Start planning
Start planning your overseas academic adventure today. To find the study abroad program that best meets your needs, you should:
- Attend a general information session
- Research program options
- Meet with an Education Abroad office adviser
- Meet with your academic adviser
- Apply to the program
- Get courses approved
- Register for the program
- Attend the pre-departure orientation
Attend a general information session
We encourage all students to attend a GIS so that they are fully aware of the program options available to them. You must attend a GIS prior to an advising appointment with our staff.
Information sessions are held every Monday and Thursday at 12:30 p.m. in Room 122 at 817 W. Franklin St.
Research program options
After attending a GIS, you will be responsible for researching your own program. Ask yourself how long you want to study abroad and research the four different ways to study abroad at VCU.
The different options include:
- VCU faculty-led programs
- International Student Exchange Program
- Partnership and departmental exchanges
- Non-VCU programs
Meet with an Education Abroad office adviser
Choose three to five programs of interest and schedule an appointment with an adviser, who will be assigned based on the geographical location to which you are applying. We will help you decide whether the program you have chosen fits your academic and personal preferences. Students must verify that the program is recognized by VCU and all programs must issue a transcript from an accredited university.
If you are participating with a VCU faculty-led summer program, you do not need to schedule an appointment with an adviser.
Meet with your academic adviser
Be sure to meet with your VCU academic adviser to ensure you can academically afford to study abroad. Some departments have different requirements for their students who study abroad. Additionally, you must have a good understanding of your academic standing and what classes are necessary for graduation. It is best to discuss these things before you apply, as some programs have nonrefundable registration fees.
Apply to the program
Apply to the program after meeting with study abroad and academic advisers. Note that each program prompts different deadlines and requirements.
Get courses approved
Get the courses approved to ensure you receive credit when discussing VCU equivalents for classes taken abroad with your academic adviser. Bring the course approval form to that meeting.
Register for the program
After acceptance, fill out the necessary paperwork to maintain student status at VCU and to transfer grades. Meet with an Education Abroad adviser to discuss details, as well as financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
Attend the pre-departure orientation
All accepted students must attend a pre-departure orientation that will familiarize them with ways to travel safely. Topics covered include money, support services, academics, health and safety, and more. These are invaluable sessions that give students insight to living and studying overseas.
