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Study Abroad Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are extensive FAQs about Elon Study Abroad. If you cannot find the answer to your question or if you have more specific questions, please contact the staff at Elon's Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies and they will be glad to assist you.

Note: There are separate FAQs relating specifically to Study Abroad and Residence Life (Housing) and Study Abroad and Financial Planning. To view those FAQs, click on the links below.

Study Abroad and Residence Life FAQ

Study Abroad and Financial Planning FAQ

General

Winter Term

Semester Study Abroad

General Questions & Answers

1. Where is the study abroad office? / Where is the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies (ICCIS)?

The Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies (ICCIS) is located on the first floor of the Carlton building (room 113).

2. Why should I study abroad?

First and foremost, study abroad is an excellent addition to any academic program, regardless of your major.

Second, studying abroad is a wonderful opportunity to learn about the world and broaden your horizons. It gives you the chance to look at life through a different perspective, and to learn more than you may imagine. It is also a valuable experience that will enhance your resume. Many employers are looking for people who have practical experience living in a different culture. Studying abroad shows that you are an independent, resourceful risk-taker who is able to deal with ambiguity. These are all positive qualities that will enhance your resume.

3. How many students study abroad at Elon?

Approximately 7 out of 10 students have studied abroad by the time they graduate from Elon.

4. Who can participate in study abroad?

Elon students can study abroad their first year through senior for Winter Term and Summer Term programs. For most semester/year programs, students can go anytime during their sophomore, junior or senior years. However, a few semester programs are limited to juniors and seniors. There may be other specific eligibility requirements for the study abroad programs you may be considering such as course prerequisites, minimum GPAs, or language requirements. Please read over the information sheets to find the eligibility requirements for the programs in which you are interested.

5. Can athletes study abroad?

Yes. Athletes can study abroad when their sport is not in training. The most convenient time for athletes to study abroad is usually during Summer Term or Winter Term. Winter Term of your senior year can also be a great time to study abroad, as many sports have finished. Talk to your coach now so you can plan ahead for study abroad.

6. Can first-year students study abroad?

First-year students are eligible for Winter Term programs (those with open spaces) and programs during their first year. Although most semester programs require sophomore status, some first-year students who want to study abroad during their sophomore year may need to apply during their first year. First year students are eligible to apply for Winter Term programs beginning the first day of classes in the fall semester.

7. Can transfer students study abroad?

Yes. If transfer students are enrolled (or attending classes) at Elon, they may study abroad. Transfer students are eligible to apply for Winter Term programs beginning the first day of classes in the fall semester. Transfer students are eligible to apply for Summer Term programs if they are enrolled at Elon. For semester programs, transfer students can apply for a program as soon as they are taking classes on campus, but they must complete their first semester on campus at Elon.

8. Can non-Elon students participate in Elon study abroad programs?

If you are not a current Elon student, you may apply to Elon as a special student in order to participate in some of Elon’s study abroad programs. Contact the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies to see if non-Elon students are allowed to apply for the program(s) in which you are interested.

9. When should I study abroad?

All of our programs are created and selected so that the course offerings will fulfill degree requirements. Winter Term and Summer Term are great times to go abroad if you still have general requirements to fulfill or want to be abroad for a short term. Summer Term programs are also a great way to go abroad without going during the school year. You may study abroad for a semester anytime after your first year (if you meet the specific program requirements), but early planning is necessary to get the most out of the experience and fit it into your four year plan. It is not recommended to study abroad the spring semester of your senior year unless you participate in one of the programs at one of the Elon Centres Abroad. You may participate in an affiliate program, but there is no guarantee that your transcript would arrive in time for graduation.

10. For how long may I study abroad?

You may study abroad for Winter Term, Summer Term, a semester, or even a year (two consecutive semesters. However, it is necessary to note that some programs do not allow students to study abroad for a full year.)

11.Can I study abroad multiple times?

Yes. As long as you plan early, it’s usually possible. Some students go on multiple Winter Term programs or multiple Summer Term programs, some do a year or longer, and others do a combination of semester, Summer Term and Winter Term programs. Please note you cannot repeat the same Winter Term course.

