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What if I don’t speak another language?

That’s okay! Most programs don’t have a language requirement. In addition to courses taught in English, you may take a beginner-level language course while abroad to help you navigate your host city with more confidence.

Interested in studying a language? Check out programs with intensive language options.

What types of programs are available?

There are several types of programs available depending on when you want to go:

Winter Break, Spring Break, or May Session: These short-term programs are led by a UofM instructor and typically offer a 3-credit course that may fulfill major, minor, or liberal education requirements. Students travel as a group and dive into the course topic through hands-on experiences. Explore our suite of Global Seminars for more information.

Fall or Spring Semester, Summer Session: Programs that are semester or summer length typically fall into two categories: study center or university study. At a study center, you’ll take classes taught by local faculty with other US students. These programs often offer more support, as well as opportunities like internships and field studies. In a university study program, you’ll take classes at a local university with other local students. These programs are more independent and often offer a wider range of courses.

Check out Choosing a Program for more information.

What are my housing options abroad?

This depends on the program you choose. Students typically choose between a homestay, an apartment, or a dormitory. Some programs offer all options, while others have fewer. All housing comes equipped with the basics.

What if I find a program that isn’t listed on the Learning Abroad Center website?

Review the Non-Affiliated Process if you are exploring a program not approved by the University of Minnesota. This will require taking a leave of absence, and you will not be able to access financial aid through UofM.

Can I do an internship abroad?

Yes, many programs offer an internship component. LAC staff does all the work up front to secure your internship placement. Read more about Internships Abroad.

Can I conduct undergraduate research abroad?

Yes, some programs offer research placements or independent research. Learn more about Undergraduate Research Abroad, and explore the I-UROP Scholarship for funding.

Do I need a visa to study abroad?

It depends. Some countries require a visa for all students, and some require one for specific nationalities. Some countries allow visa-free study for a specific duration. Your LAC adviser will notify you of any visa requirements.

Will study abroad delay graduation?

Not typically. Many programs may fit seamlessly into your degree. It just requires working with your major adviser to map out your four-year plan and identify the best time to study abroad, where to go, and what courses to take while abroad.

In fact, students who study abroad are more likely to graduate on time than those who do not.

How do I find programs that work for my major?

A great place to start is the Major Advising Pages (MAPs). This page provides a list of programs that have been reviewed by your department and determined to be a good fit. It also has other key tips—such as when to go, what courses to take, or what to consider when you return.

Will I earn credit for studying abroad?

Yes, most programs offer resident credit, meaning all of your courses will come back seamlessly and will be posted on your UofM transcript as if they were taken on campus. 

How do I get my courses counted for major and minor requirements?

Meet with your major/minor adviser to get courses abroad approved for major or minor degree requirements. Visit Major Advising Pages (MAPS) for more suggested programs and advising tips for your major or minor. 

Use the Academic Planning Form to document major or minor course approvals. Once you’ve found coursework you hope to take abroad, bring this form to your adviser for review and approval. Some departments or colleges utilize their own form or system to document course approvals, so check with your department if you aren’t sure. 

Learn more about academics while studying abroad.

How do I get my courses counted for liberal education requirements?

Use the U Credit Abroad Search to find courses that have already been approved for liberal education requirements. You may also submit any course not yet evaluated for approval.

How much does it cost to study abroad?

Costs vary based on the location, program length, and program model, but some options actually cost less than a standard semester on campus for a resident student. To see how numbers stack up, use our Comparing Costs page to view program costs side-by-side with the typical Twin Cities estimated cost of participation.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, the Learning Abroad Center awards roughly $600,000 in awards each year to students studying abroad. You can also use most general scholarships you already receive to fund your study abroad experience. In many cases, you do not need to have applied for your study abroad program to be eligible to apply for study abroad scholarships. Start researching scholarship opportunities early so you don't miss any application deadlines.

Beyond LAC awards, many colleges, departments, and even external organizations have scholarship opportunities to help finance your study abroad experience.

Can I use financial aid?

Most financial aid can be applied to your study abroad experience! You can learn more about how your financial aid package will apply, and options for financing your study abroad experience, by scheduling a Financial Aid Preview Meeting. These meetings are with a financial aid counselor who specializes in study abroad and allows you to explore your options before committing to anything financially.

How does billing work?

You will be billed a program fee for learning abroad programs through your student account. Each program will have a posted Cost of Participation (CoP) that states which costs are billed costs and which are estimated additional expenses to be paid out of pocket. These costs, and whether they are billed or estimated, vary based on the program.

The program fee is billed and paid along the same on-campus billing timeline (set by One Stop) for the term you will be abroad. Similarly, any financial aid you receive is disbursed according to the typical on campus timeline.

What if I need to cancel?

While we hope you are able to participate in your program as you planned, we understand that plans change. For students who cancel before confirming on the program, you are only responsible for the $50 application fee. If you cancel after confirming on your program, you will be held to the cancellation policy. Our advisers will work with you to ensure you’re making an informed decision should you need to explore cancelling from your program.

Can I use a 529 plan to pay for study abroad costs?

Contact your 529 plan administrator to determine which study abroad costs are eligible under your plan's policies. Rules vary from plan to plan, and One Stop will not be able to provide the information for your specific plan.

How do I apply?

When you’ve decided on a program, you can start an application. You will be billed a $50 application fee for each application you submit, so we typically don’t encourage multiple applications.

When do applications open?

Applications typically open 9–10 months prior to your program start date: November 1 for fall programs, March 1 for spring programs, and August 1 for summer programs.

When is the deadline to apply?

Application deadlines vary by program, but are typically 3–4 months prior to your program start date. Check the “Dates” section of your program page for specific deadlines.

Are applications competitive?

Most programs are not competitive, and if you meet the eligibility requirements and apply by the deadline, you can expect to be accepted. Some programs are more competitive, so pay close attention to any important messages on your program page or check with your LAC adviser.

How will I find out if I’ve been accepted to my program?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and students typically receive a decision within 1–2 weeks of submission. Some programs have a different schedule, so check with your LAC adviser.

Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive an email letting you know that there has been a new decision on your application. You can then log into your LAC Portal to open it.

What do I do about my on-campus housing while I’m abroad?

While the LAC can’t help with this, we recommend planning ahead so that you can find housing that allows for a short-term lease or find someone who is studying abroad in the term opposite you whom you can switch with.

Tip: With more students studying abroad in the spring, it’s tougher to find a subletter for that term. By studying abroad in the fall, you may have an easier time navigating housing.

When do I book my flights?

Once you have confirmed your spot on a program, you will receive guidance on booking flights. Some programs offer a group flight option and some require students to book flights on their own. Either way, you’ll have all the information you need when the time comes.

How do I get my DRC accommodations met while I’m abroad?

Students registered with the Disability Resource Center (DRC) who are eligible for on-campus accommodation are also eligible for accommodations abroad when it can be arranged. Any site has the potential to be accessible.

Start by meeting with your DRC Access Consultant to identify the reasonable accommodations you may need overseas, and they will work with the LAC to request your accommodations.

What happens if I get sick while I’m abroad?

All students on learning abroad programs through the University of Minnesota are automatically enrolled in international medical, security, and evacuation insurance. If you encounter physical or mental health challenges while abroad, our insurance provider can help you access care swiftly and easily through a variety of communication methods. All of this information will be covered in a pre-departure Health & Safety Orientation.

Can I access my prescription medications abroad?

You are encouraged to bring enough medication to last the duration of their time abroad. For questions about health or medications abroad, contact our international insurance provider prior to departure.