Program Information

• 3.0 minimum GPA for most institutions; some require a minimum 3.3 or above.
• Sophomore standing is required for most semester programs; some require junior standing.  Short-term programs vary.
• A limited number of places are available for most exchanges.  In cases where there are more applicants than available exchange places, academic performance, academic fit with the curriculum at the partner institution, and class standing will be considered. 

• Not all program dates align with the RPI calendar.  Check program calendars carefully when selecting a program.
• 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.

• 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.

• 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.
• RPI students with advanced foreign language skills may be eligible to take classes in the language of the host country.

• Not all programs guarantee student housing. 
• If housing is not guaranteed, students are responsible for finding housing in the local community. 
• Most programs do not offer a meal plan, and students purchase meals or cook for themselves.

• Many university systems offer a "hands-off" approach that expects students to be independent and self-directed.
• Assessment is also different, with fewer assignments throughout the semester and more weight on the final exam.

• Some programs offer more support than others, and it is important to assess how much support you will need to be comfortable while abroad.  
• Student life may be more independent and self-directed than in the U.S. with less emphasis on campus activities and more integration with the local community
• 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. 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.