Planning for Your Exchange at RPI
- Browse the RPI Academic Catalog for course descriptions
- Not all courses in the catalog are offered every semester. Check the Class Hours Schedule in the Student Information System (SIS). Tip: Look at the same semester from the previous year for the best idea of what is available.
Course Load
- Typical full-time: 14–18 credits per semester
- Minimum: 12 credits (to maintain full-time status)
- Maximum: 21 credits (not recommended to exceed 17 credits)
- Incoming exchange students must attend orientation before classes begin.
- Students must remain at RPI through the end of the semester, including all final exams.
View the Academic Calendar
- Registration is completed online before arrival.
- Login details and instructions will be emailed after acceptance.
- You may adjust your schedule during the first two weeks of the semester, but early registration is recommended.
Apply for on-campus housing through the Student Living and Learning website.
- Housing is not guaranteed.
- Rates do not include meals; see the housing rate sheet for meal plan costs. Semester students are billed half of the full-year rate.
- Housing contracts are binding — you cannot cancel mid-semester to move off campus.
Off-Campus Housing
- Visit the Off-Campus Housing page
- Submit a Medical History Form through the Student Health Center Portal
- Provide physician-signed immunization records.
- All exchange students are automatically enrolled in the RPI/CDPHP Student Health Plan.
- Travel insurance is not accepted.
- Exceptions only if you have comparable U.S.-based insurance.
| Expense | Per Semester |
|---|---|
| Housing & Meal Plan* | ~$8,700 |
| Health Insurance (mandatory) | $1,000 |
| Health Center Fee (mandatory) | $375 |
| Student Activity Fee (mandatory) | $387 |
| Books & Supplies | $700 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses** | $800 |
* Based on campus housing & meal plan; off-campus is often less expensive
** Varies depending on lifestyle and travel
