University of Bern
UW-W Exchange Program
| Location |
Bern, Switzerland |
| Academic Focus |
Across the curriculum |
| Eligibility |
2.5 GPA |
| Terms |
Semester, Academic Year |
| Language of Instruction |
German, some courses in English |
| Partner Website |
Click Here |
The University of Bern is located in the Swiss German-speaking city of Bern. With around 16,000 students, it is a medium-sized university. Aside from the programs and courses offered, the attractions of the university include Bern's central location and quality of life, which is rated as one of the highest in the world.
Academics
This exchange program is open to students of all majors. The main language of instruction at the University of Bern is German, although there are also a limited number of course offerings in English, mainly in the school of business and in the English department. The University of Bern also offers credit-bearing German language courses at the intermediate and advanced levels. (Note: beginning German classes are not available at the University of Bern). Proficiency in German is required for students who wish to take German-language coursework on this exchange program. For students planning to take all English-language coursework, at least a basic knowledge of German is highly recommended. For a listing of courses at University of Bern,
click here.
Accommodation
Students in this program may choose to stay in University residences or a shared apartment or flat. There are three halls of residence at the University that exchange students are able to live in. Many rooms are single occupancy, but doubles are also available.
Apartment shares are also available to students in this program. It is common in Bern to rent a room in a group apartment. Many people enjoy the social aspect, but it is also a good way to lower accommodation costs. Should you prefer independent accommodation or an apartment-share, please consult the list of private accommodation provided by the Students' Union. Please note that the number of reasonably-priced, short-term rooms and flats is limited
Student Life and Surroundings
Located in Bern, a historic city of 137,000, the University of Bern offers students access to one of the most historic and modern cities in the world. This mixture of old and new makes Bern a particularly charming city. On top of this, a recent study done by an international consulting firm rated Bern – together with Vienna – the capital with the highest quality of life. Students have the opportunity to take advantage of Switzerland’s efficient public transportation and see all the country has to offer. Not to mention the Alps are in your backyard.
Cost of Attendance, Financial Aid, and Scholarships
Exchange programs are affordable study abroad options that allow students to pay UW-W tuition while studying abroad. As with all approved study abroad programs, UW-W financial aid can be used on this program. Eligible students are encouraged to apply for the Wisconsin Grant for Study Abroad, and UW-W and external study abroad scholarships are available.
UW-W tuition, as well as the Global Experiences Application Fee and CISI international insurance, are billed to the student’s UW-W account. Other expenses are paid individually (e.g. living expenses) or to the host university (e.g. accommodation).
Estimated Cost of Attendance (per semester)
| Billed by UW-Whitewater |
|
| Tuition* |
3,846 |
| Application/Administration Fee |
225 |
| Contingency Fee |
50 |
| CISI Insurance |
140 |
| Subtotal |
$4,261 |
| Additional Estimated Expenses |
|
| Round-Trip Airfare |
1,000 |
| Passport and Passport Photos |
150 |
| Student Visa and Residence Permit |
330 |
| Accommodation** |
3,300 |
| Meals |
2,000 |
| Books/supplies |
415 |
| Local Transportation (in Switzerland) |
415 |
| Personal/Miscellaneous |
1,300 |
| Subtotal |
$8,910 |
| Total*** |
$13,171 |
*2018-19 UW-W tuition for in-state residents. Non-residents are subject to UW-W non-resident tuition rates. Tuition rates are subject to change each academic year.
**Accommodation is an estimate; individual options may vary
***For comparison, the UW-W Financial Aid office estimates the cost of attendance on the UW-Whitewater campus for one semester to be $9,521
Passport and Visa Requirements
Students staying in Switzerland for a period longer than 90 days are required to obtain a Student Visa. Please note that a period of at least 8 weeks is required for the issue of your student visa. Students staying in the city of Bern must visit the Migration Office in Bern within 14 days of arrival to apply for a residence permit. You need a valid passport and student visa at this time to register.
Key Dates
| Term |
Application Deadline |
Term Dates |
| Academic Year |
March 15 |
Mid September to late May |
| Fall Semester |
March 15 |
Mid September to late December |
| Spring Semester |
October 1 |
Mid February to late May |
Contacts
Office of Global Experiences
Office: McCutchan 204
Phone: 262-472-5759
Email: studyabroad@uww.edu
