FAQS

The earlier a student can apply the better it is for them. It is recommended that students start the process at least 9 to 12 months in advance. However, most students will likely be starting the process the semester before they intend to study abroad. The benefits of applying earlier are that students will have more time to budget, apply for aid and scholarships, get their preferred cabin type, and have more time to plan. 

Yes, though admission is not guaranteed. The student will be asked for a disciplinary or academic explanation. The student may also be required to submit a letter of recommendation. For certain GPAs, students may be asked to create an Academic Action Plan, which outlines their plans for being academically successful on the voyage. 

Once deposited, students are given access to their Student Portal. It is important that students check their portal regularly as it helps them track what items they have submitted and what items still need their attention in preparation for sailing. 

Yes! 

• If the application is not yet submitted: Students can change their intended voyage within their application on their own.

• If admitted but not yet deposited: Let their Regional Director know. 

• If admitted and already deposited: Let their Student Services Advisor know.

A consortium agreement is an agreement between the school and Semester at Sea that allows a student to maintain federal financial aid eligibility. This agreement outlines the responsibilities of the home school and Semester at Sea and/or Colorado State University to ensure the transfer of aid and credits. 

Direct the student to contact a member of Semester at Sea’s Financial Aid team by emailing financialaid@isevoyages.org. The Financial Aid team will explore that student’s options. 

The student will need to provide documentation to Semester at Sea that shows the loan amount that will be received. Semester at Sea will then defer the payment deadline upon receipt of proof. The student should contact financialaid@isevoyages.org for more instruction 

Generally, yes, but only for need and merit-based grants, and Pell Grant match. Scholarship applications cannot be accepted after the deadline. Need and merit-based grant funds may still be available following the financial aid deadlines; however, every effort should be made for students to submit their applications prior to the deadline. 

Deposits can be refunded up to 90 days before the voyage. If students are interested in our payment or cancellation policy you can direct them to our website: semesteratsea.org/admission-aid/payments-cancellations/ 

The MV World Odyssey is the sixth ship in Semester at Sea’s history. She has been meticulously maintained since her construction in 1998. The ship meets the International Maritime Organization’s SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Public Health requirements, as well as other statutory standards to operate throughout the world. 

The ship has a similar feel to a college or university, which includes: 

• Nine classrooms each with technology to support engaged learning 

• A library with book stacks and computers with internet access 

• A reception desk with 24-hour crew services, as well as field and administrative staff during business hours 

• A large student union with upper and lower seating for community-wide events 

• Fitness spaces including an indoor gym with weight machines and cardiovascular equipment, as well as an outdoor fitness area with free weights and recreational activities 

• Two dining halls for “all you can eat” dining during meal hours and two snack bar for purchasing additional snacks, meals and drinks

• An outdoor pool 

• Comfortable cabins available in double and triple accommodation

• Pictures and more information can be found at semesteratsea.org/life-at-sea/our-ship/ 

No, Semester at Sea is not a party ship, and does not allow partying onboard. Semester at Sea is an educationally purposeful community, a place where faculty and students share academic goals and work together to strengthen teaching and learning on campus. 

Students are prohibited from bringing alcohol onboard the ship. However, they are allowed to purchase a maximum of two drinks - only beer or wine - for occasional events onboard. More information about student conduct can be found in the Voyager’s Handbook. 

Semester at Sea offers buffet-style meals three times a day, noting on each item if they contain dairy, gluten, or if the dish is vegetarian or vegan. Students with more specific dietary needs should consult with the Regional Director who will look into the matter further. Most dietary needs can be accommodated, but advanced notification is required. Students can bring their own food; however, it must be in its original sealed unopened packaging and be an individual serving. Large quantities or supply of food is not permitted. 

No, students are not permitted to leave the country we are visiting unless they are participating in a Semester at Sea field program that allows them to do so. 

If students are asking about COVID-19 you can direct them to our COVID resource page on the website: semesteratsea.org/safety/coronavirus/ and you can put them in contact with their regional director for further information. 

Yes, as long as both students are assigned the same cabin type and have both requested each other as roommates they can potentially be placed together if space permits. We also have gender-inclusive housing if students wish to opt into this option. 

If you have specific medical needs you can let the student know that they can reach out to medical@semesteratsea.org. Before the voyage, each student will complete a medical history form where they should disclose any medical needs or concerns. The medical team will get in touch with each student if they have follow-up questions or need to construct a wellness plan. 

SAS provides academic accommodations for students with diagnosed learning disabilities. Students should request that the appropriate office at their institution email a letter of approved accommodations to the contact listed in their student portal.

We generally recommend students try a different browser, but if they still need help, they can contact: support@semesteratsea.org 

Semester at Sea was founded in 1963!