University of Leicester, England

Location

Leicester, in the heart of the Midlands, is a vibrant, up-and-coming city with a population of 280,000, making it one of the largest cities in England. It has emerged over the centuries as a bustling center of trade and manufacturing, attracting a diverse minority populace from around the world that contributes to a third of the city’s population. Within the region, all roads lead to Leicester and there is easy access from London, East Midlands and Birmingham International airports. A proud people, Leicester’s citizens and city walls boast many sports teams including Leicester City Football Club, which has been in existence for 120 years. Other sports include rugby, cricket, basketball and golf clubs to go along with the famous Victoria Park Racecourse. The city itself has an excellent bus service for getting around the city and outskirts of Leicester, making access to any and every event possible.

University

The University of Leicester is a leading teaching and research university. Founded in 1921 and receiving its Royal Charter in 1957, it is one of the UK’s older universities. With a pristine campus stretching across 147 hectares and a total of 220 school-owned properties, the university is ideally located with supermarkets, a cinema complex, local shops, bars and restaurants all within walking distance. With all teaching buildings within a few minutes walk of each other, Leicester’s compact and friendly campus is an ideal place for its 19,000 students.

Academic Program

Leicester offers a wide range of academic programs and research areas, including the Arts, Science, Medicine, Law, Education, Biological sciences and Social sciences, to name but a few.

To see a full catalogue of Leicester’s available classes (called "modules"), click here.

Broadly speaking, 3 US credits is the equivalent of 10 UK credits and 5 US credits equate to 20 UK credits.

Program Dates

Fall Semester: September 22 - December 11(dates will be similar each year)
Application deadline: February 1

Spring Semester: January 13 - May 14(dates will be similar each year)
Application deadline: February 1 of previous year

Program Costs

Exchange programs charge only regular JMU tuition, based on residency, while room and board are paid to the host institution.  Students are responsible for airfare and personal expenses.

The University of Leicester suggests students will need approximately 600-620 British Pounds per month for accommodations, utilities, food, local travel, books and personal expenses.

Accommodations

Most exchange students will live in Oadby Student Village, catered or self-catered residence halls. For more information, please click here.

Reflection Paper

All students who participate in a JMU exchange program will be required to write a reflection paper upon completion of the program which will be available for future participants to read. Please click here to read past reflection papers from JMU students at the University of Leicester.

Eligibility

Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA and be in good standing with the university.

How to Apply

Spaces are limited. Please meet with a study abroad advisor before applying. For more detailed instructions and to download the application, please click on the following link to the Applications and Forms section for JMU Exchange Programs.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Scholarships specifically for exchange programs are sometimes available. Check our website for current offerings. Most forms of financial aid apply to the cost of study abroad programs. Students should consult with a financial aid counselor for specific information about awards and eligibility. For more information, please click on the following link to the Financial Aid & Scholarships page.