Frequently Asked Questions
Who participates and why? Students in all majors apply to study abroad, from biology to theology. They apply for the purpose of gaining a different perspective in their field of study and personal experiences.
Students most likely to apply are those who are willing to invest a summer, a semester or even a year living and studying in another culture.
TLU graduates who have studied abroad often find that their experiences make them more attractive to future employers and graduate programs.
When do students participate? The typical year to study abroad is the student’s junior year. However sophomores and seniors may study abroad. The student’s last semester must be spent on campus.
Do you have to be fluent in another language? No, many programs offers courses in English. Countries in which the courses are in English include: Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Estonia, Finland, Ghana, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Mexico, Namibia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Northern Ireland, Norway, Poland, South Africa, Scotland, Sweden, Thailand, and Wales.
Are there language immersion programs? Yes! In fact that is one of the best ways to learn or improve upon a second language. TLU offers programs in which courses are taught in French, German, and Spanish. Students can take courses at the level that fits their proficiency from beginner to advanced.
What kind of academic credit is available? Virtually any coursework taken abroad in TLU-affiliated programs will earn appropriate credit at TLU. The process is similar to that of transferring work done at another college or university. Through consultation with the student’s academic advisor, courses are chosen for the major, supporting work, or electives. Students must earn the TLU equivalent of a “C” or higher in order to earn academic credit.
Will I still be able to graduate on time if I study abroad? If the time abroad is planned well in advance, a study abroad experience should not cost the student any extra time toward graduation. Students should choose a program that offers a curriculum that contributes to their overall academic plan. The key is to consult with the academic advisor to ensure that course timelines and requirements are met before going abroad. Many graduate and professional programs look for participation in opportunities such as study abroad when making selection decisions.
How much does study abroad cost, and what do the costs cover? Costs vary but many study abroad opportunities cost no more (excluding airfare, insurance and other expenses related to living abroad) than a term on campus. This is especially the case with exchange programs, in which students actually pay TLU as if they were living on campus. Most programs have costs that are generally comprehensive (excluding the expenses above).
Is financial aid available? Yes. Students are able to use their academic scholarships, federal aid and external funding toward any TLU-affiliated program during the long semesters. Performance scholarships are excluded only during the time the student is abroad. TLU also offers scholarships designated specifically to support studying abroad. During the summer, only loans are available.
What are the application requirements? In order to apply for a TLU study abroad program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Have completed at least two semesters of study at TLU before traveling abroad. (Students may apply during their second semester.) Students may not study abroad during their last semester at TLU.
- A minimum cumulative TLU GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 at the time of application (depending on the program of choice).
- A good campus discipline record.
Application Deadlines Application deadlines are the semester before the student wishes to study abroad. These deadlines offer better placement chances. Approval is required from the student’s academic department and the International Education Office prior to departure. Once permission to study abroad has been granted, credits earned are applicable to graduation requirements and academic scholarships are made available.
