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Just the FAQs
Mission Statement
- Marist International Programs promotes international engagement and academic, personal, and professional development through rigorous, reflective study abroad, overseas internships, and international campus programming.
Why should I study abroad?
- Study abroad is an exciting way to gain an understanding and appreciation of the increasingly international environment in which we live.
- With further globalization of the market place, it is to your advantage to become familiar with different cultures, values, and educational systems. Studying abroad broadens your understanding of the world.
- It is a unique opportunity for you to explore concepts, languages, ways of life and so much more. Study abroad gives you the chance to experience another culture.
How far in advance should I begin planning to go abroad?
- As early as possible. MIP encourages students to begin planning as early as their first semester of freshman year.
What is the first step after I have decided that I want to study abroad?
- You should read through the MIP website, examine your objectives in study abroad, and attend a MIP information session. Sessions are held during the semester on specific country destinations and programs.
Who is eligible to go abroad?
- All applicants must be in good academic (minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA) and disciplinary standing and should display maturity and responsibility in social conduct, and be healthy both physically and emotionally. Students of any year may participate in a short-term study abroad program, while semester or academic-year study abroad is open to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. There are also a number of study abroad opportunites for graduate students.
Can I study abroad if I have a learning or physical disability?
- If you are physically challenged, have a documented learning disability, or have a medical condition that requires treatment, this does not prevent you from having a study abroad experience.
- Please make us aware of your situation so that it can be determined whether your chosen site can accommodate your needs.
Where can I study abroad?
- MIP offers short-term, semester, and academic year programs at dozens of sites on six continents. The portfolio of approved programs has been developed and is monitored utilizing the standards of best practice in international education.
- There may be additional programs of interest to you not currently listed on our website. Please contact MIP for more information concerning further options available to you.
How far in advance should I apply for a program?
- The sooner the better. Application deadlines can be found here.
What is involved in the application process?
- You will need an Official Transcript, 2 Recommendation letters, Essay, and application fee ($50), along with other materials to assemble your completed application. Please consult the application page for further information.
How does Marist International Programs help me to prepare for my study abroad experience?
- There are a series of mandatory pre-departure orientation meetings that will help guide you through the planning process for your program. You are expected to attend all orientations.
- The onus of fully preparing for your abroad experience is upon you. Read as much as you can about your host country, talk to former study abroad participants, seek out international students at Marist from your chosen destination, and prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically. Success is study abroad is primarily determined by one's attitude, flexibility, and drive to engage in the intercultural context.
How do I get my student visa to go abroad?
- You must contact the Consulate of your host country for information on how to obtain a student visa. Requirements are specific to each country, so you are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. The MIP will provide you with supporting documents (if required) for your student visa.
What can I study while I am abroad?
- Students from virtually every discipline have studied abroad. There is a broad range of possibilities.
- Students will determine their curriculum with the help and approval of their academic advisor and chairperson.
- By identifying the type of program that you are looking for, you can best meet your needs (e.g. program with an internship, intensive language program, or a liberal arts based program).
Can I study abroad if I don't know a foreign language?
- Yes! You can study abroad in a country where English is the native language or at a program where your courses are taught in English, even if it isn't the native language.
Can I still graduate on time if I study abroad?
- Absolutely. Students should consult their academic advisor(s) to ensure that they choose an appropriate program and courses.
Is studying abroad more expensive than regular tuition? Is financial aid available?
- Most study abroad programs are roughly the equivalent of regular Marist tuition.
- Financial aid and scholarships generally apply to your study abroad program. Contact your financial aid advisor for information on studying abroad.
- Visiting students should consult their study abroad advisor or financial aid officer at their home institution to initiate a study abroad consortium agreement with Marist College.
How much spending money do I need while I am abroad?
- This is one of the toughest questions that we are asked. The answer is as varied as the students who travel abroad. Students who made it on a shoestring budget may have spent between $1000-$2000. A lavish budget may be $4000 or more. It really does depend on the location and your specific needs/wants.
- Calculate your expenses on campus (e.g., books, entertainment, food, etc.), while factoring in travel expenses, an emergency fund, and the cost of living at your site. This can be a baseline for your budget abroad.
How are the grades from my study abroad program processed after its over?
- If you are a Marist student, your credits and grades are transferred back to Marist College. Transferred courses will either be listed under existing Marist courses or assigned special topics.
