Applying & Funding
Eligibility Requirements
Students must meet the following Smith College study abroad eligibility requirements in order to receive approval for study abroad. Students must also meet admission requirements set by their chosen study abroad program and be accepted to the program. Smith approval does not guarantee admission into any study abroad program.
Important Steps
Before applying for study abroad approval be sure to:
- Read the Guide for Education Abroad
- Meet with a peer adviser to ask questions, discuss plans and explore options.
- Read the answers to the Top 10 Study Abroad Questions (PDF).
- Confer with your major adviser and departmental study abroad adviser.
- Review important application and paperwork deadlines.
Eligibility & Prerequisites
Approval from Smith
- Demonstrate evidence of maturity, responsibility and preparation for study abroad.
- Have a 3.0 overall grade point average and be in good academic standing at the time of application: students placed on probation after receiving approval to study abroad will have their approval rescinded.
- Be in good standing in student conduct matters at the time of application and up until departure for the approved program.
- Declare a major (students who are planning on a self-designed major must meet with a class dean).
- Demonstrate language proficiency for languages taught at Smith and/or adequate preparation for study in Africa (see Language Proficiency & Course Requirements).
- Have no credit shortage when the program starts.
- Not exceed transfer credit limit requirements: no more than 32 transfer credits when starting a yearlong program, or 48 transfer credits when starting a semester-long program.
- Not have previously studied abroad as a Smith student; students are eligible to study abroad once, for a maximum of two consecutive semesters.
Language Prerequisites
Students must demonstrate proficiency in host country languages when that language is taught at Smith.
French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian
For Programs Where Courses are Taught in the Host Country Language
Two or more years of college study or equivalent proficiency demonstrated by two semester courses at the 200 level, or one semester course at an advanced 200 or 300 level.
For Study in Paris
Students normally take four 4-credit French courses, including one at the 250 level or higher in the semester prior to their study in Paris. Those who enter Smith at the 230 level or above are required to take three semesters of French prior to study in Paris, including one course at the 250 level or higher in the semester prior to study in Paris. Students beginning with FRN 101 and 102 (Beginning French I and II), or FRN 101 and 103 (Accelerated Beginning French I and II) must take three 4-credit French courses in their sophomore year, including the 250 level course (or higher). Students who do not meet these requirements are encouraged to consult with a member of the Department of French Studies.
Exception for Study in Hamburg
For the spring semester, students must have at least three semesters of college-level German or the equivalent prior to the start of the program.
Exceptions to the Language Requirements for Selected Science Programs
Exceptions to the Smith Study Abroad Language Proficiency Policy are made for the following programs:
- Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. While a full year of either Hebrew or Arabic is recommended, students may attend without language prerequisites.
- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Students may attend without language prerequisites but must study Chinese during the entire time at HKUST.
- SIT Madagascar: Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management. Students may attend with three semesters of French; students study French for Natural Sciences and Elementary Malagasy.
These exceptions are allowed with the goal of encouraging increased access to non-English speaking destinations for the study of STEM-related fields.
Study in Africa
Students planning to study in Africa must take one course related to the continent before their term abroad.
Study in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and the United Kingdom
Study in Australia, Ireland, New Zealand and the United Kingdom is limited to one semester, with a few exceptions. Check the Approved Programs List to see the approved terms for each program.
Costs & Financial Aid
Students studying abroad at a Smith program are billed the Smith comprehensive fee (tuition, room and board), and Smith will pay the tuition, room and board charges assessed by the study abroad program. Please refer to the expandable sections below, and the "Financial Aid" tab above for more details about the study abroad Home School Fees policy.
Costs for Smith Programs Abroad
For detailed information, see links to each specific program on the Smith Program Page.
Not Included
Important costs that may not be included in the comprehensive fee are:
- Program application fees
- Passports
- Visas and residence permits
- Immunizations
- Airfare
- Room and board costs during program breaks
- Books
- Personal expenses
Students must consider these additional costs when planning their study abroad experience.
Smith students are eligible for financial aid on the same basis as when they are studying in Northampton. For questions about Smith Financial Aid related to study abroad, please visit Student Financial Services.
Work Study / Campus Work Awards
If your need-based financial aid package includes a campus work award (i.e. work study), it will be removed for the semester(s) that you are studying abroad and replaced with an equal increase to your Smith Grant. Please contact loanhelp@smith.edu for more details.
Airfare Stipend
The Office for International Study awards partial funding for airfare expenses to students with financial need. Students need not apply; all students who are eligible will receive an airfare stipend.
Tuition Waiver for Dependents
Students who are dependents of Smith faculty or staff may receive a 60 percent tuition waiver for study on a Smith or consortium program abroad. For approved programs, the tuition waiver is 40 percent.
Exceptions
- The Trustees Grant for Northampton Residents cannot be used for study abroad.
- Tuition exchange programs can be used only for a Smith program abroad, and not for study on an approved program.
