BSU currently enjoys many partnerships across the globe that support incoming international students. Students come to study on exchange typically for one semester but we also support one academic year exchanges as well.
If your school is not on this list, you could be looking for an undergraduate or graduate degree program.
BSU Exchange Partners
- Acadia University
- Beijing Jiaotong University
- Capital Normal University
- Education University of Hong Kong
- FNHW: University of Applied Sciences & Arts Northwestern Switzerland
- Kansai University
- Killam Fellowship Program
- Kyungpook National University
- National Chengchi University
- National Student Exchange Program
- Pannasastra University
- Reutlingen University
- Shanghai Normal University
- Tokyo Gakugei University
- Universidad do Esado de Santa Catarina
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito
- University of Limerick
- University of New York in Prague
- Wakayama University
- Yonsei University
- Zurich University of Teacher Education
If your school is a participating exchange partner with BSU please visit your home campus International Office and meet with them regarding deadlines and paperwork. You must be nominated by your home campus first and complete any necessary steps with them prior to completing BSU processes.
Once information has been received from your home campus, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) will be in touch with you directly through email with next steps. Please do not complete any online applications before you hear from ISSS. Detailed information with the application and supporting materials will be sent to you.
Accordion Content
Bridgewater State University is a comprehensive public university in Southeastern Massachusetts, the fastest growing region in the Northeast. Located about 45 minutes from Boston, Providence, RI and Cape Cod, the University is served by an excellent network of highways and features an on-campus stop on the MBTA rail system. Situated on 278 acres in the heart of Bridgewater, the campus includes academic, residential, and services buildings.
Founded in 1840 by Horace Mann, BSU is one of America's first teacher preparation institutions. BSU offers 54 undergraduate and 43 graduate programs that will open your eyes and expand your world view in ways you may not anticipate. Co-curricular activities include a strong NCAA Division III athletic program, a full range of student clubs and organizations, and opportunities for leadership development and service learning.
Application Materials Checklist
__ Online application
__ Official transcript
__ Recommendation letter
__ Passport Information page
__A written statement of interest in the exchange program (No more than 250 words)
__TOEFL/IELTS/PTE/CEFRL/DuoLingo Score Sheet (official)
__Financial documentation: Affidavit of financial support and bank statement based on individual partnership agreements (checking or savings account only)
Nomination and Application Requirements
Academic Level: Undergraduate Exchange
GPA: 2.5 minimum/ 3.2 recommended for honors course, based on a 4.0 scale
Areas of Study: Colleges of Education and Allied Studies, Humanities and Social Studies, Science and Mathematics, and Business
Required English Proficiency Scores
TOEFL paper - 500
TOEFL computer - 173
TOEFL iBT - 61
IELTS - 6
PTE - 44
CEFRL - B2
Duolingo - 100
Cambridge Eng. - 160
Nomination Deadlines: February 15 for fall, November 1 for spring
Academic Information
Student Status: Accepted at Bridgewater State University as a visiting, non-degree exchange student; full privileges.
Course Registration: Students will be assigned an academic advisor through the Academic Achievement Center. Academic advisors will assist students in the course selection process. Not all courses will be open to you due to prerequisite requirements.
Course Catalog: The BSU Catalog lists all courses; some may not be available each semester.
Course Search: Go to https://services.bridgew.edu/coursesearch/. Set "Campus" to "Main Campus". Not all courses will be open to you due to prerequisite requirements.
Class Format: Lecture, discussion, seminar, lab, web based, hybrid (online and in person).
Class Schedule: 3x/week, 2x/week, 1x/week.
Course Load: Minimum: 12 credits.
ESL support: International students will take an English language placement test upon arrival. Language support includes ESL classes, conversation partners, and international book clubs.
Transcript Release Date: Fall Semester: January | Spring Semester: June
International Student and Scholar Services will notify students regarding arrival for the mandatory International Student Orientation.
Exchange students are not responsible for the cost of tuition and student fees at BSU. Please refer to specific partnership agreement for financial responsibilities.
- Approximate Exchange Program Costs Per Year: $27,226
- On-Campus Housing: $12,012
- Winter Break Housing: $665
- Spring Break Housing: $315
- Health Insurance: $4,721
- Resident Student Fee: $20
- Gold Meal Plan: $4,944
- ResNet Program Fee: $374
- Household Needs: $600
- Capital Fee: $564
- Clothing: $500
- Laundry Fee: $100
- SEVIS Fee: $220
- Books: $1,200
- Visa Application Fee: $185
- Miscellaneous Expenses: $700
- Technology Fee: $96
- Building Maintenance Fee: $10
All costs listed in this section are based on the Academic Year 2025-2026. All costs are subject to change. Please refer to Cost and Aid for current information. Additional costs include round trip transportation to and from Boston on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Commuter Rail: $21
Affidavit: All individuals providing financial support and documentation must sign an Affidavit.
Fee Bills are e-mailed to students prior to the start of the semester (BSU student e-mail address) and are subject to change. Late payment will result in a $100 late fee. Additional laboratory and materials fees may apply to some courses.
Arrival Information
Accommodations
On-campus housing is guaranteed for exchange students. Assignments will be made by Residence Life and Housing prior to the start of the semester. Single accommodations are rarely available and although the housing coordinator strives to accommodate preferences, we cannot promise you will be placed in your ideal residence hall.
Health Services and Medical Insurance
All international students are required to show proof of immunizations prior to enrollment. All international students attending BSU on a partnership agreement are encouraged to enroll in the BSU Student health insurance plan. This plan meets the requirements set by Massachusetts state law and the US Department of State for J-1 visa holders. Enroll in the BSU student health plan here. Insurance ID cards can be mailed to ISSS for student pick up. Visit Health Services for further information.
Visa Information
International exchange students receive their official DS-2019 form from Bridgewater State University. The form is used to obtain the J-1 visa from the US Consulate/Embassy.
For further information, contact International Student and Scholar Services at isss@bridgew.edu or 508.531.2730.