Since 1954, CALS has offered their students unique opportunities to study abroad via the CALS Exchange program. CALS students are able integrate 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 suitable to nearly all CALS major, especially for undergraduate students majoring in Animal Science, Agricultural Sciences, Biology, Biometry, Environment and Sustainability, Food Science, Horticulture, Nutritional Science, or Plant Science. 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?

University College Dublin is Ireland’s largest and most richly diversified university. Through an agreement between the College of Agriculture, Food Science & Veterinary Medicine (UCD) and CALS, undergraduate students may apply to enroll directly in the College of Agriculture, Food Science & Veterinary Medicine at UCD for a semester or a year.

UCD is a vibrant, modern university of approximately 25,000 students situated on a spacious campus about 3 miles to the south of Dublin city center. It is ranked in the top 1% of the world's universities. UCD offers award-winning facilities and has been ranked Nr. 1 #1 For Research in Ireland (Times Higher Education Ranking, 2016). With over 100 clubs and student societies, UCD has something for everyone.

What is unique about Dublin?

Located on the western edge of Europe, Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic. Dublin is Ireland's largest and most diverse city, and one of the most visited cities in Europe. Dublin is home to 1.5 million people and is the center of the political, diplomatic, administrative and commercial life of the country. With a young and cosmopolitan population, the city is known for its friendly, open, and welcoming people.

Student Testimonials

"The International Office is very helpful and accessible at UCD for questions and also offers a wide variety of opportunity for social activities and events. If you are not interested in socializing through the international office there are clubs and sports at the university and the Irish students welcome international students to participate." Fall 2014, Major: Biological Sciences

"The University College Dublin is a fantastic place for your study abroad experience. I found that the classes lined up with my program very well and the campus environment was very enjoyable. I met some amazing people and got to travel all over Europe. i loved my experience and would highly recommend choosing this school!" Fall 2016, Major: Animal Science  

Academic Calendar

Fall Semester:

• Semester Begins: Mid-September
• Semester Ends: Late-December

Spring Semester:

• Semester Begins: Late January
• Semester Ends: Mid-May

For exact dates, reference the full academic calendar. 

Things to Consider Before Applying

• Browse through course options and information
• Review the information on the Education Abroad Office’s Get Started page for important considerations on academics and finances, and a guide to next steps.
• Have questions about which abroad program to choose and the application process? Visit the Get Advice page and learn how to connect with an Education Abroad Advisors.
• Selected your program and have questions about international course approvals or academic policies while abroad? Please reach out to cals-studentservices@cornell.edu.
• Want to keep up to date with Cornellians Abroad? Follow Education Abroad on social media, @cornelliansabroad

How do I apply?

Applying to study on an exchange program is a two-step process. The Cornell approval process must be completed first, before your Education Abroad advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit your nomination to the exchange partner.  Exchanges may have limited spaces, so early applications are encouraged. If you are applying to an exchange program, it must be your first choice.  Exchange programs cannot be a "back-up" to another program.

1. For Cornell approval and nomination, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by your college and the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page, or earlier, if the program fills.
2. Once nominated by Cornell, UCD will email you an invitation to apply with application instructions.  At that point, you must complete the external application required for exchange students by UCD's deadline. Nominated exchange students are typically admitted by partners, but you must complete the application process for them to review your application and offer you a place.