- What are my first steps in planning to study abroad?
- What if my GPA is less than what is required?
- When should I begin the study abroad process?
- How are credits transferred?
- How do I obtain foreign language credit?
- Can I study abroad my last semester at SVC?
- How many times will I need to come into the Study Abroad office?
- What special circumstances might affect my participation in study abroad?
- I have a disability. Can I still study abroad?
- Can I use financial aid for study abroad?
- Can I volunteer while studying abroad?
- What safety measures are there for study abroad?
- Can I study in a country with a travel warning?
- How can I contact past participants?
- Will I need to buy international health insurance for the period of my study abroad?
- What do I need to do once I return from my study abroad?
Meet with Bessy Bennellick, director of study abroad, 2nd floor Headmasters Hall, Elizabeth.bennellick@stvincent.edu or plan to attend a general information session held on Wednesdays.
What if my GPA is less than what is required?Some programs may be flexible on the GPA that they accept—check with the program provider. You may also ask about other programs to nearby sites that have different GPA requirements.
When should I begin the study abroad process?The best advice in planning your study abroad experience is start early! We recommend that you plan at least a year in advance.
How are credits transferred?By obtaining pre-approval from your academic department, courses can be transferred and counted toward your degree for classes in which you earn at least a ‘C’ or equivalent, once an official transcript has been received by the Registrar’s office.
How do I obtain foreign language credit?Students need to meet with Dr. Doreen Blandino, Chair, Modern Languages Department, to obtain approval for foreign language credit.
Can I study abroad my last semester at SVC?No, students must be on campus their last semester.
How many times will I need to come into the Study Abroad office?You will need to visit the Study Abroad office several times before you depart. The number of times can vary depending on the student; in general, students visit for an initial advising meeting, program selection, to turn in approval forms and related materials. It is especially recommended that you visit for help with selecting a program. You are welcome to come in as often as necessary!
What special circumstances might affect my participation in study abroad?Some students with special circumstances will need to consider additional factors when selecting a program. If you fall into any of the categories listed below, or you have other individual circumstances to consider, please discuss these issues with the study abroad director during the program selection process to ensure that you choose the appropriate program to fit your needs.
- Student athletes
- Students with disabilities
- Students who are not U.S. citizens
- Transfer students
I have a disability. Can I still study abroad?
Yes. Students with disabilities are encouraged to explore opportunities abroad. By working with the Study Abroad office and the disability services adviser, you can discuss your accommodation needs and select an appropriate site. Advance planning is essential.
Can I use financial aid for study abroad?Yes! It is possible to use financial aid for most study abroad options. Even if you have not received aid in the past, you should consider applying for financial aid for the period of your study abroad. Saint Vincent College makes every effort to help students utilize financial aid. We will attempt to enter a consortium agreement with your program to apply your financial aid to the costs of the program. Study abroad students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) prior to being awarded any financial aid. Please be sure to work closely with the Financial Aid office to ensure that your paperwork is complete before you depart.
Can I volunteer while studying abroad?Yes, it is often possible to do volunteer work or service learning. Your ability to work or volunteer abroad depends on the host country and your study abroad program. Volunteering is generally much easier to work into your experience abroad because extra documentation is usually not necessary.
What safety measures are there for study abroad?Current international situations and events are monitored very closely by program providers. Students feel safe and supported overseas, and all reasonable and feasible precautions are taken so that you have a safe experience abroad.
Can I study in a country with a travel warning?Can I study in a country with a travel warning?
No, students are not permitted to study abroad in countries with an active travel warning.
How can I contact past participants?Study abroad alum regularly offer their contact information to give to future study abroad students. Contact the program provider and request a list of past participants.
Will I need to buy international health insurance for the period of my study abroad?It is important to be in good health and have adequate medical insurance in case of illness or accident while abroad. You must maintain your U.S. based health coverage, including hospitalization coverage, during your time abroad in case you need care for illness, injury, a pre-existing condition, or medical evacuation.
What do I need to do once I return from my study abroad?The Study Abroad office strongly encourages you to visit your faculty advisor upon your return from study abroad to talk about your experience and to ensure that credit for your study abroad courses has been applied toward your degree requirements.
The Study Abroad office is also eager to hear from you when you return from study abroad! Share stories and pictures about your study abroad experience with us.