Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Who Can Study Abroad?
The study abroad program is open to all majors. The student must be at sophomore, junior or senior standing.

Why should I study abroad?
Study abroad can give you that professional “extra” that may open the doors when applying to graduate schools or a position after graduation. Many businesses require that their employees speak a second language.
Being able to speak a second language and identify with a foreign culture can be a huge plus in our ever expanding global village. You can also develop skills for an international career as well as build your communication and interpersonal skills. Study abroad will allow you to network and maintain good contacts with faculty and mentors in your field of study. The study abroad experience will allow you to become multicultural and marketable in today’s society.
Study abroad equips you with skills that are vital to international competence, enabling you to communicate in other languages, to know other cultures and markets, and to understand increasingly fluid economic and political realities.

When should I study abroad?
You may study abroad for a semester beginning the fall of your sophomore year. Upperclassmen may also study abroad. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to study abroad for credit. When to study abroad may also depend on your academic curriculum. Do not hesitate to discuss your plans with your academic advisor as well.

When should I start planning for study abroad?
Students who desire to study abroad should begin planning in their freshman year. It is important to remember that there are resources available to help you plan. A meeting with any of the faculty involved in study abroad should be arranged. This will answer any questions that the student may have, as well as give the faculty a chance to get familiar with the student.
You should also do some research on your own concerning the countries you would to study in. Reading is the best way to prepare, as well as speaking to international students on campus. Also check application deadline dates for the programs you would like to take part in.

Where can I study abroad?
Just about anywhere!  Programs of study exist in almost every corner of the world.  Foreign language proficiency is not a requirement, as there are numerous programs in English.  The only restriction is that UMBC students may not participate on a study abroad program in a country with an active US State Department Travel Warning.

Will I earn credit for a study abroad program?
With prior approval, the credits you earn while overseas will be entered on your UMBC transcript and will count toward graduation as long as you receive a grade of C or better.  It is possible to fulfill major, minor, and general foundation requirements (GFRs) while studying abroad. 

Isn't study abroad expensive?
Studying abroad can be an affordable experience.  Many study abroad programs. particularly our tuition exchange programs, are very affordable, costing roughly the same as tuition, room and board plus your travel expenses.

Funding for study abroad?
There are many scholarships available for students who desire to study abroad. Additional costs that are associated with study abroad include your passport, visa, and airfare. Some of these costs may be covered by your financial aid. When researching the location in which would like to study be sure to research all estimated costs.

Will my UMBC financial aid and scholarships transfer?
Most forms of federal and state financial aid (including subsidized and non-subsidized student loans, Pell Grants, and Maryland State Grants) can be used to finance summer, semester and academic year study abroad programs.  Most UMBC and outside merit scholarships can also be used for almost any study abroad program.

Do I need Health/medical Insurance?
CU has special insurance fro travel abroad. See the study Abroad office for more information.