Frequently Asked Questions

There is a study abroad program for every student looking to explore new cultures and broaden their world view. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about opportunities offered at TLU.

Q: Why should I study abroad?

A: Many students apply to study abroad for the purpose of gaining different perspectives in their field of study and personal/professional experiences. These skills can make a student more attractive to future employers and graduate programs. Many employers and graduate programs look for study abroad experience when making selection decisions.

Q: Who can study abroad?

A: To apply for a TLU study abroad program, students must meet the following requirements:

• Have completed at least two semesters of study at TLU before traveling abroad. (Students may apply during their second semester.) Students may not study abroad during their last semester at TLU.
• A minimum cumulative TLU GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 (depending on the program of choice).
• A good campus discipline record.

Application deadlines are typically the semester before the student wishes to study abroad. Approval is required from the student’s academic department and the International Education Office prior to application and departure.

Q: Where can I study abroad?

A: The easier question to ask might be, where can I NOT study abroad? TLU has programs in nearly 50 countries and in hundreds of international cities. There are programs in Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceana. Some of our programs require college-level language experience as a prerequisite, but others do not. Many countries also offer courses in English, so don’t let your language knowledge limit study abroad options.

The only restriction is that students cannot study in a country for which the State Department and/or the Centers for Disease Control have issued a Travel Warning.

Q: When can I study abroad?

A: Our programs offer study abroad options throughout the whole year. You can choose from year-long, semester and summer programs.

View Affiliated Programs

Q: How do I choose a study abroad program?

A: Before you start looking at all the program opportunities available through TLU, you should realistically assess your academic goals, language skills, and personal plans.

Once you have looked closely at your skills, needs, and goals, you will have a better sense of what to look for in the available programs. Your next steps are to begin reviewing program options and make an appointment with the TLU International Education director to help you choose a program.

Q: How much will studying abroad cost?

We know that cost is a significant factor in choosing a study abroad program, or choosing to study abroad at all. Costs vary, but many study abroad opportunities cost no more (excluding airfare, insurance, and other expenses related to living abroad) than a term on campus. In order to gauge additional expenses (aside from tuition and program cost), you’ll need to consider these possible expenses. Most of our affiliate programs provide a list of “estimated costs” to help you calculate the overall cost of your study abroad experience.

• Round-trip transportation to and from your program destination
• Ground transportation on site
• Passport and visa fees
• Insurance
• Books and supplies
• Meals not covered by the program
• Personal expenses

Learn More About Associated Costs & Budgeting

Q: Can I use financial aid for my study abroad?

A: Students can use their academic scholarships, federal aid, and external funding toward a TLU affiliated program during the long semesters. Performance scholarships are excluded during the time the student is abroad.

As you are considering the costs of studying abroad, also know that there is financial aid available specifically for study abroad. TLU offers scholarships to study abroad for a semester or summer. Many of the program providers offer both need- and merit-based scholarships that students may apply for. In addition, there are other scholarship sources for students studying in particular regions, pursuing certain types of coursework, or with financial need (students receiving a PELL Grant). Summer program funding is more limited.

Q: How do I get credit for my study abroad?

A: Virtually any coursework taken abroad through TLU programs can be transferred as credit at TLU. The process is similar to that of transferring work completed at another college or university. Through consultation with the student’s academic advisor, courses are chosen for the major, supporting work, general curriculum, and/or electives.

Students must earn the TLU equivalent of a “C” or higher in order to earn academic credit. The grades are not calculated into the TLU GPA however, they are documented on the TLU transcript.

Q: How do I get my study abroad transcript?

A: As a part of the study abroad agreements that TLU has with its study abroad partners, you do not need to do anything to get your transcript -- your program will send your transcript when they have processed your grades. However, your study abroad program will not issue a transcript if you have any outstanding charges with them, and TLU will not grant credit without the formal transcript. If you have outstanding fees with TLU, you will not be able to register for courses until the fee is paid.

Transcripts typically arrive 1-2 months after the program ends. The transferring courses will be added to the TLU transcript during the semester following the students return.

Q: What language will I be taught in? (I want to study abroad in a foreign language, but I’m not sure I’m ready to take classes in that language)

A: Many programs offer courses in English. Students still have the option to take a language course in the local language and take the other courses in English. Language immersion is one of the best ways to learn or improve upon a second language. TLU offers programs in which courses are taught in a variety of languages. Students can take courses at the level that fits their proficiency from beginner to advanced.

Q: I can only speak English, but I don’t want to study abroad in England. What other options do I have?

A: You do not need to speak another language in addition to English to study abroad. Many of our programs offer courses taught in English.

Q: I know where I want to go. Now, what do I do?

A: We are excited that you have decided to study abroad! So now what? Now you need to begin the application process. Application deadlines are the semester before a student wishes to study abroad, with the exception of the Harlaxton Program which is one year prior. Approval is required from the student’s academic department and the International Education Office prior to application and departure.

Q: Graduation timing?

A: If the time abroad is planned well in advance, a study abroad experience should not cost the student any extra time toward graduation. Students should consult with the academic advisor to ensure that course timelines and requirements are met before going abroad.

Q: Is there information for parents and family members?

A: Are your parents worried about you traveling to a foreign country? Don’t worry, that is only natural. We know that you, as well as your parents, have concerns and questions. We are here to put you at ease as much as possible. Your concerns and questions are important to the TLU International Education office. That is why we have dedicated a whole section of our page to parents and family members.

View Our Parent & Family Resources Guide

Q: Have more questions?

A: If you have general questions and would like to talk it over with someone in the International Education office, please contact Charla Bailey to help you choose a program and begin the process.