knowledge-base/study-abroad/pages.json

[
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/",
    "slug": "study-abroad",
    "title": "Study Abroad",
    "kind": "overview",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "## Immersive Experience for Immersion Vanderbilt",
    "content": "## Why Study Abroad?\n\n## Immersive Experience for Immersion Vanderbilt\n\nStudy Abroad is one of Immersion Vanderbilt 's six pathways and qualifies as an immersive experience.\n\n## World-Class Partnerships\n\nBenefit from our partnerships with prestigious universities and institutions worldwide, ensuring high-quality academic experiences wherever you go.\n\n## Intercultural Experiences\n\nMany programs offer cultural engagement opportunities like homestays and language immersion, while others offer plenty of time for self-guided exploration.\n\n## Personalized Support\n\nOur experienced advisors are here to guide you through every step of your journey-from choosing the right program to navigating logistics and cultural adaptation.\n\n150+\n\nStudy Abroad Programs\n\n40+\n\nCountries\n\n50%\n\nof undergraduates study abroad \n\n## Reach Your Global Potential\n\nAt Vanderbilt, we believe in the transformative power of global education. Study abroad allows you to remain enrolled at Vanderbilt but live and study overseas while completing your Vanderbilt degree requirements.  Whether you dream of studying in Paris, conducting research in Tokyo, or interning in Buenos Aires, our programs are designed to broaden your perspectives and deepen your understanding of the world.  \n\n## Semester & Year Abroad Programs\n\nImmerse yourself in a semester- or academic year-long experience in a global city of your choice while earning credits toward your major or minor and utilizing your current financial package.  \n\nSemester Abroad Opportunities\n\n## Maymesters & Summer Programs\n\nJoin a faculty-led Maymester or partner-led summer program that combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences in diverse cultural settings. \n\nSee Summer Options\n\nStudent Stories\n\n## Devin Laye | DIS Copenhagen | Fall '23\n\n“My semester abroad in Denmark was all about discovery — of the world, of my passions, and most importantly of myself. Through experiential learning, immersing myself, and saying ‘yes’ to unique opportunities, I learned so much both in the classroom and in my everyday life.”\n\nRead Devin's Story\n\nStep 1\n\n## Attend a Study Abroad OverVU Session\n\nBefore scheduling an appointment with a Study Abroad advisor, attend an OverVU session to learn the basics of the Vanderbilt study abroad process. \n\nGet an OverVU\n\nStep 2\n\n## Connect with the Study Abroad Office\n\nHave questions or need more information? Contact our team—we're here to help you make the most of your global education experience at Vanderbilt University. \n\nReach Out",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Immersion Vanderbilt",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/immersion",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Semester Abroad Opportunities",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/semester-abroad",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "See Summer Options",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/maymesters",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Read Devin's Story",
        "url": "https://www.instagram.com/p/DE3VP3nsEjY/?next=%2F&img_index=1",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Get an OverVU",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Reach Out",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:02.962155+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/academics/",
    "slug": "academics",
    "title": "Academic Resources",
    "kind": "academics",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Study abroad at Vanderbilt is integrated into the student’s course of study. Below are the nuts and bolts of making sure your chosen program is a good academic fit. Start by talking with your  academic advisor  to understand what coursework you need to fulfill abroad in order to stay on your four- o",
    "content": "Study abroad at Vanderbilt is integrated into the student’s course of study. Below are the nuts and bolts of making sure your chosen program is a good academic fit. Start by talking with your  academic advisor  to understand what coursework you need to fulfill abroad in order to stay on your four- or five-year plan. Your  Study Abroad advisor can help you identify programs that are a good fit for your academic needs, as well as help you understand what issues to consider. To explore study abroad courses that have been evaluated for credit, use the YES Study Abroad Course Search Tool. More information on this provided below.\n\nCredits and Grades\n\nAll Vanderbilt-approved programs administered through Study Abroad receive  Study Abroad/Away Credit.  Study Abroad/Away Credit does not count toward your cumulative Vanderbilt GPA. However, grades earned during study abroad will be converted (where necessary) from the original grading system and reported on your Vanderbilt transcript. Study Abroad/Away Credit courses earn credit when you score the equivalent of a D or better, and they may fulfill major, minor, and/or graduation requirements. Students are not eligible to earn Dean’s List honors for the semester in which they study abroad.\nYou are responsible for making sure that all the courses you plan to take abroad have been evaluated for VU credit. Find details on this process below.\nIt is important to note that students are  not guaranteed  by our partners to be placed in their top-choice courses. Similar to registering for courses at Vanderbilt, availability for certain courses may be limited, and we encourage all students planning to study abroad to work with their Academic Advisor to plan for alternative course options should they not be admitted into their first-choice selections. Generally speaking, students should identify at least one back-up course for each course they hope to take abroad.\nStudy Abroad/Away Credit counts toward Vanderbilt’s residency requirement, and is separate from transfer credit. Courses earning Study Abroad/Away Credit will not count toward transfer credit limits.\nVanderbilt translates grades from a number of institutions’ local scales. Where this is the case, prior to enrollment in courses abroad students will be provided with Vanderbilt’s official grade conversion for the host institution. Vanderbilt will use this scale to articulate  all grades  from the host institution, regardless of the subject area or language of instruction. Before committing to coursework, students should consult with Vanderbilt faculty advisors about their capacity for successful work in classrooms overseas.\nNote that while the grades you earn abroad don’t count toward your Vanderbilt GPA, graduate and professional schools may choose to take them into account when you are applying for post-graduate opportunities. The GPA you earn abroad may also impact your eligibility for performance-dependent financial aid and scholarships.   If you’re not sure whether any part of your aid package is performance-dependent, check with your financial aid officer.\n\nUnderstanding How Credits Transfer\n\nIt is important to carefully review the  YES Study Abroad Course Search tool  before studying abroad. This tool demonstrates how a course taken abroad will be reflected on your transcript and factored into your degree audit.\nThe process for course evaluation is coordinated by the International Curriculum and Credentials Analyst in the Office of the University Registrar. Vanderbilt faculty determines the course equivalences, including the number of credit hours a given course is worth.
The course equivalency process is as follows:\n- Use the  YES Study Abroad Course Search Tool  to find courses that have  already been evaluated .\n- Refer to the  host school course catalog  (if applicable) for a full list of courses and up-to-date information on course offerings.\n- Don’t see the course you want to take on YES? Simply  request a new course review  by submitting a  Course Equivalency Evaluation Request Form\n- Visit the  University Registrar’s website  to understand the Study Abroad Course Review process.\n- If you want a course to  count differently than is listed on YES , your next step will depend on your college:\n- Blair School of Music:  Contact  Blair’s Office of Academic Services .\n- College of Arts and Science:  Contact the departmental Director of Undergraduate Studies for the major or minor you want the course to count toward.\n- Peabody College:  Contact  Peabody’s Office of Academic Services .\n- Vanderbilt School of Engineering:  Contact  VUSE’s Office of Academic Services .\n\nAcademic Policies\n\nGrades earned while studying abroad are based on the student’s performance as judged by local instructors according to the host institution’s standard practices. Once reported to Vanderbilt,  grades cannot be changed , except when amended via a newly issued transcript from the host institution.\nWhile studying abroad for a semester or a full academic year,  students are required to take the equivalent of 12 or more Vanderbilt credit hours each term . Underloading (bringing back fewer than 12 VU credit hours) will result in academic probation and may also jeopardize financial aid eligibility.\nIt is critical to understand that the Vanderbilt  course equivalency evaluation determines the number of credits awarded , so students need to consider the Vanderbilt credits earned for each individual course they take. Students who earn more than 18 Vanderbilt credit hours on a Vanderbilt Study Abroad abroad program during a single semester will  not  pay a per-hour tuition surcharge.\nStudents must follow both the study abroad program’s and Vanderbilt’s academic requirements. For example, students must take the minimum number of credits required by the partner to be considered full-time, and must also take the minimum required number of credits required by Vanderbilt.\nThere are some unique policies that apply to coursework taken overseas. These are university-wide policies and govern students in all four undergraduate colleges:\n- Classes  may  not  be taken for pass/fail credit  on any study abroad program. Students must earn a letter or numerical grade for each course they take.\n- While abroad, a student  may  not  retake a class  that they have taken on campus; that is, a course having the same Vanderbilt course number. Similarly, a student may  not  retake a class on campus that they have taken abroad.\n- Vanderbilt University academic policies require students to only enroll in courses that are delivered in-person, and students are not permitted to take hybrid, multimodal, or online courses while abroad. Students are only permitted to enroll in in-person lectures, seminars, tutorials, labs, and any other course components. \n- All course credits on your abroad transcript will appear on your Vanderbilt record. You cannot “opt out” of any credits you received abroad.\n- Individual courses taken abroad  do  not  count towards College of Arts and Science AXLE requirements.\n\nTranscripts\n\nInstitutions abroad have their own customary schedules for reporting grades and producing transcripts. Vanderbilt has no control over this process, which may take up to six months in extreme cases. Vanderbilt’s University Registrar will work as quickly as possible to process your Vanderbilt transcript, but only the host institution can expedite the reporting of your grades to VU. Please request to have your abroad transcript sent directly to the University Registrar’s Office. The mailing address can be found on the  University Registrar’s website .\nPlease note that if any of the courses you took abroad do not have current course equivalencies evaluations on file with the University Registrar’s Office, there will be a delay in updating your academic record. All courses taken abroad must be evaluated by Vanderbilt faculty before the transcript from a term abroad can be articulated to your Vanderbilt record.\n\nAcademic Systems Abroad\n\nHigher education and academic systems abroad can vary greatly from what you are used to at Vanderbilt. If you are considering enrolling directly in a foreign university, here are some things that might be different, depending on the country. Talk to your  Study Abroad advisor  to find out more about what you might encounter on your program.\n- There may be fewer hours spent in the classroom, with students expected to spend more time studying on their own. This doesn’t mean that there will be assigned homework! A lot of responsibility for deciding how best to spend your homework hours may be left up to you.\n- Depending on the course and level you are taking, and whether you are taking it in a foreign language, you may need to spend extra time learning and mastering the material.\n- There may be fewer tests and quizzes, and students may earn a grade based on just one final exam, or a mid-term and a final. You may have little opportunity to gauge how a professor grades in the weeks or months before an exam.\n- Professors may be less accessible for office hours and by email.\n- Classes may be more lecture-style than discussion-based. This may leave fewer opportunities to ask questions or express your opinions.\n- There may not be much sense of privacy attached to grades. For example, the instructor might post all exam grades publicly. In some places, individual grades may be discussed openly in class.\n- The prevailing academic culture may be very different. For example, students may not be as concerned—or concerned at all—about getting high grade point averages, and instructors may view concern about grades as a sign of a student who is not serious about learning.",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad advisor",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "YES Study Abroad Course Search Tool.",
        "url": "https://cc.app.vanderbilt.edu/cc/study-abroad",
        "kind": "course_equivalency"
      },
      {
        "text": "Course Equivalency Evaluation Request Form",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt-university.formstack.com/forms/course_equivalency_evaluation_request",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "University Registrar’s website",
        "url": "https://registrar.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Blair’s Office of Academic Services",
        "url": "https://blair.vanderbilt.edu/academics",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Peabody’s Office of Academic Services",
        "url": "https://peabody.vanderbilt.edu/office-academic-services/academic-services",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "VUSE’s Office of Academic Services",
        "url": "https://engineering.vanderbilt.edu/academic-services",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:07.177776+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising/",
    "slug": "advising",
    "title": "Study Abroad Advisors",
    "kind": "advising",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "During the academic year, students can attend drop-in office hours at Rothschild College for in-person advising from 2–4pm, Tuesday through Thursday. Study Abroad advisors also offer 1:1 advising appointments in person or via Zoom. Study Abroad staff are available to advise by appointment  through t",
    "content": "During the academic year, students can attend drop-in office hours at Rothschild College for in-person advising from 2–4pm, Tuesday through Thursday. Study Abroad advisors also offer 1:1 advising appointments in person or via Zoom. Study Abroad staff are available to advise by appointment  through the summer.\n\nPrior to meeting with a Study Abroad advisor, you are  highly encouraged  to attend an in-person  Study Abroad OverVU session (offered every Wednesday at 4pm in Study Abroad during the school year). Virtual Study Abroad OverVUs are offered throughout the summer via Zoom. Alternatively, you can review resources on the Getting Started page  before scheduling an advising appointment.\n\nScroll down to meet our advisors and book an appointment via Handshake . If you can't find a time that works for you or you'd prefer to meet in person, please click the Email link below the advisor's name to request alternate arrangements. Study Abroad staff can also be reached via phone at 615-343-3139.\n\nHandshake Appointment Instructions:\n\n- Click \" Schedule an advising appointment \" with an advisor below\n\n- Sign into Handshake –> Choose the \"Study Abroad Advising\" category\n\n- Select the advisor you wish to make an appointment with\n\n- Find an Available Appointment –> Select Appointment\n\nAdvising appointments are offered to Vanderbilt undergraduate students only. Others, including parents and family, are requested to email us at studyabroad@vanderbilt.edu .\n\n## Study Abroad Staff Advisors\n\nStudy Abroad staff advisors provide support and guidance to students on  all aspects  of the study abroad experience. We advise students on topics including: program selection and application, coursework abroad, identity and travel, study abroad-based Immersion Vanderbilt opportunities, intercultural development, pre-departure preparation, re-entry, and more.\nStudy Abroad also offers multiple events throughout each semester for students to learn more about study abroad, including our Study Abroad OverVU introductory sessions.  Check out    upcoming events  here !\n\n##\nCaroline Nikolaus\n\nAdvising:\nGeneral study abroad questions and Maymesters\nAfrica: Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa\nAsia : India, Indonesia, Nepal, Vietnam\nEurope : England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Northern Ireland, Scotland\nSchedule an advising appointment with Caroline\nOffice drop-in hours: 2-4 PM CST T-Th, Rothschild Great Room\n\nEmail Caroline\n\n##\nJillian Madden\n\nAdvising:\nGeneral study abroad questions and Maymesters\nAsia : Hong Kong, Japan, Mainland China, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan\nEurope : Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland\nOceania : Australia, New Zealand, Samoa\nIncoming Exchange\nDouglass-O'Connell Global Internship\nSchedule an advising appointment with Jillian\nOffice drop-in hours: 2-4 PM CST T-Th, Rothschild Great Room\n\nEmail Jillian\n\n##\nLaura Searle\n\nAdvising:\nGeneral study abroad questions and Maymesters\nVU-NYC\nCaribbean : Cuba, Dominican Republic\nCentral America : Mexico\nEurope : Spain \nSouth America : Argentina, Chile, Colombia\nMiddle East : Israel, Jordan\nOffice drop-in hours: 2-4 PM CST T-Th, Rothschild Great Room\nSchedule  an advising appointment with Laura\n\nEmail Laura\n\n##\nShannon Sellers\n\nAdvising:\nGeneral study abroad questions and Maymesters\nEurope : Austria, Czech Republic, Serbia\nCIEE Open Campus ( all locations ), IHP programs\nSchedule an advising appointment with Shannon\nOffice drop-in hours: 2-4 PM CST T-Th, Rothschild Great Room\n\nEmail Shannon\n\n## Maymester and Faculty-Led Program Advising\n\n##\nIsabelle Crist\n\nAssociate Director, Study Away and Faculty-Led Programs\nAdvising:\nFaculty-Led Travel and Maymesters\nSchedule an advising appointment with Isabelle\n\nEmail Isabelle\n\n## Safety and Health Guidance\n\nVanderbilt’s Global Safety and Health team provides health and safety guidance to all VU travelers, including VU study abroad students. They provide individualized health and safety advice to study abroad students, such as traveling with medication, setting up continued care, utilizing Vanderbilt-issued international insurance, addressing identity-based safety and health concerns, and more. \nGlobal Safety and Health is a resource for students at any point in the study abroad process. To make an appointment to discuss health, safety, and well-being abroad, please reach out to the Global Safety and Health team. General inquiries can also be directed to  globalsafety@vanderbilt.edu .\n\n## Peer Advisers\n\nPeer Advisers are the student representatives of study abroad on Vanderbilt’s campus. Peer Advisers lead study abroad outreach events around campus and hold office hours in the Study Abroad office to assist prospective students.\n\n##\nCarmen Rosado\n\nCarmen Rosado is a senior majoring in Cognitive Studies and Communication of Science and Technology. She always had passion for international travel g ...\n\n##\nElizabeth Zang\n\nElizabeth is a Senior studying communications with a minor in business. She was born in Santiago, Chile and now lives in Miami.She studied abroad in M ...\n\n##\nSantana Spearman\n\nSantana is a senior majoring in Political Science and minoring in Business. She studied abroad in Cape Town, South Africa as a Community Development a ...\n\n##\nCamille Messonnier\n\nCamille is a senior in the School of Engineering, majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Engineering Management. She studied abroad at the ...\n\n##\nIngrid Sorin\n\nIngrid is a senior in the College of Arts & Science majoring in Medicine, Health, and Society with a minor in Business. Originally from Dallas, Te ...\n\n## Study Abroad Alumni\n\nTalking to peers who have studied abroad, particularly on programs you are interested in is a great way to gather information. The following study abroad alumni have offered to serve as a resource to prospective students interested in their program. Feel free to connect with them via email!