What is the difference between an exchange program and a semester study abroad program? 

Exchange programs are reciprocal. This means that the University of Maryland sends between one and four students to study at a partner university, while the partner university sends between one and four students to study at Maryland. Unlike students on many semester programs, exchange students are directly enrolled as full-time students at the host institution of their choice. Exchange students are expected to be independent and interested in a true immersion experience during their semester abroad.

Semester programs are much larger. As a result, students tend to travel as a group. The full program will be enrolled in similar courses and housed in similar accommodations. Excursions and outings may also be organized for the group.