Study Abroad Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Office of International Programs!

We look forward to helping you participate on a study, work or volunteer experience abroad during your time at the University of North Dakota. To help you begin that process, we have compiled the following collection of most commonly asked questions and concerns about education abroad.

Q:  What do I do first if I want to study, work or volunteer abroad?

A: Visit the Office of International Programs, pick up a Study Abroad Catalog, or look through materials in the study abroad resource wall on the main floor of the International Centre, 2908 University Ave., Grand Forks, ND.  The Study Abroad Catalog details the study abroad process as well as the options through UND.  So follow the links and review our catalog.

Take part in a Study Abroad Info. Session to find out more about studying abroad.  These are scheduled on :

Mondays from 1:00 - 2:00

Tuesdays from 9:00 - 10:00

Wednesdays from 3:00 - 4:00

Call 777-4231or stop by the International Centre to sign up for a session.

The office is open from 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday.

A: First of all, please know that you are in good company! Many students have no certain country or program in mind. The International Programs staff looks forward to helping you identify a program(s) suited to your needs and interests.

After your initial visit to the Office of International Programs, think over some of the following:

• Is there some area of the world which particularly interests you? If so, Why?
• What length program is best for you? Six weeks, one semester, academic year?
• When do you want to study abroad? Next winter? Next summer? Next Spring?
• Are you searching for a program which directly relates to your major?
• Is it important to you that the program is taught in English? (Note: There are numerous programs which are taught in English in non-English speaking countries).
• Do you want to start or complete your Foreign Language Requirement? Would you prefer to study abroad with a group of UND students or would you like to be the only UND student (or one of just a few) studying at an overseas institution?

Time spent reflecting on these questions will assist you in selecting the program you may want to apply for.

Q:  I know which program I want to go on, now what do I do?

A: Schedule an appointment with an Education Abroad Advisor (701-777-4231). This appointment is a good opportunity to ask any specific question or address concerns you may have about the program. You should also request an application form at this time. Be sure to complete the appropriate application by the application deadline.

Q:  Will I earn UND credit when I go on a UND Study Abroad Program?

A: Yes. You will earn graded UND credit when you participate in a UND Study Abroad Program. For further information on what credit you will earn for a specific study abroad program, please contact an Education Abroad Advisor (701-777-4231).

Q:  Can I use my financial aid when I study abroad?

A: Yes. Since UND study abroad programs require that you are enrolled at the University, your financial aid can be accessed while you study abroad. Contact the UND Financial Aid Office for more information (777-3121) or go to Financial Aid and Scholarships for Study Abroad.

Q:  Can OIP help me find a non-UND study abroad program (offered through another college or university)?

A: Yes. Meet with an Education Abroad Advisor (701-777-4231) who will introduce you to books and other office materials which have up-to-date information on study abroad programs offered through other institutions.

Q:  I have never been out of the U.S. before. How will OIP help me prepare to go overseas?

A: OIP provides pre-departure orientation sessions for all students who study abroad on UND programs. Topics discussed at orientations include: information on how to obtain a passport, health overseas, travel to the study abroad site as well as history and culture of the country to which you are going. And of course, you are welcome to schedule individual appointments with an Education Abroad Advisor (701-777-4231).

Q:  I think I would like to learn about work and/or volunteer opportunities overseas. How can OIP help me?

A: OIP has limited information on work and volunteer abroad opportunities for students. Meet with an Education Abroad Advisor (701-777-4231) to pick up information and review resource books. The UND Career Services office may have the information you need.  Contact them at (701) 777-3904 or visit their office, Room 280, McCannel Hall.

Remember to:

1. Think over the questions

2. Review program information carefully; and

3. If you have any further questions contact an Education Abroad Advisor (studyabroad@mail.und.nodak.edu   or  701-777-4231).

For more information go to our Study Abroad Handbook.