Semester Exchange Application Steps

Once you have an idea of which partner university you would like to apply to, you can schedule an appointment with our office to get more detailed information on the application process, visas, housing, and budget for your host university.

Already met with us? Move on to step three.

You’re ready to get moving! You just need to gather a few more details.

If you don’t already have a passport, apply right away. Printable forms can be found here or you can pick up a paper copy in the Office of Education Abroad. Many host destinations will require you to seek a student visa, however you can’t begin that process until after you’ve received your passport.

If you do already have a passport, check to make sure it’s still valid and that it won’t be expiring within six months of your travel dates.

Travel documents in order? Move on to step four.

Many countries will require you to submit financial aid documentation with your visa application to the embassy or consulate as proof of financial means. The UCA Office of Financial Aid will be able to help you obtain the required documentation, but it is key to get your funding in order and have a clear understanding of how you will cover costs associated with your study abroad program.

We recommend meeting with the Office of Financial Aid to review your program budget and your specific financial aid package. For general information, see the Financial Aid Overview and Funding Options.

Gone over the details with Financial Aid? Move on to step five.

You’ll have to get departmental approval of any credits you’ll earn while abroad. The course approval form should be completed with the classes you plan to take at UCA’s partner university abroad and signed by the chair of the relevant department. A new course approval sheet should be used for each department under which you plan to earn credit while abroad.

Make an appointment with the professor and/or the department chair to get approval of your course selections. You will need to upload a photocopy of these documents to your online application.

Have all of your planned coursework approved? Move on to step six.

You’ll be able to request two reference letters electronically through the application system, but it’s a good idea to let your letter writers know in advance that you’ll be requesting the letters from them. Send them an email and let them know to keep an eye out for your request. This will also give your references a little bit of extra time to prepare and it gives you time to seek another person if one of your planned reference isn’t available. Letters should be written by former or current UCA professors, advisors or employers and reflect their support of your plans to study abroad.

Sent your requests for reference letters? Keep going.

With your passport and course approval forms complete, you’re ready to work on the rest of the online application. In the application you’ll:

• provide basic contact information
• upload the course approval form
• fill out a study abroad health form
• share a copy of your signed passport
• sign the Education Abroad participation agreements
• request two (2) reference letters
• pay the Education Abroad fee

Got your application submitted? Let’s look for funding opportunities.

Visit our scholarship page to understand what opportunities you are eligible to apply for.

Done (for now)!