Study Abroad -- Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to speak another language to study abroad?
No. None of the Emory Abroad courses require a foreign language, and many semester and summer programs require no previous language study and even offer courses in English. The direct exchange summer program with the Universitè de Picardie Jules Verne in Amiens, France and some CIEE programs do require previous language study.
Do I need to have a certain GPA to study abroad?
Most of the summer, semester, and year-long programs with CIEE require a 2.75 GPA; others require a 3.0. For Emory Abroad courses, you must have the professor's approval to register for the course. There may also be course prerequisites.
When should I study abroad?
Most students who spend a semester or year abroad go during their junior year. Discuss your plans to study abroad with your academic advisor as soon as possible; this will allow you to arrange your travels around graduation requirements.
What should I do to begin planning a summer, semester, or year abroad?
- Start planning as soon as possible. It's never too early!
- Discuss your intentions with your academic advisor and create a plan to meet your graduation requirements while incorporating time abroad.
- Read through the E&H Study Abroad website to explore possibilities for your time abroad.
- Contact the study abroad coordinator or indicated person for deadlines and more details.
- Complete the Intent to Study Abroad form and turn it in to the Office of International Education by February 15.
- Complete the E&H application to study abroad (and the applications for your program).
The E&H application to study abroad should be submitted to the Director of International Education by March 15 for summer and fall programs, and September 15 for programs the following spring semester.
- Get a passport as soon as possible. You may also need a visa. More Info
Will courses I take abroad transfer to E&H?
Yes, but you must plan ahead. Once you have decided which courses you will take during your time abroad, fill out the approval of transfer credit form and get the necessary signatures.
What will my living arrangement be when I am abroad?
Depending on the program, you will stay with a local family, live in a dorm, or rent an apartment near the university. Be sure to look at the living arrangements when exploring programs to find the arrangement that best suits you. Room and board is included in some, but not all, program fees.
What courses can I take?
Courses are available in practically every discipline, depending on your program. Most programs offer a variety of courses in addition to language classes. If you're interested in taking courses in a particular field, explore the possibilities offered by CIEE by downloading one of the discipline-specific brochures. You can also view the courses offered by CAPA's programs: Florence program London program.
Can I volunteer abroad?
Yes! Many summer and semester/year programs incorporate service learning, immersing you in the local culture. The Alternative Spring Break trip to Costa Rica is a full week of volunteer work.
If you receive a Bonner scholarship, you will be able to complete your service hours abroad in a variety of ways. However, AmeriCorps recipients cannot count service abroad toward their service hours, as service is restricted to domestic work.
How much will it cost?
For E&H short-term, faculty-led international education programs, you are responsible for travel expenses. Provided that you take 17.5 or fewer credits during the semester, there is no additional tuition fee for spring or fall courses with a study abroad component. If the course is taught exclusively during the summer, additional summer tuition applies.
For the Alternative Spring Break in Costa Rica, you are responsible for travel costs, although fund-raising and support from community churches often substantially lowers this cost.
To participate in a summer program abroad, you are responsible for the entire cost of the program. You may be able to receive financial aid.
For a semester/year abroad, you pay normal E&H tuition and may still receive federal, state, and college financial aid, though work-study cannot be awarded. Any of the program costs beyond regular tuition are your responsibility. Airfare is not included in most semester/year abroad program fees. Depending on the program, you may meals may or may not be included in program fees.
Are there scholarships for studying abroad?
Yes! Click here for more information about scholarship for studying abroad.
What is the deadline for applying?
E&H requires every student planning to study abroad to complete an application, available from the Director of International Education.
| E&H Application Deadlines |
| Term |
E&H Intent to Study Abroad Form Due |
E&H Application Deadlines |
| Spring 2009 | 02/15 |
09/15 |
| Fall 2008 | 02/15 |
03/15 |
If you have missed this deadline, contact the Director of International Education.
Additionally, each program has its own application deadlines. Check the information for the program you are interested in.
What documents do I need to study abroad?
- Passport: You will need a passport to leave the country. Apply as soon as possible; currently, it takes approximately 10-12 weeks to receive a passport after completing the application, and you cannot apply for a visa until you have a passport. You can apply at most post offices and other government offices. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State's Passport website. In the Emory area, you can apply for a passport at the Abingdon and Chilhowie post offices. You can get passport photos at CVS, Wal-Mart, and Walgreens.
- Visa: If you will be studying in a country for more that 90 days, you will likely need a student visa. Once you are accepted, your study abroad program will let you know the specific requirements for your destination. You can also check the U.S. State Department's Consular Information Sheets for this information. Getting a visa can take a long time, since you may be required to go in person to the consulate that serves your state of residence. Make sure you have all of the documents required to apply for your visa, which may include proof of acceptance from the foreign university and proof of insurance.
- International Student Identity Card (ISIC): While this card may not be required by your program, it is can be very useful. Your ISIC will provide basic insurance as well as proof of student status required for student discounts around the world. For more information and to purchase your ISIC, visit the ISIC website.
- Insurance: E&H requires every student studying abroad to hold an insurance policy from HTH. The Business Office will include this charge on your bill. Your program may also include additional insurance.
For more detailed information about obtaining travel documents, see the "6 Steps to Study Abroad" section of thePre-Departure Guide. ISEP also has useful online handbooks that cover information specific to individual countries, including visa requirements.
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