Study Abroad/Away Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if you meet the following requirements (and the requirements of the program to which you are applying):

• You must be a full-time student in good standing at St. Olaf during the semester prior to your program.
• You can only participate in one study abroad/away program per academic year.
• Work with your academic advisor and department chair/program director to ensure study abroad/away credits align with your major(s)/concentration(s) and timing of graduation.

Important note about leave of absence:

• You may apply for a program while on leave, but must return to campus for at least one full semester before going abroad.
• If you go on leave the semester before your program, you will be withdrawn from the program. This is due to required on-campus orientations and logistical steps that cannot be completed while on leave.

I’m an international student, can I study abroad/away?

Yes, with some additional considerations:

• The visa process may differ greatly from U.S. citizens. Review entry and exit requirements and immigration policies of the intended program’s country before applying.  
• Studying abroad/away in your final semester may impact OPT eligibility.
• Meet with the Taylor Center to discuss your current U.S. visa status and plans to study abroad/away. 

In general, you can study abroad/away beginning your sophomore year through the January term of your senior year. 

• Exceptions: First year and transfer students may apply to January Term study abroad/away programs that have space available once they have arrived on campus.  
• Transfer students should meet with a Smith Center advisor to discuss whether a semester study abroad/away program will fit with their academic plan.  
• You cannot study abroad/away during your final term at St. Olaf unless on a St. Olaf faculty-led program.

St. Olaf approves the following programs:

• Semester/year-long programs
• January Term programs
• Summer programs

Yes. You can apply to abroad/away programs not affiliated with the Smith Center, but unlike Smith Center programs, you will not automatically earn St. Olaf credit. To acquire credits, you must follow the transfer credit approval process. 

IMPORTANT: Please read and fully understand the process before applying.

• Apply via StudioAbroad using your St. Olaf username and password.
  • Before applying, learn more about programs here.
• Applications to study abroad/away open the academic year prior to the start date of the program. Review deadlines and timelines here.

St. Olaf offers financial aid for all Smith Center affiliated abroad/away programs.

Learn about program costs and financial aid available here.

The Smith Center is not able to advise you on which courses to take. Before applying for a program, please work closely with your academic advisor, department chair/program director, and the Registrar’s Office to ensure you stay on track to graduate.

Yes! Book an appointment with an advisor here.

(link to the cancellation policy page)