Can I study abroad/away?
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- If you go on leave the semester before your program, you will be withdrawn from the program.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.
When can I 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.
What terms can I study abroad/away?
St. Olaf approves the following programs:
- Semester/year-long programs
- January Term programs
- Summer programs
Can I study abroad/away on programs not affiliated with the Smith Center?
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.
When and how do I apply for a program?
- 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.
How can I afford to study abroad/away?
St. Olaf offers financial aid for all Smith Center affiliated abroad/away programs.
- Learn about program costs and financial aid available here.
How will study abroad/away affect my credits, grades, and graduation?
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.
Can I speak to a Smith Center advisor?
Yes! Book an appointment with an advisor here.
What are the cancellation policies?
See the Cancellation and Refund Policy webpage for more information.