Guide to an Immersive International Experience

Study Abroad First Step Information Session

A college education does not need to remain within the confines of a college campus, as it can expand beyond to nations you’ve always dreamed of one day visiting. Studying abroad is an exciting experience and Villanova offers many opportunities to get the most out of it. However, before studying abroad there is a lot of planning involved. The Study Abroad First Steps Info Session provides the guidance needed to go into the adventure as prepared as possible.

Prior to going abroad, make sure you check all the eligibility requirements: 

• At least a 2.75 GPA
• Full-time student status required
• transfer students must spend three semesters on campus before spending a semester abroad, but summer programs are open to transfer students after just one semester. 
• Students who have any financial, disciplinary, or academic holds may not participate in education abroad programs. 
• Villanova students must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Additionally, it’s best to really assess the purpose of your study abroad and what you want to get out of it. Some questions you want to ask include

• What do I want to do with my education abroad?
•  What are my goals for my study abroad experience?
•  What kind of program am I looking for? Large University? Small Language School? Big city it? University Town? Internship? Language immersion? Research?
•  Am I ready to challenge myself personally and academically?
•  Have I talk to my family about my plans to study abroad including the academic and financial policies?

It is okay to not have an answer to all the questions just yet– you have an OEA advisor who can assist you. 

Finding the right program for yourself is crucial. There are hundreds of programs to pick from but Villanova requires certain criteria to ensure an immersive experience that is academically focused the program provider or host university must be a non-profit academic organization and must provide instructions at an accredited on U.S. University or Language Institute; exceptions are only made for programs such as an internship, research, or service learning programs. Moreover, to promote immersion in the educational culture of the host institution courses should be taught by local professors. Housing with also be provided through integrated accommodations such as an international residence hall or home stay. 

Deadlines to keep in mind:

• October 15: students planning on studying abroad in the spring
• April 15: Students planning on studying abroad in the fall or non-VU summer applications
• Villanova semester and summer programs have different deadlines noted in Passport Villanova.

More information at:

• passport.villanova.edu (Search by Location, Major, Term)
• abroad.villanova.edu/advising (Search by College, Major)

Highly consider studying abroad to enrich your college experience, but be sure to pay attention to eligibility requirements and deadlines!