Why Study Abroad?
- Grow your network and boost career opportunities
- Enhance your global view
- Improve leadership and communication skills
- Get outside of your comfort zone and see the world
- Have the experience of a lifetime
RPI undergraduates can participate in semester, academic year or short-term study abroad and exchange programs at institutions worldwide. Opportunities are available for students in all majors.
Program Types
| Affiliated Exchange Programs |
|
| Non-Affiliated Programs |
|
What to Consider When Planning for Study Abroad
- Students should carefully consider a variety of factors when selecting a study abroad program.
- The on-line program brochure for each affiliated program includes detailed information, eligibility requirements and links to the host institutions.
- It is important to review the types of courses that are offered, program dates, support services offered to study abroad and exchange students and housing options so that you are able to select the study abroad program that meets your personal and academic interests.
- 3.0 minimum GPA for most institutions
- Sophomore standing is required for most semester programs; some require junior standing. Short-term programs vary.
- Check each online program brochure in the Study Abroad Application Portal for specific requirements
- All partner institutions offer some or all of their courses in English.
At some institutions, undergraduate courses are offered in the language of the host country, while the language of instruction for graduate courses is English. These programs are most suitable for advanced undergraduate students.
- Academic calendars abroad do not necessarily mirror the RPI academic calendar. Carefully review the academic calendar of the host institution.
- 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.
- Unless otherwise indicated, students are expected to remain at the host institution for all regularly scheduled exams and should not plan to leave early for another commitment or because of a conflict with the RPI calendar.
- 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.
- RPI Education Abroad provides support for all undergraduates on study abroad and exchange programs to help ensure student success. This includes predeparture advising and orientation, communication with students while abroad, regular communication with partner institutions, guidance with the transfer credit approval process, and reentry programming.
- Some partner institutions and study abroad program providers guarantee housing, while others do not.
- Meal plans abroad are not the norm. Students often purchase meals from student restaurants or prepare meals on their own.
- Review the program details of each affiliated exchange partner or non-affiliated program to learn about housing and meal options.
- Course availability is not guaranteed, and students need to be flexible with their course selections.
- 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 approved at RPI in order for credit to transfer.
- Visit the Application Portal for detailed guidance on the study abroad transfer credit approval process.
Tuition and Fees
- Affiliated Exchange
- Students pay regular RPI tuition for semester and full year exchanges and are eligible for all of their financial aid. Estimated expenses are available on the brochure for each affiliated program.
- Non-Affiliated Study Abroad
- Students pay the tuition and fees of the host institution/program and are eligible for federal aid only.
- All Programs
- Students do not pay for the RPI Student Activities or Student Health Center Fees during their semester abroad
- Students do not pay RPI housing or meal charges while abroad. Those fees are paid directly by the student.
- Students are responsible for passport and visa fees as well as international travel and all living expenses.
Contact the RPI Office of Financial Aid for with any questions related to your financial aid while abroad.