Learn about exchange programs at partner universities
Studying abroad at partner universities is a type of study abroad program where students are sent to and accepted by universities that have concluded student exchange agreements with Aoyama Gakuin University. Candidates are selected through an internal selection process involving document review and interviews, and then approved by the university. However, being selected as a candidate means being recommended to the partner university, and does not guarantee acceptance at the host university. (Acceptance may not be permitted depending on the circumstances of the host university.) Application documents are sent to the partner university through Aoyama Gakuin University, and study abroad is confirmed only after admission is granted by the partner university.
Aoyama Gakuin University has consistently based its educational philosophy on Christian principles, aiming to "cultivate individuals who possess the wisdom and ability to identify and solve problems on their own, based on a correct understanding rooted in a global perspective." This study abroad program aims to "cultivate individuals who can mutually understand and interact with each other in the context of international political, economic, and cultural activities, and who can contribute to resolving international conflicts and various global issues."
Purpose of study abroad, study abroad schedule
The most important thing when considering studying abroad is to clarify your motivation and purpose. By clarifying your motivation and purpose, you can consider a study abroad program that is suitable for you and lead to a fulfilling life abroad. Study abroad programs are becoming more diverse along with the purpose of studying abroad, such as wanting to master a foreign language, deepening knowledge in a specialized field, or broadening your international perspective. After carefully considering the study abroad destination (region/country), time and duration of study abroad, the academic subject you want to study, and your career path after graduation, please carefully consider what type of study abroad program will be most effective for you.
Common Application Eligibility
The following conditions must be met.
1. You must have been enrolled at Aoyama Gakuin University for at least one year by the time of departure.
2. Undergraduate students must have already earned at least 30 credits per year, and graduate students must have already earned at least 16 credits per year.
3. A GPA of 2.4 or higher, and meeting the GPA requirements of the prospective partner university.
Note) For first-year applicants: The above conditions must be met at the end of the first year.
4. Meeting the application requirements for your desired study abroad destination.
5. Obtain the consent of the guarantor.
6. Being in good physical and mental health.
Note: You must undergo the health checkup conducted at the Health Management Center at the beginning of each fiscal year.
*For graduate student applications, additional requirements may apply, so please be sure to consult with the International Center in advance.
Types of exchange programs
Study Abroad at Partner Universities (Exchange Programs)
Aoyama Gakuin University This study abroad program is part of the “exchange student program,” through which students are sent to universities with which Aoyama Gakuin University has concluded student exchange agreements. Under this program, the study abroad period is counted toward the period of enrollment at ; therefore, if the credits earned at the host university are recognized toward graduation requirements, students may be able to graduate in four years, depending on the academic year of their study abroad.Furthermore, by paying tuition fees to Aogaku, tuition fees at the host university are generally waived (excluding miscellaneous fees, etc.). Outbound exchange students are selected through a document review and interview process, followed by university approval.
Our goal is not only to improve language skills through study abroad experiences, but also to hone cross-cultural understanding, communication skills, leadership, teamwork, and initiative, so that students can become truly global citizens capable of thriving in a global society.
In addition, exchange students are expected to earn at least 12 credits (equivalent to approximately 135 hours) per semester for undergraduate students and at least 9 credits (equivalent to approximately 102 hours) per semester for graduate students during their study abroad period.
Study abroad at partner universities (privately funded)
This is a system for studying abroad at partner universities at your own expense. It is implemented at some partner universities in the United States, France, and New Zealand, and tuition fees must be paid to both Aoyama Gakuin University and the partner university. The application process is done through the International Center. Similar to exchange programs, the period of study abroad is included in your enrollment period at Aoyama Gakuin University, so if the credits earned at the host university are recognized as credits towards your graduation requirements, it may be possible to graduate in four years depending on the year of study abroad. Partner university students (self-financed) are selected through document review and interviews, and their acceptance is subject to the university's approval.
MISEN Program
This is a study abroad program at member institutions of MISEN (Methodist International Student Exchange Network), of which Aoyama Gakuin University is a member. Similar to exchange programs with partner universities, the study abroad period is counted towards your enrollment period at Aoyama Gakuin University, tuition fees at the host institution are waived, and you will be eligible for the continuing education system and credit transfer system. This program is only available to undergraduate students.
ACUCA SMS Program
This is a study abroad program under the Student Mobility Scheme at ACUCA (Association of Christian Universities and Colleges in Asia), of which Aoyama Gakuin University is a member. Similar to exchange programs with partner universities, the study abroad period is counted towards the period of enrollment at Aoyama Gakuin University, tuition fees at the host institution are waived, and students are eligible for continuing education and credit transfer systems. This program is for undergraduate students, and the study abroad period is limited to one semester.