Every year Smith students successfully apply for study abroad scholarships and fellowships. Please consult Student Financial Services to discuss how an award will affect your Smith financial aid package and your bill. Although a grant may reduce your overall Smith financial aid, the honor of having received a grant such as the Boren or DAAD is an impressive addition to your résumé.
It remains your responsibility to notify Student Financial Services and the Office for International Study of any outside awards that you receive.
Study Abroad Program Scholarships
Study abroad providers including CIEE, IES, IFSA-Butler, School for Field Studies, SIT Study Abroad and others have scholarships and funding for students attending their programs; please check with your study abroad program for scholarship opportunities.
Foundation Scholarships
Many foundations and government programs provide funding to students for study abroad. Smith students have successfully won the following fellowships and scholarships.
Through the Fellowships Office
Through the Office for International Study
- Anita Volz Wien '62 Global Scholars Fund (merit-based aid of up to $10,000 per year and an additional $5,000 for summer internship or project). Please see the next tab for more information.
Apply Independently
- Bridging Scholarships for Study in Japan
- Gilman International Scholarship Program
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program offers grants for U.S. citizen undergraduate students of limited financial means to pursue academic studies abroad. - The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA)
Students who are US citizens, permanent residents, or those with DACA status are eligible to apply once for FEA funding from multiple sources. - Huayu Enrichment Scholarship (HES Program)
The HES Program is designed for students to learn the Mandarin language in Taiwan. The scholarship is a monthly stipend of $810 during the award period. - Rainbow Scholarship
The Rainbow Special Interest Group of NAFSA (Association of International Educators) has created a special annual scholarship for LGBTQ study abroad students.
About The Anita Volz Wien '62 Global Scholars Fund
The Anita Volz Wien '62 Global Scholars Fund (Wien Global Scholars) is a merit-based award to encourage Smith students to study abroad for a full year in non-English speaking countries in combination with an internship or similar experience of at least 8 weeks that is outside of the academic calendar. Exceptions will be made for science or engineering majors intending to study abroad for one semester in combination with an accompanying internship experience.
Application Deadlines
For the 2024-25 academic year: Monday, April 15, 2024
Award Details
This is a merit-based award and all eligible Smith students are encouraged to apply regardless of financial aid status. The internship and study period must be completed prior to graduation from Smith.
- Scholarship: $10,000 for the academic year ($5,000 for a single semester - science and engineering majors only)*
- *The Scholarship will either be listed as a tuition credit or as a financial aid offset if you are currently receiving need-based financial aid. Financial aid recipients will have 50% of the award replace their existing Smith Grant and 50% will be used to reduce their self-help expectation (loan and/or work).
- Internship stipend: $3,500
- Travel: reimbursement of travel expenses up to $1,500
Internship Requirements
Applicants do not need to have secured an internship before applying for the Wien Global Scholars award. Potential internships must be identified as part of the application essay. Acceptance of an internship must be submitted prior to release of the internship stipend. The internship must meet the following requirements:
- The internship placement involves intercultural and social engagement with a local community or professional setting.
- The focus of the internship supports the student's long-term academic and professional goals.
- Work plan of a minimum of 25 hours/week, for a period of at least 8 weeks either before or after the study abroad experience.
- Identification and agreement of an internship mentor who will meet with the student at least once a week during the internship period.
How to Apply
- Submit the Anita Volz Wien '62 Global Scholars Fund application via the Smith International Travel Experiences System (SITES) by the deadline.
- Please note that you will be asked to submit the following as a part of the online application in SITES:
- Two faculty recommendations: (1) a language faculty recommendation supporting your linguistic and cultural preparation to study and live in your study abroad location and (2) an academic recommendation supporting the academic merits of your internship and study goals
- Essay (500 words): The Wien Global Scholars application includes an essay addressing the questions listed below. Submit this as a separate document with your name, class and major at the top of the document.
- Describe an important issue in today's world and how global perspectives are critical for better understanding of this issue.
- What are your educational goals with your year or semester abroad and how will this scholarship help you achieve these goals at Smith and beyond?
- Describe your previous experience with the language and culture of the country in which you will be studying.
- How do you intend to immerse yourself in the language and culture of your chosen country and how do you expect this to influence your personal growth and values?
- What type of internship will you be seeking and how will it enhance your overall study abroad experience?
Please direct all questions to global@smith.edu.
Please note: The student's academic record will also be reviewed.
Required Reports
A report on your project will be submitted via the Anita Volz Wien '62 Global Scholars Fund Student Reports, 2023-2024 Google Form
This will include:
- Descriptive detail about your course of studies while abroad
- A report on your international internship with details of your project(s) and how the internship advances your academic interests, major and career aspirations
- 2-3 photos of you in your study abroad and/or internship setting
Credit Rules
Exceptions & Petitions
Students are expected to meet all eligibility requirements listed in these guidelines, and to select study abroad options from among the broad offerings on the list of Study Abroad Programs Approved for Smith Credit. Students are eligible to study abroad once, for a maximum of two semesters abroad.
