Application and Selection
I am interested in studying abroad. When do you suggest I should begin the application process?
In general, students should begin the application process at least two semesters before they intend to study abroad. So, if you are hoping to study abroad in the fall term, you should start the application process in late September early October. However, it is important to note that most programs admit students in the fall semester only.
What is the application process like?
For most programs, the application consists of the following: a completed application form, two references (from an academic advisor or faculty member), AUC official transcripts, a statement of purpose, and a non-refundable application fee. After completing and submitting the application, you will have an interview with the Director of Study Abroad. You will then be notified if you are accepted into the program.
How competitive is the selection for study abroad programs?
It really depends on the program. Some programs have a maximum number of students that can be accepted while others do not. In most cases, students with a good academic record, strong references and a solid statement of purpose will be successful candidates for selection into the desired study abroad program.
Educational Component
How do I choose my university?
You will have to search the list of universities; check if your major is available at the host institution. Make a short list of your top 3 universities.
What types of courses can I take while overseas?
Courses will vary depending upon the program you select. Some programs allow students to direct-enroll at a University and in this case, the selection will be quite varied. Other programs are more limited in nature and students will have a somewhat narrow selection to choose from. Most programs list the available courses in their program brochure and on-line. Many students will study language, culture, and other social sciences. Increasingly, science and business majors have been able to take related courses overseas.
How do my credits transfer?
Credits will transfer back to AUC after your program is completed. The credits earned overseas will appear on your transcript as AUC credit. If you plan to have courses taken overseas that fulfill certain AUC requirements, you will need to arrange this with AUC registrar in the credit transfer Unit and your respective academic department before the start of the program.
How will the study abroad program affect my GPA at AUC?
The courses taken in an exchange/study abroad program are transferred as AUC credit if the grade scored in the course is a C or higher without changing the GPA.
General Questions
How can I find more information about Study Abroad / Exchange?
The International Programs Office recommends attending an information session announced throughout the semester or pass by the office to schedule a meeting with the study abroad director.
When do most students study abroad?
There is no set time for students to study abroad. However, students are not eligible to study abroad during the Freshman year. In general, students should work with their academic advisor to plan for the study abroad experience. Depending on your academic goals and timeline, students can study abroad during the Sophomore, Junior, or Senior year.
How long can I study abroad?
Program lengths vary. Some programs last an entire academic year. On the other hand, short-term study abroad programs lasting 2-3 weeks also exist. Some students study abroad for one term, while others go for the full academic year. Summer programs are also offered - from 2 weeks to 8 weeks in duration.
Can I work overseas while participating in a study abroad program?
Whether you can work or not will depend on what type of visa you are issued. In most cases, it will be possible to work on campus of your host institution. Ask at the International Programs office for further clarification if you still have questions. However, if you are interested in going overseas to work, consider an international internship and contact the AUC CAPS office
Do I have to live with a host family or in the university dorms?
Most programs offer at least two options for living arrangements. These include apartment living, dormitory living, and host family living. You can find out what type of living arrangements are offered by your program through searching in the program brochure or looking on-line at their program website. Also, you can always explore new and different living arrangements that are specific to the area or city of your campus such as off-campus apartments or cooperative living.
What sorts of vaccinations are required before studying abroad?
This varies on your destination.
Financial Questions
I have a financial Aid at AUC; will it apply to my semester abroad?
Your financial aid will apply only if you are applying for the exchange program, it will not be possible to use your aid if you are applying for other study abroad programs.
Are there scholarships for study abroad programs?
Yes, occasionally some scholarships can be used for study abroad programs. In order to be considered for most scholarships, students should have a competitive GPA (i.e. higher than 3.0 GPA).
How much more is the cost of an overseas program compared to staying in AUC?
The cost of study abroad / Exchange programs varies depending on length of stay, program site, living arrangements, etc. Because each program is unique, you will have to figure the actual program expenses, you should accurately compare all costs of living in AUC (tuition, housing, utilities, transportation, insurance, food, entertainment, etc.) with the costs of the particular program of interest.
What is the fee schedule for spending a year abroad?
Students who are spending two academic semesters abroad are required to pay the fees of the two semesters before the start of the first semester or by a given deadline. That is, if a student is studying abroad for the fall and the spring, they pay the fees of both semesters before the end of the previous Spring semester.