I think I'm interested in studying abroad--where do I start?

The first step is to attend a General Information Session (GIS). Dates and times for GIS's can be found here. These sessions are designed to give you the "big picture" of study abroad and help you start planning for your experience. GIS is mandatory and space is limited, so come in early!

What are the minimum requirements? Am I eligible to study abroad?

In order to participate in any study abroad program (UVA or otherwise), you must have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA at the time of departure, be cleared through the Dean of Students Office, and must not be on Academic Warning. While these are general eligibility requirements for the UVA student body, students must also adhere to any requirements set by their school of enrollment. It is your responsibility to fully understand these requirements. Please note that program specific admissions requirements may differ. You must meet all requirements.

If you have a GPA lower than 2.5 at the time of departure you will not be granted credit (either UVA direct credit or transfer credit) for a study abroad experience. For that reason, you would also not be permitted to use Financial Aid for the program. A petition may be filed through your Association Dean, however, these petitions are seldom approved.

The Dean of Students clearance is automatically requested when you initiate an ISO application online. The ISO interviews those with previous Dean of Students violations and carefully considers each case for approval to study abroad.

Students on Academic Warning at the time of departure are not permitted to study abroad nor transfer study abroad credits to UVA.

Can I study abroad with my major?

Yes!! Students in ANY major can study abroad. There is a wide selection of subject areas available abroad. Your Study Abroad Advisor and Academic Advisor can assist you in identifying programs with academic offerings complimentary to your course of study. Begin your research and planning early in order to take advantage of the course offerings abroad.

Will I be able to study abroad AND graduate in four years?

Yes!! With careful and early planning, you can integrate a meaningful study abroad experience into your four years at UVA. Meet with your Academic Advisor and Study Abroad Advisor as soon as possible to discuss the courses and requirements you can fulfill abroad, the programs that best match your goals, and the timing and duration of your experience. Programs are offered for January Term, Summer, Semester, and Year.

I don't speak another language--what are my options abroad? Are Australia and the UK my only choices?

There are opportunities all over the world for students with any level of language ability. While plenty of opportunities exist in English-speaking countries, there are also programs in non-English speaking countries which offer course instruction in English. There are also programs with instruction at various levels of the native language.

I transfered to UVA, is study abroad still and option for me?

UVA offers an increasing number of programs that grant UVA Direct Credit. These grades are factored into your UVA GPA and count as UVA courses, which can fulfill major and minor requirements.

I'm an international student at UVA, am I able to study abroad? What do I need to be aware of?

International students at UVA must meet the eligibility requirements just like all other UVA students. You should research any additional visa regulations for the host country in which you hope to study.
Due to stricter immigration regulations and visa delays, you must be fully aware of the implications for travel outside of the U.S. and possible delays in returning. All international students must meet with an international student advisor before registering for a study abroad program and before any fees are paid in order to be fully informed.

I have special needs (physical, learning, psychological, medical). Can they be accommodated abroad?

The International Studies Office is dedicated to assisting all students pursue international experiences. These needs do not disappear when a student leaves the country, but careful planning can help students find a program that is able to accommodate their needs. Students with special needs should begin research and planning long before the anticipated term abroad.
Many needs are not visually apparent, so the more you are able to share with your Study Abroad Advisor, the more he or she will be able to utilize available resources and knowledge to identify appropriate program options. The ISO also strongly encourages students with special needs to involve Disability Services, doctor(s), and counselors in the planning process.

What kind of credit can I earn abroad?

You will earn either Direct Credit or Transfer Credit from their study abroad experience. Please visit the program pages to determine which credit type is available for the specific programs you are interested in.
Direct Credit is offered for courses that have been vetted by UVA departments. Direct credit will appear on the UVA transcript and be calculated into your GPA. These credits count toward the 60 credits that must be earned at UVA for graduation. They may also be applied to major and minor requirements.
Transfer Credit is offered for the majority of program offerings. Grades will not appear on your transcript nor will they factor into your GPA. You must earn a C or better in each course in order to receive transfer credit. You must also obtain approval signatures prior to studying abroad in order to approve the use of study abroad courses towards university graduation requirements (major, minor, elective).

I'm excited to study abroad!! When can I go?

