Since 1954, CALS has offered their students unique opportunities to study abroad via the CALS Exchange program. CALS students are able to internationalize their academic experience by integrating themselves into a partner university abroad, taking classes and living alongside degree-seeking students. The CALS Exchange programs are rooted in, and in many cases designed by, CALS faculty affiliated to an international academic institution or university department that complements your academic program. Students who have previously gone on exchange have found it to be a rewarding experience as it has added an international dimension to their degree, challenged them academically and facilitated the development of new skills, and enhanced their personal growth and self-confidence. 

This exchange program is recommended for undergraduate students majoring in Agricultural Sciences, Food Sciences, Global Development, Plant Sciences, and Viticulture and Enology. Students in majors outside of those recommended may also be able to participate, depending on your interests and academic needs.

What is unique about this program?

Located in Angers, France, ESA offers a unique pathway that includes a semester of coursework in addition to experiential learning and research opportunities. ESA strives to bring students, community, and companies together to research and respond to contemporary issues in the agricultural and agri-food industry. Throughout their experience at ESA, students might be working on cutting edge research or visiting a local farm.

What is unique about Angers, France?

Angers is located approximately three hours southwest of Paris in the Pays de la Loire region, was ranked the "greenest city" in 2017 by the Union Nationale des Entreprises du Paysage-UNEP and is home to approximately 148,000 residents. Of those residents, almost half of the population is under 30 and a destination for many students studying at one of the 18 higher education institutions in the area. There are many opportunities to attend in local festivals, fairs, and events. Fun fact, there is a "theme park" of plants also know as Terra Botanica.  

Past Participants

Past participants have submitted feedback about their experiences. These surveys are available for your review. You can also view photos from their time abroad. Would you like to ask a past participant questions about their experience? The CALS exchange coordinator is happy to connect you to a Cornell student who has studied at ESA. Email cals-exchange@cornell.edu to request an introduction.

How do I apply?

• Attend a CALS Exchange and Study Abroad Information Session
  • CALS will be holding information sessions for students to answer questions regarding types of programs, the process, financial aid/costs concerns, returning credits, and any additional questions you may have. You can find the schedule and login information here. 
• Meet with the CALS Exchange Advisor
  • The CALS exchange advisor meets personally with every student interested in going on an exchange. It's an opportunity to discuss the program, the application process, the course approval process, etc. Schedule an appointment.
• Click the green apply button (there is an application preview button for those interested in what is on the application-by clicking apply, you will start an application to the program)
  • Already met with the CALS Exchange Advisor or is it close to the application deadline and you can't get in to see the advisor? That's okay. Click the green apply button and start the Cornell application process so you don't miss any deadlines. 
• Click Submit
  • Once you've completed all of the application requirements, click submit. The CALS Exchange Advisor will review your application within a week of your submission. If accepted, you will receive further instructions regarding next steps and the application process to your host university.