University of New England

We encourage students to start planning for their study abroad experience as early as their freshman year, and go abroad during the sophomore or junior year.  The Office of International Programs, located in Decary 52, has brochures and information on study abroad opportunities.  Students are invited to stop by the office any time.  

The following timeline is designed to help students navigate the process more easily.   

1. Get a Passport - If you do not have a passport, apply for one now.  If you have one already, check the expiration date to be certain it will be valid for the duration of your time abroad. 
2. Research Programs  Ask yourself what part of the world interests you and what type of program you are looking for.  Study abroad programs offer very different opportunities around the world.  You may want to study and live at a foreign university, or live at a field station doing environmental research, or spend a semester at sea aboard a research vessel, or learn the language and culture of another country while living with a host family.   UNE's list of approved programs will help you determine which program is best for you.  
3. Visit the Office of International Programs - We are located on the Biddeford campus in Decary 52.  Please feel free to stop by any time to get brochures, ask questions, or schedule an appointment to discuss your options with Trisha Mason,  director of international programs.  Before your appointment, please complete the UNE Off-Campus Study form.
4. Meet with Academic Advisor - It is important to meet with your academic advisor to review the classes you need for graduation and select courses you may take abroad.   
5. Discuss Financial Aid - Meet with your family, study abroad staff, and financial aid to find the best way to fund your program.  Federal and state aid can usually be used during a semester abroad.  Studying abroad is more affordable than you may think. Scholarships are available.
6. Do More Research - Continue to visit our website and resource page for more information about what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of your study abroad experience.  Research the history and culture of a country, browse travel books and learn more about your particular program. 
7. Get Professor References - Identify at least two professors who would submit letters of recommendation in support of your study abroad program. Most applications have their own forms for the professors to sign, but it's a good idea to contact professors now. These references should be from a professor and not from an advisor or TA.
8. Apply - Submit your applications as early as possible.  Programs have rolling admissions which means you may apply now for a program next semester or next year.    Many programs fill before the official application deadline, so it makes sense to apply early.  Online applications are available and can be found on each program provider's website. 
9. Apply for Scholarships - Since scholarship dollars are available from most study abroad programs, it is wise to apply early while funds are still available.  Apply for all you are eligible for, and be sure to check scholarship deadlines.  Our Scholarships page has links to several scholarships. 
10. Complete a Transfer Course Work Form - Once you have been accepted into a program, and selected courses you will take abroad, fill out a Request for Transfer Course Work form for each class you plan to take abroad.  Completed forms must be submitted to the registrar and copies given to the international programs office before you depart. 
11. Contact the UNE Housing Office - Inform the housing office that you plan to be abroad for a semester, and fill out a contract to confirm a space when you return.
12. Contact the Financial Aid Office - To avoid loss of any financial aid and to maintain your status as a matriculated student at UNE, inform the financial aid office that you will be studying abroad. 
13. Enjoy your time abroad - Share your adventures with our office through e-mails and photos.  Who knows, you might see yourself on this website.  Here's looking at you.....