You should be aware that studying abroad during consecutive terms through different programs may be challenging. Most semester programs, and some winter and summer programs, require that you obtain a student visa or other entry documents prior to departure. For some countries, you are required to apply for the visa in the United States. If you are studying abroad or traveling outside the US in the months ahead of your program, you may not be able to obtain the required visa or entry documents. You should speak with an International Programs Advisor as soon as possible if you plan to study abroad during consecutive terms through different programs (even if they are in the same country) .

12. Is studying abroad during a semester, Summer Term or Winter Term a better option?

There is no general “best” option for all Elon students. It is important that you take into consideration all the characteristics of a study abroad program when considering which program may be best for you, depending upon your academic requirements and personal preferences.

13. When should I start planning to study abroad?

Early planning is essential to studying abroad. If you are interested in the Elon in London, England, Elon in Costa Rica, or Elon in Florence, Italy programs, you must apply a year in advance. If you want to study abroad for one or more semesters, it is important that you meet with your academic advisor several semesters in advance to plan how best to fit your semester abroad into your four-year plan. Also, if you know what study abroad programs interest you, try to plan your future class schedules based on the courses you may take while abroad. If you are an athlete, you should speak with your coach now about when you would be able to study abroad.

14. Where can I get information about study abroad locations? Where can I go study abroad?

For a concise listing of the all the current available programs listed by location, visit the main webpage http://www.elon.edu/international and click on the "current programs list" (PDF).

Information on each individual study abroad program can also be found by visiting the main page http://www.elon.edu/international and clicking on the separate links for Winter Term, Summer Term, or semester programs. You may also pick up copies of program information in the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies (Carlton 113). Once you have reviewed some of the study abroad information, it would be beneficial for you to meet with an International Programs Advisor about the specific program(s) in which you are interested.

15. Which program should I choose? What program is right for me?

It’s a personal choice. Some questions you might want to ask yourself to help pick a program are:

In what region of the world would you like study?
In what country would you like study?
In what setting (large city, medium-sized city, small town) (near mountains, near a beach, etc) would you like to be?
When do you want to go?
For how long do you want to go?
What do you want to study?
How does the program fit into your course of study at Elon?
What language of instruction would you prefer?
Do you want to have other opportunities such as internship or service learning on with your program?
Do you want to participate in a faculty-led program?
Do you want to go with other Elon students, independently, or a mix of both?
In what type of housing would you like to live?
What is the cost of the program?
What type of cultural immersion is best for you?

These questions might help you narrow down a few choices that could be right for you. You also will want to make an appointment with one of the International Programs Advisors to help you choose the program that is right for you.

16. Is it possible to study abroad through programs not offered by Elon?

IEPA (Independent Elon Program Abroad) - If after meeting with a study abroad advisor at the ICCIS you are still not able to identify an Elon abroad program that fits your plan of studies, you might want to consider doing an IEPA. An IEPA allows students to create their own independent in consultation with a faculty advisor, for which they earn direct Elon credit. For more information aboutIEPAs,visit: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/additionalprograms.xhtml

Non-Elon Programs - We highly recommend that you consider Elon University approved-programs only. We have carefully selected the programs we offer because they offer comparable academic, professional levels of instruction to our campus courses. In addition, if you decide to enroll in a non-Elon program, we cannot guarantee that you will be able to transfer credits.

Only the Assistant Registrar for Course Scheduling and Credit Evaluation and an International Programs Advisor from the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies can give final approval of a non-Elon study abroad program. You must complete the approval form BEFORE you go abroad.

Please remember that if you choose to study through a non-Elon program, you must have a rationale for not considering an Elon program. In addition, it is your responsibility to obtain an official document, such as a transcript, stating the courses you have taken and the grades you received, which must be sent to Elon University.

For more information on the non-Elon program process visit: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/additionalprograms.xhtml

Note: There will be no letter grades on your Elon University transcript for a non-Elon program.

17. What GPA do I need to study abroad?

Winter Term and Summer Term (faculty-led) programs require a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Non-faculty-led Summer Term programs may have specific requirements – check the brochures.