\nAustralia\nAlisha Saluja, '24  IFSA University of South Wales,  Spring 2023\nElanil Erdugrul, '26 IFSA University of South Wales,  Spring 2025\nJuliana Turner, '25 IFSA University of New South Wales,  Spring 2024\nSadie Sherman '25  IFSA University of Sydney,  Fall 2023\nShelbi Briggs, '27 IFSA, Spring 2024\nAustria\nAva Kuntz, '24  IES Vienna: Music,  Spring 2024\nRyan Patterson, '25  Vienna: Non-Music Tracks,  Spring 2024\nCameroon\nGrace Jones, '25  SIT Cameroon Development and Social Change,  Spring 2024\nChile\nEli Apple, '24  CASA Santiago,  Fall 2022\nMaia Czarnecki, '23  CASA Santiago,  Spring 2022\nLauren Johnson, '25 SIT Valparaiso, Spring 2024\nChina\nAryan Garg, '26 CIEE Shanghai, Spring 2025\nCzech Republic\nGrace Wildermuth, '24  CET Prague,  Spring 2024\nEric Goldsmith, '26 CET Prague, Spring 2025\nHaven O'Sullivan, '26 CET Prague, Spring 2025\nVienna Parnell, '26 IFSA Tech Career Accelerator, Spring 2025\nDenmark\nTruong Nguyen, '25  DIS Copenhagen,  Spring 2024\nRyan Zix, '25  DIS Copenhagen,  Spring 2024\nShunnar Virani, '25  DIS Copenhagen,  Spring 2024\nElisa Ajamian, '26 , DIS Copenhagen,  Fall 2024\nChloe Whalen, '26 DIS Copenhagen, Fall 2024\nJulia Atherton, '26  DIS Copenhagen,  Spring 2025\nJacqueline Welsh, '26 DIS Copenhagen, Spring 2025\nEthan Clark, '26 DIS Copenhagen, Spring 2025\nCarly Doran, '26 DIS Copenhagen, Spring 2025\nEngland\nElizabeth Ebhogiaye, '25  HOD Capstone,  Spring 2024\nAadil Khan, '24  IFSA London School of Economics,  Academic Year 2022-23\nAdam Messinger, '24  CIEE University College London,  Spring 2023\nJamina Hsu, '24  CIEE University College London,  Spring 2023\nRebekah Kim, '24  CIEE University College London,  Spring 2023\nVeshal Konnar, '25  HOD Capstone,  Spring 2024\nJack Sturman, '27  LSE Summer Program  Summer 2024\nKaren Chu , '25 IFSA University of York, Spring 2024\nFrance\nEmma Reidy, '25  American University of Paris,  Fall 2022\nRachel Marlowe, '26 American University of Paris, Spring 2025\nElijah Hernandez, '26 American University of Paris, Spring 2025\nFiona Thompson, '25  Georgia Tech Europe,  Spring 2023\nRobert Lowther, '25  Columbia in Paris,  Spring 2024\nRyan Zurcher, '25  Columbia in Paris,  Spring 2024\nSusan \"Rayne\" Swanson, '25 Columbia in Paris,  Spring 2024\nHong Kong\nJesse Zhong, '26 Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Spring 2025\nIreland\nVeronica Figueroa, '24  IFSA University College Dublin,  Spring 2023\nKate Lanham, '24  CASA Dublin,  Spring 2023\nSpencer Hall, '26 CASA Dublin, Spring 2025\nItaly\nZoe Sophia Potter, '25 CET Florence, Spring 2024\nEmily Gao, '26 CET Florence, Fall 2024\nHarley Dichter, '26 CET Florence, Spring 2025\nCharles Poulin, '26  CET Siena, Spring 2025\nScout Dahir, '26 CET Siena, Spring 2025\nZhihe Zhang, '26  ICCS Rome,  Spring 2024\nJacob Stoebner, '26 ICCS Rome,  Spring 2025\nAshley Yau, '26 IES Abroad Milan, Spring 2025\nAne Kirk-Jadrić, '26 Politecnico di Torino, Spring 2025\nJapan\nTyler Popp, '24  Kyoto Consortium for Japanese Studies (KCJS),  Spring 2023\nMexico\nAkina Lindley, '25 SIT Mexico: Migration, Borders, and Transnational Communities, Spring 2024\nMorocco\nOchuwa Garuba, '26 SIT Morocco: Migration and Transnational Identity, Spring 2025\nMulti-country\nDaniel Ardity, '24  CIEE Open Campus (Paris, Singapore),  Spring 2023\nSam Curtis, '24  CIEE Open Campus (Kyoto, Paris),  Spring 2023\nJustin Luckner, '24  CIEE Open Campus (Monteverde, Rome, Sydney),  Spring 2023\nAlexander Ward, '24  CIEE Open Campus (London, Madrid, Rome),  Spring 2023\nAlexis Schachter, '25 CIEE Open Campus (Sydney, Madrid), Spring 2024\nShaun T Karakkattu, '25 CIEE Open Campus (Australia, Singapore, Spain), Spring 2024\nNatalie Blum, '26  DIS Summer Abroad (Copenhagen & Stockholm), Summer 2024\nBarrie Barto '25   SIT IHP Health and Community (Delhi, Capetown, Buenos Aires), Spring 2024\nEllie Pazol, '25 SIT IHP Health and Community, Spring 2024\nRalph Francois, '25 CIEE Open Campus, Spring 2024\nTeddy Stern, '26 CIEE Open Campus, Spring 2025\nNepal\nGalen Roy, '26 SIT Nepal Tibetan and Himalayan Peoples and Cultures, Spring 2025\nNew Zealand\nRin Kong, '24  University of Canterbury: New Zealand Earth Systems (Frontiers Abroad),  Spring 2023\nTravis Ho, '24  IFSA University of Auckland,  Spring 2023\nSingapore\nZhewen Tao, '25  National University of Singapore,  Fall 2023\nSouth Africa\nSpencer Harrison, '23  CIEE Open Campus: Cape Town,  Spring 2022\nSpain\nAlison Vaughan, '24  CASA Sevilla,  Spring 2023\nAnika Mahajan, '24  CASA Sevilla,  Spring 2023\nSavannah Walske, '26 CASA Sevilla, Spring 2025\nIsabella Gwiazdoski, '26 CIEE Barcelona: Business & Culture, Spring 2025\nJohn Bettinger, '25 CIEE Madrid: Engineering & Society, Spring 2024\nAlly Ouano, '26 CIEE Madrid: Engineering & Society, Spring 2025\nSarah Goldstein, '26 CIEE Madrid: Engineering & Society, Spring 2025\nCarolina Pino, '25 SLU Madrid, Spring 2024\nEmma Lenson, '25 SLU Madrid, Spring 2024\nHannah Timmer, '25 SLU Madrid, Spring 2024\nLaura Caroline Jung, '26 SLU Madrid, Spring 2025\nAngel Humphrey, '26 SLU Madrid, Spring 2025\nScotland\nAva Zins, '25 IFSA University of Edinburgh,  Spring 2024\nPeyton Hudson, '26 IFSA University of Edinburgh, Spring 2025\nJoel Berinstein, '26 IFSA University of Glasgow, Spring 2025\nSweden\nChristopher Chen, '23  DIS Stockholm,  Spring 2022\nSwitzerland\nZoe Assasie, '24  SIT Switzerland: International Studies & Multilateral Diplomacy,  Spring 2023",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad OverVU session",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Getting Started page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/getting-started",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Handshake",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.joinhandshake.com/edu/appointments/new",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Ryan Patterson, '25",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/geo/advising/ryan.c.patterson@vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Aryan Garg, '26",
        "url": "http://aryan.garg@vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Grace Wildermuth, '24",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/geo/advising/grace.c.wildermuth@vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Ethan Clark, '26",
        "url": "http://ethan.a.clark@vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Zhewen Tao, '25",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/geo/advising/zhewen.tao@vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:06.154320+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/application-tips/",
    "slug": "application-tips",
    "title": "Application Tips",
    "kind": "application",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "As you complete your study abroad application, you may find the following tips helpful. These tips are only relevant for Vanderbilt Study Abroad-run programs during the academic year and summer, and do not apply to the College of Arts and Science's Maymester Abroad programs.",
    "content": "As you complete your study abroad application, you may find the following tips helpful. These tips are only relevant for Vanderbilt Study Abroad-run programs during the academic year and summer, and do not apply to the College of Arts and Science's Maymester Abroad programs. \n\n## Application and Predeparture Process Overview\n\nThis is a phased,  streamlined process:\n- Complete and submit the application(s) by Vanderbilt Study Abroad's  deadline ;\n- Internal eligibility review or \"clearance\" by Vanderbilt Study Abroad;\n- Nomination: Vanderbilt Study Abroad will let your program provider know that you are approved to study abroad;\n\n- Acceptance: Your program provider will decide whether you can be admitted and communicate that decision to you;\n\n- Commitment to attend and  eligibility maintenance: You will formally commit to attending your chosen program, and work to ensure your continued eligibility;\n\n- Pre-departure preparation: You will work with your program provider and Vanderbilt Study Abroad to complete post-decision requirements, visa applications, etc.;\n- Registration for study abroad: Vanderbilt Study Abroad will register you to study abroad.\nAt each of these stages, you will receive instructions and email reminders alerting you to your immediate action steps. In addition to staying on track with your Vanderbilt requirements, you must also follow instructions and complete tasks required by  your study abroad program . \nYour study abroad application, including your application to the program provider, must represent your own work. \n\n## Deadline\n\nYou must complete  both  the Vanderbilt Study Abroad application and the program provider application (if applicable) by the  Vanderbilt Study Abroad deadline .  The  Vanderbilt Study Abroad  deadline is usually earlier than the  study abroad program provider's published  deadline . Deadlines are not flexible—if you think you might want to study abroad, complete an application by the deadline!\n\n## Applying to Multiple Programs\n\nThe Vanderbilt Study Abroad application portal allows  2 applications per student per application cycle . A backup application is recommended, ideally with a different provider and in a different region.  If you are accepted to both, your primary and backup programs, you will need to commit to one program and withdraw from the other by the  Commitment Deadline .\n\n## Submitting your Vanderbilt Study Abroad application\n\nAs you complete each application requirement (by selecting 'done' for the forms or e-signing the documents), you will not be able to edit your responses, except to the passport section. Please be sure you have proofread everything and are finished with your response before clicking 'done' for each written item. Once you have completed all requirements, a submit button will appear. You will not be able to submit your application if you are still missing requirements. If you are having issues submitting, try reloading the page.\n\n## Nomination and Home School Approval\n\nIf your program application requires a home school approval, please note that this is a Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor task that will be completed  after  the Vanderbilt Study Abroad deadline as part of your nomination. You can only be nominated if your Vanderbilt Study Abroad and program provider applications are complete by the deadline  and  if you pass the eligibility review.   You do not need to email your  Vanderbilt Study Abroad  advisor about this task.\n\n## Requesting Your Vanderbilt Transcript\n\nIf your application requires you to provide a copy of your Vanderbilt transcript, you will want to order an official transcript through the Office of the University Registrar. You can find more information, including links to detailed instructions, at  registrar.vanderbilt.edu/transcripts/ . Most students will be able to send an electronic transcript directly to the email address provided in the partner application (that is, the application from CIEE, IFSA, SIT, etc.) However, some students, especially those attending exchange programs, may need to provide hard copies. Both electronic and hard copy transcripts can be ordered from the Registrar, but hard copies will take more time, so plan ahead!\n\n## Tips for successful application\n\n- Your applications will be reviewed after the Vanderbilt Study Abroad deadline regardless of  date  of submission. However, we don't recommend that you wait until the last minute to apply as your program application may have requirements (such as a letter of recommendation) that take longer to complete. \n- You should have already done your preparation and planning work for study abroad, ideally with a Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor, prior to application. The programs you apply to should be good academic fit and meet your personal and professional goals. If you have not met with the Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor for your program, please  schedule an appointment now . \nIf you are just getting started with your study abroad planning, please check out the  Getting Started page .",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "deadline",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/deadlines",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "registrar.vanderbilt.edu/transcripts/",
        "url": "https://registrar.vanderbilt.edu/transcripts",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "schedule an appointment now",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Getting Started page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/getting-started",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:11.981575+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/course-review/",
    "slug": "course-review",
    "title": "Study Abroad Course Review",
    "kind": "academics",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Every course you take abroad needs to be evaluated by Vanderbilt faculty in order to earn Study Abroad/Away Credit back at Vanderbilt. This process determines how the course will count at Vanderbilt—or if it will count at all.",
    "content": "Every course you take abroad needs to be evaluated by Vanderbilt faculty in order to earn Study Abroad/Away Credit back at Vanderbilt. This process determines how the course will count at Vanderbilt—or if it will count at all.\nThe process for course evaluation is coordinated by the International Curriculum and Credentials Analyst in the Office of the University Registrar. Vanderbilt faculty determine all study abroad course equivalencies, including the number of credit hours a given course will count for. These determinations are then entered into a database, the  YES Study Abroad Course Search Tool . This database is a good first place to start in exploring courses available overseas, but students should note that it is only a record of courses VU students have taken in the past 5 years. It is not a list of all courses being offered, nor does a course's presence on this list mean it will be offered when you are abroad. For a detailed explanation of the Course Search Tool search results and types of equivalencies, please read the Study Abroad Search Tool User Guide .\nHere are the steps to using the database:\nHow to Get Courses Evaluated\n- Use the  YES Study Abroad Course Search Tool  to find courses that have  already been evaluated  for your program. Determine whether the courses you want to take are on the list, make sure you understand how many credits you will earn for each course, and verify that the expiration date of the course evaluation is later than your program end date.\n- If the courses you are interested in have already been evaluated on YES, confirm that these courses are offered in the semester you are studying abroad on your  host university course catalog.\n\n- Don’t see the course you want to take on YES or the evaluation has expired? You must  request a new course review  by completing a  Course Equivalency Evaluation Request Form . A complete syllabus is required for course evaluation. You may find syllabi online or by contacting your program provider directly for assistance.\n- The Registrar’s Study Abroad Analysis team will do the rest! The Registrar will contact faculty, who determine how the course will count at Vanderbilt. The Registrar will then email you the evaluation and post the results on YES.\n- If you want a course to  count differently than is listed on YES , your next step will depend on your college:\n- Blair School of Music:  Contact  Blair’s Office of Academic Services .\n- College of Arts and Science:  Contact the departmental Director of Undergraduate Studies for the major or minor you want the course to count toward.\n- Peabody College:  Contact  Peabody’s Office of Academic Services .\n- Vanderbilt School of Engineering:  Contact Engineering Office of Student Success.\nNote that the number of credits listed on YES may not match the program provider’s suggested number of credits. The credits hours  as listed on YES  will be reflected on your Vanderbilt transcript. Also be aware that if a course is a direct equivalent to a Vanderbilt course, you are  responsible for meeting the prerequisites of both the Vanderbilt course and the abroad course  in order to take and receive full credit for it.\nThe single most important thing to remember about the course evaluation process is that  you are responsible  for ensuring your courses are evaluated  as soon as possible ! Vanderbilt can’t process your grades until  all your abroad courses  have evaluations on file. If courses taken abroad do not receive credit at Vanderbilt, you may risk underloading and jeopardizing your financial aid eligibility.\nNeed more information? Check out the University Registrar’s  Study Abroad Course Review  page, or talk with your  Study Abroad advisor .",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "YES Study Abroad Course Search Tool",
        "url": "https://cc.app.vanderbilt.edu/cc/study-abroad-search",
        "kind": "course_equivalency"
      },
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad Search Tool User Guide",
        "url": "https://registrar.vanderbilt.edu/documents/YES_User_Guide_Study_Abroad_Search.pdf",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Course Equivalency Evaluation Request Form",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.kualibuild.com/app/68dc559d87861d02890f97e3/run",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Blair’s Office of Academic Services",
        "url": "https://blair.vanderbilt.edu/academics",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Peabody’s Office of Academic Services",
        "url": "https://peabody.vanderbilt.edu/office-academic-services/academic-services",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Engineering Office of Student Success.",
        "url": "https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fengineering.vanderbilt.edu%2Facademics%2Fundergraduate%2Foss%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cshannon.sellers%40Vanderbilt.Edu%7Cfae061436ec0465f9ce808dd577d767b%7Cba5a7f39e3be4ab3b45067fa80faecad%7C0%7C0%7C638762918563941849%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=SQYTdBvZXv1i9xNQn%2FxVdqeLYKTuws64bptk3nThrTI%3D&reserved=0",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad Course Review",
        "url": "http://registrar.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad-course-review",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad advisor",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:08.481496+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/deadlines/",
    "slug": "deadlines",
    "title": "Application Deadlines",
    "kind": "deadlines",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew"
    ],
    "summary": "Vanderbilt Study Abroad maintains its own deadlines, which may differ from our partners’ requirements. See below for Study Abroad deadlines— all applications, including applications to partners, are due by the deadlines below .",
    "content": "Vanderbilt Study Abroad maintains its own deadlines, which may differ from our partners’ requirements. See below for Study Abroad deadlines— all applications, including applications to partners, are due by the deadlines below .\n\nStudying abroad requires advance planning to be successful, and students are encouraged to begin planning early.  Vanderbilt Study Abroad will not be able to entertain late applications under any circumstances . If you aren't sure whether you will be able to study abroad, apply by the published deadline in order to be considered.\n\nReview the application tips here  before you apply.\n\nFor Maymester deadlines and key dates, please visit the Summer Sessions page.\n\nDeadline\nDate\n\nSummer 2026 Application Deadline\nFebruary 18, 2026\n\nSummer 2026 Commitment Deadline\n\nMarch 27, 2026\n\nFall/AY 2026 Application Deadline\nMarch 1, 2026, CASA Programs, LSE, St. Andrews, ICCS Rome, University College London, IES Amsterdam\n\nMarch 25, 2026, All Other Programs\n\nFall/AY 2026 Commitment Deadline\nMay 1, 2026\n\nSpring 2027 Application Deadline\n\nSeptember 9, 2026\n\nSpring 2027 Commitment Deadline\nOctober 16, 2026",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Review the application tips here",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/application-tips",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Summer Sessions",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/summer/summer-sessions",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:10.933274+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/finances/",
    "slug": "finances",
    "title": "Costs, Financial Aid & Billing",
    "kind": "finances",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Vanderbilt University is committed to ensuring that study abroad is accessible and affordable for all students. Students remain enrolled full-time at Vanderbilt while studying abroad, earning credit toward their Vanderbilt degree and remaining eligible for Vanderbilt need-based and merit-based finan",