Exceptions to these rules are made only rarely, and only for exceptional reasons. Exceptions will be considered only in response to a written petition submitted with a Study Abroad Credit Application or Smith Program Abroad Application in SITES by the application deadline. See the tabs to the right for additional information and the procedures for petitioning for an exception. The Guide for Education Abroad also includes information about the procedure for studying abroad as a senior.
Advising
Africana Studies
Paul Joseph López Oro
American Studies
Kevin Rozario
Anthropology: Africa and other areas
Colin Hoag, Caroline Melly
Anthropology: Asia
Pinky Hota
Anthropology: Latin America
Fernando Armstrong-Fumero, Elizabeth Klarich
Art (Architecture)
John Moore
Art (History)
John Moore
Art (Studio)
Alexis Callender
Astronomy
James Lowenthal
Biochemistry
Cristina Suarez
Biological Sciences
Rob Dorit. Students should also talk with their major adviser.
Chemistry
Maria Bickar, Cristina Suarez
Classical Languages & Literatures
Thalia Pandiri
Computer Science
Nicholas Howe
Dance
Angie Hauser
East Asian Languages & Cultures
Jessica Moyer (China), Kimberly Kono (Japan), Suk Massey (Korea)
Economics
James Miller
Education & Child Study
Lucy Mule
Engineering
Judith Cardell, Martin Green
English Languages & Literature
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Environmental Science & Policy
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Exercise and Sport Studies
Students should talk with their minor adviser.
Film & Media Studies
Barbara Kellum
French Studies
Mehammed Mack (Paris), Christiane Métral (Geneva)
Geosciences
Greg de Wet. Students should also talk with their major adviser.
German Studies
Joel Westerdale, Judith Keyler-Mayer
Government
Students should talk with their major adviser.
History
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Italian Studies
Maria Succi-Hempstead, Anna Botta
Jewish Studies
Justin Cammy
Latin America and Latino/a Studies: Spanish-Speaking Latin America
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Latin America and Latino/a Studies: Brazil
Marguerite Itamar Harrison, Malcolm McNee
Mathematics & Statistics
Christophe Golé
Medieval Studies
Craig Davis
Middle East Studies
Steven Heydemann
Music
Steve Waksman
Neuroscience
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Philosophy
Jay Garfield
Physics
Doreen Weinberger
Portuguese and Brazilian Studies
Marguerite Itamar Harrison, Malcolm McNee
Psychology
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Religion
Vera Shevzov
Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Sociology
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Spanish
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Statistical & Data Science
Scott LaCombe
Study of Women & Gender
Mehammed Mack
Theatre
Daniel Kramer
Program in World Literatures
Students should talk with their major adviser.
Peer Advisers
All students interested in studying abroad should seek advice and information about their options. The OIS recommends that students do the following:
- Meet with a Peer Adviser.
- Attend a General Information session held every Monday during the spring semester in the Lewis Global Studies Center at 3:00pm.
- Attend a program-specific information session (when available). See the News and Events for details.
- Discuss their study abroad plans with their academic advisers and departmental study abroad advisers.
When are Peer Advisers Available?
- Peer advisers are available during open hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2:30-4 p.m.
Advising & Recommendations
As part of the study abroad application process, students are required to obtain approval from their academic advisers. Academic advising is a critical part in preparing a Smith student to maximize the study abroad experience.
When faculty members speak with a student about studying abroad, they may want to ask the student to complete the following form prior to the initial meeting:
This form asks students to identify their preferences among key aspects of the study abroad experience.
Faculty can use the Smith International Travel Experiences System (SITES) to peruse programs that are on the Approved List. This is also the site where students will be submitting their applications for study abroad approval.
The approval process requires students to identify courses specific to their major, minor or certificate programs. Each department has the authority to preapprove courses that replace either core requirements or upper-level electives.
How To Apply
Important Study Abroad Application Deadlines
First Monday in February
- Applications are due for study on a Smith Program Abroad in Hamburg or Paris (full-year) and Florence or Geneva (full-year, fall only or spring only).
- Applications are also highly recommended at this time for spring in Hamburg.
Third Monday in February
- Smith Study Abroad Credit Application is due for study abroad on Smith consortium and Smith-approved study abroad programs during the following academic year (fall, spring or full-year).
- Petitions for GPA, two locations and non-approved programs (for spring semester) petitions are due.
Third Monday in March
Yearlong, fall, and spring semester confirmation paperwork is due for Smith programs in Florence, Geneva, Hamburg and Paris.
First Monday in April
Fall semester study abroad confirmation paperwork (included with approval letter) is due for Smith consortium and Smith-approved study abroad programs.
First Monday in October
- Applications due for select spring semester programs: AKP or PRESHCO (Study Abroad Credit Application); Smith Program Abroad in Hamburg (Smith Program Abroad Applications).
- GPA Petitions for above programs are also due.
First Monday in November
- Spring semester study abroad confirmation paperwork (included with approval letter) is due for Smith consortium and Smith-approved study abroad programs.
- Petitions for non-approved programs (fall and yearlong) are also due.