International Exchange and Study Abroad Opportunities for Students from Abroad
This information is intended for students pursuing non–degree–granting study at the University of Michigan (U-M) School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD), with the expectation that they will return to their home institution upon completion of their studies.
Students who wish to apply to SMTD as degree-seeking candidates should consult the SMTD International Admissions page.
The SMTD International Programs allow students from abroad the opportunity to enroll at the SMTD for one semester or one academic year. Non-first-year undergraduate or graduate level students in good academic standing (3.0 minimum GPA) who wish to enhance their current degree program through relevant study, cultural immersion, and intensive language learning are encouraged to apply.
Students from SMTD partner universities may participate through the Study Exchange program. These students continue to pay tuition to their home institution and are not charged U-M tuition or fees.
Students from institutions that do not have a formal exchange partnership with SMTD may still apply to SMTD International Programs, but they are subject to U-M tuition and fees.
Term Dates and Application Deadline
The SMTD welcomes Study Abroad and Study Exchange applicants for the Fall (September—December) and Winter (January—April) terms. The application deadline is February 1 for the Fall term and August 1 for the Winter term.
Please refer to the University’s Academic Calendars for additional important dates.
How to Apply
To apply for the Study Exchange or Study Abroad, students must complete the Application Form and submit all required documents. New users should create an account and select the Exchange application form to start their application. Admission consideration is contingent upon meeting the University’s admission requirements.
Required Application Materials
The following materials must be submitted with the application form.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement or motivation letter. In the letter, explain why you wish to study at the SMTD (2 pages max). Applicants who wish to study with a specific faculty member should indicate this on the application and note the academic level they plan to enroll in during the exchange.
- One letter of recommendation. Please provide the name and contact information of your artistic recommender; they will be contacted directly to submit the letter.
- Recordings and documents supporting the application. Applicants must submit a recording based on the requirements for in-person auditions as listed on the Undergraduate and Graduate Audition Requirements pages. Please follow the appropriate link, locate the department, and review the specific audition requirements for the program before submitting the recording.
- Non-Candidate for Degree Application form (accessible via the application portal). Applicants should make sure the required section for their home institution is also completed.
- English language proficiency test score report for non-native English speakers (may be submitted with the application or at a later stage). Applicants whose first language is not English must submit an official score from a recognized exam, such as TOEFL, IELTS, ECPE, CAE or CPE, PTE Academic, or MET. Minimum score requirements and exemption criteria are outlined on the Exams and Visas page.
The following materials are required after the application has been reviewed by the SMTD Global Engagement Office:
- Financial Resources Statement (the form will be shared with the applicants)
- Supporting bank statement for living expenses.
Coursework
During the program, students are expected to take a full course load at U-M that corresponds to their academic level at their home institution. While students may enroll in courses alongside U-M students, placement in performance studios and large ensembles is subject to space availability.
For a complete list of classes available at the U-M, including those within the SMTD, please see the Schedule of Classes.
Upon completing the program, students will receive proof of course completion from U-M, but they are responsible for arranging the transfer of credits to their home institution.
If coursework in piano, written or aural theory, or language is intended, students may have to take the appropriate placement exam at the beginning of the semester.
Visas
U-M will issue the immigration documents needed to obtain the appropriate visa; however, students are responsible for meeting and providing documentation of required English language proficiency and financial support, as well as maintaining the required health insurance coverage.
- Non-native speakers of English must provide proof of English language proficiency through a recognized exam, such as TOEFL, IELTS, ECPE, CAE or CPE, PTE Academic, or MET. Information about required minimum scores and exemption criteria is listed on the Exams and Visas page.
- Students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses for the duration of their stay in the United States. Required funding amounts vary depending on the length of stay, and actual expenses may be higher or lower than the minimum required for visa documentation. These expenses may include, but are not limited to, travel to and from the United States, housing, meals, books, health insurance and medical care, and other incidental costs.
- Students must maintain required health insurance coverage for the entire length of their stay.
Please consult the International Center for additional information regarding student visas.
Housing
Students have a variety of housing options available in Ann Arbor. Additional information is available on the Housing page. Because housing in Ann Arbor fills quickly, options may become more limited over time. Students are encouraged to secure housing as early as possible. The SMTD will assist with housing arrangements to the extent possible.