Information for Students
In these pages, we have compiled the resources that will support you as you pursue an international or off-campus study program. The advising staff is here to support you throughout the process, so contact us with questions at any time.
Steps to off-campus study:
1. Attend a Starting Points Meeting
Attending this group meeting is your first step to going off-campus. We recommend you start to plan at least a year in advance of your term away.
Go to: Eligibility
Go to: Starting Points
2. Research Programs
Think about your goals and assess programs based on your interests, four-year plan, timeline, and budget. Seek advice from the Office of International Programs, faculty advisers, other students, and off-campus study program staff. Follow the process for program approval through the online approval system.
Go to: Advising
Go to: Programs
Go to: Off-Campus Study Approval System
3. Consider Finances
Read the Franklin & Marshall financial policies for off-campus study.
Financial aid from Franklin & Marshall can travel with you during the academic year. Make sure you understand how your particular financial aid package will work during the time you are away.
If you are considering a summer program, or if you do not receive aid, look into other funding options.
Always consider the exchange rate of your destination when making a budget.
Go to: Billing
Go to: Financial Aid
Go to: Calculating Costs
Go to: Fellowships, Grants & Scholarships for Off-Campus Study
4. Apply
Your International Programs adviser will guide you through the general application process for your chosen program.
Pay close attention to application deadlines and materials.
Go to: Applications
5. Select Courses for Approval
Through the online approval system, enter your course choices and indicate the type of credit you are seeking.
Go to: Credit Transfer
Go to: Course Designations
6. Complete Appropriate Paperwork
Before you leave for a program, you must complete all of the Franklin & Marshall Off-Campus Study forms. Make sure you also complete any paperwork for your program, such as visa applications, housing preference, and course selection forms.
Go to: Download Forms
7. Arrange Logistics
Purchase your flight, apply for your student visa, and visit a health professional for a travel health screening.
Make sure you have also arranged for on-campus housing and thought about course selection for the semester you return.
Go to: Health & Wellness
Go to: Passports & Visas
Go to: Pre-Registration & Housing
8. Attend Your Pre-Departure Orientation
At the end of the semester prior to your off-campus experience, be sure to attend the pre-departure meeting. You'll receive last-minute tips, meet the rest of the students who will be away at the same time, and be able to ask any remaining questions. Look for emails about date and time of the meeting.
Go to: Pre-Departure Orientations
9. Off You Go!
Don't forget us while you are away. Please be in touch with any questions that come up, or just to let us know how you are doing.
Go to: Contact Us
10. Return to Campus
The time you spend off-campus is short, but can impact the rest of your life. When you return to campus, we hope that you will find ways to get involved in your community that reflect how you have grown. We are excited to see you and hear about your experience!
