Academic Options >> Study Abroad >> Step by Step

Penn Abroad: Step by Step

Step 1: Attend a session of Penn Abroad 101 (preferably during the semester prior to the application deadline)

• • Sessions are held approximately three times a week during the academic terms.
• • Prepare to stay the full hour of these mandatory sessions.
• • Penn Abroad applications are discussed with 101 participants. These applications are required for all sites and are available online.

Step 2: Research your options

• • Spend time in the Penn Abroad Library (at 3701 Chestnut St.) and online reviewing program materials and student evaluations.
• • Consult with the College study abroad advisor and faculty in departments/programs relevant to your interests abroad.
• • Confer with peer counselors, past participants, exchange students.
• • Take note of program pre-requisites listed on program brochures.
• • Think about who might write your letters of reference, and ask professors early.
• • Visit the database of College study abroad course equivalencies, and familiarize yourself with courses that were previously approved.

Step 3: Meet with a Penn Abroad Overseas Program Manager in the Office of International Programs

• • In the semester preceding that of the application deadline, make an appointment with the appropriate Penn Abroad Overseas Program Managers.
• • Come to your appointment on time and be prepared to discuss what you have learned about your options.
• • Prepare a list of questions.
• • Come to Suite 1W, 3701 Chestnut St., or call 898-9073 to cancel and/or reschedule appointments.

Step 4: Apply on line

• • Read all application instructions thoroughly.
• • Have your transcript sent from the Registrar to the Penn Abroad Office, Suite 1W, 3701 Chestnut St. You are entitled to one free transcript per semester.
• • Obtain letters of reference. Be sure to give your referees at least 2-3 weeks notice.
• • Select abroad courses from appropriate site catalogues. Refer to the database of College study abroad course equivalencies to see what courses students have taken and what credits were received in the past.

Step 5: Meet with College study abroad advisor who oversees the Study Abroad Program to which you have applied

• • Click here to determine the College study abroad advisor who oversees the study abroad program to which you have applied.
• • Discuss course approval process and the Proposed Course Plan Questionnaire.
• • Make this appointment well in advance of the deadline by calling 898-6341 or stopping by Logan 120.

Step 6: Course approval process 

• • Review course guides from your study abroad program and information in the College Study Abroad Data Base.
• • Fill out the Proposed Course Plan Questionnaire on your Penn Abroad application website.
• • Meet with your department advisor (if applicable) and other appropriate departments to discuss your plan.
• • Review your Proposed Course Plan Questionnaire with the College study abroad advisor who oversees the program to which you are applying.
• • Be aware that many departments will not approve courses until your return from abroad, so mark you calendar in advance to consult with the College office upon your return.