Exchange Students
WORLD: The David and Leighan Rinker Center for International Learning is pleased to welcome international exchange students from partner universities all over the world! WORLD is the main source of support for exchange students, guiding you through the application process and your entire time at Stetson University.
The information below is for international students wishing to study abroad for one semester or one academic year at Stetson University. To participate in the exchange program, your home university must have a current partnership with Stetson. If your home university does not currently have a partnership with Stetson, please contact the Office of Admissions for assistance.
Application and Academic Planning
Review the application process, language requirements, course enrollment guidelines, and academic calendar for incoming exchange students.
Students must first be nominated by their home university and then submit an online application.
Initial Application Documents:
- A copy of your transcript in English
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
After Acceptance:
- Copy of the passport photo page
- Financial documentation for J-1 visa form (DS-2019) processing
- Travel information
All exchange applicants who do not come from an English-speaking country or have not attended an English-speaking school for at least three years must provide official test scores:
- TOEFL: 79 (Internet-based)
- TOEFL Essentials: 9
- IELTS: 6.0
- Duolingo English Test: 95
- ELS Intensive English: Level 112 completion
Stetson offers more than 86 areas of study and maintains a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Exchange students may take any classes for which they meet prerequisites at their home university.
- Unit System: Stetson uses a unit system in which a 1-unit class equals 4 credits. Most students take 4 classes (units) per semester.
- Minimum Load: International students must take a minimum of 12 credits (3 units) per semester to maintain legal status.
- Course Search: Browse available classes on the Class Schedule Search page (select the DeLand campus).
The Fall semester runs from August to December, and the Spring semester runs from January to May. View specific program dates on the official Stetson Academic Calendar.
Visa, Health and Campus Life
Essential information regarding student visas, mandatory health insurance coverage, on-campus accommodations, and local living.
Exchange students come to the United States on a J-1 Student Visa. Once you are admitted, WORLD will provide you with a DS-2019 form and step-by-step instructions for applying for your visa through the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
Exchange students are required by U.S. law to carry adequate health insurance for the full duration of their stay. You must provide proof of U.S. medical coverage during International Student Orientation.
Review mandatory coverage limits and recommended plans on the Insurance Information page and learn about campus medical services at Stetson Health Services.
Exchange students are guaranteed on-campus housing while studying at Stetson. Accommodations are all-inclusive, with pet-friendly, gender-neutral, and single-gender options available. Visit Residential Living and Learning for details.
Stetson's student body currently consists of over 200+ international students representing over 50+ countries. Our community prides itself on embracing international students and their cultures and making every student feel accepted on our campus. Stetson also recognizes over 150 different student clubs and organizations. These range from clubs with a global focus such as the Stetson International Organization, to a variety of club sports teams.
Stetson University is located in Deland, Florida. Mixing old charm with modern eclectic stores and monthly festivals of all types, the downtown area is an exciting place for students to visit and spend their time. Deland is also lucky to be surrounded by an array of state parks and nature preservation areas open to the public for camping, biking, running, swimming in the springs, or just general recreation. Directly east of Deland by about 20 minutes is Daytona Beach. On the weekends students like to carpool with friends to the beach for some hours enjoying what the Sunshine State has to offer. South of Deland by about 50 minutes is Orlando, home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, host of the professional NBA basketball team, the Orlando Magic, and a hot spot for concerts and events of all types.
Financial Planning
Estimated living costs, on-campus employment rules, and quick answers to common questions.
Estimated monthly and semester expenses (approximate):
- Accommodation: ~$900/month
- Food & Meals: ~$600/month
- Health Insurance: ~$100/month
- Local Transportation: ~$50/month
- Leisure & Personal: ~$200/month
- Books & Supplies: ~$400/semester
- Miscellaneous: ~$50/month
Yes. J-1 exchange students are permitted to work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the semester (including office, dining, and tutoring roles). Off-campus employment is strictly prohibited. Visit the Student Employment Program page for open positions.
- Length of Stay: Students can attend for one semester (Fall or Spring) or a full academic year.
- Breaks & Travel: University breaks occur in the Fall (October), Winter (December–January), and Spring (March).
- Orientation: Attendance at International Student Orientation prior to the start of classes is mandatory for all new exchange students.
Exchange STUDENT ORIENTATION
Prepare for your arrival at Stetson! Learn about mandatory orientation dates, airport pickup, campus check-in, and welcome events hosted by WORLD Ambassadors.
VIEW ORIENTATION GUIDE