The University of Pretoria has an Institutional agreement with Leiden University in the Netherlands. The duration of the contract was signed for five years starting from September 2020. The two Institutions have established a collaboration that will entail student and academic staff exchange. As well as embarking on joint research programs to advance research and teaching endeavours by organising conferences, symposiums and seminars for mutual benefit. 

Leiden University is a renowned university in the Netherlands, also known as the heart of Europe offering students the chance to study abroad through partner universities via an exchange or study abroad programme. The application process requires students to be nominated by their home University, identify a course from the 20 on offer at Leiden University relevant to their study programme, meet academic requirements in the chosen course, take an English proficiency test, and attain required scores.

In January 2024 Ms Cara van der Westhuizen returned from Leiden University after participating in the exchange programme for six months, she was awarded the Mandela Scholarship to cover her expenses during the exchange. Cara is currently enrolled for LLB studies, after completing her BCom Law degree in 2022. She learned about the University exchange opportunities from a family member who had previously participated as an international exchange student. 

Ms van der Westhuizen gathered information about how to apply for the exchange programme from Ms. Mahlogonolo Mphahlele a specialist from the UP International Cooperation Division during her second year and Prof Anton van der Linder with Dr. Clireesh Joshua lead academics in the Faculty of Law tasked with facilitating student and staff exchanges. Cara commends the University and the Faculty of Law for creating systems to support the academic journey of its students. She is grateful for the exchange opportunity, which has afforded her international exposure during her studies. The scholarship is extremely helpful in making international education accessible. 

Exchange programs are intended to enrich students’ study experience, and provide international experience. They are a life-changing opportunity valuable for propelling a graduate to greater career prospects in the future and offer exceptional academic and personal growth opportunities. Her message to aspiring applicants maintain high marks on their modules, do their research, apply on time, engage the faculty to get all the required documents to support their application, and enjoy the exchange experience if successful.

To learn more about UP international exchange opportunities
https://www.up.ac.za/international-cooperation-division/article/3090153/available-mobilities-