    "content": "## Fees, Costs, and Billing\n\n## Academic Year (Fall and Spring)\n\nVanderbilt University is committed to ensuring that study abroad is accessible and affordable for all students. Students remain enrolled full-time at Vanderbilt while studying abroad, earning credit toward their Vanderbilt degree and remaining eligible for Vanderbilt need-based and merit-based financial aid. Since students are enrolled at Vanderbilt University while studying abroad, they pay VU tuition for participation in a Vanderbilt-administered or Vanderbilt-affiliated program.\n\nVanderbilt tuition covers the academic costs of the program abroad,  except in rare cases where the program’s academic costs exceed VU tuition.* Students will also pay all non-academic costs, including room and board. Wherever possible, Vanderbilt facilitates payment of non-academic costs by charging them as a   Program Fee.  This allows students to pay according to the familiar Vanderbilt schedule and ensures that their financial aid is utilized for payment. In cases where Vanderbilt is unable to process non-academic fees–such as most exchange programs–students will pay their host institution or organization directly.\n\nThe cost of Vanderbilt's mandatory international health insurance is included in the program fee. Vanderbilt University’s health insurance plan is comprehensive and includes coverage for mandatory evacuation, preexisting conditions, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. This insurance policy is required for all participants and cannot be waived.\n\nTo help students plan their time abroad, the Study Abroad website will provide  Program Budget Sheets  that outline the estimated costs for study abroad. Program Budget Sheets outline costs paid to Vanderbilt University, costs paid to host organizations through Vanderbilt, and costs paid directly by the student to hosts and third parties.\n\nNote: On-campus fees including the Student Health Fee, the Student Services Fee, meal plans, and housing are waived or do not apply to students studying abroad.\n\n*  A small number of the study abroad opportunities available have academic costs that exceed the cost of Vanderbilt tuition. The balance of academic costs exceeding VU tuition will be billed as part of the Program Fee. \n\n## Summer/Maymester\n\nStudents studying abroad in the summer term will pay Vanderbilt tuition (charged per credit hour) and, in some cases, a program fee. Beginning in Summer 2024, the cost of Vanderbilt's mandatory international health insurance plan will be included in the program fee. See  this page  for the most recent fees and estimated additional costs for summer programs, or the Summer Sessions site  for Maymester programs.\n\nNote: On-campus fees including the Student Health Fee and the Student Services Fee are waived for students studying abroad in the summer.\n\n## Financial Aid and Scholarships\n\nDuring the academic year, Vanderbilt University meets students’ full financial need (as determined by the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships) regardless of whether they study on campus or away. If the total estimated cost of a study abroad program exceeds the cost of a comparable term at Vanderbilt, the financial aid package can be increased to cover the difference. Please contact the  Office of Student Financial Aid  to discuss your financial plan.\n\nStudents are encouraged to consult with their financial aid officer about financial aid for summer programs. Vanderbilt financial aid is generally not  available for summer study abroad programs or Maymester courses, except in the rare situation in which a student is required by their college to participate in the course, or if a student will be able to graduate early by participating in the course. For students earning 6 credits or more, Federal student loans, parent loans (Federal PLUS Loan) or student alternative loans may be an option. Students should reach out to their financial aid officer for guidance. More information can be found in the Office of Student Financial Aid's  FAQ .\n\n## Billing\n\nStudents are billed for Vanderbilt Tuition and Program Fee by Vanderbilt  Student Accounts . Student Accounts will send bills to the same billing contacts and according to the same procedure and timeline as for a term on campus. Students utilizing a payment plan may want to consider adjusting payments due to differences in cost.\n\n## Program Budget Sheets\n\nThese sheets include estimates of the fees that you will pay to Vanderbilt as well as fees that you might pay to third parties, such as airfare, visa fees, personal expenses, and so on. To find the Budget Sheet for the program you are interested in, use the Program Search tool , select the desired program and click “See Budget Sheets” to find the estimated cost.\nPlease note that fees and estimates may not yet be available for your intended study abroad term. You may reference budget sheets from previous terms for information, while noting that fees will likely change. \n\nSearch All Programs\n\n## Funding\n\nDuring the academic year, Vanderbilt University meets students’ full financial need (as determined by the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships), regardless of whether they study on campus or away. If the total estimated cost of a study abroad program exceeds the cost of a term at Vanderbilt, the financial aid package can be increased to cover the difference. Please contact the  Office of Student Financial Aid  to discuss your financial plan.  \nStudy Abroad encourages students to apply for supplemental funding for study abroad. The sections below describe funding offered through Vanderbilt as well as external resources. \n\n## Global Summer Fellows Scholarship Program \n\nThe Immersion Vanderbilt team administers the need-based Global Summer Fellows Scholarship program for  Vanderbilt-approved Maymester programs. The GSF application  opens in early-November  and is due in mid-January . See the Immersion funding page for more details and eligibility information. \n\n## External Scholarships\n\nThere are a wide variety of external scholarships and financial awards for academic-year and summer study can be found at: \n- Diversity Abroad scholarship directory\n- FEA Study Abroad Funding directory\n- International Scholarships directory\nSome prestigious external awards that could fund study abroad programs are listed below. A number of these are supported by Vanderbilt’s Career Center, and we encourage students to  contact them  to discuss these options. \n- Boren Awards\n- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program\n- Gilman-McCain Scholarship  (for children of active-duty service members) \n- Freeman Awards for Study in Asia\n- Critical Language Scholarship (summer only)",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Program Budget Sheets",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/finances",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Summer Sessions site",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/summer/summer-sessions",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Office of Student Financial Aid",
        "url": "https://forms.vanderbilt.edu/view.php?id=840651",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "FAQ",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/financialaid/undergraduate/faq.php",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Student Accounts",
        "url": "https://finance.vanderbilt.edu/stuaccts",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Program Search tool",
        "url": "https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vanderbilt.edu%2Fstudy-abroad%2Fprogram-search%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cyuanqi.wang%40vanderbilt.edu%7C59f207bc697b4073d82608dd3b0653c3%7Cba5a7f39e3be4ab3b45067fa80faecad%7C0%7C0%7C638731620539205282%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=m9p8IOF57TKBJlZVMzhGJvOQTl5flSPScsk1C7wLDSw%3D&reserved=0",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Search All Programs",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/program-search",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Immersion funding page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/immersion/funding",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Diversity Abroad scholarship directory",
        "url": "https://www.diversityabroad.com/scholarships",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "FEA Study Abroad Funding directory",
        "url": "https://fundforeducationabroad.org/scholarships",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "International Scholarships directory",
        "url": "https://www.internationalscholarships.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "contact them",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/career/fellowships/what-are-fellowships",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Boren Awards",
        "url": "https://www.borenawards.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program",
        "url": "https://www.gilmanscholarship.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Gilman-McCain Scholarship",
        "url": "https://www.gilmanscholarship.org/program/gilman-mccain-scholarships",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Freeman Awards for Study in Asia",
        "url": "https://www.iie.org/Programs/Freeman-ASIA",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Critical Language Scholarship",
        "url": "http://clscholarship.org",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:09.497430+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/getting-started/",
    "slug": "getting-started",
    "title": "Getting Started",
    "kind": "getting_started",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "The Study Abroad OverVU session is the first step on your study abroad journey, where you will explore the basics of how study abroad works at Vanderbilt. In-person sessions are offered weekly, and we highly encourage you to attend the live session for better engagement. Alternatively, you can watch",
    "content": "## Study Abroad OverVU\n\nThe Study Abroad OverVU session is the first step on your study abroad journey, where you will explore the basics of how study abroad works at Vanderbilt. In-person sessions are offered weekly, and we highly encourage you to attend the live session for better engagement. Alternatively, you can watch the videos below before scheduling an appointment with a Study Abroad advisor.\n\n## Study Abroad Pathway Explained\n\n## Why Study Abroad?\n\n## Types of Study Abroad Programs\n\n## Academics\n\n## Study Abroad Course Search Tutorial\n\nThis tutorial takes a deep dive into the study abroad course evaluation process. You will learn how to effectively use the Study Abroad Course Search tool to find courses abroad, and how to get abroad courses evaluated for Vanderbilt credit.\nVideo coming soon!\n\n## Financial Aspects of Studying Abroad\n\nLearn more about the cost of studying abroad, and how financial aid works.\n\n## Study Abroad Budget Sheet Tutorial\n\nIn this video, you will learn how find your program's budget sheet and understand the estimated cost for your\nstudy abroad experience. Explore budget sheets here .\nVideo coming soon!\n\n## Summer Programs\n\n## Global Summer Fellowship\n\n## How to Open a Study Abroad Application\n\nThe screen capture below shows how to open a study abroad application for a program you have identified.\nVideo coming soon!\n\n## Next Steps\n\nOnce you learn the basics of how study abroad works at Vanderbilt by exploring the resources above, you can begin working with a Study Abroad advisor to focus on setting goals for your experience and narrowing down program options based on your goals. The following questions are a good place to start:\n- What is motivating you to study abroad?\n- What type of study abroad program interests you?\n- What classes do you need to take while abroad?\n- In what ways do you hope to step outside of your comfort zone and grow from this experience?\n\n## Study Abroad and Immersion Vanderbilt\n\nImmersion Vanderbilt gives every Vanderbilt student the opportunity to pursue intellectual curiosities through immersive experiences and culminating projects that are as creative and unique as the students themselves. Immersion Vanderbilt is a degree requirement for all Vanderbilt undergraduate students. It consists of two key parts:  PART ONE: IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES and  PART TWO: CULMINATING PROJECT .\n\n## Study Abroad as Pathway for Immersion Vanderbilt\n\nStudy abroad is a tremendous opportunity for experiential learning and is considered one of the six immersive experience pathways for Immersion Vanderbilt. Students who successfully complete VU-approved study abroad programs during the Academic  Year/Summer/Maymester will have automatically satisfied PART ONE: IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES for Immersion Vanderbilt. Studying abroad does not preclude students from engaging in other immersive experiences such as research with a faculty member, internships, leadership and professional development, etc.\n\n## Culminating Project for Immersion Vanderbilt\n\nStudy abroad students have the option to create their culminating project based on their study abroad experience but are not required to if the student has an alternative plan for completing PART TWO: CULMINATING PROJECT for Immersion Vanderbilt. Prior study abroad-related culminating projects include but are not limited to:\n- Academic paper on queer attitude in Ghana\n- Short documentary film about a student’s home stay family\n- Development of an app to facilitate social connection of study abroad students\n- Comprehensive travel/cultural guide of a specific international destination\nStudents who wish to design an independent culminating project based on their study abroad experience should work with a faculty advisor to determine their project based on personal interest.\n\n## Immersion Funding for Study Abroad\n\nStudents are highly encouraged to utilize Immersion funding to support their Summer/Maymester study abroad experience, when institutional financial aid is not applicable. Students may be able to apply for Immersion funding to support their study abroad during the Academic Year. However, additional funding may impact existing financial aid package.\nGlobal Summer Fellows is an Immersion fund specifically dedicated study abroad. In addition, study abroad students may also apply for other Immersion funding opportunities such as the A&S Immersion Micro-grant, Education Enhancement Fund, and merit-based scholarships awarded upon matriculation (Ingram, Cornelius Vanderbilt, Chancellor’s Scholars, & Crescere Aude). For more information about Immersion funding for study abroad, please visit the Immersion funding page .\n\nStudy Abroad advisors can provide personalized guidance and help you dive deeper into your goal-setting and the program selection process. You can meet with a Study Abroad advisor during daily drop-in office hours or by scheduling an appointment.\n\nContact an Advisor",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "In-person sessions",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad Course Search tool",
        "url": "https://cc.app.vanderbilt.edu/cc/study-abroad",
        "kind": "course_equivalency"
      },
      {
        "text": "budget sheets here",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/budgets",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Immersion Vanderbilt",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/immersion",
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        "text": "Immersion funding page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/immersion/undergraduate-funding",
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    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/identity-culture-resources/",
    "slug": "identity-culture-resources",
    "title": "Resources for Identity & Culture",
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    "summary": "Vanderbilt Study Abroad is dedicated to supporting all Vanderbilt students in the opportunity to study abroad and engage in meaningful experiences. The following resources are offered as a starting place, and Vanderbilt Study Abroad staff advisors , the  Global Safety and Health team , and  Study Ab",
    "content": "Vanderbilt Study Abroad is dedicated to supporting all Vanderbilt students in the opportunity to study abroad and engage in meaningful experiences. The following resources are offered as a starting place, and Vanderbilt Study Abroad staff advisors , the  Global Safety and Health team , and  Study Abroad Alumni  are also available to address specific questions or concerns.\n\nCultural Adjustment and Identity\n\nLiving in a new culture often means  confronting new norms ; some might seem trivial, others more significant.  Regardless of how you self-identify, you may quickly realize in an international context,  your nationality becomes a pronounced aspect  of your perceived identity and how natives of your host country relate to you. Being in an intercultural context is a great opportunity to explore  your own as well as others'  characteristic ways of making meaning of the world. \nThe greatest learning often takes place when we are slightly uncomfortable. It's also key to balance the challenge and support. Keep in mind that everyone's comfort zone looks differently, and as you challenge yourself to go beyond your comfort zone, don't forget to seek support whenever necessary. Before you go, it helps to  learn as much as you can  about your host culture in terms of social etiquette, food, customs and tradition, language, religion, etc.; while abroad, stay open-minded and curious, and lean in to the intercultural experience to  gain transferable skills . Pay attention to the  critical incidents  that constitute a surprise, a misunderstanding, cultural gaffe, or a social faux pas, and treat these incongruences as learning opportunities about your host culture and yourself. \nHere are some things to consider:\n- Assume the best  about people's intentions to avoid reinforcing pre-existing biases and prejudices.\n- Based on how your home country is represented in the local media, you may be asked to comment on the policies,  politics , and pop culture of your home country. Do some homework. \n- Be aware of the  stereotypes  related to your nationality and ethnicity. Confronting stereotypes may sometimes be frustrating, and it may also spur interesting conversations. \n- Being a polite and  respectful  guest in your host country goes a long way. \n- Most interest you receive will probably be friendly, even if frankly or passionately expressed. But do prepare yourself to encounter actual hostility as well, and to consider how you might handle it.\n- When you think you know enough to pass as a local might be when you are the most vulnerable for crimes of opportunity. It never hurts to  stay vigilant . \n- If you are from a developed country and traveling to a developing country, be cognizant of the perceived/actual status or privilege associated with your nationality.\n- Being foreign, different, or simply away from home can be taxing. Make sure to exercise your  resilience  skills: practice self-care, have a support network, eat comfort food, talk to someone from your home country, or seek out professional counseling.\nResources: \n- University of Michigan Resilient Traveling Project , resources for developing psychological resilience while studying abroad \n- Dollar Street , photographs that show how people really live around the world by taking you into their homes\n- The View from the Veranda: Understanding Today's Colonial Student , a scholarly piece that unpacks the inherent privilege in a study abroad experience\n\nRace and Ethnicity\n\nSocial discourse surrounding race and ethnicity is  culturally mediated and historically bound ; it will instead be based on your host country's particular demographics and unique history. In a global context, the  history of colonialism  matter as well, and may shift your power positioning. Plus, you may become part of a racial or ethnic majority/minority for the first time in your life while abroad. These factors will impact how you experience your own race and ethnicity while abroad.\nThese new vantage points on self and identity can be exciting, but  they can also be difficult . People may consistently misidentify you based on physical appearance, for example. Or you may be surprised at how freely people comment on your appearance. If you are a racial or ethnic minority in your host culture, you may find that you are looked at more often, or that people may want to touch your hair or skin. It’s also possible that your physical appearance and racial or ethnic identity will be ignored, and instead your nationality or gender will be a focus. Some of these encounters can be attributed to a sense of curiosity or unexamined bias; however, you may also experience overt racism.\nStudents of European descent should  be cognizant about how white privilege shapes their experience abroad . Given the complexity of colonial history, students should be particularly mindful of 'white savior' complex and recognize the role race-based privilege may play in the local context.\nFor all of these reasons, it will be helpful to prepare yourself in advance for the attitudes on race and ethnicity in your host country. Your experience abroad may spur tremendous growth and identity development, and Vanderbilt Study Abroad encourages reflection and processing during and post-experience by staying engaged with offices such as  SCSJI  and  BCC  for continuous identity exploration.\nResources:\n- Diversity Issues in Study Abroad : A booklet that collects statements of Brown University students about their experiences of identity abroad. A bit dated now, but many comments remain reflective of realities today.\n- Diversity Abroad , a collection of resources for underrepresented students traveling abroad\n- AllAbroad.us , which has a wide variety of specific information for  African American ,  Asian/Pacific Island ,  Latino/Hispanic American , and  Native American  students\n- Meaningful Travel Tips and Tales – African American Perspectives\n- Managing Black Hair While Studying Abroad\n- Study Abroad as Neo-Colonial Tourism\n- White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack\n- VU’s  Student Center for Belonging and Communities\n- VU’s  Bishop Joseph Johnson Black Cultural Center\n\nHeritage Seekers\n\nStudy abroad presents many different opportunities for students to explore their identities, including their ancestry and cultural heritage. You may choose to study abroad in a particular location to connect with your family and personal history, or to gain insights into your racial or religious ancestry even if there isn't direct familial ties to that location.\nStudying abroad as a heritage seeker can be a  rewarding and complex journey . Heritage-seeking students should be aware that people in your abroad location may not see your heritage as the most important thing about you. If you are from the U.S., you may find that people identify you as an American first. You may find it more challenging than you expect to feel a part of the local community.\nAs such, there are often expected and unexpected emotions: surprises, belonging, confusion, fulfillment. Instead of a steady sense of \"being at home,\" the actual experience itself may present a spectrum of highs and lows, and may sometimes leave you with more questions than answers. Yet through embracing this process, heritage-seeking students often report a renewed sense of self, and more in-depth understanding of their own identities.\nResources:\n- How studying abroad in Ghana changed my racial consciousness\n- African Americans in Africa\n- I thought going to Korea would help me find home\n- On belong: Studying abroad in Asia as an Asian American heritage learner\n- The pressure to be Japanese\n- Traveling while Latino\n- An (Arab)American in Jordan\n- Vox article about heritage travel and DNA testing for African Americans \n- Code Switch podcast episode on race and DNA testing\n- Diversity Abroad article on Tips for heritage seekers\n\nLGBTQI Students\n\nLaws and customs regarding LGBTQI communities  vary in every country  of the world, and attitudes and beliefs within each country will also  differ significantly from person to person , just like in the U.S. It is important to research local customs and laws before studying abroad.\nIn general, LGBTQI communities are more prominent in larger cities where tradition is less strong and demographics more varied. It’s important to keep in mind that there may always be individual exceptions, rooted in local social/cultural norms or religious practices. Even in locations where LGBTQI identities and practices are legal,  cultural norms may discourage coming out, discussing sexuality/gender identity, or showing affection publicly . Some students find it is necessary to select a more affirming site or hide their sexuality/gender identity for safety reasons.\nHere are a few points to consider and resources to use to plan for a safe, enriching, and positive time abroad:\n- Do some research in advance and  narrow down your study abroad options  based on personal interests and needs. Consider safety, your needs for an in-country LGBTQI community, how host-country gender norms and expectations might impact how you express yourself, etc.\n- Be honest with your program about your concerns so that you can receive the support you need. Ask about  LGBTQI-friendly housing options , particularly if you opt for a homestay. You can also stipulate that your program keep your request confidential, including from the host family.\n- Before choosing to come out while abroad, please make sure that your safety and well-being are prioritized.\n- The discourse surrounding sexuality/gender identity may be very different in other parts of the world.  You might encounter questions or terminologies you are not used to . If you feel safe, this could be an opportunity for a conversation and mutual learning.