Montana State University (MSU) is located in Bozeman, Montana and there are more than 16,700 students in attendance, making it the states’ largest university. MSU is rated one of the best universities in the US for outdoor sports and recreation - there are two nearby ski resorts and bus services that run from campus to both resorts. There are hundreds of miles of local hiking trails, world-class flyfishing rivers, and of course, Yellowstone National Park. Plus, there is the Outdoor Recreation centre on campus, where students can sign up for classes and trips and rent a high variety of outdoor equipment. The MSU athletic teams are nicknamed the Bobcats and are represented with their blue and gold colours. For almost 30 years, MSU hosted the College National Finals Rodeo. Bobcat Rodeo teams have won 8 national team titles, 32 individual national championships and multiple Big Sky Regional crowns. MSU has more than 300 clubs and organisations so there is plenty of opportunity to get involved in campus life.
It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.
Who can study here?
Swansea has a ‘university-wide’ partnership with this university which means that it is open to all subject areas except for Classics, Media Studies, Education, Social Policy, Politics & IR, Philosophy or Law.
Spaces are not guaranteed, can be limited and all students on a semester/year abroad programme are subject to a university-wide, competitive selection process.
Important information
ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs August to May.
COSTS: The cost of living in Montana will vary depending on the type of accommodation and meal plan you select. For visa purposes, you will be required to provide financial evidence for a specific amount. Further details are below.
VISA: You will need a J-1 exchange visa and will be required to provide financial evidence of at least $12,300 based on the 2024-2025 academic year. Your host university will provide you with more information about the application process. To apply for a visa, you will need to pay a SEVIS fee of approx $220 plus an application fee of approx $185. In addition, you should factor in the cost of attending a visa interview at the US Embassy (typically in London). More information is available on the US Embassy website: https://uk.usembassy.gov/applying-f-1-j-1-visa/
You must allow enough time to complete the visa application and for your visa to be sent to you. There can be significant delays so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to the USA without it.
ACCOMMODATION: Most exchange students live in on campus housing, although you are not required to live on campus and may find your own accommodation in the area. However, please be aware that finding off-campus housing can be challenging. MSU are usually able to reserve campus housing for all exchange students, but recommend applying for housing as soon as you have received your application, as spaces fill up quickly. You do not need to be accepted to MSU before applying for housing.
HEALTH INSURANCE: You will be required to purchase mandatory health insurance for your time at MSU. You will be provided with further details on application.
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