Study Abroad: What You Must Do...
1. General Requirements for Study Abroad
You must have a 2.75 GPA, have been on campus at least one semester, have sophomore, junior or senior status and a clean disciplinary record.
2. Attend a Study Abroad Information Session*
To learn the basics of Study Abroad you must attend a Study Abroad Information Session at the Office of International Education and Programs (OIEP) located in Andersen Library 2243.
3. Meet With Your Academic Advisor
The core of the education abroad experience is academic study. Therefore, students should meet with their Academic Advisor early on to discuss the timing of the study abroad experience and the academic requirements that must be met while abroad.
4. Meet with Study Abroad Advisor & Research Your Study Abroad Options
With the Study Abroad Advisor, select a study abroad program that best suits academic, personal and financial needs. You should plan on making your long travel consultation appointment at least 6-8 weeks before you plan on departing.
PLEASE NOTE: Students may select a UW-Whitewater program, a UW-System offering, or a UW-W approved program provider.
5. Meet with Financial Aid
To discuss funding options students should meet with a Financial Aid advisor once they have selected a study abroad program. The Financial Aid Office, in cooperation with the OIEP, will provide guidance in building a study abroad program budger and awarding your financial aid package.
6. Apply for a U.S. Passport
All programs require a U.S. Passport. It currently takes 4-8 weeks to apply for a passport. You may pick up a passport application from the OIEP Office or go to www.travel.state.gov to download an application. You must call your local US Post Office to make a passport appointment to turn in your application.
7. Pre-Approve Your Courses
If you are applying for a UWW exchange slot you must complete a "Course Equivalency Form" with your Academic Advisor. If you are applying to non-Whitewater programs, like something in the WI system or through a program provider you must complete a "Credit Transfer Agreement" with the Office of Admissions.
8. Apply to the Study Abroad Program
You will always complete two Study Abroad applications. One for UWW and one for your program of choice. The application process can vary, but in general, you will apply at least one semester before you depart. Remember to request official transcripts from the Registrar's Office and letters of recommendation from faculty. Complete and turn the application in BEFORE the application deadline!
VERY IMPORTANT: Our deadline to apply is normally March 15th for Summer of Fall study and October 15th for Spring study. Once you have been accepted to your Study Abroad Program, take or send a copy of the Acceptance Letter to the OIEP.
9. After You Are Accepted
Check your planned course of study with your Academic Advisor and meet with your Study Abroad Advisor to discuss housing and living arrangements while abroad.
10. Apply for Your Visa
A student visa is permission that allows a U.S. student to enter a foreign country in order to study. In most cases, a student will need to make a special application to the foreign country's imigration office well before study is slated to begin.
11. Make Your Travel Plans
Be sure you know your exact program dates before you make your travel arrangements.
12. Make an Appointment with University Health & Counseling Services
They offer free information about international health issues and low cost immunizations. You should plan to make your long travel consultation appointment at least 6-8 weeks before you plan on departing. They can be reached at (262) 472-1300.
13. Attend Pre-Departure Orientation
UW-W students must attend a pre-departure orientation sponsored by the Office of International Education and Programs. Failure to attend pre-departure orientation could result in study abroad ineligibility.
*UW-Whitewater students must attend a Study Abroad Information Session before they study abroad. This very important first step is mandatory!