Why should I Study Abroad?
There are literally hundreds of reasons why students should take advantage of the opportunity to Study Abroad. Experiencing life in other countries and cultures, developing foreign language skills, broadening your worldview, and making lifelong friends while earning college credit are just some of them. Many students use Study Abroad to prepare for graduate school and future employers. Most importantly, the experience will be one that you will remember and value for the rest of your life.
Where can I Study Abroad with Rowan?
Rowan offers over 200 programs in over 50 countries. There are programs for every student, with any interest. A more difficult question to answer is: “Where can’t I study abroad with Rowan?”
Why apply through Rowan and not directly to my host institution?
Students who do Study Abroad through Rowan or NJSCIS enroll in a placeholder course called "Semester Abroad" and do not need to take a leave of absence from the university. The International Center also coordinates the application process and ensures that all credits earned transfer seamlessly back to Rowan; it awards "generic" credit and forwards transcript copies to advisors so that credit can be applied to a student's major, minor or concentration. In addition, all financial aid can be used, including grants,
scholarships, and even Rowan awards, which is not the case when students apply unilaterally. Cost is another factor: Rowan's bilateral agreements and NJSCIS affiliations include a range of high quality, low-price international programs.
Can I use my scholarship/financial aid to study abroad?
Although you will still be enrolled at Rowan while you are studying abroad, your financial aid package will apply to Study Abroad, which means that you can apply for additional funding if your program is more expensive. Financial aid can also be used to cover flights and incidental expenses.
Can I travel outside my host city?
Where and when you travel during Study Abroad is up to you. There will be many opportunities to travel during weekends and breaks while you are living in your host city.
How will my credits transfer to Rowan?
When you apply for Study Abroad, you will meet with your academic advisor as a part of the application process. All credits completed will transfer to Rowan as Semester Abroad as generic credit. It is then up to your academic advisor to apply these to your Rowan program.
Do I need to speak a foreign language?
No. There are programs in many countries that are taught in English. Programs that are located in non-English speaking countries may require students to take an elementary course in the local language, however.
How much does Study Abroad cost compared to Rowan?
Costs for Study Abroad vary by program, but the majority of programs offered at Rowan are comparably priced. Students who do a Rowan bilateral program typically pay Rowan tuition and housing and meals abroad. There are a number of programs that cost less, and there are also those that are more expensive than a typical semester at Rowan. Students concerned about costs should take fluctuations in international exchange rates into account when budgeting.
Do I need any vaccinations?
The need for vaccinations will vary from country to country. Students traveling to Europe, Australia, South America and Central America generally will not need any additional shots. You will receive specific information about vaccination requirements directly from your host institution after your application has been processed by the International Center.
How will I get to my host school from the airport?
Most programs provide an airport or rail station pick-up service. Each student is supplied with explicit directions on how to get to their host institution and accommodations before departing from the United States.
Where can I apply for a passport?
Passport offices can be found in many county Post Offices. For a list of passport processing centers, please visit http://www.travel.state.gov/passport.
Will I need a special visa?
Depending on the country and the length of stay, students may need to obtain a special visa. The International Center will provide students with this information during the application process.
Should I take my laptop/cell phone?
Whether students should bring their laptop or cell phone depends upon their own particular needs. Most schools provide computer labs where students can do their schoolwork and access the internet. Additionally, internet cafes are commonplace in most cities. If your accommodation provides internet access, then having your own laptop with you might be helpful. Just remember to keep expensive items secure when you are away. Cell phones are commonplace throughout the world and it is often practical for students who use certain carriers to take their phones with them. Others may find it easier to buy or rent a phone upon arrival at their destination.
Should I change some money into a foreign currency before I depart?
It is not necessary to change large amounts of money before departing, but it may be helpful to have a small amount of local currency on hand upon arrival in your host country. Generally speaking, the best way to access money is by simply using a debit/check card at an ATM. Virtually any ATM worldwide will be able to process debit cards carrying the Visa or MasterCard symbol. This way, money is drawn directly from your U.S. bank account and converted automatically to local currency. You will also get the best possible exchange rate and not have to worry about carrying around large sums of money.
Will I be living with a family?
Available housing options vary by program. Check into the program details to see if your program offers home stays, dorms, or apartments.
Can you talk to my parents for me?
Of course! The counselors at the International Center will be happy to answer any questions you or your parents may have about any part of the Study Abroad experience and application process. Those with questions are welcome to visit Robinson 117, email at ic@rowan.edu, or call 856-256-4500. The International Center is open between 9am and 4pm, Monday-Friday during the semester, and Mon-Thurs during the summer. Parents are also welcome to attend each semester’s pre-departure orientation session.
Will other Rowan students be going as well?
There is always a possibility that other Rowan students will be attending the same Study Abroad program as you. During the pre-departure orientation, students who are traveling to the same destinations are introduced to each other and encouraged to keep in touch while studying abroad.
Will I be the only American?
The possibility that you will be the only American participating in any of the Study Abroad programs offered through the International Center is very small. American students are attending institutions of higher education all over the world. While you may not be sharing accommodations with other American students, it would be difficult not to meet another American who is attending your host institution.
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