Coastal Carolina University’s list of exchange sites grows with each passing year. The university is actively engaged in developing relationships with colleges and universities throughout the world that will give students uniquely valuable educational experiences abroad. One of the major attractions of these particular programs is that they allow Coastal Carolina University students to study in another country while paying Coastal Carolina University tuition. This is usually substantially less than what would be paid if students were to enroll at any of these institutions directly.
Also, if our university does not offer a particular program/location site that will fulfill your study abroad experience, the Office of International Programs and Services can help find the right program for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What study abroad programs/exchange programs are offered through Coastal Carolina University? What is the difference in the two types of programs?
CCU Exchange Programs- Participants on Exchange Programs pay in-state tuition to Coastal
Carolina University and not the host institution.
*Exception is Deakin as they have their own tuition assessment. Room and board is paid directly to
the host institution prior to departure.
Third-Party Provider Programs – Study Abroad program fees are set by the host institution/program. You pay costs that are determined by that program, not by Coastal Carolina University. These programs can range from $9,950 to $16,000 per semester.
What does it cost to apply?
If applying for a Coastal Carolina University exchange program, there is a $175 application fee that you pay at the time you apply to the program. If applying for a third-party provider program, see individual provider for application/deposit fees.
For what length of time can I study abroad?
As a Coastal Carolina University student, you can study abroad for a full academic year or a semester.
When and how do I apply? What is the deadline?
You should apply as least one semester prior to the semester you would like to study abroad. You must meet with an advisor in the OIPS before applying to any exchange/study abroad program. Once you have selected a program, you will need to fill out the OIPS application, the host institution application and return the completed forms to the OIPS. Applications for October 2010 entry should reach us before April 15, 2010; applications for March 2010 entry should reach us before October 31, 2009. Any applications received after these dates may be considered at the University’s discretion. Applications for the non-CCU sponsored Study Abroad programs vary so please check their websites.
Are there GPA requirements?
Some programs have their own specific GPA requirements, but generally the minimum is a 2.5 GPA for the OIPS to recommend you to a program.
How will my grades/credits transfer TOP to Coastal Carolina University?
If you study abroad on a bi-lateral exchange or with an independent program, only the credits will transfer TOP, not the grades. Before you leave to study abroad, you must meet with your academic advisor and the OIPS. Also, you must fill out a “Special Enrollment Form” which your academic advisor and the OIPS will assist you with. The form must be signed by your academic advisor/department chair and college dean for each course you intend to take while abroad. Once you have the appropriate signatures, return the form to the OIPS. A completed and signed form will serve as a contract ensuring that as long as you make a “C” or better in the approved courses, the credits will transfer TOP to Coastal Carolina University.
What courses transfer TOP to Coastal Carolina University?
See attached PDF for a complete listing of courses taken abroad and their Coastal Carolina University
equivalencies that have transferred.
What should I do if upon arrival at my host institution, my course selections have been changed or are not offered?
Contact the OIPS immediately via email as we can assist you in working with your academic advisor to determine if a Coastal Carolina University equivalent course is possible. Otherwise, you may find yourself without the Coastal Carolina University equivalent course(s) you need to graduate. Don’t let this happen to you!
Where should I have my transcript sent?
Please have your transcript sent directly to the OIPS. Once we receive the transcript we will match it up with your “Special Enrollment Form” and submit it to the Registrar’s Office so the credit will be applied to your academic record. Transcripts should be sent to: Office of International Programs and Services, 108 James P. Blanton Circle, SNGL 119, Conway, SC 29526, USA.
How do I register for the next semester?
During a required outbound on-site orientation, you will be required to provide the OIPS with a pre- approval form completed and signed by your academic advisor listing the courses you plan to take upon your return to the Coastal Carolina University campus. This form will allow us to assist you in your registration process.
Can I study abroad if I do not speak a foreign language?
Yes. Our exchange partner institutions offer courses in English. There are options in English speaking countries, but we encourage you to take a foreign language if feasible. Competency in the foreign language (See page 100 in the 2009-2010 catalog for Goal 5A requirements) for more information.
I receive financial aid – can I use it for study abroad? What about scholarships?
Most federal and state loan grants can be used on all study abroad programs. Some scholarships such as Life and Palmetto Fellows can be used for exchange programs and study abroad programs. Check with the OIPS and the Financial Aid Office at Coastal Carolina University. If you're an Horry County high school graduate, check out the Horry County Higher Education Commission Global Awareness application here for additional aid.
Do I need a Passport? How do I get one?
Yes. Application forms and directions on how to apply are available at the U.S. Department of State website: http://www.state.gov/. Also, it is important to allow at least six months processing time for a passport and it must be valid for six months in order to travel.
What is a visa and do I need one?
A visa is a document, issued by the country you are visiting, that allows you to legally enter a country. It generally confirms you status as a student while visiting that country. Not all countries require a visa for U.S. citizens. Visa requirements are based on country of citizenship, length of stay, etc.
Do I need a bank account? How do I open one and what is the best way to transfer my money abroad?
For an extended stay abroad, a local bank account can be very useful. You usually receive an ATM/Debit card that will make financial transactions much easier and more cost-effective. Most American banks will perform international wire transfers to your new account abroad for roughly $50, but you could also withdraw cash abroad with your American ATM/Debit card for a small fee and then deposit in your new account. If you plan on using your ATM/Debit card abroad, it is important to notify you bank of your travel abroad plans to ensure access to your money. Also, it is a good idea to change your PIN to a 4-digit number since foreign ATM machines may only accept 4 digits. It is also useful to give a friend or parent power-of-attorney over your American account so they can endorse checks for you or transfer money from that account to you abroad.
Where will I live?
Dorms, shared apartments and host families are all housing options. Each program’s housing offerings vary.
What about cell phone requirements?
As most standard US cell phones will not work outside the United States and while not required for most programs, many students have inquired about how to rent or buy a cell phone for use abroad.
Before investigating providers, we recommend learning a bit about how international cell phones work. There is an excellent article from the on-line magazine, Travel Inside, which describes the types of phones and service available abroad.
However, before signing up with a new cell phone provider, don’t forget to check first with you current cell phone provider. You may find that they can temporarily upgrade you to a tri-band phone that is capable of receiving service abroad, allowing you to use your current phone number abroad. Be sure to discuss rates and fees as they are likely to be higher than what you pay for domestic service and have more restrictions. Remember, too, that you also have the option of buying an inexpensive, disposable phone upon arrival abroad. These typically operate on a pay-as-you-go system.
Do I need vaccinations to participate?
Coastal Carolina University strongly recommends that program participants are vaccinated for all Center for Disease Control (CDC) vaccinations for each area to which the program is traveling. Please visit the website http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ for your destination.
Do I need insurance?
Coastal Carolina University strongly recommends that you acquire health insurance that includes medical coverage as well as evacuation and repatriation during your stay abroad. Some countries require that you take out insurance as part of their immigration/visa requirements. Please see individual programs/countries for more information.
To apply: Contact OIPS in SNGL Bldg, Room 119 to pick up application, course offerings, an expense sheet and a special enrollment form. |
