Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is a private research university and space-grant institution located in Troy, New York. From renewable energy to cybersecurity, biotechnology to materials science, and big data to nanotechnology, the world needs problem solvers to address the urgent issues of today and the emerging issues of tomorrow. RPI sponsors 23 sports, 21 of which compete at the NCAA Division III level in the Liberty League. Their athletic teams, known as the RPI Engineers, have been very successful in the field of Ice Hockey, backed by their official ice hockey mascot, known as Puckman. Puckman is an anthropomorphic hockey puck with an engineer's helmet. Given the university's proximity to the Berkshires, Green Mountains and Adirondacks, the Ski Club and the Outing Club are some of the largest groups on campus. The Ski Club offers weekly trips to local ski areas during the winter months.
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 American Studies, History, Classics, English Literature, English Language, Education, Early Childhood Studies, Criminology, Sociology, Social Policy, Politics, International Relations, Philosophy, Law or Sports Science
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 Troy will vary depending on your chosen accommodation and your lifestyle. More information can be found on living expenses here.
VISA: You will need a J-1 exchange visa and will be required to provide financial evidence equaling at least $11,000 per semester.
To apply for a visa, you will need to pay a SEVIS fee of approx $220 plus an appliction 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: University/campus housing is in high demand and is not guaranteed. Non-university housing close to campus is readily available. Information can be found at https://sll.rpi.edu
HEALTH INSURANCE: All accepted incoming students are required to complete and submit a Medical History Form directly to the Student Health Center. Accepted students will still need to send paper verification of immunization signed by a physician. All incoming exchange students will be required to enroll in the Rensselaer Student Health Plan, provided by MVP.
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