Office of International Programs

Study Abroad/Exchange Application Instructions

• Applications for fall semester abroad open in December of the previous year with February/March deadlines.
• Applications for spring semester abroad open in June with September/October deadlines.
• Summer program application cycles/deadlines vary and will be posted on each program information page.

• Global E3 - September 6
• All other affiliated exchanges - September 15
• Non-affiliated study abroad programs - October 15 (this is the deadline for the RPI application submissions required for non-affiliated study abroad. Each program provider will have their own application deadlines).

• Students may apply to only one program per cycle.  Please review the program options carefully and discuss your plans with your academic/Hub advisor and Office of International Programs staff.
• Consider the following when making a decision about which international experience is most suitable for you:

• 3. 0 minimum GPA (minimum 3.3 for UCL, DTU, NTU and some Global E3). 
• With the exception of applications for UCL, all others with GPAs that do not meet the minimum requirement may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Second-semester sophomore status is required for most semester programs; some require junior standing.  Short-term programs vary.
• International students are encouraged to study abroad outside of their home country.  Some programs will not accept host-country citizens.

• With the exception of the Technical University of Dresden, the working language at all partner universities is English, though the language of the host country will also be spoken.
• It is important to consider if you will be comfortable living in an environment where English may not be the primary language spoken.

• Some fall programs end in January, with final exams taking place after the holidays. Southern Hemisphere programs typically run February through June (southern hemisphere semester 1) and July through November (southern hemisphere semester 2). 
• Make sure that the dates of the program that you select do not interfere with internships or summer plans. 
• Students are expected to remain at the host institution for all regularly scheduled exams and should not plan to leave early for another commitment.

• Some programs offer more support than others, and it is important to assess how much support you will need to be comfortable while abroad. 
• All programs offer an arrival orientation program, and some sponsor activities for international students throughout the semester. 
• The academic climate at some universities is similar to that in the U.S., but at many partner schools, students are expected to behave independently and take full responsibility for their own academic success

• Many affiliated and most non-affiliated programs guarantee university housing, but some do not.
• Students may need to consider homestays or other private accommodations.
• Many programs do not offer a meal plan, and students are expected to eat out and/or cook on their own.

• Flexibility and early planning are important.  The availability of any particular class is not guaranteed.
• Students will select classes from the regular offerings of the host institution and will register with the host institution.
• Make sure to check the course catalogue/timetable of the host institution to make sure that the classes that you need to remain on track for graduation will be offered during the semester that you choose to spend abroad.  
• All classes must be evaluated and approved by RPI in order for credit to transfer - see below for guidance on how to complete a Study Abroad Transfer Credit Approval Form.
• Faculty approval of a course for the transfer of credit to Rensselaer does not guarantee that it will be available at the host institution during your semester abroad.

• Students pay regular Rensselaer tuition for semester and full year exchanges and are eligible for all of their financial aid. 
• Summer affiliated exchanges do not charge Rensselaer tuition but may have a program fee.
• Students who participate in non-affiliated study abroad will pay the tuition and fees of the program.  Rensselaer tuition is not charged for non-affiliated study abroad, and students are not eligible for Rensselaer aid for these programs.
• Estimated expenses are available on the brochure for each affiliated program. 
• It is often necessary to show proof of funding for living expenses when applying for a visa for the host country.  For most countries, this is usually between $1000-$1500 per month.

• Student submits online Rensselaer application.  Create an application here using RCS ID and password.
• Nomination issued by Office of International Programs, typically within 2 weeks of the application deadline.
• Student applies to host institution following guidance in nomination letter.
• Host institution issues acceptance materials.

• Once you have reviewed the program options and selected a program, click “Apply Now” on the program’s information page. You will be prompted to log in using your RCS ID and password. You will be able to save and return to your application. You will receive messages at various points in the application process, and it is very important that you read these messages and follow all instructions
• Required Application Submissions:
• Brief (no more than 300 words) statement of purpose - explain your motivation for study abroad and how this experience will complement your academic and personal interests.  Students who do not meet the 3.0 minimum GPA requirement should address this in their statement.  Non-affiliated applicants should explain their reasons for applying to the selected program.
• Copy of ID page of passport - should be valid for at least 6 months prior to your departure from the host country.
• Official Transcript(s)
• Signed Transfer Credit Approval Form(s) for Semester/Full-year Study Abroad Programs - Click here for detailed guidance on how to choose courses and complete this form.
• Letter(s) of recommendation required for:
  • Some Global E3; refer to the guidance posted for each individual university.
  • Any program if applicant has GPA of less than 3.0.
  • UCL requires the name and contact information of a referee. 
• When a letter is required it should be written by a professor or another individual  who is familiar with your academic work (e.g. research supervisor), and should comment on your preparation for a successful period of study abroad.

• Affiliated Exchange
  • Students who are nominated for affiliated exchange programs will be required to complete the application materials of the host institution, and will receive detailed instructions in their nomination letter.
• Non-Affiliated Study Abroad
  • A Rensselaer nomination means that a program has been evaluated and the applicant may move forward with their application.
  • Students must apply directly to their selected program and should follow the instructions and deadlines of the program provider. 

• Upon acceptance by host institution, student does the following:
  • Follows host university instructions to confirm acceptance
  • Applies for visa, if applicable
  • Applies for overseas housing, following guidance of host institution
  • Makes travel arrangements
  • If required by host institution, registers for arrival orientation program
  • Attends mandatory Rensselaer pre-departure orientation (April for fall/summer and November for spring)
  • Registers for overseas classes per host university instructions