Course Equivalency and Course Substitution

Course Equivalency Process

• In order to transfer your abroad credits to Penn State credits, you must complete the course equivalency process for each course you take

• Course equivalency is completed through the Education Abroad Course Equivalency System by submitting a complete syllabus for each course

• You can complete the course equivalency process at any point once you have access to the course syllabus (the sooner, the better!)

• This process can take 2-4 months!

• You will receive a grade of NG for any course that has not been submitted to the Penn State course equivalency process. Keep in mind that students cannot graduate with an NG on their transcript.

Course Equivalency for Internships

• Each internship course and placement must also go through the course equivalency process

• The appropriate course accreditation will be reviewed following the end of the internship program

• You must meet with your individual college/academic adviser in advance of completing an international internship to obtain approval

• You will need to submit documents and work descriptions through the course equivalency request form, so save any work you complete!

Course Substitution

• Course substitution, the process of placing courses you take abroad into your audit to meet a degree requirement, is completed by petition in your academic department or with your academic adviser

• Course equivalencies and grades must be visible on your transcript before you can substitute your EA courses into your audit - so, make sure you've completed the course equivalency process first!