\n- You might wish to seek out LGBTQI-friendly spaces in your study abroad destination. Keep in mind that the  local LGBTQI community will likely be quite different  from that in your home country. Coming to know and understand this new culture will likely be exciting and rewarding, but like any process of cultural adaptation, it may also be trying. Learn as much as you can in advance, but also adopt the attitude that difficulties are challenges to overcome rather than obstacles in your way.\nResources:\n- Equaldex , LGBT rights in the world database\n- International Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans and Intersex Association  (ILGA) provides a country-by-country analysis of attitudes and laws regarding LGBTQ people\n- ILGA-Europe , the website of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association’s European chapter, provides multiple resources, including a Guide to Europe\n- LGBTI Travel Information , State Department resources for LGBT travelers\n- Rainbow SIG , an organization of study abroad professionals with LGBTQI study abroad resources\n- Utopia , an online guide to Asia-Pacific gay and lesbian resources, including legal and cultural information as well as links to country-specific resources.\n- If you have a smart phone and are traveling within the U.S. or Europe, you can download the REFUGE Restroom app to help you locate gender inclusive restrooms.\n\nTransgender and Non-Binary Students\n\nTrans and non-binary students are valued members of the Vanderbilt community. Abroad, attitudes regarding transgender students may not be the same. Cultures may not support or value  trans or non-binary identities  and in some countries transgender people may face criminal sanctions simply for who they are. Before you travel abroad,  learn more about the laws, customs, and attitudes  of the country in which you will be studying.  \nU.S. passport holders are able to select the preferred gender marker ( M, F , or  X ) to be printed on their passport. Currently, individuals are able to select from the following genders when applying for a U.S. passport book (routine service only; currently not available for expedited passport issues/renewals, but that service is expected  in late 2023 ) :    \n- Male (M)  \n- Female (F)  \n- Unspecified or another gender identity (X)  \nThe Department of State  no longer requires medical documentation to change the gender marker on your U.S. passport , and the gender you select  does not need to match the gender on your supporting documentation  such as birth certificate, previous passport, or state ID.    \n- While the U.S. government now issues passports with the X gender marker,  this does not guarantee eligible entry or transit through other countries;  similarly, if your passport’s gender marker does not match the gender marked on other required documentation, this may cause issues.   There may be entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the X gender marker. As a part of your study abroad planning, make sure to check with your destination country’s foreign embassy or consulate in the United States for country-specific information.   \nIf you are not a US citizen, consult the embassy or consulate of your home country for passport and identity document requirements.  \nWhen traveling, be aware that a US Transportation Security Administration (TSA)  security screening  may involve whole-body scanners (Advanced Imaging Technology) or a pat-down. If you opt out of the imaging scan, or if the machine detects something “unusual” (such as  binding garments, prosthetics, or body parts the attendant did not assume you to have ), you may be required to go through a  pat-down . While TSA is working to reduce the number of pat-down screenings for travelers, they still take place, but the officers working will assign an officer they assume matches your gender to perform the pat-down. Travelers may  ask for a private screening  at any time, and you may bring a travel companion into screening with you. You should never be required to lift or remove an article of clothing to reveal your body part(s) or a prosthetic item. If you use a prosthetic item, you are not required to remove it. Note that security screening practices may vary from country to country .   \nIf you are carrying any  medically prescribed items with you, including but not limited to hormones, keep them in their original packaging and bring a letter from your physician explaining way the prescription is necessary . Consider talking with your physician about how to access medical treatment and prescriptions abroad.  \nBe aware that traveling within your host country or crossing borders while abroad may also require documentation and security screenings.  \nWhen planning for your trip, consider  housing options  that fit your comfort and safety levels. Single rooms might be best for personal freedom, but they may not be available or may cost more. It may be wise to talk to your study abroad program to seek trans-friendly roommates or host families.  \nAfter considering potential safety issues, determine the  name and gender pronouns  you would like instructors and peers abroad to use while addressing you. You may want to ask your study abroad program about the availability of  gender inclusive restrooms .  \nIf you have any questions or concerns, feel free to  contact Vanderbilt Study Abroad  and we will be happy to help you work through them.  \nResources:  \n- Vanderbilt Global Safety and Health  \n- International Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans and Intersex Association  (ILGA) provides a country-by-country analysis of attitudes and laws regarding LGBTQ people; not focused on transgender issues, but possibly broadly useful.  \n- International Transgender Resources,  from Transgender Map: links to organizations and literature from multiple countries.  \n- Equaldex maintains  a list of countries  that recognize the X gender marker on official documents.  \n- The U.S. Department of State offers  resources for LGBTQ travelers , including instructions on  updating the name on your passport  and changing your gender marker.  \n- The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) provides an  ID Documents Center  to help you get a legal name change and update your name/gender on state and federal IDs and records.  \n- NCTE offers a  “Know Your Rights” report  on airport security and transgender people.  \n- If you do experience disrespectful treatment or other problems from airline staff, you may  file a complaint  with the Aviation Consumer Protection Division.  \n- If you have a smart phone and are traveling within the U.S. or Europe, you can download the Refuge Restrooms app to help you locate gender inclusive restrooms, or you can access the Refuge Restrooms website at www.refugerestrooms.org/.  \n\nGender\n\nExpectations surrounding gender roles vary from country to country, and even within countries. Because so much of our communication with others is  interpreted in terms of gender , it is helpful to learn about gender roles in your host culture. One of the best things about studying abroad is making new friends, and you will want to  avoid undue complications due to misunderstanding or miscommunication . You may want to consider:\n- Americans are accustomed to having platonic friendships with the opposite sex. How does your host culture view opposite-gender friendships?\n- If you are considering being sexually active abroad, research safe sex and birth control practices as well as attitudes toward sex outside marriage.\n- What constitutes sexual harassment under local law or understanding?\n- How do locals dress on the street? Could your manner of dress stand out and thus bring you unwanted attention? Are there different rules for people who look like foreigners vs. those who appear to be local?\nWhile men studying abroad will certainly see cultural differences in their ascribed roles, it is women who will usually need to adapt most  to local norms and values.  North American women should be aware that they may face special sets of attitudes and assumptions. Here are some considerations for female travelers:\n- In some countries (such as Italy, Morocco, and Latin countries), catcalls or other forms of harassment of women might be common. Is this sort of thing likely in your host country? How will you deal with it if so?\n- Are there stereotypes about North American women in particular?\n- Be cognizant of how seemingly typical U.S. behaviors could be construed in more conservative or religious cultures, such as smiling or greeting opposite-sex strangers, looking directly at others, or going out at night without a companion of the opposite sex.\nResources:\n- Her Own Way , a travel guide for women published by the Canadian government\nSafety tips for women traveling around the world\n- The Guide to Women travel , resources for women travelers\n- Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center  at Vanderbilt\n- Project Safe  at Vanderbilt, 24 hour Crisis/Support Hotline\n\nReligion\n\nReligion is a prominent feature of cultures around the world. During your time abroad, you will likely encounter fascinating and enriching ideas and practices. You may also experience things that  challenge your notions of spiritual truth  or even basic fairness. Regardless of your own religious beliefs, there are a few things you should consider:\n- If you plan to practice your own religion abroad, do some research first. You’ll want to know whether there are convenient houses of worship, of course. But depending on where you are going, there may be safety issues to consider as well.\n- In some countries, there may be little commitment to religious pluralism. The state may sanction a religion. Or laws may restrict religious speech, particularly as it relates to political activism.\n- Even if the society is generally an open one, be aware that safety concerns may still exist. Just as in the US, wearing symbols of some religions or frequenting houses of worship may make you a target for passionate violence from other groups.\n- Mixed gender housing is the norm at many universities across the world. This can mean mixed gender floors in dorms and mixed gender bathrooms. If this presents concerns for you, reach out to your Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor.\n- Consider whether any of the courses you plan to take abroad might present challenges. Review syllabi ahead of time to ensure that you will be comfortable with all course activities. If you feel that you might need accommodations, start that process as far in advance as possible (see your Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor if you have questions).\n- Whatever your personal beliefs and circumstances, remember that your primary purpose is studying abroad. Consider your experiences an opportunity to understand the historical and social dimensions of religion in your host country. Be open-minded, save critical impulses for later, and open your own beliefs and practices to the same degree of scrutiny. If you approach your time in your host country as a time to learn about others’ beliefs and attitudes, you can avoid many opportunities for conflict.\nResources :\n- Global Religious Futures , explore the rapidly changing religious profile of the world through 2050.\n- Pluralism Project , bibliography of research and websites on world religion.\n- Interfaith Calendar , primary sacred times for world religions.\n- International Religious Freedom , the most recent report from the US State Department on religious freedom around the world.\n- Halal Trip , website focused on Muslim travelers and including city guides with a focus on halal dining.\n- Review different web resources like Totally Jewish Travel for world-wide listing of kosher hotels and restaurants, synagogues, mikvaot, and Jewish communities around the world. \n\nDisabilities, Mental Health and Special Needs\n\nStudents with disabilities and special needs, including mental health needs, can and do study abroad. It is important to keep in mind that the accommodations and services provided in the U.S. and at Vanderbilt may be different overseas. If you are registered with Vanderbilt’s Office of Student Access Services for an academic or physical accommodation on campus, you may  request to have your accommodations letter sent to your study abroad program . Making your study abroad program aware of your accommodation needs will allow onsite staff to make arrangements where applicable, and  help you determine whether your accommodation needs can be met  at this particular location. Please note that the laws around disabilities and accommodations vary by country. Not all requests can be met completely.\nIt is worth noting that some of your needs may become more salient in an overseas setting. Think about prescriptions, physical therapy, counseling, dietary restrictions, and other things that keep you healthy while abroad. Talk with your current health provider about a  continuing care plan  for your time abroad. If possible, communicate with your program as well. They may be able to help you identify resources abroad. Please  consider disclosing any physical or mental health conditions  to your program. You can use the program’s medical history form, or send an email detailing your history and current care plan.\nResources:\n- Vanderbilt  Global Safety and Health Team  provides pre-departure guidance on setting up continued care, traveling with medication, utilizing Vanderbilt-issued insurance abroad, etc.\n- Vanderbilt Student Access Services  office, Vanderbilt’s office that supports students in need of physical and academic accommodations on campus and can assist in providing documentation to study abroad students needing accommodations during study abroad\n- Mobility International USA (MIUSA) , US-based non-profit organization with a mission to advance disability rights globally. They provide a wealth of information on disclosure of disabilities, disability accommodations in an international context, negotiating accommodations internationally, things to think about in planning to take a service animal abroad, and more.\n- Traveling with Disabilities (CDC) , The Centers for Disease Control provides a useful suite of information and external resources for travelers with disabilities as well as recommendations for proper planning.\n- Diversity Abroad , provides things for students with disabilities to consider when selecting their study abroad programs.\n- Taking Animals and Animal Products across International Borders (CDC) , The US Center for Disease Control provides information on traveling abroad with a pet, requirements for entering the US with a pet, animal health certificates, and more.\n- Pets and International Travel (US State Department) , The State Department’s Travel site provides a substantial amount of information on traveling internationally with a pet, including quarantine and import restrictions, US airline pet policies, EU and UK pet policies, certification requirements, and more.\n\nFirst Generation College Students\n\nAs a first generation college student, study abroad may not have initially been a part of your plans for your time at Vanderbilt, but we're here to help you consider and plan for an experience abroad! Many first generation college students  possess the skills and mindsets  needed for an enriching study abroad experience due to prior experiences with  navigating new and unfamiliar environments, seeking unique opportunities, and forging paths  for themselves. Your decision to study abroad may come with questions related to finances and getting the support of your family and friends. Study Abroad advisors can walk you through the process for studying abroad at Vanderbilt and address any concerns you might have. Even when you don't know what specific questions to ask, your Study Abroad advisors can still provide guidance, and can connect you with peers to speak with about their experience abroad.\nResources: \n- First Generation Students Traveling Abroad , an article from Diversity Abroad that offers tips for first generation college students considering studying abroad\n- Adventure is where belonging began: My first-generation study abroad experience , a student blog article from the Center for First-Generation Student Success\n- Unpacked: A Study Abroad Guide for Student Like Me (IFSA), SAI Florence , student perspectives and interviews on studying abroad as a first generation college student\n- How to convince your parents to let you study abroad , student blog article from Go Overseas\n- Learn more about  fees, costs, and billing  related to Vanderbilt Study Abroad; review  program budget sheets ,  summer scholarships and external funding sources\n\nFirst-Time Traveler\n\nPreparing for your first trip abroad can be daunting. Your Study Abroad advisors have created a  checklist  to help you kickstart the process and transition from feeling nervous to feeling excited about your study abroad experience! If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your advisor.\nClick  here  to view the checklist!\n\nInternational Students\n\nCongratulations! As an international student, you are already studying abroad! If you would like to study abroad again and explore countries outside of the U.S., Study Abroad encourages you to do so. Depending on the nationality of your passport, you may find  travel requirements  for your destination(s) are different than for some of your peers. In addition to procuring appropriate travel documents for studying abroad,  maintaining your U.S. immigration status  for re-entry is also key. We have created a checklist to help guide you through this process. You are also required to complete this checklist as a part of your study abroad application through VU Study Abroad.\nClick  here  to view the checklist!\n\nAthletes\n\nAthletes should  consult their coach or athletics advisor  before considering study abroad. Your study abroad advisor can work with you to identify programs with accommodations you may need while abroad (training facilities, etc.). The table below shows your options for study abroad as a student athlete.\nKey\nY  = Yes; these are times that generally work for student-athletes\nM  = Maybe; these are times that are less than optimal, but might work after speaking with your coach\nBlank  = These are times that most student-athletes should not consider\n\nMen’s Sports        \n\nFall Semester Spring Semester Maymester Summer*\n\nBaseball M M\n\nBasketball Y Y\n\nCross Country M Y Y\n\nFootball M Y M\n\nGolf Y\n\nTennis Y\n\nTrack & Field Y\n\n*For many sports, summer suitability depends on the length and timing of the program. Consult with your Academic Advisor, Academic Counselor, Sport Administrator, Coach, and Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor when planning a study abroad experience.\n\nSTEM Majors\n\nAll majors can study abroad, with proper planning. Your Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor is happy to meet with you to help determine which programs have the science or math courses you need. Engineers should visit the  VUSE Study Abroad  page prior to making an appointment.\nResources:\n- VUSE Study Abroad resource\n- Make an appointment  with your Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor\n- View courses  that VU students have taken abroad\n\nPre-Med Students\n\nWith the right planning, Pre-Med students can and do study abroad. Pre-Med students should work with the  Health Professional Advisory Office  before choosing a study abroad semester and program. Some medical schools may prefer or require that required medical school prerequisite courses be taken in the United States. While studying abroad, you may have an opportunity to work in a clinic or volunteer in a medical capacity. Norms vary, but you should be prepared to decline if you are asked to participate in a role or task that an undergraduate student would not be permitted to take part in in a clinic or hospital setting in the U.S. Engaging in activities you are not qualified for at home may be viewed by medical schools as a serious breach of ethical judgment.\nResources:\n- Health Professional Advisory Office\n- First-hand account from a VU Pre-Med student preparing to go abroad\n- Guidelines for Premedical and Medical Students Providing Patient Care During Clinical Experiences Abroad , the Associate of American Medical Colleges\n- Sending Health Students Abroad , NPR",
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        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "On belong: Studying abroad in Asia as an Asian American heritage learner",
        "url": "https://cetacademicprograms.com/study-abroad-asia-heritage-learner",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "The pressure to be Japanese",
        "url": "https://www.iesabroad.org/study-abroad/blogs/eokikawafandmedu/pressure-be-japanese",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Traveling while Latino",
        "url": "https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2014/12/traveling-second-generation-immigrant-identity/384059",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "An (Arab)American in Jordan",
        "url": "https://www.ciee.org/go-abroad/college-study-abroad/blog/arab-american-jordan",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vox article about heritage travel and DNA testing for African Americans",
        "url": "https://www.vox.com/the-highlight/2019/9/18/20862468/heritage-african-american-ancestry-23-and-me-dna-testing",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Code Switch podcast episode on race and DNA testing",
        "url": "https://www.npr.org/templates/transcript/transcript.php?storyId=679287399",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Diversity Abroad article on Tips for heritage seekers",
        "url": "https://www.diversityabroad.com/articles/tips-heritage-seekers-traveling-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Equaldex",
        "url": "https://www.equaldex.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "International Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans and Intersex Association",
        "url": "https://davidson.studioabroad.com/_customtags/ct_FileRetrieve.cfm?File_ID=05077A7671743F0777067173060A011C7C0D777C1A0C0307051C7174050501730706777D71707171020D",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "ILGA-Europe",
        "url": "http://www.ilga-europe.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "LGBTI Travel Information",
        "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbti.html",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Rainbow SIG",
        "url": "http://www.rainbowsig.org/resource-center/study-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Utopia",
        "url": "http://www.utopia-asia.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "in late 2023 )",
        "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/selecting-your-gender-marker.html",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "contact Vanderbilt Study Abroad",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.edu/geo/advising",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt Global Safety and Health",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/travel-safety",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "International Transgender Resources,",
