FAQs
Study Abroad - Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q. Where do I start?
- Read through our website for a checklist to get started & steps to apply.
- Register your UMass Boston Abroad account & take the program match quiz to get programs that meet your preferences.
- Meet with an advisor in our office to go over the process, your questions & concerns, & program options.
- Meet with your academic advisor to go over which courses you need to stay on track.
- Talk with your loved ones about studying abroad & start a plan to reach your study abroad goals.
Q. When can I study abroad?
Any time after having successfully completed one full semester at UMass Boston (not recommended for freshmen and seniors).
Q. What are eligibility requirements?
- Minimum 2.5 GPA, some programs may require a 2.75 or higher, see program brochure for requirements
- 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 3 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 program pricing varies by program destination living expenses, program type, & length. You should explore the budget sections of each program, consult a financial aid advisor, & compare the program costs before applying.
- Choose among more affordable programs, e.g., Reciprocal Exchange Programs, you pay UMass Boston tuition
- Compare programs costs
- 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: 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