Semester programs at Elon Centres Abroad (Elon in London, Elon in Costa Rica, and Elon in Florence, Italy) require a minimum GPA of 2.5.

Affiliate and Exchange Semester programs vary in their minimum GPA requirements, which can be anywhere from 2.5 to 3.2. Check individual program information sheets for specific GPA requirements.

18. Are there other eligibility requirements?

There may be additional eligibility requirements for programs. Language programs may require a certain a particular score on a language exam or previous language experience. Some semester programs also may require junior or senior status. Please check individual program information sheets for specific eligibility requirements.

19. Do I need to know a foreign language?

You need to have completed a foreign language requirement to apply some of the study abroad programs. See the program information sheets or brochures for the programs in which you are interested to see what (if any) foreign language requirements there may be.

20. How much does it cost to study abroad?

The cost of studying abroad varies by program and term. See the specific program brochures and information sheets on the website for specific costs of programs. Some programs may be less expensive than a semester at Elon, while others may be more expensive. This is due to what the program cost covers, as well as exchange rates and the cost of living in the program location.

21. Is financial aid available?

Yes, there are opportunities for financial aid through Elon and through other means. If you are concerned about the costs of study abroad, make sure to meet with a staff member from the Financial Planning Office (located behind Belk library) who can provide you with financial planning and financial aid information. You may also visit: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/FinancialAidBrochure.pdf for further information.

22. Are scholarships available?

Yes, scholarships are available. There are both need-based and merit-based scholarships offered through the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies for all Elon study abroad programs (Winter Term, Summer Term, and semester programs.) You can find information on these scholarships by visiting:

http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/scholarships.xhtml

Note: Merit-based scholarships are only for students who plan on doing an independent research project while they are abroad.

There are also other scholarships for specific study abroad programs. For more information on funding for study abroad, download the funding for study abroad brochure at: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/FinancialAidBrochure.pdf

23. How do I apply? When do I apply?

Links to program applications can be found on the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies website: http://www.elon.edu/international. Look under the heading “Applications.” There are specific time periods in which applications are accepted.

Summer Term applications currently must be printed off the website and turned in as a paper version. Hard copies of these applications can also be picked up from the ICCIS in Carlton 113. Please note that summer applications will soon be moving to an online application.

Winter Term and Semester applications are only available online. Log in to these applications via the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies website (listed above).

When applying for a program take special note of the application deadlines. Please visit the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies for all applications and please visit the deadline and events calendar at

http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/calendar.xhtml.

24. What are the application deadlines?

Please visit our deadline and events calendar: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/calendar.xhtml

25. Do most students get into the program in which they apply?

Most students who apply for semester programs (and meet the eligibility requirements) obtain approval for the program to which they apply. However, there are some programs with a maximum enrollment number. If more applications are received than there are spaces available, applications are ranked and a waitlist is created. This is also the case for Winter Term and Summer Term programs, all of which have a maximum enrollment number. Applications are evaluated based on GPA, the essay, class year, previous study abroad experience, and advisor and faculty references. Waitlisted students may stay on the waitlist, change to another program that still has available spaces, or cancel their application and reapply for the following Winter or Summer Term.

26. Is it possible to apply for more than one program at a time?

No. You may only apply to one program (per term) at a time. This applies to Winter Term, Summer Term and Semester study abroad programs.

27. Is it possible to participate in an internship abroad on a study abroad program?

Yes, there are some programs where it is possible to do an internship abroad, such as the Elon in London semester program and the London Summer Internship program. There may also be opportunities for internships as part of the Australia, Heidelberg, Germany, and Toledo, Spain semester programs.

28. Where will I live? Who will I live with?

For semester programs, living arrangements vary by program and location, and may include homestays, dormitories, and apartments/flats. Additionally, the type of students you live with may include other Elon students, American students from other universities, and students from the host country. Please check program brochures for more information about housing options.

For Winter Term programs, students typically stay in hotels, although homestays may be available through some programs.

29. Do Elon professors teach programs abroad?

Elon professors teach a course on all Winter Term programs, some Summer Term programs, and the Elon Centre Abroad semester programs in London, England, Costa Rica, and Florence, Italy.

