Student FAQs

The University of Texas recognizes all credit obtained through programs that the Study Abroad Office facilitates. It is your responsibility to speak with your study abroad and academic advisor to learn how/if your credit will apply to your degree plan.

If a course has been previously evaluated, the SAO will know the equivalent UT course. Students complete a Foreign Course Approval Form (FCAF) prior to departure. For courses that have not been previously evaluated, students bring back their course descriptions and syllabus in order to facilitate transferring credit back to UT.

For Exchange and Faculty-Led programs, grades are calculated in the student’s UT GPA. Affiliated credit appears on the transcript but is not calculated in the UT GPA.

How do I register?

You complete UT registration for your summer/semester abroad during the semester prior to departure. You either pay a $400 affiliated studies fee for affiliated programs or UT tuition for exchange / faculty-led programs.

What if I missed my registration period?

You will need to register during late registration and pay applicable fees. See:
http://registrar.utexas.edu/students/registration/during/late/index.html

How do I set up my class schedule? Is it before or after arrival?

Course registration procedures vary by program. Most students register for classes at their host institution once they have arrived in the host country.

How many classes are recommended?

During the fall and spring semesters, undergraduate students must take a “full load” of 12 hours at their host institution. For summer programs, undergraduate student must take 6 hours per session. Students taking fewer than 12 hours during the semester or 6 hours during a summer session are not eligible for financial aid.

Will I have an orientation once I arrive?

Different host institutions provide varying levels of orientation, which may include topics such as course registration, housing, transportation, local acclimation and so on. You should thoroughly review the host institution website to find out about specific orientation practices.

Will I have enough time outside the classroom to get to know other things, such as cultural places?

Yes. Some programs even arrange excursions to visit local attractions.

Application

How do I apply?

In order to apply, you must be authorized to access the online application by a member of the SAO advising staff. The advisor will need your UT EID, program and semester that you plan to go abroad. You may provide an advisor with this information in person or via email. Once you’ve been authorized to apply you can access the online application by clicking on “My SAO” on the main study abroad homepage: http://www.utexas.edu/student/abroad/

What does the application consist of?

Your study abroad application will vary depending on the type of program that you apply for and may include essays, letters of recommendation, a language evaluation, affiliate or exchange application and/or an official UT transcript. In some cases individual interviews may be included as part of the application process.

When is the application deadline?

Fall Exchange and Affiliated Program – March 1st
Spring Exchange and Affiliated Programs – October 1st
Maymesters – November 1
Summer Exchange, Affiliated and Faculty Led* Programs – February 15th

*priority deadlines may be earlier.

When will I hear if I’ve been accepted?

In most cases, you will be notified within 2-3 weeks after your program application deadline.

My professor can’t submit my letter of recommendation online. How can he/she submit it?

Your professor can e-mail it to your advisor or program coordinator with your name and EID on the letter.

I answered the wrong essay question. What do I do?

Please email your advisor notifying them of this error.

I forgot to check that I am on financial aid. What do I do?

Please email your advisor with this information so that they can update your record.

Communication Abroad

How can I keep in touch with my family/friends while abroad?

The best, most cost-efficient, way to communicate will probably be via e-mail or an internet-based chat/talk program (e.g. IM, Skype). Most students will have cell phones, but using local calling cards will be cheaper. BEWARE: Making international calls from a cell phones can be extremely expensive!!! Determine a set day and time to talk regularly. Another way to communicate is via online social networking such as Myspace or Facebook.

Is it possible to call the US collect from abroad?

Yes, however, you must learn the local number to contact an operator.

How does the postal service work overseas?

Overseas post offices work basically the same as the US post office. In some locations, you will be able to send/receive UPS, FedEx and DHL while other countries have local equivalents.

Will I be able to communicate without having a firm grasp of the language?

Depending on your willingness to learn and explore, you may have a very enjoyable time learning the culture and language of your host country. Many programs require enrollment in a language course. Additionally, tutors and language exchange programs may be available. You should explore the language support networks of your program. Learning the language beforehand will help you once you arrive. Language learning programs of all types are available at most bookstores and on the Internet.

Will I have an interpreter if the language is unfamiliar?

Some schools offer/require an intensive language course even before the regular orientation begins but most institutions do not provide interpreters. For exchange programs that require advanced language proficiency, a language evaluation is required during the UT application process.

Credit

Will my credit be in residence?

Yes, all study abroad credit earned on an approved program is in residence. However, there are some rules you need to be aware of:

Faculty led, SAO administered and exchange program credits are 100% in residence and as such may be used to fulfill upper-division requirements in your major as well as general graduation hours requirements. In other words, UT treats these credits as if they were earned while on campus.
Credit earned on an affiliated program may also be considered in residence and will count toward your 60 hours in residence as well as the 24 of the last 30 hours needed in residence. Upper-division major residency can vary from department to department and college to college. SAO recommends that you check with your departmental or college advisor before going abroad so that you know how your credit may affect your degree plans.

