Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

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Capstone International

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1. Why should I study overseas? Travel - of all kinds - is a life enriching experience that everyone should participate in. However, study abroad takes students beyond the typical tourist experience and requires students to immerse themselves in another culture and academic setting.

All students are encouraged to consider studying abroad for a summer, semester, or full academic year sometime during their undergraduate career or education.

 
 
  2. Do I need to know foreign language to study abroad? No. We offer many programs that are taught in English. If you already speak another language or would like to learn one, study abroad is the easiest way to improve your fluency. We offer many programs that teach foreign language courses abroad -- from beginner to advanced.
 
 
  3. Is there a minimum GPA required to study overseas? Most programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. The University of Alabama (UA) Office of semester exchange programs, however, has raised that minimum to 3.0. Living overseas is a fun but sometimes stressful experience. We want to make sure that you're strong enough academically to handle these challenges and still succeed in the classroom.
 
 
 
  4. I am a international student. Can I apply to your study abroad program? Yes, international students are eligible to apply.
 
 

5. Is it possible to study abroad through other programs not offered by UA? Yes. Students may study abroad through the UA affiliated programs or can seek to have a program approved through Capstone International Academic Programs (CIAP).

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6. How much does it cost? If you are participating in a UA sponsored exchange program, the tuition you pay to study abroad is the same amount you would pay to study here on campus. Any additional cost (such as housing, meals, and books) will be determined by the program you choose.

Summer program costs will be noted on each individual program brochure (cost of these programs averages $3,500). What is included in these programs will also be listed on the program's brochure. The most current information is readily available on our website.

Non-UA programs costs according to that specific school's stated cost. UA requires all UA students who plan to transfer their overseas study credits back to UA to meet with a study abroad advisor in the CIAP office prior to departure.

ALL UA study abroad students are required to take CIAP's study abroad course CIP 413/513 effective Spring 2003. Course fee: $100.00. Exchange students are exempt from this fee as they are charged tuition.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  7. Can I use financial aid to go overseas? Yes, in most cases. It depends on what kind of aid you receive. Check with your Financial Aid office to see if your aid can be used to help cover study abroad expenses.
 
 
 

8. When should I go? That's easy -- NOW. Students often reach their senior year and sadly realize that they ran out of time to study overseas. Study abroad is an important part of the education you'll receive at UA. Start planning now and find the right time to fit this experience into your studies.

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  9. Can I earn major or minor credit? Students can earn major or minor credit. However, there are limitations so a student should consult his/her academic advisor and college registrar before going abroad.
 
 
  10. If I study as an exchange student, what happens to my UA housing? If you are in a housing contract for the academic year you are studying abroad, CIAP would seek to have you released from the contract for the semester involved with overseas study.
 
 
  11. What are the overseas living arrangements? Living arrangements vary according to program. Programs offer dorm rooms, flats, apartments or host-family living.
 
  12. How early can I start applying? Students should make an appointment with an overseas study advisor at least six months to a year prior to anticipated date of overseas study.
 
  13. Can only certain majors study abroad? All majors are eligible for study abroad.
  14. May I talk to an alumnus of the program? Yes. CIAP can provide contact information from students who have returned from overseas study.
 
  15. Will all the courses that I take transfer as UA credit? Transfer credit is determined before you go abroad. Students must garner departmental approval for each course.
 
 

16. Does Capstone International arrange travel? Travel is arranged for the overseas summer group programs only. Students studying abroad through an exchange program or through an affiliated program must arrange their own travel.

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  17. Do I need a passport or visa? Students definitely need a passport. The length of your program and the country you plan to study in determines whether or not you need a visa. Students are required to obtain their own passports and visas. Passport and visa information can be found at http://studentsabroad.state.gov/.
 
 
  18. How can I apply? Students should see an overseas study advisor for application details and procedure. Overseas study advisors are located in 135 B.B. Comer Hall.
 
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