FAQ- Studying Abroad

Why Should I Study Abroad? Learn a new language Get to know another culture first-hand Learn about yourself Enhance the value of your degree!

When Should I Start Looking at Study Abroad Programs? Start considering your opportunities shortly after arriving on campus Talk with your advisor immediately! Set up an appointment with the Associate Director of Learning Abroad to discuss further opportunities

What Kinds of Programs Are Offered? Gannon offers programs ranging from one week to one academic year in length. Programs include: short-term faculty-led travel courses, one month or two month summer programs, or semester and year-long programs

What If A Semester Abroad Doesn’t Fit Into My Schedule? If a semester abroad doesn’t fit into your schedule, you might consider opting for a summer program, a spring break program, or a faculty-led travel course offered after the end of the academic year.

I’ve Never Traveled Before I’ve Never Traveled Before. How Do I Know If Study Abroad Is Right For Me? Don’t be discouraged! Instead of committing to a full semester right away, you might consider participating in a short-term faculty-led travel course to test the waters.

Is Studying Abroad Expensive? The cost of studying abroad depends on the program chosen. GU has partnered with a number of European universities in order to help students study abroad while using their Gannon scholarships and financial aid

Can I Use My Financial Aid? Students who participate in an affiliate’s program will be able to use federal financial aid, but not Gannon aid. Students participating in summer study abroad programs, federal/state financial aid may be used if the student is taking six credits worth of courses Students who are studying for a semester at one of Gannon’s partner universities will be able to use their federal financial aid as well as any Gannon financial aid and scholarships

Are Scholarships Available? Learning Abroad Scholarships are available for students participating in semester or full year programs at Gannon partner universities, as well as students participating in faculty-led travel courses.

When Should I Study Abroad? Generally speaking, Junior or Senior year is the most common time for a semester abroad, depending on the student’s major Students can participate in faculty-led travel courses as early as Freshman year Discuss with your advisor before meeting with the office of Learning Abroad

Will Studying Abroad Affect My Housing At Gannon? If you are studying abroad and planning to live on campus upon your return, it is suggested that you remain in contact with the Office of Residence Life during the semester. If you are studying abroad fall semester and will be returning to campus spring semester, you should contact the Office of Residence Life about halfway through the semester to request on-campus rooming upon your return. If you are studying abroad spring semester and want to live on campus the following fall, you will be able to partake in the online housing process that takes place in the spring.

Do I Need To Speak A Foreign Language To Study Abroad? You do not need to speak a foreign language to study abroad through Gannon. The courses taught at our partner universities are taught in English, though it should be noted that students hoping to study abroad at the Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso in Chile are recommended to have reached a level of proficiency in Spanish.