The IPSF Student Exchange Programme (SEP) is the federation's flagship initiative, offering pharmacy students and recent graduates the opportunity to engage in professional internships across various pharmacy sectors worldwide. Each year, over 1,000 participants gain hands-on experience in settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, research institutions, and the pharmaceutical industry. Beyond professional development, SEP fosters cultural exchange, allowing participants to immerse themselves in different healthcare systems and traditions. 

Location (Country/City)

SEP operates in more than 80 countries across all continents. The specific city and institution depend on the host country's participating organizations and available placements. Participants can express preferences for up to three countries during the application process. 

Funding

• Participation Fee: A minimum fee of €42 is required, though this may vary based on the home country's association to cover administrative costs.
  
  
• Additional Costs: Participants are generally responsible for travel, accommodation, and daily expenses. However, some host organizations may offer support such as free or discounted lodging and meals. 
• SEP Grant: IPSF provides a grant that can cover part of the travel expenses and the SEP fee. The grant amount varies based on available funds and the number of qualified applicants. It is disbursed after the completion of the exchange and submission of required documentation.
  
  

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be current pharmacy students or recent graduates (within four years of graduation).
  
  
• Be members of an IPSF Member Organization or registered as Individual Members if no local association exists.
  
  
• Meet any additional requirements set by their home country's Student Exchange Officer (SEO), which may include academic prerequisites or language proficiency.
  
  

Application Date

Application periods vary by country. Generally, the application process begins in the fall, with many associations opening applications between September and November for exchanges taking place the following year.

Application Deadline

Deadlines are set by individual national associations. For example, some associations have deadlines in December, while others may set them earlier or later. Applicants should consult their local SEO for specific dates.

Duration of Program or Opportunity

Exchanges typically last between 2 weeks to 3 months, with a minimum of 40 working hours. The majority of exchanges occur between May and September, aligning with the summer break in many countries.

Application Process

1. Contact Local SEO: Reach out to your country's Student Exchange Officer for guidance on the application process and requirements.ipsf.org
   
   
2. Pre-Selection: Some associations may have a pre-selection process involving interviews or additional documentation.
   
   
3. Online Application: Create an account on the SEP database (www.sep.ipsf.org) and complete the Application Form, indicating up to three preferred countries.
   
   
4. Approval Process: Your application will be reviewed by your home SEO and, upon approval, forwarded to the host SEOs of your chosen countries.
   
   
5. Placement: If a host SEO accepts your application, they will coordinate the exchange details, including placement, accommodation, and other logistics.
   
   
6. Preparation: Once placed, prepare for your exchange by arranging travel, securing necessary visas, and communicating with your host.
   
   
7. Post-Exchange: After completing the exchange, submit any required reports or evaluations to receive your certificate and, if applicable, the SEP grant.
   
   

Application Website

• Main SEP Page: https://www.ipsf.org/student-exchange-programme
  
  
• SEP Database: https://www.sep.ipsf.org

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