        "url": "https://www.transgendermap.com/resources/international",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "a list of countries",
        "url": "https://www.equaldex.com/issue/non-binary-gender-recognition",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "resources for LGBTQ travelers",
        "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "updating the name on your passport",
        "url": "https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/have-passport/change-correct.html",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "ID Documents Center",
        "url": "http://www.transequality.org/documents",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "“Know Your Rights” report",
        "url": "https://transequality.org/know-your-rights/airport-security",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "file a complaint",
        "url": "https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/file-consumer-complaint",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Her Own Way",
        "url": "http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/publications/her-own-way",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Safety tips for women traveling around the world",
        "url": "https://journeywoman.com/safety",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "The Guide to Women travel",
        "url": "https://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/travel/women/index.shtml",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/womenscenter",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Project Safe",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/projectsafe",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Global Religious Futures",
        "url": "https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2022/12/21/key-findings-from-the-global-religious-futures-project",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Pluralism Project",
        "url": "https://pluralism.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Interfaith Calendar",
        "url": "http://www.interfaith-calendar.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "International Religious Freedom",
        "url": "https://www.state.gov/international-religious-freedom-reports",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Halal Trip",
        "url": "https://www.halaltrip.com/city-guides",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Totally Jewish Travel",
        "url": "https://www.totallyjewishtravel.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt Student Access Services",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/student-access",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Mobility International USA (MIUSA)",
        "url": "http://www.miusa.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Traveling with Disabilities (CDC)",
        "url": "https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/advising-travelers-with-specific-needs/travelers-with-disabilities",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Diversity Abroad",
        "url": "https://www.diversityabroad.com/articles/students-disabilities-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Taking Animals and Animal Products across International Borders (CDC)",
        "url": "https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/conveyance-transportation-issues/taking-animals-animal-products-across-international-borders",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Pets and International Travel (US State Department)",
        "url": "https://www.state.gov/m/fsi/tc/c10442.htm",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "First Generation Students Traveling Abroad",
        "url": "https://www.diversityabroad.com/articles/first-generation-students-traveling-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Adventure is where belonging began: My first-generation study abroad experience",
        "url": "https://firstgen.naspa.org/blog/adventure-is-where-belonging-began-my-first-generation-study-abroad-experience",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Unpacked: A Study Abroad Guide for Student Like Me (IFSA), SAI Florence",
        "url": "https://www.ifsa-butler.org/student-story/interviews-with-first-generation-college-students-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "How to convince your parents to let you study abroad",
        "url": "https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/how-convince-mom-dad-let-study-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "fees, costs, and billing",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/geo/finances/costs",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "program budget sheets",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/geo/finances/budget-sheets",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "summer scholarships and external funding sources",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/geo/finances/funding",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "here",
        "url": "https://geo.vanderbilt.edu/_customtags/ct_FileRetrieve.cfm?File_ID=22612",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "here",
        "url": "https://geo.vanderbilt.edu/_customtags/ct_FileRetrieve.cfm?File_ID=05047274744F730701000301070A1C04080C0014757803036E077606707C01060F0772747471050507",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "VUSE Study Abroad",
        "url": "https://engineering.vanderbilt.edu/academics/undergraduate/study-abroad",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "View courses",
        "url": "https://acad.app.vanderbilt.edu/more/SearchAbroadCourses.action",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Health Professional Advisory Office",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/hpao",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "First-hand account from a VU Pre-Med student preparing to go abroad",
        "url": "https://admissions.vanderbilt.edu/insidedores/2018/07/studying-abroad-as-a-pre-med-student",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Guidelines for Premedical and Medical Students Providing Patient Care During Clinical Experiences Abroad",
        "url": "https://www.aamc.org/download/181690/data/guidelinesforstudentsprovidingpatientcare.pdf",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Sending Health Students Abroad",
        "url": "https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2016/02/11/465428990/the-risks-and-unexpected-benefits-of-sending-health-students-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:18.150170+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/incoming-exchange-students/",
    "slug": "incoming-exchange-students",
    "title": "Resources for Incoming Exchange Students",
    "kind": "exchange",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "We are happy that you are interested in attending Vanderbilt University (VU) as an exchange student. Vanderbilt has established itself as one the  top 20 universities in the country  and one of the  top 100 in the world . VU offers undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, engineering",
    "content": "We are happy that you are interested in attending Vanderbilt University (VU) as an exchange student. Vanderbilt has established itself as one the  top 20 universities in the country  and one of the  top 100 in the world . VU offers undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, engineering, music, education, and human development. Vanderbilt is located in Nashville, Tennessee, home to a diverse population of 1.6 million. It is marked by a unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and small-town appeal. Nashville is an important  political, cultural, educational, and commercial hub  in the South, and is often referred to as “Music City.” The city has a rich musical history and hosts thousands of concerts each year in every conceivable genre.\nWe are certain your time at Vanderbilt and Nashville will prove to be a valuable and rewarding experience and a significant complement to your studies at your home institution.\nPlease  read the information on our website  and  meet with an advisor at your home school  to begin the application process. If, at any time, you have more specific questions that are not addressed on the website or by your home school advisor, please feel free to  contact our office .\nWe look forward to seeing you soon!\n\n## Program Overview\n\nVanderbilt’s incoming undergraduate exchange program is administered by Vanderbilt Study Abroad and hosted by Vanderbilt’s College of Arts and Science and School of Engineering. We welcome a small cohort of transient exchange students from the following partner institutions for semester and full academic year studies.\nOur Current Exchange Partners\n- City University of Hong Kong\n- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology\n- National University of Singapore\n- Politecnico di Torino\nTo apply for the undergraduate exchange program at Vanderbilt University,  students must be nominated  by one of Vanderbilt’s exchange partner institutions listed above. Degree-seeking international students should contact the  Office of Undergraduate Admissions .\n\n## Academics\n\nAccepted students will be admitted either to the  College of Arts and Science or  Vanderbilt School of Engineering , depending on the Exchange Agreement between Vanderbilt and the student’s home institution. Each student will be assigned an academic advisor to support their academic endeavors at Vanderbilt. Students may enroll in courses for which prerequisites are fulfilled and where seats are available. Students must also maintain a  full academic load  (12 to 18 US course credits) while at Vanderbilt. Please note: While the hosting schools will do their best to place students in the courses they selected, registration in all desired courses cannot be guaranteed.\nTo complement their studies at Vanderbilt, students whose first language or language of instruction is not English are required to attend one  English language course . This course is tuition-free and offered by the  English Language Center  after individual assessment of language level and needs.\nVanderbilt will not automatically provide a transcript to the student’s home institution at the end of the exchange term. Students must submit a  transcript request  to the Registrar’s Office before any official academic record can be shared.\nSee Vanderbilt’s  Undergraduate Course Catalog .\n\n## Programmatic Support\n\nThe  Incoming Exchange Coordinator  at Vanderbilt  Study Abroad works with Vanderbilt’s exchange partner institutions and their nominated incoming exchange students before, during, and after application. The Incoming Exchange Coordinator also provides administrative support for students after they arrive on campus. All incoming exchange students have access to the resources and support offered by Vanderbilt  International Student and Scholar Services . This includes issuance of immigration documents, international student orientation, and cultural activities and programming throughout the academic year.\n\n## Housing\n\nLiving on campus is integral to undergraduate education at Vanderbilt. Living with other students supports the academic experience, furthering personal growth and development. Incoming exchange students will be placed in one of Vanderbilt’s  on-campus residence halls  where space is available. Once accepted to Vanderbilt, the housing application will become available to students. Feel free to browse the  Housing and Residential Education website  to learn more about Vanderbilt’s residence halls and living-learning communities.\n\n## Application\n\n- Read the  Application Instructions .\n- Click the “Apply Now” button at the bottom of this page. You will be asked to create an account, then you may select the term for which you wish to apply.\n- Complete the application materials found on your account by the deadline.\nStudents:  Please check with your home institution for any additional requirements. Submit them to your home institution before your institutional deadline.\nHome institution:  Please notify Vanderbilt Study Abroad by email (attention: Incoming Exchange Coordinator) of the names of the students you have nominated for exchange. During the application process, you will be asked to sign the “Incoming Exchange Study Plan Proposal” form to verify the student’s eligibility with your institution.\n\n## Deadlines\n\nMarch 1  for fall semester and full academic year enrollment\nSeptember 1  for spring semester enrollment\n\nApply Now",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Office of Undergraduate Admissions",
        "url": "https://admissions.vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "College of Arts and Science",
        "url": "https://as.vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt School of Engineering",
        "url": "https://engineering.vanderbilt.edu",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "English Language Center",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/elc",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Undergraduate Course Catalog",
        "url": "http://www.vanderbilt.edu/catalogs/undergraduate/index.php",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Incoming Exchange Coordinator",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "International Student and Scholar Services",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/isss",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Housing and Residential Education website",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/resed",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Application Instructions",
        "url": "https://cdn.vanderbilt.edu/vu-URL/wp-content/uploads/sites/284/2024/07/31082848/Application-Instructions-1.pdf",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Apply Now",
        "url": "https://geo.vanderbilt.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Students.Apply&Program_ID=1521",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:23.681633+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/maymesters/",
    "slug": "maymesters",
    "title": "Maymesters & Summer Abroad Opportunities",
    "kind": "programs_index",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Summer Abroad programs through our partners vary in length and credit hours.",
    "content": "Partner-Led\n\n##\nSummer Abroad Programs\n\nSummer Abroad programs through our partners vary in length and credit hours.\nUse the Summer Term filter on our program search tool to view individual program details.\n\nSearch Summer Programs\n\nVanderbilt Faculty-Led\n\n##\nMaymesters\n\nMaymesters are regular Vanderbilt summer sessions (usually 3 credit hours) taught by Vanderbilt faculty in another country or another area of the United States, typically lasting 3 to 4 weeks in May.\nCourses are announced in the previous Fall. \n\nView Maymester Info\n\n## Costs and Scholarships\n\n## Program Fees\n\nFees vary by program and typically include Vanderbilt tuition, course-related transportation and lodging in the destination country, health insurance, and some meals. Airfare to the destination country, most meals, and costs of personal travel are generally not included in the program fee–but check individual program descriptions for specific details.\n\n## Financial Aid\n\nFinancial aid generally does not apply to Maymester/summer programs. The Global Summer Fellows (GSF) Program administered by Immersion Vanderbilt provides funding that can be used to offset the costs for students enrolling in Maymester programs. See the Immersion funding page for more details and eligibility information. GSF application is typically made available in November, around the same time that Maymester applications become available. \n\nSee Funding Options",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Summer Abroad Programs",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/program-search",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Maymesters",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/summer/summer-sessions",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Immersion funding page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/immersion/funding",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:15.300629+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach/",
    "slug": "outreach",
    "title": "Events & Outreach",
    "kind": "outreach",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Each semester, Study Abroad offers many ways to learn about study abroad across campus, including information sessions, open houses, and information fairs. Scroll down to see what we have coming up!",
    "content": "Each semester, Study Abroad offers many ways to learn about study abroad across campus, including information sessions, open houses, and information fairs. Scroll down to see what we have coming up!\nStudy Abroad also sends both student and staff representatives to other organizations’ events to talk about opportunities for study abroad. If you’d like us to come to your event, email us at  studyabroad@vanderbilt.edu . Please submit your request at least 7 days prior to your event. You can expect a response from us within 3 business days.\nIf you’d like to meet up with us during our regular office hours, or make an appointment with one of our advisors, check out our  Advising page .\n\n## Study Abroad Advising Drop-In Office Hours\n\nVirtual advising appointments are available throughout the summer via Handshake !\nDrop-in advising will resume in the Fall 2026 semester. \n\n## Study Abroad OverVUs\n\nLearn the basics of Vanderbilt study abroad and next steps!\nSummer Virtual OverVU schedule: \n- May 28, 12-1pm CST - Register for Zoom session here !\n- June 17, 11am-12pm CST - Register for Zoom session here!\n- July 20, 12-1pm CST -  Register for Zoom session here!\n- August 12, 12-1 PM CST - Register for Zoom session here!\n\n## FIE London Info Sessions\n\nCome learn about FIE London , a program Vanderbilt is newly partnered with! They offer Study, Study + Internship, and Study + Service Internship pathways.\n\n- Monday, May 18, 2-3pm CST - Register Here\n- Tuesday, June 23, 12-1pm CST - Register Here\n\n## Spain Info Sessions\n\nInterested in studying abroad in Spain? Whether you are a Spanish major hoping to finish requirements for your degree or interested in strengthening your Spanish language skills, come learn more about all Vanderbilt Approved Programs in Spain!\nJune 12th, 11-11:30am CST | Register Here\nJune 24th, 4-4:30pm CST | Register Here\nJuly 10th, 11-11:30am CST | Register Here\nJuly 24th, 4-4:30pm CST | Register Here\nAugust 14th, 11-11:30am CST| Register Here\n \n\n## American University of Paris Info Sessions\n\nInterested in studying abroad in France, but don't have any French language experience? Come learn more about the American University of Paris program! \nJuly 23rd, 11am CST | Register Here\nAugust 6, 3pm CST | Register Here\n\n## Study Abroad Fair\n\nSeptember 2, 2026\n2-4pm \nSave the date for our Study Abroad Fair!\nMore information coming soon.",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Advising page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Handshake",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.joinhandshake.com/edu/appointments/new",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register for Zoom session here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/1kiE1eAmQ8KluC0074NLgQ",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register for Zoom session here!",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/dTg0dtypRo6zG7TKtdIpIg",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register for Zoom session here!",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/7yREsUoFTRC6N8FKPadOlA",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register for Zoom session here!",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/o67Mn4sfTQqg-BMv4PbKAg",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "FIE London",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/programs/?program_id=10139",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/wPB0iPemQcW05p-cu5BciA",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/Yb_29rF6STmbseiLJiBvBw",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/68H-xnbnTKGmhesg_CO6Cw",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/ddRVBWMdRKCHXu_D8jYG3g",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/1B2a-WeLRvODCsKzzsW8Dw",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/t2-FGpQBS3qi-uvxZ-vGdg",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/di5CRcsiS3yPZvDgq0Z0tA",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/obG5OUSKSZ6KJMjquI8a3w",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Register Here",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.zoom.us/meeting/register/D5u14cNSQTiWVEZ0o8_yCA",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:24.705734+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach/photo-contest/",
    "slug": "photo-contest",
    "title": "Study Abroad Photo Contest",
    "kind": "other",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Photos are powerful tools for storytelling. Vanderbilt Study Abroad invites study abroad participants to submit photos from their time abroad to our Photo Contest and to share with the Vanderbilt community.",
