Organisation & Application Process – Outbound Bachelor

Have you thought carefully about whether a longer stay abroad of four to six months (one semester) is right for you? Have you discussed your plans not only with your company, but also with your family and friends? And do you have sufficient financial resources to support your time abroad? Even with partial scholarships such as Erasmus+ funding, you should expect some additional expenses. This include, for example, flights, accommodation in two locations, or travel during your stay at the host university.

If a full semester abroad isn’t the best fit for you, you might consider a Summer School or Winter School instead. These typically last one to four week and can often be combined conveniently with your practical phase, allowing you to use your holiday time for an international experience.

On which continent, in which country, and at which university would you like to spend your semester abroad or attend a summer school? Take some time to explore our partner universities and find out more about your preferred destination on Teams. Read through student testimonials and, most importantly, check the list of courses offered locally. When making your choice, consider the advantages and challenges that a particular country or university might bring.

If you’re unsure, talk to other students, friends, your family, your lecturers, or the International Office team at HSBA to help narrow down your options.
When applying for a study abroad place, you may list several preferred destinations in order of priority.

Do you have sufficient funds to cover your stay abroad? Keep in mind that even with partial scholarships, such as Erasmus+ funding, you’ll still need to cover extra costs. These may include flights, accommodation at two locations, or travel during your time at the host university.

Destinations within Europe are generally more affordable than those further away. A flight to Taiwan costs more than a train to Rotterdam; but accommodation in Taiwan is likely to be much more affordable than in the Netherlands…. Compare different scenarios, read experience reports, and review the fact sheets provided for each institution. Most partner universities also share details on costs on their Erasmus+ or Study Abroad webpages.

If a full semester abroad feels too expensive, consider a Summer or Winter School instead. They usually last one to four weeks and may be a better financial fit.

Credits earned during a semester abroad or a Summer/Winter School may be eligible for transfer towards your HSBA degree. In particular, for a full-semester stay, it’s important that most of the modules you take abroad can be recognised by HSBA. Carefully review the course lists of your potential host universities, and contact the International Office if you have any questions about your course selection.

At the time of application (15 February for the following academic year), you do not yet need to have submitted your formal credit transfer application, but you should already have reviewed the modules offered by your preferred host university to ensure that your coursework abroad can later be approved.

Find out more in Step 4: Application for Credit Transfer from Abroad.

Under certain conditions, academic achievements from your host university can be credited towards your HSBA degree, provided that the modules are comparable. Each case is reviewed individually by the Examination Board.

The application process, including a guideline and the credit approval form, can be found in the Team Outgoings. The application should be submitted about six months before your stay abroad, or as soon as the course offer of your host university is available. 

In some countries, a visa is required. This often depends on the length of your stay. Please check the entry regulations of your destination well in advance. Most host universities will assist with the visa process or provide the necessary documents. As the procedure can take several weeks and may involve medical checks or certificates, make sure to start early.

Adequate insurance cover is mandatory for any stay abroad – whether for a semester or a short-term programme. In addition to your existing health insurance, you should take out supplementary international health insurance, as the EHIC does not cover all medical services in Europe. Check with your provider in advance whether your liability and accident insurance also apply abroad. 
 

Students funded through Erasmus+ or DAAD may be eligible for the DAAD group insurance. More detailed information is available in Teams.

Start looking for accommodation early. Your host university’s International Office will provide information on housing options, but if you don’t hear from them, begin your own search.

Please note: some universities reserve dormitory places for exchange students, but you must apply early. Housing abroad often differs from Germany. Shared flats or dorms are common, and standards may vary. Costs also depend on the country: and whether you stay in the capital or smaller cities. 

Depending on your destination, there are various ways to travel there and back. Flying isn’t always the best – or most sustainable – option, so consider taking the train or even using your own car if it’s practical.

If you’re on an Erasmus+ scholarship, you can receive an additional “green travel” top-up for choosing an eco-friendly mode of transport. More details can be found on the Erasmus+ page.

Your host university will send your Transcript of Records directly to the HSBA International Office. The International Office and Examination Management Team will convert your grades into the HSBA grading system as soon as possible. 

All students are asked to write an experience report after their stay abroad. It not only helps future Outbound students but also gives you a chance to reflect on your own experience.

Support Incoming Students

You know how it feels to start fresh in a new country. HSBA welcomes exchange students every semester. Why not become a buddy? Join the HSBA International Committee to help organise events and make our international guests feel at home.

Inspire Future Outbounds

Share your story! Record a podcast, do an Instagram takeover, join an International Evening, or support the International Office at info sessions.