Study Abroad
University of Florida International Center
Study Abroad Services
170 Hub
Phone: (352) 392-5323
Fax: (352) 392-5575
www.ufic.ufl.edu
About Study Abroad
The University of Florida recognizes study abroad as one of the five activities that lead to an enhanced university experience. With study abroad, you can become a Global Gator and study in the places you’ve only read about—all while earning credit towards your degree. The University of Florida International Center, located in 170 Hub, is the main place for all international activities at UF. Visit the Study Abroad Services office in the International Center or browse our webpage at www.ufic.ufl.edu to find out more about programs and funding options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Study Abroad
What steps should I take to find the right study abroad program and to ensure that it meets my academic needs?
- Become familiar with the International Center and Study Abroad Services at www.ufic.ufl.edu
- Visit Study Abroad Services in 170 Hub to peruse our extensive library of programs.
- Sign up for a Study Abroad Info Session at the International Center to learn the basics.
- Once you have narrowed your search for a program, you can schedule an appointment with a Program Advisor who will help you refine your choices and find a program to match your interests.
- Discuss your plans to go abroad with a faculty member in your department and/or an academic advisor who will make sure that your choice of program will keep you on track toward graduation.
- Come to the Study Abroad Fair on Wednesday, September 15, 2007 on the Reitz Union Colonnade from 10am to 3pm. The fair provides the perfect opportunity to do some “one-stop shopping” about study abroad. You can talk to UF professors who lead UF programs, students who have recently been abroad, Study Abroad advisors, and representatives from other programs at institutions around the world!
What are the academic prerequisites to apply for a study abroad program?
You must have completed one full semester at UF and you must be a student in good standing to apply. Depending on your college’s requirements, there may be some major courses, general education requirements, or specific GPA requirements that you must meet before applying. Some programs conducted in a foreign language may require a certain level of language proficiency from the student. However, there are many programs that offer foreign language instruction at the beginner level or offer all classes taught in English.
If I will be receiving financial aid, can I still go abroad and carry my aid with me?
Yes! The University of Florida allows you to use your financial aid package toward any UF approved study abroad program, whether sponsored by UF itself or another institution. You can use Florida Bright Futures scholarships, grants, loans, Pre-Paid, and other scholarships as available. You must register full-time in order to use most aid abroad.
What scholarships are available for study abroad?
UF and non-UF sponsored scholarships are available on a competitive basis for semester, year and summer programs. Some scholarships require that you maintain a high grade point average and others require that you choose a summer program sponsored by the University of Florida. You are eligible to apply for summer program scholarships whether or not you are receiving financial aid. Please click here for a list of Study abroad scholarships and an applications.
Can I fulfill my summer residency requirement abroad?
Absolutely! UF offers a number of faculty-led UF summer programs to Belgium, Brazil, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, Russia, Spain, and South Africa, and faculty are working on more every year! If you find a non-UF program and your academic advisor approves your choice of courses for credit, your studies on that program will count toward the summer residency requirement as well.
Can I take my last 30 hours abroad?
Yes. The UF requirement that all students complete their last 30 hours on-campus is waived for all UF-approved study abroad programs. As part of the study abroad application, you must receive approval for your study abroad plans from your major department academic advisor.
What are the application deadlines for study abroad programs?
Summer 2008 programs - March 1st, 2008
Fall 2007 or Academic Year 07-08 programs April 1st, 2007
(*Mar. 1st for Australia)
Spring 2008 programs October 1st, 2007
*Dates are subject to change. Please check with the International Center for the most current information.
Please note that some programs require an earlier application deadline or fill up quickly. Application before the deadline is recommended. Start early to make your plans to be a Global Gator!