    "content": "Photos are powerful tools for storytelling. Vanderbilt Study Abroad invites study abroad participants to submit photos from their time abroad to our Photo Contest and to share with the Vanderbilt community.\nThe  Fall 2025 Photo Contest is now open!\nStudy Abroad students as well as non-Study Abroad participants who completed other global immersion experiences during one of these terms are invited to submit photos:\n- Fall 2024\n- Spring 2025\n- Maymester 2025\n- Summer 2025\nPhoto submissions are accepted on a rolling basis until the  final deadline of August 1, 2025 .\nWinners will receive a prize as well as see their photos displayed at the Study Abroad Fair and in the Student Life Center. Student winners will have the option to claim their photo print at the end of the academic year!\nSubmit photos here: \nhttps://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=OX9aur7js0q0UGf6gPrsrX2wa1wYeNxDvvyBqrGFjcpUN0JESUg0TUlTTDNLTkE1SkRYOUEzRVg2UC4u\n \n\n## Past Winners\n\nCongratulations to the Fall 2024 Vanderbilt Study Abroad Photo Contest winners!  Their photos below creatively convey these students’ understanding and engagement with their host culture, connect artistic expression with learning, and provide new perspectives.\nCheck out the  Vanderbilt Study Abroad Flickr album for Photo Contest entries and winning photos from previous years. \n\n## Bikes Rule the Roads\n\n      \nChloe Whalen\nDIS Copenhagen, Fall 2024\nIn Copenhagen, bikes rule the roads. My study abroad friends and I took advantage of a sunny Saturday to explore the city and on our way to a bakery for some heavenly pastries, we decided to have a little fun with the limits of our bike-riding abilities!\n\n## Kloofing\n\nElla Parsons\nCIEE Open Campus (Copenhagen, Rome, Cape Town), Fall 2024\nWhen I was studying abroad in Cape Town, a group of us decided to go kloofing (hiking and cliff jumping in pools of water along a river gorge). It was one of the most strenuous things I did abroad but very well worth it. The many jumps were exhilarating and some towered as high as 40 feet. The hiking and canopy were unlike anything I had done before and the adventure was fun and exciting. The views were also incredible with rugged mountains and lush foliage.\n\n## Last Day Headstand\n\nRobert Diez\nIFSA New Zealand: University of Auckland, Fall 2024\nThis is a photo of my last afternoon in New Zealand. My friend Emelia and I had been practicing our headstands all semester—something that started as an inside joke to bring us closer together but quickly turned into a weekly routine. As our final 24 hours loomed, a group of us took the ferry to Waiheke Island—famous for its gorgeous beaches and slightly pricey sandwiches (they’re worth it). The day was full of laughter and exploration, and as the sun set, Emelia and I looked at each other and knew exactly what we had to do. Feet in the air, head on the ground—final view in the upside down!\n\n## Back to the Present\n\nShafa Abbas\nCIEE Open Campus (Copenhagen, Madrid, Cape Town), Fall 2024\nThis photo captures a quiet, early morning moment in Valencia. I had taken an overnight train with friends, arriving without sleep and regretting the decision to travel that weekend. But as I crossed the street, I stumbled upon this florist setting up her shop near the metro station. Her expert hands worked with such ease and rhythm, crafting bouquets with muscle memory honed over time. Watching her reminded me to pause and appreciate the beauty in the small, simple acts of daily life. Flower shops are a familiar sight near metro stations in Spain, but this one stood out—it brought me back to the present moment and transformed my entire day.\n\n## \"Christmas Capital of the North\"\n\nElisa Ajamian\nDIS Copenhagen, Fall 2024\nI took a train from Copenhagen, Denmark to Lübeck, Germany, known as the \"Christmas Capital of the North.\" There were probably 10 different Christmas markets in the small town! The Christmas markets all over Europe were a huge highlight of my fall study abroad experience, but the German ones were my favorite. I loved the busyness, carolers, warm food and drinks in the chilly air and all the lights! You can get anything from bratwursts and mulled wine to wood carvings, fur clothing, and ornaments. Northern Europe really goes all out for Christmas, starting in early November, and it was such a blessing to experience the activities and joy of the season.\n\n## Camel Ride\n\nMarques Watson\nCASA Sevilla, Fall 2024\nThis photo was taken alongside the beach in Tangier, Morocco. Studying in Sevilla, which is located in the south of Spain, made traveling to Morocco super easy. After taking a short one-hour ferry ride, we arrived in Tangier, where we had the opportunity to ride camels! While it felt like riding a horse, our guide had the camels start walking without warning, leading to a mixture of shock, fear, and excitement.\n\n## Tradition & Modernity\n\nDiego Lopez\nCIEE Madrid: Engineering + Society, Fall 2024\nDuring my semester abroad, I had the opportunity to travel all over Europe, immersing myself in a rich array of cultural experiences. On my final trip, I visited Paris, where I was lucky enough to capture a rare, quiet moment of the Eiffel Tower on a deserted street. The photo highlights not only the iconic French architecture but also the city’s vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. I’m honored that it was chosen as a winner of the Photo Contest, and I hope you enjoy it!",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=OX9aur7js0q0UGf6gPrsrX2wa1wYeNxDvvyBqrGFjcpUN0JESUg0TUlTTDNLTkE1SkRYOUEzRVg2UC4u",
        "url": "https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=OX9aur7js0q0UGf6gPrsrX2wa1wYeNxDvvyBqrGFjcpUN0JESUg0TUlTTDNLTkE1SkRYOUEzRVg2UC4u",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt Study Abroad Flickr album",
        "url": "https://www.flickr.com/photos/100718964@N02/albums/with/72157690783823470",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:25.974211+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/policies/",
    "slug": "policies",
    "title": "Study Abroad Policies",
    "kind": "policies",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "This page lists or links to policies that are specific to Vanderbilt-run or Vanderbilt-affiliated study abroad programs administered through Vanderbilt Study Abroad.",
    "content": "This page lists or links to policies that are specific to Vanderbilt-run or Vanderbilt-affiliated study abroad programs administered through Vanderbilt Study Abroad.\n\nEligibility and Participation\n\nStudents may study abroad any time after their first year at Vanderbilt. Studying abroad during senior year requires special approval from the student's home college/school and may delay graduation. Transfer students can apply to study abroad after completing their first semester at Vanderbilt. Study abroad programs are open to students in good academic, financial, and disciplinary standing, with an overall grade point average of 2.700 or better, or a grade point average at this level in each of the two most recent semesters. Many programs require a  higher grade point average and the student’s application must also be approved by the appropriate host university, institute, or consortium. Study abroad programs that are either managed or approved by Vanderbilt offer special Study Abroad/Away Credit toward the Vanderbilt degree. Hours earned through these programs and approved in advance by the appropriate department can serve to satisfy major and minor requirements as well as the residence requirement. Note that A&S AXLE credit is not awarded for study abroad courses, except for select Maymester courses.\nStudents studying on Vanderbilt programs or Vanderbilt-affiliated programs (i.e., programs offered through VU Study Abroad) for the academic year or semester are eligible for federal and VU financial aid. This includes merit scholarships but excludes work-study. All participants in these approved programs are billed through Vanderbilt Student Accounts and will pay Vanderbilt tuition. Students studying abroad will also be billed a program fee covering mandatory international health insurance and may also include housing, board, etc.\nStudy Abroad checks Vanderbilt students’ academic, disciplinary, and financial standing after applications are received, and again later in the semester or summer before the program start date. If students are not in good standing at either of these checks, Study Abroad will consult with the student’s academic dean and, if necessary, administratively withdraw the student from their program.\nEligibility also depends on completing all of the items required in the VU Study Abroad account, as well as requirements imposed by our on-campus and overseas partners. If required items are not completed, Vanderbilt Study Abroad staff may administratively withdraw students from their study abroad enrollments. Vanderbilt Study Abroad will provide at least two written warnings to the student’s Vanderbilt email address. The final warning will be copied to the office of the student’s academic dean. If requirements are not completed by the day specified in the final warning email, Vanderbilt Study Abroad will remove the student from the program. This withdrawal may have financial consequences, which will be the sole responsibility of the student.\nStudent's study abroad application, including application to the program partner provider, must represent the student's own work.\n\nRelease/Waiver\n\nEvery student who participates in a VU Study Abroad-sponsored study abroad program must (digitally) sign the Release, Indemnification, and Conditions of Participation form (Assumption of Risk, General Release, and Indemnification for Student Participation in Activity Outside the United States).\n\nAcademic Policy\n\nGrades earned while participating in a study abroad program are based on the student’s performance as judged by program instructors according to the host institution’s standard practices. Once reported to Vanderbilt, grades cannot be changed , except when amended via a newly issued transcript from the host institution.\nWhile studying abroad for a semester or a full academic year,  students are required to take the equivalent of 12 or more Vanderbilt credit hours each term . Underloading (bringing back fewer than 12 VU credit hours) will result in academic probation and may also jeopardize financial aid eligibility.\nIt is critical to understand that the Vanderbilt  course equivalency evaluation determines the number of credits awarded , so students need to consider the Vanderbilt credits earned for each individual course they take. Students who earn more than 18 Vanderbilt credit hours on a VU Study Abroad abroad program during a single semester will  not  pay a per-hour tuition surcharge.\nStudents must follow both the program provider’s and Vanderbilt’s academic requirements. For example, students must take the minimum number of credits required by the partner to be considered full-time and must also take the minimum required number of credits required by Vanderbilt.\nThere are some unique policies that apply to coursework taken overseas. These are university-wide policies and govern students in all four undergraduate colleges:\n- Classes  may not be taken as Pass/Fail on any study abroad program.\n- While abroad, a student may not retake a class  that they have taken on campus; that is, a course having the same Vanderbilt course number. Similarly, a student may  not retake a class on campus that they have taken abroad.\n- Individual courses taken abroad do not count towards College of Arts and Science AXLE  requirements.\n- VU students are not permitted to take online or hybrid courses while abroad. Students must take all coursework in-person. \n\nStudy Abroad Course Equivalency Review Policy\n\nVanderbilt’s University Registrar governs the policies and processes related to faculty review of study abroad courses. All courses taken abroad in person or remotely must be evaluated by Vanderbilt faculty before the transcript from that term can be articulated to the student’s Vanderbilt record. See the University’s website related to Study Abroad Course Review  for more information.\nInstitutions abroad have their own customary schedules for reporting grades and producing transcripts. Vanderbilt has no control over this process, which may take up to six months in extreme cases. Vanderbilt’s University Registrar will work as quickly as possible to process your Vanderbilt transcript, but only the host institution can expedite the reporting of your grades to VU.\nVanderbilt translates grades from a number of institutions’ local scales. Where this is the case, prior to enrollment in international program courses, students will be provided with Vanderbilt’s official grade conversion for the host institution. Vanderbilt will use this scale to articulate  all grades  from the host institution, regardless of the subject area or language of instruction.\n\nCommitment Policy\n\nStudents must commit to attending their chosen study abroad program by the Withdrawal Deadline specified in the instructions in the Vanderbilt Study Abroad online account . Students should be sure to withdraw applications to other programs before committing to their chosen program.\nCommitment enables Vanderbilt and Study Abroad to register the student and to bill the student account for tuition and fees associated with the chosen study abroad program. Commitment also entails the acceptance of the Withdrawal Policy (see below). Note that signing commitment paperwork with one of our partners may also create a direct financial relationship between the student and that partner.\nVanderbilt Study Abroad may administratively withdraw the applications of students who fail to commit by the Withdrawal Deadline; see section on Withdrawal Policy below.\n\nWithdrawal Policy\n\nStudents are expected to complete all credits in which they are enrolled at the start of the program, and all students on semester-long programs must take a full, normal academic load as defined in the University  Enrollment Bulletin . Under no circumstances will students receive a partial tuition refund for study abroad if they “drop” courses, modify their enrollment status, or otherwise elect to complete fewer credits than originally undertaken.\nStudents withdrawing from study abroad programs will be responsible for any fees associated with the program, including nonrefundable deposits and application fees. In cases where Vanderbilt Study Abroad does not itself charge withdrawal fees, it is possible to incur such fees in cases where the student has made a commitment agreement with one of our on-campus or external partners.\nStudents are responsible for properly communicating their decision to withdraw with  both  Vanderbilt Study Abroad and our program partners (if applicable). See the sections below for instructions for specific types of programs.\nStudents may be withdrawn administratively by Vanderbilt for reasons including, but not limited to:\n- Failure to complete pre-departure requirements assigned by Vanderbilt Study Abroad, other Vanderbilt offices, or by our international partners; this includes failure to commit to attending the program.\n- Failure to maintain good academic, disciplinary, or financial standing at Vanderbilt.\n- Failure to appear at the study away site on the program’s designated arrival date, including in cases where the student was unable to secure necessary visas, passports, or other travel requirements.\nWithdrawal and refund policies remain the same regardless of the reason for withdrawal. Students who intend to withdraw from a program but fail to notify Vanderbilt Study Abroad and our program partners (if applicable) may not retroactively date their withdrawal.\nNon-refundable costs will be charged to the Vanderbilt student account and are due upon receipt.\nVanderbilt is not responsible for indirect costs or fees, which have been paid directly by the student; such costs might include (but are not limited to) airfare, passport or visa fees, vaccinations, and housing deposits. Where applicable, students are encouraged to purchase trip cancellation insurance to help defray such costs and are further advised to read the policy’s exclusions and requirements carefully before purchase.\nStudents who withdraw from program s  after the  Vanderbilt  academic term   has begun may  not be able to  return to  enroll in  Vanderbilt coursework.  In that case, there may be impacts related to financial aid,  academic progress, and ,  for international students, immigration status. Students  contemplating withdrawal after the Vanderbilt term begins are strongly advised to contact the  deans  office of their undergraduate college, the Office of  Student  Financial Aid  and Scholarships ,  and International Student and Scholar Services as appropriate to inquire about potential consequences. Students should be aware that  a n associate dean in their school  must  approve any  leave of  absence , and  should check with their college for any regulations governing leaves of absence and return from leave, including timeline s and procedures  for returning from leaves of  absence.  \n\nWithdrawal from Vanderbilt Partner Programs\n\nVanderbilt partners with a number of institutions and organizations to make study abroad programs available to our students. Withdrawal from partner programs is subject to the refund policy of the partner institution.\nStudents are responsible for properly communicating their decision to withdraw. To withdraw from a partner program, students must communicate their withdrawal to  both   Vanderbilt Study Abroad   and  to the partner administering the program.\nStudents may enter into their own contracts with Vanderbilt’s partners that supersede Vanderbilt Study Abroad's published Withdrawal Deadline. For example, the CIEE Participant Contract, the IES Intent to Enroll form, the DIS Terms and Conditions, and the Conditions & Terms of CET Academic Programs form are direct contracts with those providers, and students who complete one of these or similar forms are still responsible for the partner’s assessed withdrawal fees regardless of when they withdraw.\n\nWithdrawal from Vanderbilt-Administered Programs\n\nVanderbilt-administered study away programs offered through Vanderbilt Study Abroad–Maymester courses away from campus—have their own refund policies. Generally speaking, any expenses incurred on a student’s behalf once the student has committed to the program will be the student’s responsibility and charged to the Vanderbilt student account.\nStudents are responsible for properly communicating their decision to withdraw. To withdraw from a Vanderbilt-administered program, students must communicate their withdrawal in writing to  Vanderbilt Study Abroad . In the case of faculty-led courses, students must also inform the faculty leader and the  Vanderbilt Summer School .\nFurther information on the Summer School’s policies can be found here:  Maymester Commitment and Withdrawal Policy .\n\nWithdrawal After the Program Begins\n\nThe University’s on-campus tuition refund schedule does not apply to students studying abroad programs. Students who fully withdraw from a Vanderbilt-administered or partner program after the program begins, or before they have begun coursework, may  be entitled to a refund of Vanderbilt tuition, or the amount of tuition charges remaining after all fees owed to program partners under the terms of individual student agreements are paid in full. Students who elect to “drop” courses, modify their enrollment status, or otherwise take partial credit for the term are not eligible for a partial tuition refund. The University encourages all students, including study abroad students, to consider tuition insurance. Students who are dismissed from a study abroad program may  be eligible for tuition refund but are not exempted from paying fees owed to partner organizations.\nWithdrawing after your program begins may impact financial aid. See the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships for more information on the  financial aid impact of withdrawal .\n\nSummary of Billing Policies\n\n- Students enrolled in affiliated study abroad programs will be billed and charged through their Vanderbilt Student Account.\n- The tuition refund schedules published by the Office of Student Accounts  do not apply to study abroad programs ; they do, however, apply to Vanderbilt Maymester courses.  Review Office of Student Accounts policies .\n- Withdrawal from partner programs is subject to the refund policy of the partner institution, or of the Vanderbilt college administering the program. Students who withdraw from study abroad programs after having committed will be responsible for any nonrefundable fees associated with the program, including but not limited to nonrefundable deposits and application fees. Nonrefundable costs will be charged to the Vanderbilt student account and are due upon receipt.\n- Students who fail to maintain eligibility to study abroad will be administratively withdrawn. Students’ responsibility for nonrefundable costs is not affected by the manner or cause of withdrawal.\n- Students may commit to attending study abroad programs in multiple ways, any of which will also commit the student to paying nonrecoverable costs. Students may click on the Commit button in their online Vanderbilt Study Abroad account, communicate their commitment to Vanderbilt Study Abroad in writing, or they may electronically or physically sign commitment or intent-to-enroll paperwork with Vanderbilt Study Abroad’s partners.\n- In all cases, without exception, Vanderbilt students studying abroad are required to undertake a  full-time course load  or, in the summer, are enrolled in a specific number of anticipated credit hours. Partial tuition refunds will not be granted when, for any reason, students complete fewer credits than originally undertaken.\n- The Vanderbilt-issued mandatory international health insurance is not refundable after the start date of the study abroad program.\n- Students should read the full Commitment and Withdrawal Policies above thoroughly.\n\nConduct Policies\n\nAll guidelines and regulations provided in the Vanderbilt Student Handbook apply to students while they are studying abroad. There is also a special section of the Handbook that includes regulations that apply specifically to study abroad .\n\nFinances and Credit Policy\n\nVanderbilt University (VU) study abroad programs and Vanderbilt-affiliated study abroad programs are administered through Vanderbilt Study Abroad.\nThese programs are available to students for the academic year, fall/spring semester, summer, or Maymester. VU believes that study abroad is an integral part of the undergraduate experience and encourages all students, regardless of major, to pursue a study abroad program that is well-suited to their area of study and academic interests.\nVU students participating in these study abroad programs:\n- Receive Vanderbilt Study Abroad/Away Credit;\n- May utilize full financial aid and/or VU scholarships while abroad, excepting work study awards;\n- Remain fully registered at VU while abroad, allowing them to register while abroad for courses and housing for the semester they return to campus.\nAs a result, students pay regular VU tuition for participation in VU study abroad programs. Students are charged VU tuition each term they are enrolled, whether they are on campus or overseas. This tuition payment is equivalent to the cost of a term on campus. If the academic expenses for a semester abroad exceed the cost of tuition at Vanderbilt, the difference will be billed as part of the program fee. Students are responsible to Vanderbilt’s partners for other expenses, including housing; wherever possible, however, Vanderbilt will attempt to simplify payment by billing these expenses through a program fee to the VU student account.\nIn addition to the above, VU students receive administrative support throughout the study abroad process, including but not limited to: advising on all VU approved programs, application management and assistance, transfer and processing of grades/credits, pre-departure orientations, information sessions and fairs, course equivalency evaluations, and reentry programming.