The University of Vermont

Office of International Education

It's Time to Start Thinking About...

Study Abroad

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. But you must start work now to prepare for a successful experience. The Office of International Education has prepared this step-by-step advice to help you begin to do that work.

1. Complete Study Abroad 101

This online information session is an overview of UVM's study abroad process, and completing SA 101 automatically puts you on our email list for updates about deadlines and program representative visits. If you have more specific questions that were not answered in the info session, please refer to Study Abroad 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Study Abroad.

2. Set your goals and priorities

Why do you want to study abroad? Advising Sheet Stage 1: Setting Goals and Priorities will help you define your objectives.

3. Meet with your academic advisor

What courses will you need to take during the time you are away? Will studying abroad affect your graduation date? What classes have students in your major previously taken abroad to successfully complete requirements? It's advisable to discuss your study abroad plans with your academic advisor as early as possible. Some degree programs require you to be on campus for certain semesters. Your academic advisor can help you determine the optimal time for you to go abroad as well as advise you on course selections for your study abroad programs. Bring your CATS audit to your appointment.

4. Research study abroad programs

Now you know your goals and your academic parameters. Time to do some research.

  • Complete Advising Sheet Stage 2: Research which gives you some things to keep in mind while researching programs.
  • Explore the Study Abroad Resource Room in Living/Learning B-161.
  • Peruse UVM's list of Approved Study Abroad Programs
  • Attend a regional advising session to learn about study abroad options in a specific region
    • Wednesday, Nov. 11, 3:00 - 4:00 pm - L/L B-180 (Asia, Canada, and Europe, including Russia)
    • Thursday, Nov. 12, 3:00 - 4:00 pm - L/L B-180 (Australia, Africa, Latin America, Oceania and Middle East)
    • Tuesday, Nov. 17, 3:00 - 4:00 pm - L/L B-180 (Asia, Canada, and Europe, including Russia)
    • Wednesday, Nov. 18, 3:00 - 4:00 pm - L/L B-180 (Asia, Canada, and Europe, including Russia)
    • Thursday, Nov. 19, 3:00 - 4:00 pm - L/L B-180 (Australia, Africa, Latin America, Oceania and Middle East)
  • 5. Meet with a Peer Advisor

    Our paraprofessional advisors have been well-trained on study abroad offerings and UVM procedures. And they've studied abroad themselves so they know the ins and outs! Call the Office of International Education at 656-4296 to set up an appointment.

    Please note you must bring the following to your appointments:

    • Advising Sheets - Stage 1: Setting Goals & Priorities and Stage 2: Research (available after you complete "Study Abroad 101")
    • A copy of your CATS audit
    • A copy of your financial aid award, if applicable
    • (To print these, go to https://myuvm.uvm.edu/cp/home/displaylogin)

    6. Make an Appointment with a Study Abroad Advisor

    You're ready to meet with a professional study abroad advisor once you know in which country you wish to study and have a clear sense of your objectives. Call the Office of International Education at 802-656-4296 to set up a 30 minute appointment.

    Please note you must bring the following to your appointments:

    • Advising Sheets - Stage 1: Setting Goals & Priorities and Stage 2: Research
    • A copy of your CATS audit
    • A copy of your financial aid award, if applicable
    • (To print these, go to https://myuvm.uvm.edu/cp/home/displaylogin)

    7. Apply before your deadlines

    When you know which program you want to apply to, complete Advising Sheet Stage 3: Application Process

    Please note that some application deadlines are very early.

    UVM & ISEP exchange program priority placement:

    • ISEP exchange program priority:
      • Fall 2010: January 25
      • Spring 2011: August 14
      • Fall 2011: January 15
    • Exchange priority applications: January 15
    • ISEP Direct or any exchange application: February 15

    External programs application:

    • February 15 (fall/academic year/summer programs)
    • October 1 (spring programs)

    If you are planning to apply to a program that is not approved, it requires a petition:
    Completed petitions are due to OIE by September 15 for Spring and January 30 for summer, fall, academic year

    Request your Study Abroad Approval Form.

    You must be accepted into your study abroad program BEFORE requesting your Study Abroad Approval Form (SAAF). Once you've been accepted into your program, review the instructions for the Study Abroad Approval Form Process by reviewing Advising Sheet Stage 4: Study Abroad Approval Form

    • SAAF request deadline: November 1 (spring programs); March 15 (summer/fall/academic year programs)
    • Completed SAAF & OIE grant application deadline: November 30 (spring programs); April 15 (summer/fall/academic year programs)

     

    I plan to go to Ecuador after I graduate college and work down there. I am addicted to traveling and I hope I get to see the whole world.

    -Franklin Mora '06

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