Before you apply
Before applying, it's a good idea to discuss your options with tutors or exchange coordinators at your university.
You'll also need to make sure we have an exchange agreement with your university in your subject area. Check our full list of exchange partners.
Choosing your modules
When you apply, you need to tell us which modules you want to study. Use our module catalogue to see what is available.
Your modules need to add up to a certain number of academic credits (CATS). This depends on how long you plan to spend with us. You have to select a minimum credit load of 60 credits per semester.
- Full year: 120 credits
- Semester: 60 credits
Most modules are worth 20 credits, but some have more or less. Alternative modules may be offered after receipt of your application, or on arrival in Sheffield, depending on demand for places and timetabling considerations.
Additional modules
You can also apply for our Global Citizenship Portfolio module.
This doesn't count towards your credits, but can help with your personal and academic development.
How to apply
1. Nomination
Ask your exchange coordinator to nominate you for an exchange at Sheffield Hallam.
They must do this by:
- By the end of April for semester 1 or full-year applications
- By the end of September for semester 2 applications.
2. Application form
If your nomination is accepted, we'll send you an application form.
You will also need to provide academic transcripts from your university studies to date and evidence of your English language ability.
You must send your application by:
- By the end of May for semester 1 and full-year applications.
- By the end of October for semester 2 applications.
We will email you to tell you the result of your application.
3. Learning agreement
If your application is successful, you will need to complete a learning agreement provided by your university’s International Office, adding details of the modules you have selected as part of your application. You will need to send this document to the contact that we will provide in your email invitation to come study with us.
Your study programme will be finalised when you arrive at Sheffield Hallam University.
English language requirements
Full academic year
You will need a student visa, which requires a Secure English Language Test (SELT).
You won't need a qualification if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country, or have a qualification from an English-speaking country.
Semester exchange
You won't need a visa, but we will need evidence of your English language ability. This could be a qualification or a letter from your home institution.
Our English language requirements page tells you more about the qualifications we accept.
Assessment and credits
You will complete the same assessments as our degree students. This might involve coursework, exams, or both.
At the end of your exchange, we'll send you a transcript that shows the credits for each module you took, and the grades you got. We will also send a copy to your exchange coordinator.
We use the UK Credit Accumulation Transfer System (CATS) and the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Both will appear on your transcript, making it easy to transfer credit back to your home university.
ECTS grades
| ECTS grade |
Final average mark |
ECTS definition |
| A |
70% or above |
Excellent – outstanding, with only minor errors |
| B |
60–69% |
Very good – above average but with errors |
| C |
50–59% |
Good – generally sound, with some notable errors |
| D |
45–49% |
Satisfactory – fair but with significant shortcomings |
| E |
40–44% |
Sufficient – meets minimum criteria |
| FX |
39% or less |
Fail – more work required before credit can be awarded |
Get help
If you have any questions, please contact the Erasmus and Exchange Team in Global Development & Partnerships at erasmus-exchange@shu.ac.uk.
