Why student exchange?

A semester abroad gives you a unique combination of new academic cultures, international network, intercultural competencies and unforgettable memories!
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Your degree gains more value

A semester abroad can enhance the overall benefit of your education. By experiencing different approaches to your subject, you will gain a different perspective on your field or be able to study subjects not offered at NLA. Additionally, a semester abroad in a different environment and with different learning methods will make you more aware of the relevance of your field and how you study.

Language development

During a semester abroad, you immerse yourself in a language and culture, becoming familiar with technical terminology and learning to read academic material in english or another foreign language. Most courses are offered in English, but you can also take courses in the local language if you have or are willing to achieve a certain level. If you have French, German, or Spanish from high school, it opens up even more possibilities.

An advantage for your future career

Research shows that going on exchange is beneficial. The Erasmus Impact Study, a large European study, shows that exchange has a positive effect on your professional career because you acquire personal qualities that make you more attractive to future employers. Such qualities include flexibility, independence, communication skills, and intercultural competence. The same study shows that students with international experience are given more responsibility by employers.

Global network

A semester abroad can provide you with a network of friends, many of whom become friends for life. Additionally, this network can be advantageous in future job or research collaborations.

Personal development

During an exchange semester abroad, you will learn a lot more about yourself. The benefits of a longer stay are much greater both culturally and personally compared to a short vacation in a foreign country. The Erasmus Impact Study points in the same direction: students on exchange develop positive traits such as tolerance, self-confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving ability. A recent survey from NOKUT also shows that Norwegian students who have been abroad return with increased study motivation.