SEMP FAQ

What is SEMP?

UZH students can study at these partner universities for one or two semesters as part of the Swiss-European Mobility Program (SEMP), formerly Erasmus.

Why a semester abroad?

The SEMP program offers a relatively simple opportunity to spend time at a European university with a scholarship. An exchange offers an insight into the operations of the partner universities. You may learn a foreign language and make new international contacts.

Who is eligible for a scholarship?

In principle, all students can apply for an exchange, but can only take part in the SEMP program once. The allocation of study places is the responsibility of the subject coordinators. Direct agreements with partner universities can therefore not be considered.

How does the application process work?

Registration takes place via an online form. The form and the exact application procedure can be found on the International Relations website of the University of Zurich.

What are the application deadlines?

The registration phases for the following fall and spring semesters take place in January/February. The subject coordinator forwards the applications to the mobility office of the University of Zurich by March 20 at the latest.

How long does a stay abroad last?

A stay abroad lasts between 3 and 12 months. If your studies permit, a period of 12 months is recommended, as experience has shown that half a year is considered too short.

How much money do I receive, what do I have to pay myself?

The University of Zurich pays SEMP students between CHF 200 and CHF 250 per month during their stay. Students often take a job as a student assistant at the host university. Information on jobs is available on the websites of the host universities and from the relevant SEMP officer at the host university.

What am I obliged to do during a stay abroad?

Students are obliged to submit an official experience report and possibly a short presentation about their stay.

How many ECTS credits are awarded for the stay abroad?

Students conclude a study agreement Learnig Agreement with their home university before the start of their stay. This states which credits earned abroad will be recognized at the home university. You can generally see in the course catalogs of the host universities how many ECTS points are awarded for which courses. These points are usually credited by the home university.

Which universities can I register for?

The Institute of Computational Linguistics has agreements with the Universities of Munich (LMU), Potsdam, Goeteborg and Stockholm.