Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about studying abroad?  Start here.  If you don’t find your answer, email us at suabroad@syr.edu.  

Choosing a Program

What is the difference between a Syracuse Abroad Center Program and World Partner Program?

Syracuse Abroad Center programs are extensions of the Syracuse University campus and widely recognized for their focus on student success, quality of academic and cultural programming, and innovative experiential learning opportunities. Each Syracuse Center is managed by a director, along with multicultural staff, and delivers unparalleled academic programs and support services to students studying abroad. You can expect a curriculum that is rigorous, innovative and distinguished by Syracuse University’s exceptional standards. Centers are located in Florence, London, Madrid, Santiago (Chile) & Strasbourg (France).

Syracuse Abroad’s 50+ World Partner programs offer a range of models for Syracuse students—from enrolling in small programs sponsored by other U.S. universities (in Germany), to enrolling in foreign universities where most of your classes are with international students (Israel and Japan), to directly enrolling in university courses alongside local students (Australia, Ireland). Individual programs have specific requirements, but in every case, it is the student’s responsibility to identify appropriate courses and get approvals for Syracuse University credit from academic advisers.

What is a Signature Seminar?

A Signature Seminar is a traveling 3-credit course, offered at Syracuse center programs. In London, Madrid and Florence, the Seminar is an optional course and can be taken at the beginning or the end of your semester. In Santiago, the Seminar is required, and students begin their semester abroad with their Seminar. The course travels over a 10-14 day period, introducing students to themes that will be reinforced throughout their semester abroad.

Can I study abroad for more than one semester?

Students wishing to study abroad for multiple semesters must open and complete a Syracuse Abroad application for each semester by the appropriate application deadline, even if they would like to study abroad for a full year on the same program or extend their stay at their current program. Admission to a program for one semester does not guarantee admission for a subsequent semester.

Does Syracuse Abroad offer programs for graduate credit?

Yes. Many summer programs have courses and internships for graduate credit. Students who participate in these programs are typically enrolled in graduate degree programs, but students with undergraduate degrees who are not yet admitted to graduate programs are also eligible to apply. Syracuse Abroad Law Programs are only open to students already matriculated in law school.

There are also graduate semester programs. Master’s degree programs in architecture and in Renaissance art history are offered in Florence, in architecture in London, and students in Master’s programs in public policy studies have options at many of Syracuse Abroad’s center-based program in Santiago and for Syracuse students, at World Partners.

Eligibility

Is there a GPA requirement?

A 2.5 GPA* (on a 4.0 scale) is required for admission to Syracuse center-based programs at the time of application completion. A 3.0 minimum GPA is required for enrollment in courses at foreign universities. For some limited-enrollment programs (such as Acting at Shakespeare’s Globe or Design in London), the minimum GPA may be higher than 2.5, and priority enrollment may be given to those with a GPA of at least 2.75.

For World Partner programs, a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0 at the time of application completion, depending on the program. Please refer to the program brochure pages for specific GPA requirements.

*Center-based semester long program applicants who do not meet the 2.5 GPA requirement can petition for conditional acceptance for Summer and Fall abroad programs. World Partner applicants may be able to submit a petition if their GPA does not meet their program’s GPA requirement if the World Partner program also allows petitions.  Petitions are not accepted for Spring abroad programs. View petition details here.

Is there a Syracuse Abroad language requirement?

For most Syracuse Abroad programs, there are no language requirements for admission (the exception is Santiago, where three semesters of Spanish language or the equivalent are required for the fall semester, and some World Partner programs). However, once admitted, many students are required to enroll in language courses and/or courses taught in the host language. Enrollment in courses not taught in English at foreign universities have language requirements. Please be sure to read your program’s brochure page carefully for more details about language requirements.

How will my judicial record affect my ability to study abroad?

As part of its admissions procedures, Syracuse Abroad reviews each applicant’s judicial standing. For Syracuse University students, this review is completed in cooperation with the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities. Visiting students must submit a completed Study Abroad Approval Form either confirming the absence of or disclosing a student’s judicial record. To be eligible for Syracuse Abroad programs, students must not be on disciplinary probation (or campus equivalent) during their time abroad and/or have any outstanding judicial sanctions. Learn more about Syracuse Abroad policies and judicial standing requirements.

Applying and Admission

How do I apply to a World Partner program, and why do I need Syracuse Abroad approval first?

World Partner (WP) programs are non-Syracuse University study abroad programs that have been reviewed and approved for student participation. While each WP program has its own application and admissions process, students must first apply through Syracuse Abroad.

This initial application helps Syracuse Abroad assess your academic fit and readiness. If you’re approved, you’ll then be invited to apply directly to the WP program.

Can I apply to more than one program? 

