Understanding exchange requirements
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions students have about eligibility for exchange.
Can I go to a university not listed in the partner directory?
If you would like to go to a non-partner university, you must do this independently from Macquarie. Students should apply to the university of choice as an international student and then defer their studies at Macquarie for the semester they are away.
If you wish to obtain credit for your overseas study, you will need to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) after completion of your program and once you have a transcript. Approval of credit towards your Macquarie degree program is not guaranteed.
It is important to note you will not be eligible for a travel grant or an OS-HELP loan if you decide to take this option. Macquarie Abroad is also unable to provide any advice in regards to non-partner exchange or study abroad programs.
Can I study abroad through a third-party provider's programs?
You may choose to study abroad using a third-party provider's programs. However, such programs are not supported by Macquarie University. As such, you will not be able to have any credit pre-approved and will not be able to be considered for an OS-HELP loan or a Macquarie travel grant. Macquarie Abroad is also unable to provide any advice regarding such programs.
If you wish to obtain credit for your experience through a third-party provider, you will need to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) after completion of your program and once you have a transcript. Approval of credit towards your Macquarie degree program is not guaranteed
Will my exchange grades be reflected onto my Macquarie transcript?
No. When students go on an exchange program, their grades will only be reflected as a 'Satisfactory' or 'Fail' basis. If you pass all your units, they will be recorded as 'Satisfactory' and will not affect your WAM. However, if you fail your units, it will be recorded as a fail and will affect your WAM.
It is important to note that numerical marks will not be transferred onto your Macquarie transcript.
I'm in my first semester at Macquarie. Can I apply to go on exchange?
Yes. We can assess you for the program once you have completed 30 credit points at Macquarie University. However, not all partners will accept students with only one semester of study, so your options may be limited. One year of full-time study should be accepted by most partners.
Can I go on exchange in the last semester of my degree?
No. As per the minimum eligibility requirements, you must have at least 20 credit points remaining to your degree to be completed after your return from exchange.
If my WAM is below the 60 cut-off, is there any way I can still apply for the program?
No. Unfortunately, this is a strict cut-off. Study hard and apply next semester!
Can I extend my semester exchange to one full year?
No. You can only do one semester-long exchange program in the course of your degree. However, you can undertake a short-term exchange program in addition to a semester-long program.
Can I do more than one exchange program during my degree?
Yes, you may apply for multiple exchange programs if you have available credit in your degree. You can undertake one semester-long exchange program and one or more short-term exchange programs.
However, you must adhere to the minimum requirements for the award of your Macquarie degree, which requires a minimum amount of credit points to be completed at Macquarie University, including a majority of your higher-level units.
Can I travel beyond my semester exchange dates?
Yes, but it is your responsibility to purchase your own insurance coverage as Macquarie Abroad will only cover you during your program dates.