beyond your own limits
- Build an international network and form valuable friendships
How do I organise my exchange semester?
- Get an overview of the options available to you. To do this, consult your International Office's website or the designated Moodle course (e.g. for degree programs in Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Planning and Space).
- If you have further questions, arrange a consultation appointment with your International Office.
- Afterwards, complete the required documents (e.g. application form) and submit them to your International Office.
Feel free to attend an information event, an International Coffee Corner, an International Apéro, or other events and get talking with us and former exchange students!
How can I find accommodation abroad?
Many of our partner universities offer accommodation either on campus or in close proximity to the campus. Alternatively, you may choose to rent private accommodation for the duration of your stay.
You will receive detailed information about your accommodation options from your host university after OST has officially nominated you for your exchange semester.
Can I also complete an internship abroad?
Yes! Through the Swiss European Mobility Programme (SEMP), you may be eligible to apply for a scholarship for an internship abroad lasting at least two months.
In most cases, internships can be arranged through the International Office of your degree programme or through the professional networks of your academic advisors or lecturers.
You can also organise an internship through IAESTE or other external organisations. Please note that these placements are arranged independently and are not coordinated by OST.
Do I need specific language skills?
Most of OST's partner universities offer a wide range of English-taught modules in the degree programmes that are eligible for exchange students. Therefore, a good command of English is essential, and we recommend a proficiency level of C1.
Some partner universities, particularly in English-speaking countries, require an official language certificate such as IELTS or Pearson PTE. However, many partner institutions also accept the OST English language certificate.
For example, if you are planning to study at a university in Spain, you can usually submit the OST English language certificate and take courses taught in English. If you also have Spanish language skills (at least B2 level), you may be able to enrol in courses taught in Spanish as well. Similar opportunities are available at partner universities in various other countries.
I can't find a suitable partner university. What can I do?
Please contact your International Office. We will be happy to help you find a suitable solution.
io-eng@ost.ch (For students in Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Landscape Architecture, and Spatial Planning)
Do I need a visa?
Whether you need a visa depends on the country where your host university is located.
Once you have been officially accepted by your host university for your exchange semester, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance. You can use this document to apply for a visa if one is required for your destination country.
Depending on the country's regulations, you may also need to provide additional documents, such as proof of English language proficiency or proof of health insurance. The International Office at your host university will inform you about the specific visa requirements and application process.
I can't go on an exchange semester, but I would still like to gain international experience. What are my options?
There are many ways to gain international experience without spending a semester abroad:
- Become a Buddy
Support an international exchange student during their semester at OST by joining the Buddy Program. It is a great opportunity to meet students from around the world, build international friendships, and develop your language and intercultural skills. Contact your International Office for more information. - Take part in international events at OST
OST regularly hosts events such as the International Fair and the International Week. During this year's International Week, you can attend a variety of guest lectures by international academics and professionals. You can also visit the International Fairs at all OST campuses to learn more about international opportunities and connect with partner universities. - Explore online international opportunities
Throughout the year, various international opportunities offered by OST's partner universities are published on student platforms such as Moodle. These include virtual courses, online events, and other international learning experiences that allow you to engage with students and lecturers from around the world.