Find a Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Student

What courses can I study while abroad?

Programs are designed to accommodate liberal arts, major or minor plans of study, and any major has program course options that will satisfy degree requirements. For more information, see Program by Major.

(back to top)

If I study abroad, will I miss out on the next semester's registration?

No. Students should enroll for the next semester's courses on MyUniverse as long as there are no holds (academic advising, past due balance, etc.) If a student needs assistance while abroad with registering, please contact their study abroad advisor.

(back to top)

Can I study abroad if I do not speak a foreign language?

Not to worry! Not speaking a foreign language should not hinder you from enjoying your experience abroad. 90% of our programs are English-based, and typically each university will offer some type of intensive beginner’s course for those who want to learn the native language to help you around town abroad.

(back to top)

What is the Preparation for Study Abroad course?

See our Prep Course page for details.

(back to top)

Where can I study abroad?

Almost anywhere. The Study Abroad Center sponsors over 1,000 programs to different universities in 60+ different countries and regions. For more information, see Program by Country.

(back to top)

When am I allowed to study abroad? Is there a best time?

We strongly encourage students to plan on studying abroad earlier in their academic career. Students may start studying abroad during their second semester of their freshman year, though our office recommends that students wait until their first semester of their sophomore year. There will be more academic flexibility as a freshman or sophomore in comparison to your junior or senior year. However, do not worry if you wait, as there are many programs that benefit upper classmen as well! Check this out.

(back to top)

Can I still graduate on time if I study abroad?

Yes. With the help of your academic advisor and the Study Abroad Center staff, you can plan ahead and align your classes with your individual plan of study and make sure all the courses taken abroad will transfer and contribute to your major, minor, or LAC. The Study Abroad Center staff will help you with making necessary arrangements before you go abroad. We recommend all students to be aware of their academic requirements based on their degree audit found on MyUniverse. Upperclassmen are recommended to visit their record analyst in the Registrar's Office to see what requirements remain in order to graduate.

(back to top)

Can I study abroad the summer after I graduate?

Many students choose to participate in a program after their planned graduation date. This is possible, though it takes a bit of coordination. Summer instructor-led programs, for example, are popular programs amongst students who graduate in May. If the course is required for graduation, students may walk during commencement, and receive their diploma after their final grades for the study abroad course have been submitted in the summer. Also, students may study abroad for a semester after finishing their degree requirements and decide to delay their actual graduation. Many students do not want to stress over the academics while they are studying abroad and this option allows students to take courses outside of their major, and that are of special interest. Please see the Study Abroad Center to discuss more details.

(back to top)

Is there a limit to the number of times I can study abroad?

No, students are not limited in how many programs they can participate. However, it is recommended to meet regularly with your academic advisor and for upperclassman, see a Record Analyst in the Registrar's Office to see what requirements are left for graduation.

(back to top)

How do I apply?

The Study Abroad application is now completely online. Click the "Apply Now" button at the top left corner of this page to get started! Your submitted online application and $65 application fee payment are needed to officially admitted. All programs are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

(back to top)

How do I make an appointment in the Study Abroad Center?

Please contact us by calling, emailing, or stopping in to schedule an appointment with our front desk!

(back to top)

What do I do after I have applied?

See the Application Process page.

(back to top)

What if the program I want is full and I have already applied?

Unfortunately, the $65 application fee is non-refundable. If the program for which you have applied is full, there are typically three options:

1. Transfer the application and application fee to a different program within the same academic session.

2. Request to be placed on the waiting list.

3. Withdraw from the program and forfeit the application fee.

(back to top)

How much will it cost to study abroad?

Cost varies depending on the type of program. For more information, see Type of Programs. Some things to consider are the standard of living in the location of your program and if UNI tuition applies to the program. When researching your program be sure to ask SAC staff for financial details relative to your program.

(back to top)

Will my UNI Financial Aid and Scholarships apply toward Study Abroad?

UNI Financial Aid and Scholarships will apply in almost every Study Abroad program. There are also a variety of special study abroad scholarships available.

(back to top)

When will my General Study Abroad Center scholarship appear?

If you have been awarded a General Study Abroad Center scholarship, you must first fill out an Acceptance Letter to officially accept the scholarship. Your award should appear on your U-bill in accordance to the regular billing schedule.

(back to top)

Can I get a refund?

See our Refund Policy.

(back to top)

What is the procedure for my on-campus housing before I study abroad next semester?

To officially cancel your on-campus housing there is an Intent to Cancel form that you must fill out at your Residential Hall Office. There should be no fees to do this (including the Two-Year Advantage Plan), but contact the Department of Residence to confirm all plans regarding your semester abroad.

(back to top)

What is Abroad 101 and Pick-A-Program?

See our Abroad 101 page.

(back to top)

What is a visa?

See our Visas page.

(back to top)

How do I withdraw?

See How to Withdraw.

(back to top)

Parent

Is it safe for my child to study abroad?

All UNI exchanges and partnerships are located in university communities, similar in size to Cedar Falls/Waterloo. Our staff keeps a close eye on the current travel alerts as issued and updated by the U.S. Department of State. At this time we are advised to not send students to locations that are of high risk.

(back to top)

What is my role in the study abroad process?

The majority of the studying abroad process is completed by the student, but we highly encourage our future study abroaders to share the information they receive with their friends and family. Studying abroad is not always an easy task; the more encouragement and emotional support you can provide to your student, the more positive their experience will be. We also realize that your role as a parent in supporting your student to go abroad, it is not always the easiest thing to do. If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to email or call the office.

(back to top)

Faculty & Staff

I want to lead a study abroad program. Where do I start?

All UNI faculty, adjunct faculty, and P&S staff are elgible to develop and lead a short-term instructor led program abroad. The first step is to contact the Director of Study Abroad Programs or the Advisor for Short-term Programs in the Study Abroad Center to discuss the program proposal process and began drafting the Instructor-led Program Proposal. Also, we strongly encourage all faculty to review the New Course Leader Orientation (PPT Presentation), and the Handbook for Short-Term Instructor Led Study Abroad Programs prior to meeting with the Study Abroad Center.

(back to top)