When will my credit be posted?

If you take part in a faculty led program, your credit will be posted to your UT academic record soon after your program ends.

Affiliated or exchange credit normally posts within the long semester after your return from abroad. Every effort is made to ensure that this process occurs smoothly; however, there are steps a student can take to make sure there are no substantial delays. First, try to get all your courses evaluated before you return--waiting until after your return will slow things down considerably. Second, meet with your SAO advisor before you leave and upon returning to review your credit file and make sure that everything is in order (i.e., you’ll get the credits you need). Third, complete and return your re-entry evaluation after your program ends; your SAO advisor will not send your credit to post until you have completed the evaluation.

In some cases, credit is delayed not because of any mistakes on the student’s part, but because the exchange or affiliate partner is not able to provide a transcript immediately following a students’ term abroad. SAO will work with the student and the partner abroad to secure a transcript within a reasonable length of time.

How will I know what my credits are?

The SAO recommends that all UT students going abroad on affiliated or exchange programs review their course options overseas and determine if there are any UT equivalents. The SAO has a list of equivalents that have already been awarded. If the classes you want to take are not on this list, then you can work with UT’s departmental evaluators to determine what the best equivalents are for the classes you would like to take abroad. If you end up taking different classes from those you had evaluated prior to departure, you can still have these classes evaluated either while you are abroad or upon your return.

Finances

What do I need to budget for?

Each program is a little different. In general you will pay for: program fees, tuition & books, airfare, local transportation, cell-phone, internet, printing, room & board and personal expenses. We also advise that you have at least $500 set aside for emergencies.

How much will I spend on living expenses?

This varies greatly by country. You will be given country-specific information during your pre-departure sessions.

Are there any other costs?

You may need more money if you plan on traveling during weekends and/or breaks. Additional expenses may include: university-specific fees, rent deposits, and emergency costs.

What is the exchange rate?

To see a daily exchange rate of the U.S. Dollar to other currencies, go to:
http://finance.yahoo.com/currency?u

How much cash should I take?

ATMs can be found in most countries. A tourist guide for your country will give information on the location of ATM and banks in most major cities (where most cash can be exchanged for local currency). It is recommended that, upon arrival in the host country, you withdraw or exchange at least $50 into local currency. The total amount you will need for your stay varies greatly by country as well as lifestyle choices.

How do I exchange money?

The easiest way to get money is to use an ATM card with the VISA logo. Money retrieved will be in local currency. Full-service banks in the US can also exchange money for some currencies. There are also money-exchanges in most international airports. Overseas, local banks will exchange money (particularly in tourist or downtown areas).

What is the best way for my family to send me money?

Electronic Fund Transfers (EFTs) or online banking transfers into your US account are the easiest and most secure way to deliver money to you while abroad. You can then go to the ATM and take out cash. Wires are also commonly used (Western Union, etc.), but charge a fee for their services. Before departure, determine 2 or 3 ways that funds can be sent.

What are Travelers Checks and where can they be obtained/used?

Travelers checks take the place of cash, and offer an additional level of security because cash can be retrieved if the travelers checks are lost or stolen. Travelers checks receive mixed opinions from students abroad because locations where the checks can be exchanged/spent are limited.

Funding My Program

Will I receive financial aid?

To be eligible for financial aid, you must fill out a FAFSA. For all official UT study abroad programs, your financial aid can be applied to the costs of your overseas program. The UT Office of Student Financial Services will take into account the extra cost of studying abroad when calculating student aid packages for semesters abroad.

How does financial aid work when I study abroad?

The Office of Student Financial Services (OSFS) recalculates aid based on a program budget. The budgets are submitted automatically by SAO advisors to OSFS. A Financial Aid Officer then manually recalculates the student’s aid package (e.g. it is not automated). Once recalculated the student receives an email to take action or claim their Electronic Financial Aid Notice (EFAN) online.

For more questions and answers regarding financial aid, ask DON!

Are there special scholarships for UT students studying abroad?

Yes. All scholarships awarded through the SAO can be found on the Global Assist website. There are general scholarships that everyone is eligible for and specific scholarships for certain countries or certain types of students.

How much of my program should I expect a scholarships to cover?

Unfortunately, there is not enough scholarship money for every student to receive a scholarship. Likewise, there are very few scholarships that award over $2000 per student. As such there are very few students that have all of their cost covered in scholarships. Students need to understand that they will need to “piece together” funding from scholarship, loans and savings to cover the cost of their time abroad.

