Module 2: Mobility resources

There are some variations between universities in different countries in the timing of each step of organising learning mobility. 

Reaching a cooperation agreement between different universities all over the world on the possibilities of exchange studies. Most universities have signed a variety of such contracts which stipulate the timing of each step in the process.

Applying for financing of the exchange period, for example, through the Erasmus+ or Nordplus projects. Most, if not all, universities in the Nordic/Baltic region have a long history of such contracts and have signed a charter, guaranteeing them such financing year after year.

Advertising the possibilities of mobility to the students. This usually happens in the first quarter of the year for the coming school year. Usually such advertisements give information about funded and non-funded possibilities. 

Students seeking some form of guidance on how to apply. Such guidance can involve anything from the practical aspects of the application to how the exchange period can fit into the overall study plan. It may surprise students how difficult the latter step is. If the application is left to the last term of studies, students may not find the necessary courses to fill the required credit points of their study plans. Universities therefore often point out to their students that it is necessary to start planning a possible study period abroad already in the beginning of their studies, even though they plan to carry it out in a couple of years. 

Students applying for mobility periods. Again, the timing varies between universities. It may therefore be useful for guidance practitioners to make a table of the relevant deadlines in their countries to be able to find the information fast if and when they are asked for it.