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Getting Started

Eligibility Requirements

  • Complete 12 credits at UMW and declare a major

  • Must have a minimum 2.0 GPA (most programs require a higher GPA)

  • Transfer students must spend at least one semester in residence

  • Students on academic probation are not eligible

  • Students must complete at least 15 of the last 21 credits at UMW. If you are abroad during the first semester of your senior year, you must take 15 or more credits in your final semester at UMW to meet the residency requirement. Students may seek a waiver to the residency requirement prior to studying abroad by making an appointment at Academic Services in George Washington Hall 203.

Clarifying Goals

Academic- Is your goal to study a foreign language?  Are there specific courses you would like to take that are not offered at UMW?  Do you want to take some courses related to your major, or do you have other subjects in which you are interested? 

Geographic Interest- Are you interested in a particular region of the world or a specific country? Are you interested in staying in one country, or traveling to multiple countries? 

Personal- Do you want to live with a host family? Are you interested in a semester or year-long program, short-term summer program, or both? 

 

Program Selection

There are many types of programs from which you can choose. Students can choose from UMW sponsored programs, other university programs, and study abroad provider programs. If you find a non-UMW program in which you are interested, it must be approved by IAS. Stop by our office to find out more about program options.

 

Academics

Course credits will transfer in as long as students get approval from department chairs. Courses can transfer in as a UMW equivalent, major elective credit, or elective credit. Students must get their courses approved for transfer credit prior to departure. Students must receive a "C" or better in order to receive credit.

 

Funding Study Abroad

Apply for scholarships! As a rule of thumb, students should apply for scholarships one year before studying abroad. Visit IAS for additional scholarship information.