What is a study abroad bar?

Prior to departure: Financial Bar - The SAO bars students who have not paid in full by the due date. For students on financial aid, if they are barred before their financial aid releases, their financial aid will automatically apply towards their study abroad bill. All bars appear on “What I Owe".

Prior to departure: Financial Aid Office Bar/Hold - OSFS might tell a student that he or she has a bar blocking their financial aid. This type of bar is NOT a Study Abroad Office bar, but rather a type of “hold” that is place on the students OSFS record until the financial aid counselor manually updates the student’s aid package. Staff members at the SAO cannot fix this problem. Students should contact their aid counselor or the OSFS front desk or hotline for assistance.

After departure/upon return: Financial Bar - The SAO bars students who have not paid in full by the due date. These students are barred from registration until payment is complete.

For more information see the Money section of our website, or go directly to the Money FAQs.

Health and Safety

Will UT contact my parents in the case of an emergency?

A Federal Law called FERPA limits the information the SAO at UT can release without your prior written permission. All students are required to list at least one stateside emergency contact. In the event of an emergency, we will contact the emergency contact that you’ve listed.

Do I need to purchase international insurance?

Yes. The University of Texas at Austin recommends CISI insurance. It costs $33/month. Please note that many UT Faculty-Led and Affiliated Programs have insurance included in the program fees.

What does CISI cover?

CISI covers sickness and accidents at 100% while out of the US. It also provides emergency medical reunion – if you are hospitalized for more than six days, travel and hotel for one individual is covered up to $3000. It also covers medical evacuation/repatriation and the return of mortal remains.

Do I need keep my US insurance while abroad?

Yes. The above-mentioned (CISI) insurance only covers accidents/sickness while out of the US. Where there is a lapse in coverage, any injury incurred while abroad or any current (ongoing) treatment may be considered a preexisting condition upon your return.

What emergency services are available while I’m abroad?

The quality of medical services varies greatly by country. In order to provide an appropriate standard of medical care to all UT students traveling abroad, the UT System has contracted with International SOS, a word-wide crisis management service covering all students while abroad.

What does International SOS offer?

SOS is a global team of medical and security experts that are available via 24-hour call centers located around the world. You can access a host of health and safety information. For example, if you are injured, you can call SOS collect to talk to a nurse or find the nearest English-speaking doctor. SOS also monitors and advises on unstable political situations and severe weather conditions.

Do I need to register for SOS?

All students traveling through the UT SAO are automatically covered by International SOS; however, we recommend that you register your travel information & documents as well as create a medical file (visible only to doctors) as a safety precaution. Use the UT policy (number provided by advisor/program coordinator) to log on any time to activate/update your SOS Emergency Record.

Should I register with the local US Consulate? Why?

Yes, this can be done at no cost by visiting: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ This helps the local consulate serve you in the event of a lost passport, crime, accident or illness. When an emergency happens, or if natural disaster, act of terrorism, or civil unrest strikes during foreign travel, the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate can be your source of assistance and information. Please see: https://travelregistration.state.gov.

Why do I have to get medical clearance?

All students are required to have medical clearance prior to studying abroad. This allows the SAO as well as onsite representatives to better prepare for possible incidents. Advanced preparation is critical, as certain treatment and medication are not as accessible in some countries as they are in the US.

I am being treated for a medical condition. Can I study abroad?

In order to study abroad, you must get medical clearance from your treating medical practitioner and any specialists that you are seeing. Please discuss the implications of study abroad with your doctor(s).

I am a student with a disability. Can I study abroad?

We encourage students with disabilities to study abroad. Mobility International has resources to help you choose an appropriate program/location. In addition, please notify your SAO advisor/program coordinator of the accommodations you need. This can be done via Services with Students with Disabilities if you prefer.

How do I know if my condition can be treated abroad?

In addition to speaking with your doctor, please refer to the following organizations for additional information:

Do I need any immunizations?

Immunization requirements and recommendations vary by country. The UT Immunizations Clinic at University Health Services specializes in international travel and can make suggestions. They also provide immunizations at discounted rates. See: http://healthyhorns.utexas.edu/education/travelhealth.html

Do I need to take my medical records?

The best way to store medical records is in an International SOS Emergency Record. This makes them available 24-7 from anywhere in the world. Once entered, only International SOS medical practitioners can view this information.

Holidays

Do terms and semesters vary between schools?

Just as schools in the US have varying schedules, universities around the world work on different academic calendars. Most universities have fall, spring, and summer sessions. You will have to look at important dates when considering a program.

What do I do when the school is on holiday?

You are free to travel during holidays or explore your host city. The dorms or apartments will still be open during these times.