\nThis arrangement was established to afford all VU students with an equal opportunity to participate in study abroad programs.\n\nHousing Policy\n\nTo experience the full nature of a study abroad program, and consistent with the spirit of the Vanderbilt University Residential Requirement, Vanderbilt students are required to live in program-arranged housing. Program housing has been vetted by the program administrators (host university or third-party program provider) to meet standards established for the well-being of students, including the following areas.\n- Program & Emergency Support\n- Building Security\n- Cultural Engagement\n- Housing Contracts & Related Legal Matters\n- Neighborhood\n- Maintenance\n- Accessibility\nProgram housing options may include homestays, student residences, shared apartments, or other accommodations selected to support your learning objectives and well-being abroad. Commute times vary and can be up to 75 minutes between program housing and classes. Program housing can also vary according to local conditions and the design of the program. This can include, but is not limited to, differences in size, location, dining, and other qualities or amenities. \nIndependent Housing\nSecuring independent housing carries potential risks, including but not limited to:\n- Inability to secure housing for the entire duration abroad\n- Financial insecurity\n- Neighborhood and building safety\n- Personal safety and health\n- Quality of accommodations\nDue to the risks involved, Vanderbilt Study Abroad does not permit independent housing. Vanderbilt Study Abroad will consider exceptions to the program housing requirement only in the following circumstances:\n- The student is married. Married students are permitted to live with their spouse and will need to demonstrate a copy of their marriage certificate.\n- The student will be living with a family member who is a permanent legal resident of the host country, lives in the program city, and has agreed to the financial and wellbeing responsibilities of providing temporary guardianship during the study abroad program. The family member must provide a statement of responsibility for housing and supporting the student throughout the semester and must verify that they will be living with the student in their permanent home.\n- The student has accommodation needs (including but not limited to medical, dietary, and religious accommodations) that the program staff confirms cannot be met reasonably through their housing. Students must work with Vanderbilt’s Student Access office to provide appropriate documentation.\n- The program does not provide housing. In rare cases, a program is designed only with independent housing. Vanderbilt Study Abroad will notify students proactively if this is the case.\nStudents should contact their Vanderbilt study abroad advisor to discuss exceptions to program housing. The request should include a detailed explanation of which of the above  exception categories applies and relevant supporting documentation. All exception requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Approval is not guaranteed and will be granted only when the exception serves the student's educational goals and wellbeing while maintaining appropriate safety and support structures. Students seeking an exception to program housing must also receive authorization from their program.\nStudents who receive approval for an exception must complete and sign a housing waiver form. Students must also acknowledge that their initial Vanderbilt bill will include the program housing charge even though they are living independently. Students and/or their payor are responsible for timely payment of their Student Account charges. Vanderbilt will issue a housing refund to the student's account only after receiving the program invoice confirming the housing refund from the program, which may be a few months into the study abroad semester.\n\nAccommodations Policy\n\nStudents who have registered with the  Student Access Services office (SAS) to receive academic, physical, or other accommodations at Vanderbilt may seek similar accommodations for their abroad programs. While Vanderbilt Study Abroad can and will advise students, it is the student’s responsibility to consult with the EAD and appropriately communicate requested accommodations to overseas partners.\nLaws in other countries regarding required or reasonable accommodations often differ from what is mandated by law in the United States, and not all requests will be met exactly as Vanderbilt meets them. Vanderbilt is not able to advocate or intervene on the student’s behalf to secure specific accommodations. Students are encouraged to request accommodations early so that they can understand the accommodations plan before committing irrevocably to the program.\n\nHealth Insurance Policy\n\nAll students who study abroad on VU Study Abroad-facilitated programs will be enrolled in Vanderbilt’s international health insurance plan. Coverage is mandatory and cannot be waived. The cost is covered as part of the program fee. ( More information about GeoBlue coverage .)\nSome of Vanderbilt’s partners will also provide students with additional health insurance that they makes it easier for them to facilitate care. In addition, some institutions or countries may also require that students independently purchase additional insurance. These situations are specific to the program/country of study. In no case will the existence of these other obligations waive the need to purchase Vanderbilt’s international health insurance.\n\nStudent Records Confidentiality\n\nThe private information of Vanderbilt students is protected under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). FERPA regulates Vanderbilt’s ability to share students’ private information, including program participation, grades, student status, and health details.  More information about FERPA .\n\nStudy Elsewhere\n\nOther study abroad programs  may  be approved for transfer credit by the dean’s office of the student’s college/school. It should be noted, however, that if a program has been approved for direct credit by Vanderbilt, it must be taken for direct credit by matriculated Vanderbilt students. In no case, after matriculating at Vanderbilt, may a student apply to participate in an approved direct-credit program for transfer credit through a different university, or through an external agency, and then seek to transfer that credit into Vanderbilt. You may contact us at  studyabroad@vanderbilt.edu  for more information.\nStudents who withdraw after the Vanderbilt fall or spring term begins may not be able to return to campus for coursework. This can affect financial aid, academic progress, and/or immigration status, and students should consult the relevant offices to ensure they understand the potential consequences (more information under Withdrawal Policy above). Students who do not earn course credit due to withdrawal or dismissal during the fall or spring should expect to take a leave of absence from Vanderbilt, and should be aware that college-specific regulations dictate the approval of, and procedures for, returning from leave of absence.\nThe grades assigned by the study abroad partner after a withdrawal or dismissal will be recorded on the student's Vanderbilt transcript.",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Study Abroad Course Review",
        "url": "https://registrar.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "online account",
        "url": "https://geo.vanderbilt.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Security.LoginWizardStepOne",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Enrollment Bulletin",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/enrollmentbulletin/academic-regulations/academic-loads",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Maymester Commitment and Withdrawal Policy",
        "url": "http://www.vanderbilt.edu/summer/maysession/abroad-listings.php",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "financial aid impact of withdrawal",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/financialaid/withdrawals.php",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Review Office of Student Accounts policies",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/stuaccts",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "regulations that apply specifically to study abroad",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/student_handbook/university-policies-and-regulations",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "study abroad advisor",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/advising",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Student Access Services office (SAS)",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/student-access",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "More information about GeoBlue coverage",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/safety-health-resources",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "More information about FERPA",
        "url": "https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:13.167292+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/program-search/",
    "slug": "program-search",
    "title": "Program Search",
    "kind": "programs_index",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "",
    "content": "Search\n\nCountry\n\nAcademic Term\n\nAny\nCalendar Year\nFall\nFall NYC\nFull Academic Year\nMaymester\nSpring\nSummer\n\nArea of Study\n\nProgram Type\n\nAny\nDirect University Enrollment\nFaculty-led\nRemote/Virtual\nStudy Center\nStudy Center/University Hybrid\n\nLanguage Prerequisite\n\n-->\n\nExperiential Opportunities\n\nAny\nInternship\nResearch\nService Learning\n\nAcademic Calendar\n\nAny\nExtends into Summer Months\nSame as VU Nashville Campus\nSummer",
    "links": [],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:16.454270+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/resources-for-alum/",
    "slug": "resources-for-alum",
    "title": "Resources for Study Abroad Alum",
    "kind": "resources",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Your study abroad experience can continue to impact you as you move forward in life. Below are some resources related to study abroad re-entry and continuing your intercultural learning.",
    "content": "Your study abroad experience can continue to impact you as you move forward in life. Below are some resources related to study abroad re-entry and continuing your intercultural learning.\n\nRe-Entry Adjustment\n\n- Learn more about  re-entry stages  and practice self-care: stay active, lower social media intake, allow yourself to grieve\n- Seek support from family, friends, faculty, RAs, your study abroad advisor, and/or professional resources such as the  University Counseling Center  to navigate readjustment\n- Plug into the international community in Nashville through  local organizations ,  food , and  film\n- Write your memories  of studying abroad\n\nStay involved with Vanderbilt Study Abroad\n\n- Participate in the  Annual Photo Contest  to share your study abroad photos with the VU community\n- Sign up to be a featured study abroad alumni  to mentor prospective study abroad students\n- Attend  mixer events  to connect with the study abroad community at VU\n\nCareer and Professional Development\n\n- Connect with the  Career Center  to update your resume and discuss how to leverage your study abroad experiences during interviews\n- Apply for a Teaching English as a Foreign Language Internship  \n- Share your global learnings with the VU community at  World on Wednesdays ,  Undergraduate Research Fair ,  Immersion Showcases , etc.\n\nReturn Abroad\n\n- Study abroad again  at Vanderbilt before you graduate\n- Apply for the  Keegan Travel Fellowship  to travel around the world after you graduate\n- Explore other  Fellowship options , including Fulbright, through the Career Center\n- Meet with a  Career Coach  to discuss interning or working abroad\n\nContinue Your Global Engagement and Learning\n\n- Help support international students at VU by becoming an  iLead International Orientation Leader\n- Connect with visiting educators from around the world by getting involved in Peabody’s  Humphrey Fellowship program\n- Stay up to date on  global news\n- Continue your foreign language learning with VU’s  Center for Second Language Studies\n- Enroll in  courses  that help you build on your new interests and passions\n- Explore  global research  opportunities at VU",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "re-entry stages",
        "url": "https://www.iesabroad.org/study-abroad/alumni/re-entry",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "University Counseling Center",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/ucc",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "local organizations",
        "url": "https://www.nashvillechamber.com/economic-development/international-business/international-organizations",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "film",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/internationallens",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Write your memories",
        "url": "https://dayoneapp.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Annual Photo Contest",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach/photo-contest",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Sign up to be a featured study abroad alumni",
        "url": "https://forms.gle/wLYEsEuE4XCkZqfTA",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "mixer events",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/outreach",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Career Center",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/career",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Teaching English as a Foreign Language Internship",
        "url": "https://www.theteflacademy.com/blog/what-is-a-tefl-internship-abroad",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "World on Wednesdays",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/isss/activities-events/world-on-wednesdays-wow",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Undergraduate Research Fair",
        "url": "https://my.vanderbilt.edu/researchfair",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Immersion Showcases",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/immersion/showcases-and-fairs",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Study abroad again",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/program-search",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Keegan Travel Fellowship",
        "url": "https://www.keegantravelingfellowship.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Fellowship options",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/career/fellowships/what-are-fellowships",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Career Coach",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.joinhandshake.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "iLead International Orientation Leader",
        "url": "https://anchorlink.vanderbilt.edu/organization/ilead",
        "kind": "events"
      },
      {
        "text": "Humphrey Fellowship program",
        "url": "https://peabody.vanderbilt.edu/admin-offices/international-affairs/hubert_h_humphrey_fellowship_program",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "global news",
        "url": "https://blog.feedspot.com/world_news_blogs",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Center for Second Language Studies",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/csls/tutoring_hrs.php",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "courses",
        "url": "https://acad.app.vanderbilt.edu/student-search/search",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "global research",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/global-discovery",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:22.501246+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/resources-for-families/",
    "slug": "resources-for-families",
    "title": "Resources for Families",
    "kind": "resources",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "strengths",
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "A semester living and learning abroad is often one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences of a student’s academic career. Students return with a deeper appreciation both of the world around them and their life at home. Students can also gain a number of skills from study abroad which can b",
    "content": "## The Benefits of Study Abroad\n\nA semester living and learning abroad is often one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences of a student’s academic career. Students return with a deeper appreciation both of the world around them and their life at home. Students can also gain a number of skills from study abroad which can be useful in their personal and professional lives. These include adaptability, flexibility, cultural sensitivity, open-mindedness, self-confidence, and communication skills. These and other skills gained from study abroad are among the most sought-after by employers, making study abroad a smart move for career development. Pro tip: Encourage your student to work with a  Career Center coach on strategies for talking about their study abroad experiences with employers.\nOne of the potential benefits for students who study abroad is an  increased level of resilience.  As with any impactful experience that results in personal growth,  uncertainties and challenges are to be expected  for even the most accomplished students and seasoned travelers. These challenges and setbacks are  catalysts for growth , and students will learn best when they can confront issues on their own and find their own creative solutions to the difficulties they face. Unless you believe the safety and security of your student is threatened, we recommend that you encourage your student to solve problems on their own, while providing appropriate emotional support.\n\n## Practical Information\n\nYour student’s study abroad experience will unfold through several key phases beginning up to 12 months prior to their intended term abroad:\n- Planning\n- Application\n- Program commitment and conditions for withdrawal\n- Pre-departure orientation\n- Arrival on site\n- Time abroad\n- Returning home\nVanderbilt's Study Abroad staff is here to provide information, guidance, appropriate support, and resources during every phase of your student’s study abroad journey. Please encourage them to communicate with us.\nInformation will be communicated directly to students, so we encourage you to maintain open dialogue with your student about your questions and expectations.  \n\n## Travel Health Considerations\n\nParents are an excellent resource to encourage students to take care of vaccinations and to address any additional medical concerns earlier in the process versus closer to deadlines.\nVanderbilt Study Abroad encourages students to disclose health information/conditions to their program staff.  Disclosure ensures that program staff are prepared in advance to support the student, both day-to-day and in the event the student is incapacitated.\nInternational Health Insurance  is required for students traveling abroad.\nAll Vanderbilt travelers should seek out a  travel health consultation.  The Vanderbilt Student Health Center provides students with  Travel Consultation appointments  to ensure that students understand any health risks of their travel destination, as well as providing vaccinations and the potential to discuss a care plan for ongoing conditions. Students should plan to book their appointment at Student Health  as soon as possible.  There is a rush on appointments toward the middle and latter part of each semester.\n\n## How Vanderbilt Study Abroad Communicates with Families\n\nVanderbilt Study Abroad recognizes the important roles parents and families play in students’ lives and education. We are happy to speak to parents and family to answer questions pertaining to the study abroad process. Vanderbilt Study Abroad always places students at the center of our resources and services, and we view students’ ownership of the logistical preparation for study abroad as an important part of their growth experience. To maintain a student-centered approach, our communication with parents and families will be guided by the following principles:\n- The  Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) limits Vanderbilt and Study Abroad staff in our ability to give out private information regarding students, including grades, program participation, student status, health details, and other information. While we cannot reveal information about students, we can discuss our programs and logistics in detail. You may also review the Registrar's Office's FERPA FAQ for Parents .\n- We believe that the student has a right to know of any discussions about their study abroad. Unless the student’s safety is in jeopardy, Vanderbilt Study Abroad cannot honor requests to conceal the content of conversations with family members from the student.\n- Except in cases where it might jeopardize a student’s health or well-being, the student will always be copied on email responses addressed to family members, including email follow-up to phone calls from family members.\n- Vanderbilt Study Abroad does not engage in extended discussions with anonymous callers.\nOnce a student has been accepted into a program, we ask that they designate an  emergency contact. Vanderbilt Study Abroad will notify the emergency contact in the following cases:\n- The student is unable to speak for themselves\n- The student has been missing for more than 24 hours\n- The student is perceived to be a danger to themselves or others\n- There is a significant health, safety, or security incident affecting the study abroad program (e.g. civil unrest, mass violence, extreme weather, etc.)\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions\n\nWhat and how will my student be billed for their study abroad?\n\nYour student will be billed for Vanderbilt tuition and a program fee. You can see the estimated costs on our  Budget Sheets page . Note that the Program Fee charged by Vanderbilt always reflects what is billed to us by our partners, and  so the fee highlighted on our Budget Sheets page is always an estimate . Most program budget sheets include a link to the partner's most recently published costs which can be used to double-check costs. The Program Fee also includes Vanderbilt-issued mandatory international health insurance.\nStudents are billed through the Vanderbilt student account at the same time they are usually billed each semester. Billing delays can occasionally take place if a student has not completed requirements in their Vanderbilt Study Abroad application, or if there is a hold preventing their registration.