Frequently Asked Questions

What are some advantages of studying abroad?

The truth is simply that it allows you an experience you can only gain from being in another culture, and as a student it may:

  • Afford you an advantage in choosing a career or getting a job; it’s the BEST resume builder!
  • Give you recognition in your community
  • Increase your desire learn or knowledge in a variety of academic disciplines
  • Make you more aware of your place in the world – enlarge your circle of friends
  • Be the best way to travel as you earn credits towards graduation; it’s the GREATEST deal!

Can anyone go?

Yes, all Georgetown College students in good academic standing are eligible to study abroad. Programs approved by Georgetown College are designed for undergraduate credit. The requirements vary slightly between programs. The typical requirement is a 2.5 GPA. Some programs, like the Oxford Tutorial Program, require a higher minimum average of 3.3.

How long would I be there?

You can choose to go a full academic year, fall or spring semester, winter break, or over the summer. Students who participate in semester or year length programs are usually juniors or seniors. Whenever freshmen and sophomores enroll in an international education program, they usually participate in short term summer programs.

Am I still a Tiger student while studying abroad?

Yes, if you participate in a semester or year length program, affiliated with Georgetown College, and have enrolled for the relevant semester(s) with the Registrar. If you enroll in a non-affiliated program, you are a Tiger as long as you will be returning to Georgetown College after you finish your program. You should make the Director of International Programs aware of your study abroad intentions

Why should students begin to consider studying abroad while they are still freshmen and sophomores?

Unlike juniors and seniors, freshmen and sophomores have more freedom in terms of classes they are taking. They also have many General Education credits that they need to earn toward their graduation. This makes studying abroad easier and more fun. Students are open to a variety of classes that they can take overseas and would still satisfy their graduation requirements. Many undeclared-major students also use the opportunity of studying abroad to experiment and decide their majors.

What will it cost?

Costs for study abroad programs vary, depending on the program sites and length of time you spend abroad. The price of a typical summer program usually includes:

  • round-trip airfare
  • two meals per day
  • accommodation
  • medical insurance
  • up to three credits
  • expedition and tours…etc.

A typical semester program cost includes:

  • tuition and administrative fees
  • program related activities
  • orientation in the United States and in-country
  • sickness and accident insurance
  • transcript
  • housing
  • 12-18 hours credit.

For details on program costs, please consult with the Director of International Programs.

Can my financial aid be used to pay for the program?

Most financial aid sources can be used for the cost of a semester/year length program. The program must be approved or affiliated by the Director of International Programs.

Can my financial aid be used to pay for summer study abroad?

There are severe limitations on using financial aid to pay for summer study abroad programs. Generally, if you are receiving federal loans as part of your financial aid, you can use loans.

Where can I study?

You can study somewhere in every Continent of the world—North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. See our Program Options.

Do I have to know how to speak the language?

No, you can take a program with courses taught in English. However, there are programs that are taught in the native language of non-English speaking countries, if you want to experience and practice a foreign language.

What are the requirements?

First, you must be approved to study abroad in the academic year before going in the summer or the next academic year (see the Study Abroad Process). The process begins with the Director of International Programs. Finally in most cases, you must have the approval of your faculty advisor.

Will my credits transfer?

Yes, the credits earned will be transferred to Georgetown College, and count toward your graduation requirements. If you intend the credits to count toward your major, minor, or general education requirements, you must receive the approval of your faculty advisor. Otherwise, you can use the credit hours as electives. However, the quality points will not be calculated into your overall GPA.