Frequently Asked Questions
Is it expensive to study abroad?
Studying abroad can be as inexpensive or as expensive as you make it. Factors to consider include program type and the cost of living in the place where you will study. However, the single biggest factor is usually how much independent travel you do on weekends and breaks. Set up an appointment with one of our study abroad staff to start discussing which options may work best for you.
Does financial aid apply and are there other scholarships available?
Yes. Students participating in an approved study abroad program continue to receive the same forms of federal financial aid they would receive to study at Marymount. If you do not currently qualify for financial aid, you may qualify while studying abroad because of additional costs associated your program. Some program partners may offer scholarships for their study abroad programs as well depending on majors, need, merit, and more. Students can learn about external scholarships during their study abroad advising meeting. Students should speak with the Office of Financial Aid for more support about their Marymount financial aid and read more at our Financial Aid and Budgeting page to start planning ahead.
Will my classes transfer back to Marymount and will I graduate on time?
Yes. If a you are studying through a Marymount faculty-led program or Global Classroom Series course, you will receive direct Marymount credit for the courses you take. For semester programs and internships, the classes that you take while abroad will return as transfer credit on your Marymount transcript as long as you receive the equivalent of a C or above in the courses. Transfer credits do not impact your GPA, but they do count towards your overall credit requirements for graduation. Before going abroad, students will work with their study abroad advisor and their academic advisor to get the courses they will take pre-approved and equated to ensure courses go towards their degree plan. We work hard with you to ensure that your study abroad experience enhances your program, not delays it. If I study abroad will I still graduate on time?
When should I study abroad?
Students can study abroad at any point during their time at Marymount, although the programs available vary. Most semester programs allow students to study abroad in their sophomore or junior years, but courses such as Global Classroom series courses are available at any point in a students’ degree. Marymount students can study abroad at any point while they are enrolled as a full-time student at Marymount with the exception of the final semester before they graduate, so long as they are in good academic standing. It is important that your academic advisor be closely involved in the process of deciding when you will study abroad.
Am I eligible to apply to study abroad?
Students are considered eligible to apply for a study abroad program if they meet all of the following conditions:
- Hold a minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA at Marymount University (2.5 GPA for Global Classrooms)
- Hold a GPA level required by the program
- Have completed of program’s course prerequisites, if applicable
- Are enrolled as a full-time student at Marymount
- Are in good academic standing, both at the time of application and at the start of the program
- Are not the subject of disciplinary action including probation at the time of application or at the start of the program
If I am an international student at Marymount, am I eligible to study abroad?
Yes! However, you may not study abroad in your home country.
Do I have to speak a foreign language to study abroad?
No. Most of the program providers/institutions we work with allow you to take courses in English, either in English-speaking countries or in specially-designed programs in non-English speaking countries. That said, Marymount does encourage students to take some or all of their courses in another language to develop their foreign language skills!
Can I study a foreign language while abroad?
Yes! Study Abroad is a great time to learn a new language or become more fluent in one you are already studying. There are language intensive programs available for interested students.
How long can I study abroad?
With a wide variety of program options, Marymount has options as short as a week or as long as a year. Note that a very high percentage of study abroad participants report that they wish they had gone for a longer term! Explore our programs on the Study Abroad portal to learn more about the options available.
Where will I live?
Housing options vary by program. Typically programs offer dormitories, shared apartments or home stays with local families.
Can I work while I’m abroad?
In general, students cannot work abroad, but this depends on the flexibility of your visa. Check with the consulate of your host country to be sure.
