FAQ's

Study Abroad - Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Q. Why study abroad?

A. There are many benefits to studying abroad. Student returnees state they gained life-changing experiences and life-enhancing skills while studying abroad; below are additional examples:

• Earn academic credit while abroad
• Enhance your resume
• Immerse yourself in another culture
• Improve your foreign language skills
• Make friends from around the world
• See the world and have fun!

Q. When can I study abroad?

A. Any time after having successfully completed one full semester at UMass Boston (not recommended for freshmen and seniors).

Q. What are eligibility requirements? 

• GPA 2.75 or higher from UMass Boston for exchange, 2.5 for provider/direct
• Good disciplinary standing
• Having completed one full semester at UMass Boston at the time of application
• Current UMass Boston student

Q. Where can I study abroad? What are the programs available? 

A. Almost anywhere in the world.

• Consider 4 Cs: curriculum, cost, climate, and when choosing among programs.
• Learn about the program options here. Be sure you learn what the differences are among:
  • Exchange
  • Provider-led
  • Direct Enroll
  • UMass System Programs
• These options have different financial and organizational requirements.

Q. How long can I study abroad?

A. Almost as long as you like, as long as you fulfill the residence requirements at UMass Boston.

• One semester, multiple semesters
• Academic year
• Summer, winter

Q. How many credits will I get while studying abroad?

A. It depends how many courses you take abroad.

• Semester -  12 credits, summer - 6 credits, winter - 3 credits.
• You need to get C- or above to receive the credit.
• The grades from abroad do not affect student’s GPA here.
• Courses will be transferred after the official transcript from abroad is received.

Q. Can I take courses in my major?

A. Yes, you can take courses in your major and/or minor; electives are the easiest to transfer.

• Browse the course offerings of various programs abroad by area of studies.
• Consult your academic advisor.
• Get approval for transfer of credits before your departure.

Q. Can I study abroad without knowing a foreign language?

A. Yes, since many of the programs abroad offer courses taught in English.

• Browse the course offerings of various programs abroad by language of instruction (English)

Q. Can I afford to study abroad?

A. You can’t afford not to study abroad! Studying abroad, however, costs more than a regular semester at UMass Boston for in-state students. 

• Choose among more affordable programs, e.g., Reciprocal Exchange Programs, you pay UMass Boston tuition
• Compare programs costs using budget planning worksheet
• Start early and seek multiple funding resources.  

Q. Can I get financial aid to study abroad?

A. In most cases, yes.

• FAFSA and Pell Grant “travel”
• Certain scholarships transfer, e.g., Chancellor’s and the Foster Furcolo Scholarship  for Reciprocal Exchange Programs
• Apply on time for scholarships to study abroad 
• Download our Study Abroad Financial Aid Guide

Q. How can I apply to study abroad?

A. By exploring this website.  

• We created a checklist for the study abroad planning & approval process (download here).
• Visit and contact Study Abroad Office. 

Q: Do I need a Student Visa to study abroad?

A: It depends. Some countries require a visa for the duration of your stay, others do not.

• Explore the NAFSA website to find out if your host nation requires a visa

Connect

• Visit Us:

  Office of Global Programs
  Campus Center, Suite 2100
  
  Appointments:
  Call 617.287.5586
  Email studyabroad@umb.edu