No, you need to choose one program before you apply. You will be able to list alternate program choices within your application. Alternates are reviewed only if you are not admitted to your first choice, so pick programs you would be happy to attend. Before you apply, decide on one track, Center or World Partner, since switching later may limit your options. Staying flexible about both program and term (including Fall) gives you the best chance of placement.
Full details are in the Admission Policy.

Is admission first come, first served?

No. For SU students in Center and World Partner semester programs, every application completed by the deadline is reviewed together. Submitting in November instead of January does not change your chances of being admitted. Use the time to write a thoughtful personal statement and choose your alternate program choices carefully.

How do I know my application is submitted?

There is no final submit button. Your application is marked complete once every item on your OrangeAbroad checklist is finished. Make sure all items are complete before the deadline.

How are semester applications reviewed?

Cumulative GPA is the most heavily weighted factor, since it is the strongest indicator of academic success. Our office will also consider your personal statement, your academic rationale, and how well the program fits your academic plan. Full details regarding the review process are on our Apply page. 

Is admission guaranteed?

No. Spring programs are highly competitive, and some programs admit fewer than half of applicants. We encourage you to consider Fall, which offers fall-only programs and a better chance of placement in your preferred program and housing. Read more in Discover the Fall Advantage.

Are there limits to how many students can participate in World Partner programs?

Yes, each school or college at Syracuse has its own enrollment capacity for WP programs. These limits help manage program demand and ensure alignment with academic goals, budget planning, and host institution requirements.

Because of these factors, not all applicants can be approved, and students are encouraged to be flexible and consider multiple program options or alternative terms (particularly fall, summer or mid-semester/short-term).

Why was I denied admission to a program, but my friend from another school or college was approved?

Each school/college has its own enrollment targets for Center and World Partner programs. That means students from different schools and colleges may face different availability on Syracuse Abroad programs. Your application was considered carefully within the context of your school’s academic and enrollment designations. 

Academics and Credit

Will credits count toward my major/degree?

All Syracuse Abroad students receive Syracuse University credit for courses taken abroad, even when taken at host/partner universities. For Syracuse students, this credit is applied toward major or elective requirements. Please work with your academic advisor to determine how your study abroad credits will count toward your degree. Visiting students receive credits either as home-university credit or as transfer credit, and should confirm their home school policy with their study abroad adviser.

How do I know what courses I can take on a World Partner program?

World Partner institutions control their course offerings and while we make our best effort to review and approve courses prior to students going abroad, some do not compile their lists until January or February for the Spring semester and August for the Fall semester. The more flexibility a student has, the better. Typically, reserving general elective credits makes for a more successful experience. Each World Partner brochure page has a list of courses that have been approved for SU credit. Students should meet with their academic advisor to discuss which courses they should take while they are abroad.  

I am a Whitman or a Newhouse student going on a World Partner program; can I take classes in business or communications?

Whitman or Newhouse students cannot take any Whitman-related (business, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, etc.) or communications (journalism, advertising, public relations, communications, etc.) courses unless they have petitioned directly to Whitman or Newhouse. This must be done before you are abroad, or we cannot ensure you will receive credit for your course.

Can I take a leave of absence to study abroad and then transfer those credits back to Syracuse University?

According to University policy, students are not allowed to take a leave of absence to study abroad for the semester and then transfer credits back to Syracuse. This policy can be found in the Academic Rules of the University’s Course Catalog (section 15.0/15.1 Leave of Absence and section 8.2 Transfer credit) – Academic Rules | Syracuse University Academic Catalog 

Costs and Financial Aid

How much will my program cost? 

Your cost is standard SU tuition plus a program fee, billed by SU through your Bursar account. The exact amount varies by program and term.  The program fee may already cover most of your day-to-day costs – housing, insurance, orientation, activities, and local transit. Most programs include a combination of excursions, such as day trips, weekend trips, and overnight trips depending on the center location.  You’ll also have out-of-pocket spending money to plan for – see How much money will I need when I’m abroad?  

To find your program’s cost, head to your program on the Syracuse Abroad site and open its ‘Cost and Aid’ page, which links the Financial Planning Budget sheet with tuition, program fee, and estimated expenses for that program and term. World Partner programs work similarly, with some programs requiring costs paid directly to the partner – see How will I be Billed? 

Visiting (non-SU) students may have unique billing arrangements – see How will I be Billed?  

If you have questions about program costs, we’re always happy to help at suabusinessoffice@syr.edu 

How much money will I need when I’m abroad? 

Beyond what Syracuse bills you, you’ll have personal expenses, the money you spend on your own while abroad. The Estimated Personal Expenses section of your program budget contains estimates that will vary by individual spending habits. These are not billed to you directly, but rather typical out-of-pocket amounts students can expect while abroad.  

Your personal spending choices drive the total, so we can tailor this to your plans. Not sure what that looks like for you? Book a free Personal Expenses Advising session. It’s a 20-minute, one-on-one advising session with a member of the SU Abroad Business Office. You’ll walk through your program budget, get clarity on your program costs, and leave with a more personalized plan. Sign up here: Personal Expense Advising 

How will I be billed? 

