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Enrollment Options

The following study abroad enrollment options are possible:

U-M Study Abroad Programs: In-residence credit

Programs administered by the University of Michigan have these programs have several advantages for U-M students, such as usually providing in-residence credit (rather than transfer credit) and the fact that financial aid may be used, and that special scholarships might be available. U-M study abroad programs are offered in many countries and in most subject areas. Course options range from direct enrollment in overseas university courses to courses specially arranged for program participants. If you are a U-M student, be sure to check out the U-M study abroad programs first.

Non-U-M Study Abroad Through other U.S.-Sponsored Programs: Transfer Credit

There are thousands of study abroad programs offered by U.S. universities, These may be found through study abroad web sites such as IIEPassport. Additional resources are listed in Selected Study Abroad Web Sites. The U-M Office of International Programs, the U-M International Center, and your academic advisors can assist you in evaluating the options. Study abroad through another U.S. university's program may be worth considering if U-M does not offer a program in the destination of your choice, or if you need courses other than those offered by U-M programs.

The cost of a program offered by another university may be more or less than that of a U-M program. Out-of-state U-M students may find study abroad programs offered through their home state universities to be a better bargain. However, financial aid may be difficult to use for a non U-M program due to U-M Financial Aid Office policies. Credit for non-U-M programs can usually be transferred towards your U-M degree. But, check with the appropriate academic advising office before you go. This credit would be defined as transfer credit rather than “in-residence” credit.

Direct Enrollment in Overseas Universities: U-M and non-U-M

Direct enrollment may be relatively easy in universities in English-speaking countries or countries where special support services have been developed for short-term enrollment. Universities in some countries lack support services and a different academic system makes direct enrollment a challenge. For example, some European universities do not issue transcripts, so the study abroad student is responsible for arranging official documentation of coursework. Finding housing can also be challenging in university towns with a shortage of affordable apartments. The credit transfer process is similar to U.S.-sponsored programs, but consult with the U-M academic advising office about potential problems.

Note: Many U-M and other U.S.-sponsored programs provide the option of taking courses offered by host-country universities, but with the advantage of extra support services and a U.S. transcript (U-M programs provide “in-residence” credit for U-M students).

Language Institutes: U-M and Non-UM

Language institutes are useful for intensive study of a foreign language. This is a popular choice with graduate students and graduates who do not need credit. Such courses tend to be less expensive than other types of study abroad programs. However, unless the language program is offered by an accredited, degree-granting university, it may be difficult to receive transfer credit. See Tips on Selecting a Language School.

Note: Some U-M and other U.S.-sponsored programs provide the option of taking courses offered by language institutes, but with the advantage of extra support services and a U.S. transcript (U-M programs provide “in-residence” credit for U-M students).

Last reviewed: 5/07