Founded in the belief that an international and multicultural perspective is invaluable to university students today, VCU Education Abroad encourages students from all majors and fields of interest to include study abroad and international exchange as part of their educational career. The benefits of education abroad are many. Students will learn to understand and function in different cultures, thereby developing a broader understanding of the ways the world works; increase knowledge of and facility in a foreign language; understand differences in educational styles and systems; and increase employment marketability upon graduation.

To accomplish these goals successfully, students are encouraged to study in another cultural setting for a summer, semester or full academic year as part of their degree program. VCU Education Abroad was established to assist students in accomplishing these goals by providing information, advising and by administering study abroad programs. VCU offers the programs listed below to encourage students to participate in overseas and external study.

Participants must be in good standing with the university with two full semesters of consecutive, successful full-time enrollment prior to participation. Please note that individual program requirements may vary.

Program offerings

VCU Summer Study Abroad

Each year faculty members lead short-term summer study with intensive instruction in an international context. Students may elect courses ranging from an intensive foreign language experience to art, business, and humanities programs. New programs are created every year in countries as diverse as Barbados, Spain, Guatemala, Peru, Italy, Germany, Mexico, France and China.

International Student Exchange Program

International Student Exchange Program is a network of 275 colleges and universities in 39 countries and provides exchange opportunities for a summer, semester or academic year. ISEP is well-suited for mature, independent students who wish to be fully immersed into the host culture. Students usually enroll directly into their host university and take classes in the host language. A wide variety of options to study in English is also available. ISEP offers an affordable option to study abroad — many of its locations’ charges are based on VCU tuition, fees, and room and board.

Departmental exchanges

VCU has negotiated a number of direct student exchange agreements arising out of specific interest in the university community. Students pay their tuition and fees at VCU, and enroll directly in the chosen host university.

Independent study abroad

Independent study abroad is for students who wish to study in a field not covered by any of the above study-abroad options. Students may elect to participate in a program offered by another university or organization. VCU Education Abroad will assist students in identifying and applying to the program, maintaining their VCU status while away, and securing financial aid where appropriate. All programs must be approved by VCU.

Except for summer programs offered for VCU credit, all credit received through study abroad will appear on the students’ transcripts as transfer credit. Students must earn the equivalent of a “C” or higher for credit to be awarded. Grades are not calculated into the GPA, unless a student is attempting to graduate with honors.