  • Syracuse Students: Your program is billed through your Bursar account, just like a regular semester on campus. Your tuition and program fee appear there, along with any course fees, or optional signature seminars. 
  • World Partner Students: As an SU student, you will be billed through your SU Bursar account. You will be charged with Syracuse University tuition for your program abroad. You will also be charged a program fee. Some costs like housing and certain deposits are paid directly to the partner. 
  • Visiting Students: Depending on your program and home school, you might be billed entirely through your home institution, entirely through Syracuse, or a combination of the two. Because it varies, please reach out to the SU Abroad Business Office (suabusinessoffice@syr.edu) and we’ll walk you through how billing works for students from your school. 

What if I need help paying for my flight? 

Syracuse University students who are fully funded may qualify for the Plane Ticket Loan Program. Syracuse Abroad purchases your ticket upfront, through its approved travel agency, ScholarTrip, and the cost is repaid from your financial aid refund once it disburses. This is a loan, not a grant, and it requires approval from both Syracuse Abroad and the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs. Visiting, international and graduate students are not eligible.  

To apply, complete the Plane Ticket Loan Application and email it to the Syracuse Abroad Business Office at suabusinessoffice@syr.edu. 

Does my financial aid apply? 

Yes, in most cases! Because semester study abroad students earn Syracuse University credit and pay Syracuse University tuition, financial aid generally applies to your program costs.  Aid can vary by student and program, so please confirm with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs. Visiting students should confirm with their home institution’s financial aid office.  

Is there more financial aid available? 

Yes! Syracuse Abroad offers the Global Access Award to help make study abroad more accessible. 

  • Syracuse University students: The Global Access Award is available to full-time Syracuse University undergraduates on semester programs. Awards are need-based, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs, and are included in your financial aid package. No separate application is required. Learn more on Grants & Aid for SU Students. 
  • Syracuse University offers Fall-Only Additional Aid for Syracuse University undergraduate students who study abroad in the fall. Learn more on Grants & Aid for SU Students. 
  • Visiting students: The Global Access Award is available to undergraduate visiting students and considers a range of circumstances, not only financial need or academic merit. To apply, submit a short essay and a Financial Aid Acknowledgement Form signed by your home institution’s financial aid office. Learn more on Tuition, Grants & Aid for Visiting Students. 

Syracuse University students may also apply for our named scholarships, and all students can apply for outside financial assistance for study abroad. 

Does Syracuse Abroad give scholarships and grants? 

Yes! For Syracuse University students, Syracuse Abroad works with the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs to offer need-based grants and Named Scholarships. All Syracuse University undergraduate students accepted to a study abroad semester program are welcome to apply for Named Scholarships.  

Visiting students may apply for the Syracuse Abroad Global Access Award and should also check with their home study abroad office for institutional grants. All students should visit the Grants & Aid section of our website for more information and explore outside scholarships for additional opportunities.

After You’re Accepted

What do I do once I’m accepted to a Syracuse Abroad program?

The Accepted Students section of our site will walk you through the process. The most important steps you can take right away: start applying for your visa (should you need one), and begin completing your post-acceptance forms.

Where will I live while I’m abroad?

  • World Partner programs: Students will live on- or off-campus depending on the World Partner. Housing options vary by program, but may include residence halls, apartments, or homestays. In order for students to have access to housing support while they are abroad, Syracuse Abroad strongly encourages students to live in housing provided by the World Partner when available. 
  • Center semester programs: Syracuse University’s policy requires all students to reside in program housing unless they meet specific criteria and are granted a waiver through a petition process. Our independent housing petition process is limited to students who meet one of the following criteria: religious reasons, disability disclosure that cannot be accommodated by program housing, or family member resides in the city of program. 

Is independent housing allowed on semester programs?

  • World Partner programs: Syracuse Abroad defers to the housing policies of each World Partner provider, including independent housing if the WP allows it. Please refer to the Independent Housing Policy page for more information.
  • Center semester programs: Syracuse Abroad requires all students to live in program housing unless they meet specific criteria and are granted a waiver through a formal petition process.  Please refer to the Independent Housing Policy page for more information.

Is there a group flight?

  • World Partner programs: No, students make their own flight arrangements. The World Partner program will provide more details and instructions about arrival either through students’ online accounts or by email.
  • Center semester programs: Yes! We offer group flights, which are not required but encouraged. You will receive more information regarding travel to your center after acceptance. 

What if I have more questions?

If you’re interested in learning about a specific program, schedule a 15-minute appointment with an International Program Advisor to receive more details. If you’re not sure where or when to go, or what steps to take first, schedule a virtual general advising appointment.

For general questions, Syracuse Abroad is also available via email at suabroad@syr.edu. Visit the staff list to get in touch with a specific Program Advisor for Center, Summer or World Partner programs.