30. How do I speak with my parents about study abroad?

Choosing a study abroad program can be an exciting and sometimes challenging process. We would encourage you to show parents the ICCIS website and the brochures and information sheets about the programs in which you are interested. Although the program choice should be yours, it is always a good idea to talk to your parents about your study abroad options. They may be able to offer you some advice or ask questions that you hadn’t considered. There are numerous publications the ICCIS staff can direct your parents to if they want more information on study abroad.

31. When do I need to submit my deposit?

For Winter Term, Summer Term, and Semester programs, the deposit is due as part of the online application.

32. Are there certain majors that “fit in” to study abroad better than others?

Elon offers a wide variety of study abroad programs so that all students can find a program that works best for them. Although some students take courses toward their major while studying abroad, others take courses toward general studies requirements or elective courses. Talk to your academic advisor for suggestions about courses you may need while abroad.

33. Why should I meet with my academic advisor?

Your academic advisor can help you plan your academic schedules before and after your study abroad to ensure that you will be able to graduate on time. Some academic advisors have had many advisees that have studied abroad and though they may not be familiar with the details of specific programs, they may be able to offer you some advice on selecting a program.

Note: If you are applying for Summer Term program, you will need to get a reference from your academic advisor. If you talk to your academic advisor about your study abroad plans, then they can better fill out the reference form. If you are applying for semester program, you will need to get a reference from your academic advisor and a faculty member.

34. Why should I meet with an International Programs Advisor in the Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies?

You should meet with an International Programs Advisor in the ICCIS so you can ask specific questions about the programs in which you are interested. Also, if you cannot decide among several programs, an International Programs Advisor can help you consider the differences between programs and aid in the decision-making process.

35. What courses are offered? What type of courses can I take?

Course offerings vary with each program. Summer Term and Winter Term program brochures list the courses available. Semester program sample course listings are available online at: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/studyabroad/semester.xhtml

To see where you can study courses toward a particular major (please note this is not an exhaustive list), check out our Semester Courses Abroad by Major list at:

http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/studyabroad/coursesabroad/

36. Are courses on study abroad programs taught in English?

Most courses offered on study abroad programs are taught in English. However, for some programs in countries where the official language is not English, students are required to take a course in the language of that country. Programs that do not offer courses taught in English include Argentina, Dominican Republic, Chile, Ecuador, Spain, and Heidelberg. Keep in mind that language programs often require language prerequisites or a placement exam score.

37. How do I get credit for my abroad classes?

For Elon faculty-led courses (Winter Term, most Summer Term programs, and the semester programs at Elon Centres Abroad in London, England, Costa Rica, and Florence, Italy), your courses will be credited automatically to your transcript just as if you were on Elon’s campus. For Exchange and Affiliate programs, you will need to talk to an International Programs Advisor about course selection, pre-approval and credit transfer issues specific to your selected study abroad program. For all Elon study abroad programs courses taken abroad count directly towards your Elon GPA and you CANNOT audit a course or take a course pass/fail.

To learn more about receiving credit for non-Elon programs, please visit: http://www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/additionalprograms.xhtml. We would also encourage you to make an appointment with an International Programs Advisor.

38. Do I get grades for my courses? Will my grades count in my GPA?

For all Elon programs (programs listed on the website), grades will be transferred from abroad and will factor into your Elon GPA. For non-Elon programs, you will need to talk to an International Programs Advisor to see how grades and credits will transfer.

39. Do I have any meetings before the study abroad program begins?

Yes, each program will have several mandatory orientation meetings during the semester preceding the term abroad. These meetings provide important details about the program, such as pre-departure, cultural and logistical information.

40. How do I apply for a passport?

Please visit the state department’s web site at http://travel.state.gov/index.html for detailed instructions.

41. Where can I get a passport photo taken?

The local Elon postal office has passport services and passport photo services. Places that develop pictures, such as CVS, Rite Aid or Wal-Mart, may also have passport photo services. Note: The cost and number of pictures may vary by store.

You may also check the state department website to search for passport application facilities and photo services. http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/

42. Do I need a visa?

Some programs do require a visa. The cost of the visa as well as the application process may vary by country and type of program. The Isabella Cannon Centre for International Studies staff can direct you to sources to find this information.