Once you have completed your first semesters at UVA you are able to study abroad. Students must have a 2.5 UVA GPA to count study abroad credits toward their degree. Thus, if any first year students wish to go about during January Term or Spring Semester, they will need to carefully assess their progress during their first semester.
Transfer students must complete at least one semester at UVA. Take this time to plan ahead and find the best fit?for both timing and academics. If you are considering studying abroad as a fourth year student, you must petition your Association Dean.

How long can I study abroad?

Study abroad programs are available for January Term, Summer, Semester, and Year. To maximize your experience through immersion, we recommend studying abroad for a year. After returning, students frequently echo this perspective through their comments that at the time they started to feel comfortable--linguistically, culturally, socially--it was time to return home. If a year is not possible, then study for a semester. If a semester is not possible, then opt for a summer program.
Students can take advantage of a longer time abroad with careful planning. It is also possible for students to study abroad more than one time.

What's the timeline for applying?

The applications are generally due the semester prior to studying abroad. Students should be keenly aware of the timeline as it can vary greatly from program to program. At times, there is more than one deadline to adhere to. Planning for studying abroad should start as early as possible--even before enrolling at UVA. This gives students plenty of time to research, speak with advisors, and prepare for the experience.

I don't have much money, how much does it cost?

There are studying options to fit any budget! The costs associated with studying abroad vary depending upon the program model and location. Students may be able to find programs that cost less than or equal to their usual fees on grounds. There are also programs that cost more than a typical term at UVA. When comparing costs, remember to consider what is included in the fees. For example, a published program fee may appear much higher than tuition at UVA, but upon further inspection, it includes tuition, housing, excursions, and support services. When you add ALL the costs of living and studying on grounds, you may find that the difference isn't as great as you originally thought. Also consider the "value-added" qualities of studying abroad--language skills, cross-cultural communication skills, and global perspective on your area of study for example - which contribute to your desirability as an employee and can potentially result in higher salaried jobs. Whatever your budget, consult with a Study Abroad Advisor for assistance in identifying programs to match.

Can I use my financial aid for studying abroad?

Yes! Financial aid is "portable" and can be applied to approved study abroad programs. Federal, State, and Institutional loans, grants, and scholarships are eligible for use for study abroad. (Work Study cannot be used.) Please meet with a Financial Aid Counselor for instructions on applying for study abroad financial aid.

Are there scholarship opportunities for studying abroad?

Scholarships for study abroad are available from a number of sources. UVA students participating on UVA programs or exchanges are eligible to apply for ISO Scholarships. Students participating on outside programs are often able to apply for scholarships through their program sponsor. There are numerous scholarship resources in the Study Abroad Library (216 Minor) and in the Scholarship section of the web.

What kind of insurance coverage should I have and why is it mandatory?

The International Studies Office goes to great length to ensure that students are well prepared to handle a variety of emergency and non-emergency situations abroad, including working with program providers who have in place a solid crisis management plan. In the same vein, students also need to play an active role in their safety and security by enrolling in an international insurance coverage plan for the duration of their time abroad. International insurange should, at minimum, cover emergency evacuation and repatriation of remains. Information regarding some of the many insurance plans in available in the Study Abroad Library (Minor Hall 216).

What about safety and studying abroad?

Students' safety is our top priority. Our commitment to safety is three-fold: first, as a condition of program approval; second, as an integral part of student meetings and Pre-Departure Orientation; and third, in our Crisis Management Plan should an event (natural, political, or otherwise) occur while students are abroad.
First and foremost, students are not permitted to study in a country for which a Travel Warning has been issued by the US Department of State. If a Travel Warning is issued prior to departure or while students are participating in a program in that country, the program will be canceled or alternate arrangements will be made outside of the affected country. Students will also not be approved to participate in outside programs which do not demonstrate adequate safety and emergency preparedness.
UVA Study Abroad Advisors work with students individually as well as at the mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation to education students on how to prepare themselves for a safe experience abroad. Topics covered include general safety, traveling safety, medical concerns, and responsible and respectful behavior.
While we hope for smooth and uninterrupted programs, unexpected world events can occur. The International Studies Office has developed a Crisis Management Plan to handle emergency situations. The ISO utilizes a variety of safety and risk management organizations to gather information regarding world events and responds accordingly. When appropriate, updates will be shared with those individuals who students have identified as emergency contacts.