\nMore information on study abroad finances\n\nWill my student’s financial aid apply to their program abroad?\n\nYes! All standard need- and merit-based financial aid will be automatically applied to a student's semester abroad, with the exception of work study. If the total estimated cost of a program abroad (see the program's  budget sheet ) is greater than the cost of staying at Vanderbilt, aid can usually be augmented to compensate. Students can request a review of their aid through the Office of Student Financial Aid.\nStudents who do not currently receive aid are also welcome to  request a review  from the Office of Student Financial Aid to discuss options.\nMore about funding for study abroad\n\nWhere will my student live?\n\nMost programs, with the exception of exchange programs, include housing arranged for your student. To simplify payment and the application of need- and merit-based aid, Vanderbilt bills this housing as the Vanderbilt Program Fee where feasible. In some cases, students will pay housing directly to the program (e.g., AUP, CIEE Open Campus, etc.). The type of housing (homestay, dormitory, apartment) will depend on the program. Please refer to the program partner's website for this information, as well as program dates and other helpful details.\nSome programs offer multiple housing options, and certain options may involve an upcharge. Vanderbilt's estimated cost for the program always reflects the lowest-cost housing option. If your student is placed in housing that is more expensive, our partner will bill you directly.\nVanderbilt  policy  requires that students live in program housing wherever available.\n\nWill my student be covered by health insurance?\n\nWithout exception, students traveling on Vanderbilt Study Abroad programs will be covered by Vanderbilt's international health insurance between the start and end dates of their program. Vanderbilt Study Abroad will enroll your student, so there is no need for any action on their part. Students will receive their insurance card via their Vanderbilt email account.\nStudents need to maintain their domestic health coverage while they are abroad, to prevent lapse in coverage and to ensure that they can access care should they need to return home.\nMore information on Vanderbilt's international health insurance\n\nDoes my student need a travel visa?\n\nDepending on the country your student is traveling to and the agreements between that country and your student's home country, a visa may or may not be required. If a visa is required for entry, students will receive detailed visa instructions from Vanderbilt's program partner or from a Vanderbilt Study Abroad advisor. Visa applications often request financial information, a copy of roundtrip flight ticketed itinerary, and may also require an in-person interview at the relevant consulate. Students should read through all provided instructions carefully before beginning the application process. International students should also plan to meet with their ISSS advisor during the application process. While program partners and Vanderbilt Study Abroad may help students come to grips with the visa process, students are ultimately responsible for procuring their own visa in order to study abroad.\nIt is important to note that in some cases, students may need to secure a residence permit to live in their host country. This generally happens after the student arrives in country.\n\nWhat about my student’s safety?\n\nVanderbilt offers comprehensive safety support for students abroad, including 24/7 assistance in times of crisis or emergency. Find more information on our  Safety and Security page .",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Career Center",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.edu/career",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "International Health Insurance",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/safety-health-resources",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Travel Consultation appointments",
        "url": "https://www.vumc.org/student-health/travel-medicine",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act",
        "url": "https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/ferpa",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "FERPA FAQ for Parents",
        "url": "https://registrar.vanderbilt.edu/ferpa/faq-for-parents.php",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Budget Sheets page",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/budgets",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "More information on study abroad finances",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/finances",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "request a review",
        "url": "https://forms.vanderbilt.edu/view.php?id=840651",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "policy",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/policies",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:21.361576+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/safety-health-resources/",
    "slug": "safety-health-resources",
    "title": "Resources for Travel Safety & Health",
    "kind": "safety",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "The Global Safety and Health Manager heads Vanderbilt Incident Response for Travel (VIRT), a team dedicated to providing round-the-clock safety-related guidance and assistance for members of the Vanderbilt community who are away on VU-related travel. VIRT works to implement cross-campus procedures t",
    "content": "VIRT\n\nThe Global Safety and Health Manager heads Vanderbilt Incident Response for Travel (VIRT), a team dedicated to providing round-the-clock safety-related guidance and assistance for members of the Vanderbilt community who are away on VU-related travel. VIRT works to implement cross-campus procedures to ensure an effective and consistent response to any VU travel emergency. VIRT can be reached any time of the day or night at  +1 615-322-2745 , or on a non-emergency basis at  virt@vanderbilt.edu .\nLearn more about VIRT.\n\nVanderbilt Travel Risk Assessment Committee\n\nThe Vanderbilt Travel Risk Assessment Committee (VTRAC) reviews travel when there is a significant health or safety concern. In order to travel to areas of concern, university members must apply for restricted travel destination exemption through VTRAC.\nLearn more about VTRAC and how to apply\n\nSafety & Health\n\nAll international travelers at Vanderbilt should make the following three health- and safety-related preparations before leaving Vanderbilt:\n- Ensure you have coverage from Vanderbilt’s  international health insurance ;\n- Arrange for a  travel health consultation  with a medical provider;\n- Make sure your travel is registered with Vanderbilt’s  travel assistance  Faculty, staff, and students making flight arrangements through the university’s travel agency are automatically enrolled.\nIt is also highly recommended that you register with the embassy of your host country. US citizens will register with the Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .\nStudents, including graduate and professional students, who are traveling abroad independently are required to  register their travel , a process which includes purchasing Vanderbilt-approved international health insurance and registering travel with the university’s travel assistance partner. (Students studying abroad through Vanderbilt Study Abroad are automatically registered.)\n\nInternational Health Insurance\n\nThe Office of Risk Management, in partnership with Vanderbilt Study Abroad and other offices on campus, has selected a robust, comprehensive, and low-cost international health insurance plan for Vanderbilt community members. This plan is available to any Vanderbilt traveler who goes outside of the United States for education-related purposes, and is  required for all students  (see  policy ).\nVanderbilt’s international health insurance plan is  more comprehensive than most plans  and includes coverage for mandatory evacuation, preexisting conditions, and mental health and substance abuse treatment. Unlike many international insurance plans, it also covers injuries that involve substance use. Very few US health insurance plans offer coverage overseas at this level. For coverage details, refer to the  Description of Coverage , while the  Member Guide  provides an overview of services and how to access them.\nThis international health plan does not, however, cover any services within the United States, so  travelers must maintain their stateside insurance .\nStudents who study abroad on Vanderbilt Study Abroad programs, including Maymester Abroad courses, will be enrolled in Vanderbilt’s insurance for the duration of their abroad programs (i.e., between the posted start and end dates of the program).  All other travelers will enroll themselves.\nInstructions for Self-Enrollment\nIn order to ensure that all students are adequately covered overseas, and to further ensure that Vanderbilt can effectively aid students in the event of critical need, all students are  required  to carry Vanderbilt’s international health insurance. (Students who study abroad through  Vanderbilt Study Abroad will be automatically enrolled and do not need to take any action.) Faculty and staff are welcome to enroll, and GeoBlue is a reimbursable expense.\nHow to Purchase\nYou will purchase your insurance as part of Vanderbilt’s group plan. Go to the  Enroll in a Group Plan  page, then enter the Group Access Code  KXP-37915  in the box provided and submit.\nYou will be guided through the process of signing up for coverage. The minimum enrollment time is two weeks.\nOnce eligible participants receive their Medical Insurance ID card from GeoBlue, they should visit  geobluestudents.com  and, using the certificate number on the front of the card, sign in to the site for comprehensive information and services relating to this plan. Participants can track claims, search for a doctor, view plan information, download claim forms and read health and security information.\nDetailed information on eligibility requirements, period of coverage, and details of coverage can be found in the  Description of Coverage .\nWhat to Do If You Need Help\nThe  GeoBlue Member Guide  has information on how to find a provider, submit claims, request payment and more. If you need help, you can contact Vanderbilt Incident Response for Travel: In an emergency, dial  +1 615-322-2745  and tell the Public Safety dispatcher that you are calling for VIRT. In a non-emergency situation, email  virt@vanderbilt.edu .\n\nTravel Health Consultation\n\nAll Vanderbilt travelers should seek out a travel health consultation. Students as well as faculty and staff have low-cost options available on campus; see below. Students and faculty are also free to use their own clinicians.\nTravel consultation appointments should be made at least  4-6 weeks in advance  of the departure date, in order to allow any vaccinations time to take effect. Some vaccines may require a series of shots, so it is important to allow enough time for series completion.\nWe also recommend reading the Centers for Disease Control’s information and guidelines for the country you plan to study or visit. Search for a destination at the CDC  website .\nStudents\nThe  Vanderbilt Student Health Center  provides students with Travel Consultation appointments to ensure that students understand health risks of their travel destination, as well as providing a physical and helping students to construct a care plan for managing health away from home. This appointment is a particularly good opportunity to discuss medication plans, including questions such as whether needed medications are available overseas, whether they can be carried with you, what their equivalents in other countries might be, and so on.\nStudents should plan to book their appointment at Student Health as soon as possible. Due to the high rate of study abroad at Vanderbilt, there is a rush on appointments toward the middle and latter part of each semester.\nStaff and Faculty\nVanderbilt Occupational Health Clinic  provides pre-travel consultations for faculty and staff. These visits help travelers prepare a customized health care plan, providing destination-specific vaccinations and prescription medications, a medical travel kit, and health and safety advice. Vanderbilt Occupational Health Clinic services are offered without cost to Vanderbilt faculty and staff traveling on Vanderbilt business. For those not traveling on Vanderbilt business, equivalent services are available through the  Vanderbilt Travel Clinic .\n\nTravel Assistance\n\nFaculty and staff who book travel with the University’s travel agency (as required by  university policy ) are automatically registered with our International Security Provider, Anvil. Students who study abroad through the Vanderbilt are also automatically registered. All other travelers must contact the  Global Safety and Health  for assistance.\n\n## Study Abroad\n\nVanderbilt takes care to minimize the risks students face abroad and provide support through several measures:\n- Selecting responsible partners and organizations to provide educational opportunities abroad;\n- Providing program-specific training to help students identify and mitigate potential risks;\n- Providing access to on-site support staff and organizations trained to handle emergencies of all types;\n- Training on-campus personnel to respond to crises and provide support where possible;\n- Training students in preventive as well as remedial strategies to avoid trouble abroad;\n- Monitoring the safety and security of our programs abroad on a 24/7 basis;\n- Providing 24/7 support to students in crisis abroad through  Vanderbilt Incident Response for Travel  (VIRT). Students (and faculty leaders) can call  +1 615.322.2745  to be connected with a team dedicated to providing safety-related guidance and assistance.\n- Ensuring access to the highest local standard of medical and security services abroad;\n- Via the Study Abroad Risk Assessment Committee, assessing risk mitigation plans and ensuring that travelers understand and are prepared for travel to locations of particular concern. SARAC forecloses travel if mitigation measures are insufficient.\nWe also recommend that students take their safety into their own hands. Students should take time to know the local laws and learn about behavioral norms and expectations. By attending their pre-departure orientation and reading the materials provided by Vanderbilt and its partners, students will get a view into what life looks like at the study abroad destination, including tips for staying safe.\n\n## Online Resources\n\nThere are many online resources of use to the international traveler. We have selected some of the most helpful:\nUS State Department Resources\n- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .  Ensure that you receive localized embassy communications and can be located by the US government in an emergency (US citizens only)\n- Overseas Security Advisory Council .  Private sector-governmental committee that provides security analysis of areas and events around the world.\n- State.gov . Information and services for travelers, including travel risk ratings.\nPreparing for Safe and Healthy Travel Abroad\n- List of World Emergency Numbers .  Emergency phone numbers around the world. Be prepared by looking up the countries you plan to visit before you depart.\n- Association for Safe International Road Travel .  Information on minimizing road risks, one of the top causes of death for international travelers.\n- US Centers for Disease Control .  Health and disease information and recommendations by country.\n- World Health Organization .  Country-specific and topic-specific health information, as well as notices about disease outbreaks and health emergencies.\n- Travel Safety Administration .  Information on travel and security screenings.\nSecuring Travel Visas\nCompanies that can assist you with visa information and applications include  CIBTvisas  and  Travisa .",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Learn more about VIRT.",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/vgo/travel-safety/virt",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Learn more about VTRAC and how to apply",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/vtrac",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "international health insurance",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/safety-health-resources",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "travel health consultation",
        "url": "https://www.vumc.org/student-health",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program",
        "url": "https://step.state.gov",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "register their travel",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/travel-registration",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "policy",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/previous-travel-safety/student-travel-policy",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Description of Coverage",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/previous-travel-safety/health-insurance-resources",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Enroll in a Group Plan",
        "url": "https://members.geobluestudents.com/Public/Enroll",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "geobluestudents.com",
        "url": "https://www.geobluestudents.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "website",
        "url": "https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt Occupational Health Clinic",
        "url": "https://www.vumc.org/health-wellness/occupational-health",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt Travel Clinic",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilthealth.com/travelclinic",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "university policy",
        "url": "https://finance.vanderbilt.edu/travel/includes/VUTravelPolicy.pdf",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Global Safety and Health",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/global-safety",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Vanderbilt Incident Response for Travel",
        "url": "https://vanderbilt.edu/virt",
        "kind": "vanderbilt"
      },
      {
        "text": "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program",
        "url": "https://step.state.gov/step",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Overseas Security Advisory Council",
        "url": "https://www.osac.gov",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "State.gov",
        "url": "https://travel.state.gov",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "List of World Emergency Numbers",
        "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_emergency_telephone_numbers",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Association for Safe International Road Travel",
        "url": "http://www.asirt.org",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "US Centers for Disease Control",
        "url": "https://www.cdc.gov",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "World Health Organization",
        "url": "http://www.who.int/en",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Travel Safety Administration",
        "url": "https://www.tsa.gov",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "CIBTvisas",
        "url": "https://cibtvisas.com",
        "kind": "external"
      },
      {
        "text": "Travisa",
        "url": "https://www.travisa.com",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:19.708520+00:00"
  },
  {
    "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/semester-abroad/",
    "slug": "semester-abroad",
    "title": "Semester & Year Abroad Opportunities",
    "kind": "programs_index",
    "section": "study-abroad",
    "domains": [
      "crew",
      "future",
      "vu"
    ],
    "summary": "Students remain enrolled full-time at Vanderbilt while studying abroad, earning credit toward their Vanderbilt degree. Talk with both your academic advisor and Study Abroad advisor to ensure that you stay on track while abroad and select a program that meets your academic needs.",
    "content": "## Earn Vanderbilt Credit\n\nStudents remain enrolled full-time at Vanderbilt while studying abroad, earning credit toward their Vanderbilt degree. Talk with both your academic advisor and Study Abroad advisor to ensure that you stay on track while abroad and select a program that meets your academic needs.  \n\nLearn More About Academics Abroad\n\n## Use Financial Aid & Scholarships\n\nVanderbilt University is committed to ensuring that studying abroad is accessible and affordable for all students. Since students are enrolled at Vanderbilt University while studying abroad, they are eligible for Vanderbilt financial aid and pay VU tuition for participation in a Vanderbilt-administered or Vanderbilt-affiliated program.\n\nSee Finance & Billing Information\n\n## Unique Advantages to Spending Fall Abroad\n\n## Early Spring Registration Opportunity\n\nTime zone differences can make class registration difficult when abroad. However, fall study abroad participants have the exclusive opportunity to enroll early (before their stateside peers) for spring courses!\n\n## Less Competition\n\nPopular programs can have capacity issues in the spring. Lower fall enrollment increases the likelihood that you’ll get into your top-choice programs, internships and research placements.\n\n## Less Time & Costs\n\nMany European programs run longer in the spring semester and are thus more costly than in the fall semester. Increased tourism in late spring can cause hotel, airfare, food, and incidental costs to be significantly higher.\n\n## Better Timing\n\nUse the summer months to prepare for your trip. After your return, spend the spring semester fully preparing for and participating in internships, research positions, and jobs during the following summer.\n\nStudent Stories\n\n## Devin Laye | DIS Copenhagen | Fall '23\n\n“My semester abroad in Denmark was all about discovery — of the world, of my passions, and most importantly of myself. Through experiential learning, immersing myself, and saying ‘yes’ to unique opportunities, I learned so much both in the classroom and in my everyday life.”\n\nRead Devin's Story",
    "links": [
      {
        "text": "Learn More About Academics Abroad",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/academics",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "See Finance & Billing Information",
        "url": "https://www.vanderbilt.edu/study-abroad/finances",
        "kind": "study_abroad_page"
      },
      {
        "text": "Read Devin's Story",
        "url": "https://www.instagram.com/p/DE3VP3nsEjY/?next=%2F&img_index=1",
        "kind": "external"
      }
    ],
    "fetched_at": "2026-06-30T01:58:14.294908+00:00"
  }
]