The International Experience

1. Learn the basics and consider your preferences. Watch the International Experience 101 video for a helpful overview.

2. Get familiar with the variety of programs available. Review the Carlson Global Institute Program Finder and the Learning Abroad Center Program Finder. Consider going outside of your comfort zone!

3. Meet with the study abroad office that hosts your program - either the Carlson Global Institute (CGI) or the Learning Abroad Center (LAC). You may schedule an appointment with a CGI advisor online here. Students are required to attend a First Step Session before meeting with an LAC program selection advisor. They can explain program models, application processes, costs, cultural differences, and other factors that will help you choose the right program for you. All University of Minnesota credit-bearing abroad programs fulfill the International Experience.

4. Meet with your Carlson School academic advisor. They can help you determine which programs will fit with your major and graduation timeline. Your unique academic plan will impact which programs are a good fit for you, so make sure to meet with them before getting your heart set on a program. Make an appointment to learn about your options once you've narrowed down your preferences. 

If you're interested in a semester or summer program, review the Carlson School Study Abroad Business Course Equivalencies Database to explore potential business course options. Be sure to connect with your Carlson School academic advisor for study abroad academic planning.

5. Apply to your program! Once you meet with the study abroad office that hosts your program and know your program’s application process, eligibility requirements, and deadlines, submit a program application! Remember to review study abroad scholarships hosted by the Carlson Global Institute and the Learning Abroad Center.

1. Email your Carlson School academic advisor to let them know what program you've chosen and when you'll be studying abroad. They'll let you know if a meeting is needed after you attend your pre-departure meeting to do more detailed academic planning.

2. Connect with your Education Abroad program manager. This will be your advisor from either the Carlson Global Institute or the Learning Abroad Center. You'll be receiving a lot of information from them about next steps, so be sure to pay attention and check your email regularly!

3. Review study abroad scholarships hosted by the Carlson Global Institute and the Learning Abroad Center, if deadlines haven't passed.

4. Participate in pre-departure orientation or pre-departure classes.

If you're confirmed on a semester or summer program, review the Carlson School Study Abroad Business Course Equivalencies Database to explore potential business course options. Be sure to connect with your Carlson School academic advisor for study abroad academic planning.

5. Review details about transferring coursework from your study abroad program and business course evaluations.

6. Depart and enjoy your program! 

Semester and summer program students should communicate their final study abroad enrollment to their academic advisor once their study abroad registration is finalized.

7. When you return, check your APAS Report and connect with your Carlson School academic advisor if you have any questions about your international experience requirement or credits from abroad.

Short term instructor-led program grades will be reflected on your APAS Report once the faculty member submits the final grades, often 2-4 weeks post program. APAS Report adjustments are made once grade submission notification is received.

Semester and summer program grades are often posted on your APAS 2-4 months post program. APAS Report adjustments are made by academic advisors for liberal education and major/minor credit once grade submission notification is received.