Selecting a Program

Manhattan University offers a wide variety of study abroad programs and students sometimes aren't sure how to narrow down their options. A good place to start is to consider the following questions:

• What are the reasons I want to study abroad? What goals do I want to accomplish?
• What are my top priorities? This could include: location; academic flexibility; ability to pursue foreign language instruction; length of time abroad; budget; or other factors.
• Do I meet the basic qualifications to apply? (Most programs require general cumulative GPA of 2.75. Short-term programs require that you have completed your freshman year of study; full-semester programs require at least sophomore status).

After you reflected on your goals, priorities, and eligibility, set up an appointment with a member of the Office of Study Abroad to identify specific study abroad programs that meet your needs and interests. We can also connect you with students who have participated in a program in the past so that you can make a more informed decision.

Planning Guidelines

Carefully plan your course of study.

Students who study abroad for a full semester typically do so during sophomore or junior year, whereas students who participate in a short-term program may go abroad any time following the conclusion of their second semester at Manhattan. The more elective courses kept open, the greater the flexibility in choosing appropriate programs and courses abroad.

Coordinate with your academic advisors.

Get approval from your School's Assistant Dean and your departmental major/minor advisor. First, meet with the Office of Study Abroad to receive information about the options available and to discuss what you want to do, where, and for how long; then, meet with your academic advisors to discuss how your study abroad plans fit into the overall degree program you are pursuing.

Consult the Office of Financial Aid.

Make sure to meet with the Financial Aid Office to discuss your plans to study abroad and your individual financial aid profile. The ability to apply your financial aid to study abroad depends on the type of program you choose and your individual aid package. There are also both internal (MU) and external scholarships available to help support study abroad.

Get it in writing.

Work with the Office of Study Abroad and your program advisor to confirm that the courses and credits you are planning to take abroad will meet your academic needs. Get approval for credit transfer in writing from your Assistant Dean and your major/minor advisor by filling out a Form A (the Office of Study Abroad will provide this form to you). 

Earn Credits Toward Your Degree.

You will not receive credit for courses that duplicate material studied at Manhattan University. To earn credit, you must:

• Earn a C or better in each course except where the major department requires a higher grade
• For a full-semester program, carry a full course load (minimum 12 credits)

Please note, students who fall under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) immigration policy should read this information about DACA student participation in study abroad programs.