Study Abroad FAQ
Q: Where can I go on study abroad?
A: You can go almost anywhere you want! We have over 25 summer and Maymester programs in Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, the Caribbean, and Australia. We also have semester and year long exchange programs available on every continent except Antarctica!
Q: What can I study?
A: Our summer and Maymester study abroad programs offer a full range of lower and upper division courses that may fit into your core, major, or satisfy upper level elective requirements. For a complete list of courses on this year's program, visit the International Education Center in the Bone House.
On semester and year long exchanges, students usually take upper level courses that fit into major requirements. Occasionally, students are able to take upper level courses outside the major for elective or minor studies credit. For more detailed information about the courses being offered, please visit the Web site of the university where you are interested in studying, and speak with your study abroad adviser.
Q: Who is eligible to go on study abroad?
A: Any Georgia College student in good standing (this includes academic and disciplinary matters) is eligible to study on summer and Maymester programs. For semester and year long exchanges, students need to have declared a major, completed at least 60 credit hours, and have a minimum GPA of 2.75 for most programs.
Q: How do I apply?
A: For summer and Maymester programs, you need to submit an application at studyabroad.gcsu.edu and pay a deposit in the International Education Center. Some programs also require photographs.
For semester and year long exchanges, you will need to submit an application at studyabroad.gcsu.edu and the application for your proposed host university (if required), pay all required deposits, pay insurance fees, complete the course approval form, arrange for a language evaluation (if required), and arrange for an interview with the Study Abroad Adviser or the Assistant VP for International Education in the International Education Center.
Q: Do I need additional insurance?
A: YES! Insurance is included in the cost of all of our summer and Maymester study abroad programs. We will arrange for insurance on semester and year long exchanges at a cost of $30 or $50 per month of study abroad, depending on your program. This insurance covers emergency medical care while abroad as well as medical evacuation and repatriation of remains while traveling internationally.
Q: Is financial aid available?
A: YES! The HOPE scholarship will pay for the tuition portion of most approved study abroad programs. Your financial aid package (grants, loans, and other scholarships) may assist with the rest of the costs. In addition, you may apply for Georgia College study abroad scholarships. There are also many other study abroad scholarships available through outside organizations. Check out our Funding Resources page for more information.
Q: Do I need to know a foreign language to study abroad?
A: No. Nearly all of our summer and Maymester programs are taught by University System of Georgia faculty and are, therefore, taught in English. Most of our semester and year long exchange programs have the option to take courses in English or the language of the country. While foreign language skills might make it easier to adapt, it is certainly not necessary for most of our programs. For more specific information about the program of your choice, contact the International Education Center.
Q: What if I can't find a program that suits me and my needs?
A: Set up an appointment with the study abroad adviser for more individualized advisement.
Q: I don't go to Georgia College, but I want to go on one of your programs. What do I need to do?
A: You need to submit an application to Georgia College, check off the option of transient student (for this application, you will need to submit a letter of Good Standing from your Registrar's Office and certification of vaccinations with a check for $35 made out to Georgia College). Additionally, you should submit the application to the program of your choice with the appropriate deposit also made out to Georgia College. Don't forget to check with your academic adviser and financial aid office to make sure credit will transfer back and that any aid you are eligible for is applied to the program.
PLEASE NOTE: Studying abroad through Georgia College for a Summer or Maymester program will not be a problem. If you are looking at a semester or year exchange option, please contact the Study Abroad Adviser as soon as possible to determine if transient status is an option for your location of choice.
Q: I've been hearing a lot about terrorist attacks, rioting, bombings, and flu outbreaks. Is it really safe to travel abroad?
A: While safety can never be guaranteed (whether in Milledgeville, Atlanta or overseas), Georgia College and the University System of Georgia follow all Department of State directives and watch for travel advisories to all countries where study abroad programs are located. Our faculty and staff have received appropriate information and training to help assure the safety of our students and follow all security and reporting measures to the best of their ability. If Georgia College decides to cancel a study abroad program, program fees will be refunded to the fullest extent possible.
