Doing an exchange requires having certain documentation in order and completing a series of steps before beginning yourstay abroad. Allow sufficient time to prepare or renew the following documentation if necessary before your exchange semester:

• DNI/NIE – Students must hold an Identity Card (DNI) or valid Foreigner Identity Number (NIE)throughout their stay abroad. If you are not a Spanish citizen, make sure you hold a valid NIE before the beginning of the exchange to be able to return to Spain as a student once your semester abroad is over. Keep in mind that renewing a NIE is a slow process, so it is advisable to start the application or renewal process as soon as possible. You can contact the Student Services team should you have any questions.
• Passport – Students must hold an up-to-date passport, valid for more than six months after the end of the exchange semester. This applies especially to non-EU citizens and/or students going on exchange to a non-EU country. This document is necessary to be able to apply for a student visa should you require one. The Host University usually asks for a passport copy as part of the application process, so we advise you to keep photocopies of your passport and make sure it is not expired.
• Dual nationality – In case they hold two or several nationalities, students must research well in advance if there are restrictions imposed by the country of destination. This should be checked on the corresponding Embassy website.

For some countries, obtaining a visa will be mandatory. Immigration laws change continuously. It is therefore necessary to gather information on the Embassy website of the country of destination. If applicable, Host Universities will provide documentation to enablestudents to apply for a visa.

However, students should make sure they fully understand the requirements and procedures, depending on their nationality and theregulations of the country of destination. Some countries don’t allow students to apply for a visa up to three months before the start of theexchange semester.

• Citizens of the European Union: Students don’t need to apply for a visa for destinations within the European Union. For destinations outside the European Union, it is recommended to check with the corresponding Embassy.
• Citizens from outside the European Union: Students must research the processes to follow,depending on their nationality and the country of destination.

If a visa is required to access the country of destination, some of the following documents may be requested:

- Passport: It is essential that the passport be valid for more than six months after the end of the exchange semester.

- Admission letter: This will be issued by the Host University after their application process is completed.

NB: The IE International Mobility Office does notmanage visa applications for students.

Language Proficiency Certificate: Some Host Universities ask non-native exchange students to be proficient in their language of instruction and require a language certificate to that effect. This can be in English, or in Spanish or Portuguese if the country of destination is located in Latin America. This can apply to other languages as well, should students be interested in taking classes conducted in another language while abroad.

Since classes at IE University are fully taught in English, some Host Universities can accept a letter of proficiency from the International Mobility Office. However, some do require an official language test, such as TOEFL, IELTS, etc., which students should be able to provideas part of their application to the Host University.

Bank Statement: Certain countries, especially the US, Canada and Australia, request a bank statement to be able to issue astudent visa. This document is drawn by the student’s bank (or that of their parents/tutor) and should state that the student holds sufficient funds to cover their stay.

The specific amount required is usually specified by the Host University. The bank statement must be requested in the language of the country of destination and the local currency.

Health Insurance: Before beginning their exchange semester, students must make sure they hold insurance with adequate medical coverage abroad.

Students going to a European country can request the European Health Insurance Card and/or take private insurance. Some countries also request a Medical Certificate to be able to apply for a visa and/or the purchase of private health insurance that covers students’ stay abroad. This can be a mandatory package selected by the Host University, which students must sign up for.

Vaccination and health recommendations: Vaccinations to travel within the European Union are usually not necessary. However,students should still check the requirements of each country. Outside the European Union, some countries require students to have a series of up-to-date vaccinations.

The list of vaccines demanded isusually sent by the Host University. However, it is advisable to anticipate this and request a medical appointment as part of the exchange preparations.

It is recommended that students research existing accommodation options. Availability, quality and rent can vary considerably from one city/country to another. This expense should be kept in mind when applying for an exchange.

Most Host Universities share housing options on their website or send them directly to students. It is advisable to follow their recommendation. Some of them can offer on-campus housing to exchange students; however, this is never guaranteed and is subject to availability.

NB: The IE International Mobility Office does notmanage housing for students.