How to apply
Applying for study abroad or away is easy when you’re prepared and ready for it. Here is an easy way to learn about the different application process for the different programs available.
Investigate Programs
1. Browse Programs in our searchable online database or interactive map.
2. Attend Study Abroad/Away Info 101 to learn about how to apply, different program types/locations and financial aid. Check the Smith Center Calendar for dates.
3. Attend the Smith Center Study Abroad/Away Fair during the fall semester (usually late October/early November).
4. Make an appointment with a peer or staff advisor for specific questions about selecting a program, general education credits, and financing study abroad/away
5. Talk to the faculty program advisor to learn more about specific programs of interest. The advisors are listed by clicking on each program.
6. If applicable, attend Interest Meetings for selected study abroad programs.
Complete the Smith Center Application
1. Program-specific applications will be available online beginning April 4, 2024. The deadline for 2025 Interim programs is April 16, 2024.
2. Search for and select the program(s) to which you wish to apply and click the “Apply Now” button.
All pieces of the online application must be completed by the deadlines listed online.
Selection of Participants & Notification
1. May 3, Students will be notified via email shortly after the application deadline that there has been a change in their application’s status and will be directed to login to their applicant homepage within StudioAbroad. They will be able to view the decision letter and next steps, if accepted, in their application portal.
Programs With Space Available
Programs that have space available following the initial application period will reopen for applications in September at the start of fall 2022 semester. In those cases, students will be notified within 2-3 weeks of completion of the application.
Commitment
All students who wish to participate in a program to which they have been accepted must commit to the program by the commitment deadline indicated in their acceptance letter.
To fully commit to a program, students will need to complete required commitment paperwork by the deadline stated in their acceptance letter. Students who do not complete commitment paperwork by the deadline will withdrawn from program participation.
Pre-Departure and Orientation Meetings
After committing to participate in an Interim program, students will be guided to complete various tasks, such as booking flights and securing visas.
Students will also be required to attend Smith Center orientation events and program specific pre-departure meetings during the Fall semester. These Orientation events and meetings will cover important topics related to participation.
Registration
If you are approved to participate on a study abroad program, the Smith Center will officially register you in SIS for your program. Please note that we cannot register you for a study abroad/away program if there are any holds on your account. This applies to semester, year and Interim programs.
Important Note
Stay connected to your St. Olaf email throughout the process of applying for and preparing for your study abroad/away program, even during breaks and summer. This is how the Smith Center communicates important details and deadlines.