When is the best time have visitors?

Consider the local weather, prices and your academic schedule. It can be better have visitors towards the end of your stay, when you’re most comfortable with your host city.

Can I travel before/after/during the program?

While you are free to travel in their free time, we recommend that you reserve travel for the second half of their time abroad as well as after the program. You are more comfortable with the country and culture thus making travel safer.

Is travel recommended?

Traveling while overseas is highly recommended and is quite safe, depending on the location of travel and travel companions. Travel in groups and stay in reputable hotels/hostels. E-mail your resident director as well as parents the specifics of your travel plans (when, where, what mode of transportation, with whom, which hotels).

Where can I receive advice about travel?

Local students and other acquaintances can be great resources for travel tips and suggestions. Traveling with local students can provide a unique, non-touristy experience. This approach is also quite safe, as a local is fluent in the local language and familiar with the culture and norms.

Housing

Where do most students live? What is safest?

Most students live in either on-campus housing or in off-campus apartments. Some, particularly in language programs, live with host-families. It is safest to live on campus, or in housing provided by the school. If you choose to find your own housing, you can ask the local staff for advice.

Can I pick my roommate?

For many programs, students can request to live together shortly before departure.

Will I have roommates in a dorm or in an apartment? How many?

This will vary. To have a private room is more expensive. Depending on the school, you may live with local students or with other international students. It depends on the school’s dorm availability and costs.

Can I have overnight visitors?

Most dorms and home-stays do not allow overnight guests. It is best to refer guests to a hotel.

Are items like bedding and computers provided or do I need to take them?

Depending on the living situation, bedding/linens may need to be provided by the student along with most furnishings unless living in a dorm or furnished apartment. Computers may be accessed at internet cafés, libraries, etc. or you can bring your own.

Can I take my favorite pet?

No pets.

Passport/Visas

Do I need a passport?

Yes, you will need a passport valid for more than six months after the program ends. Many countries also require a minimum of 4 blank pages.

How do I get a passport?

For the latest information, see the Department of State’s website: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

Where do I get a passport?

You can turn in your passport application/renewal with the Passport Coordinator in the UT International Office (Wooldridge Hall - WOH) room 2.126 or at most post offices.

When should I apply for my passport?

You should apply for your passport upon acceptance to the program. The process can be lengthy.

Do I need a visa?

For most countries, you will need a visa. Your SAO advisor or program coordinator will tell you if you need a visa.

How do I get a visa?

Questions about visas should be directed to the US-based foreign consulate. Documents that you might need for a visa could include, but are not limited to: proof of funds (bank statement and/or financial aid reward letter), proof of US university enrollment (from the UT registrar’s office), proof of enrollment in a foreign institution, proof of immunizations, local address.

Will the SAO help me get a visa?

The SAO can issue proof of participation in a program as well as direct students to the proper consulate; however, we cannot advise students on the details of applying for a visas. This is because visas are issued by foreign governments whose requirements are constantly changing. The SAO simply cannot keep up with immigration laws for the eighty-some countries that we send students to.

I’m leaving in a week and my visa hasn’t come yet, can’t the SAO do something?

Unfortunately, the SAO does not have relationships with foreign governments to be able to intercede on behalf of the student.

Registration

How do I register for an exchange program?

Make sure all bars are cleared.
Fall Abroad: Enter the unique number 00180
a. Undergraduates - Four times for a total of 12 hours.
b. Graduates - Three or four times, depending on how your department defines full-time status.
Summer Abroad: Enter the unique number 70180 two times (for a total of 6 hours).
Once fee bills have been posted go online to your Tuition and Fees page and pay your tuition.

How do I register for an affiliate program?

Make sure all bars are cleared.
Fall Abroad: Enter the unique number 00060 once.
Summer Abroad:
a. For a “first session” program enter the unique number 70055.
b. For a “whole session” program enter the unique number 70060.
c. For a “second session” program enter the unique number 70065.
Once fee bills have been posted go online to your What I Owe Page and pay your $400 affiliated studies fee.

How do I register for a Faculty-Led program?

Register for the UT course(s). Maymester registration is part of spring registration. Some faculty-lead programs may require you to register for an affiliated course as well.

I was able to register for the Maymester course, does that mean I’ve been accepted?

No, registration and program acceptance are different. If you are applying for a Maymester you will be asked to register for the course before you’ve been officially accepted into the program. If you are not accepted, you must drop the course. See the Maymester Registration FAQs.

What if my registration is dropped?

If your registration has been dropped, it is probably due to non-payment. You need to re-register during your next registration access period and pay your tuition fees or affiliated studies fee by your payment deadline. SAO staff will only drop students who have not been accepted to the program.