Details

• United States of America
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

Start the application process early and carefully read all information provided by WU's International Office. Make sure to keep track of deadline as some documents like transcripts or language certificates may take time to obtain.It is helpful to prepare a prioritized list of partner universities and to research their course offerings in advance. If questions should arrise, contacting the WU exchange coordinators early can prevent problems later on. Begin planning well in advance, especially regarding visa requirements, housing and course selection. At UIUC courses can fill up quickly so it is important to be flexible and have backup options. Make sure your Learning Agreement is realistic and aligns with your studies at WU. In addition, plan your budget carefully as living costs in the US can be higher than expected. It is also helpful to connect with other exchange students beforehand and familiarize yourself with the host university's campus and services.

2. Accommodation

The accomodation search in Champaign-Urbana was manageable but required starting early as many apartments are advertised months in advance. Online platforms and UIUC-related housing groups were helpful. I lived in a private shared apartment, which is the most common option for exchange students. Student residences are available but often less flexible due to meal plans and longer lease periods. Campustown and areas near E Green Street are popular, safe and within walking or biking distance to campus. Public transportation is reliable and free with a student ID, but I preferred walking rather than using the bus, as I did not want to depend on bus schedules. Tips I wish I'd known beforehand: Start searching early and check lease lenghts carefully, as many contracts are for a full year and finding a sublease can be hard in Champaign. Living close to campus can save time, especially if you prefer walking. Also, ensure the apartment has a good A/C, as fall season can be very hot and the winters very cold.

3. Academic life at host university

I was impressed by the size and quality of the UIUC campus. The libraries, study areas and lecture halls are modern and well equiped and I found the digital platforms easy to use for coursework and communication. Compared to WU classes were much more interactive and personal. Participation, group work and regular assignments are common, which require continuous engagement throughout the semester. Professors at UIUC were more involved in students progress and provided regular feedback through homework, quizzes and midterm. Office hours were actively promoted and useful when clarifying course content. While the workload was more evenly distributed across the semester.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transportation in Champaign–Urbana is reliable and free for students with a UIUC ID. Since I lived close to campus, I mostly preferred walking rather than relying on bus schedules. While I generally felt safe on campus and in student-populated areas, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Outside of campus and further away from student neighborhoods, some areas can feel less safe, especially at night. Be cautious and informed about your surroundings. There are many social and leisure activities organized by student organizations and for exchange students. Campustown offers cafés, restaurants, bars, and it was easy to meet people through classes and university events. I would also recommend going to Quad Day on the Main Quad, where over 700 college clubs have their booths. UIUC has a strong sports culture and attending college sports games was a highlight of my exchange. The university also offers excellent sports facilities, including gyms, group classes and recreational sports.

6. Testimonial

My exchange at UIUC was an unforgettable experience, both academically and personally. I enjoyed the interactive and supportive teaching style, the vibrant campus life and the chance to meet students from all over the world. Living close to campus made it easy to explore, attend events and participate in sports and I also made some great friendships along the way. Weekends and breaks were perfect for traveling, during my semester, I visited cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C., Nashville and even Hawaii. What made my exchange special was the combination of strong academics, welcoming professors, a lively social environment, lasting friendships and the opportunity to explore so much of the United States.