43. How can I stay in contact with my friends and family while I am abroad?

Telephone and internet access may vary depending on the location of your program. You can keep in touch with friends and family by using phone cards that can be easily purchased abroad. Some programs may be in locations where cell phones are relatively inexpensive. The internet also offers a variety of ways to keep in touch through email, blogs, websites, listservs, facebook, myspace, IM, and skype. Although keeping in touch with friends and family is important, be sure you don’t miss out on the opportunities you have while abroad.

44. Will I get homesick?

Homesickness depends on the student. The best “cure” for homesickness is lots of activity and friendships with the people you meet. Sometimes homesickness is a sign that you are experiencing a normal stage in culture shock. Don’t let this worry you – most students who study abroad experience some level of homesickness/culture shock.

45. Where do I go if I have more questions about study abroad?

If you have more questions about study abroad, please visit our office in Carlton 113 or call us at 336-278-6700. If you are confused or unsure about any of the information on our website or publications, please ask us. We are here to help!

Winter Term Questions & Answers

Why should I study abroad during Winter Term?

Winter Term is a great way to study abroad for a short period of time and complete an Elon course. There are many Winter Term programs offered that are led by Elon professors. Winter Term programs also allow you to share an amazing experience with Elon students you may not have known before the program began.

Is it better to submit the Winter Term application on the first day of the “open application period”?

Winter Term applications are reviewed as a group at the end of the open application period. Therefore, it doesn’t matter when you apply, as long as it is within the timeframe. If you apply after the open application period, your application will be reviewed and you will be considered after the applicants who applied during the open application period.

Semester Abroad Questions & Answers

What is the cost for semester study abroad vs. semester study at Elon?

Semester study abroad is similar in cost to a semester spent at Elon. The costs vary depending on what the student pays to Elon (tuition), host institution (usually room and board) and student costs like airfare, books, visas and in-country transportation. However, there are some programs where there is an additional surcharge. For complete cost information details, see the second page of the information sheet for each semester program or the brochure for the Winter Term or Summer Term program. Please note that it is important to keep in mind the cost of living and the exchange rate.

What is an “exchange program” and how is it different from other semester study abroad programs?

A student exchange program is a reciprocal study abroad experience in which students from different universities attend courses at each other’s institution for a semester or a year. The goal of the exchange program is to study in a foreign institution with the aim of learning the host country’s culture, and to share your own in return. One of the benefits of being an exchange student is that you will be representing your university and your country. Therefore, you will be able to attend receptions, functions and give presentations about your country and your home institution. This is different from an affiliate program in which Elon sends students, but does not receive students in return.

Can I take a class on campus during Winter Term and still be able to study abroad during the spring semester?

The opportunity to take a Winter Term class at Elon before a spring semester study abroad program varies from program to program depending on the semester program calendar.

Semester program information sheets give approximate start and end dates for the spring semester, but check with an International Programs Advisor for more specific information about the semester program in which you are interested.

If I study abroad during a fall semester, will I be able to be back on campus for Winter Term?

Many fall semester programs will end in enough time for you to return to Elon to take a Winter Term course, but this may depend on the calendar for the particular semester program in which you are interested. The semester program information sheets give an approximate start and end dates for the fall semester, but check with an International Programs Advisor for more specific date information.

Can I study abroad my final semester and still graduate?

Some programs end early enough in the spring that you can study abroad your final semester and still graduate, such as the Elon Centres Abroad programs in London, England, Costa Rica, and Florence, Italy. However, many other programs do not send grades in time for you to walk across the stage at graduation in May.

Will I know what courses I am taking before I go abroad on a semester program?

Some semester programs will have you pre-register. However, in many programs you may not register until you get there. Regardless of whether you can officially pre-register, you must meet with the Registrar before you leave to discuss the classes you will take while abroad, to ensure they will transfer, and that you understand how they will count for credit at Elon. You will need to have some flexibility with courses as we cannot guarantee that you can take a specific course while you are abroad. This process will take place once you are approved by Elon to study abroad.