Penn Abroad: Step by Step

It is best to attend a Penn Abroad 101 session 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.
• This is the first step in the application process.  All aspects of that process are explained in this session.

• 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 and your major and minor interests.
• Confer with peer counselors, past participants, exchange students.
• Take note of program prerequisites listed on program brochures on the Penn Abroad website.
• Think about who might write your letters of reference, and ask professors early.

• 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.

• 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 references at least 2-3 weeks notice.
• Select abroad courses from appropriate site catalogues. Consult the list of course precedents for abroad programs using the College’s XCAT (External Course Approval Tool). This list includes all College courses that have already been approved for credit at Penn. You may request College credit for courses not found on this list at any time after your Penn Abroad application has been accepted.

• Meet with the College study abroad advisor who oversees the study abroad program to which you have applied.
• Request academic approval. The advisor will work with you to determine if the program is a good academic fit. The advisor may recommend that you apply to a more appropriate program.
• Discuss how your course choices fit with your overall academic plan at Penn.
• Make this appointment well in advance of the deadline by calling 215.898.6341 or stopping by 120 Cohen Hall.

Once you have completed the first five components of Study Abroad: Step by Step you are ready to seek approval for your study abroad courses. Read more >>