Q: How do students choose a program?

Choosing a program can be a daunting task! There is no one-size-fits-all program, and you may want to consider different factors. Many students consider location, language, and academics as primary considerations. For example, do you need courses to fulfill major or minor requirements? Do you need courses in English, Spanish or French? After you've gotten some of the big questions out of the way, think about how you might like to live - in a dorm, with a local family or in an apartment. Do you want to study with local students at a large University, with a small cohort of Americans, or a combination of the two? Click on this link to make an appointment with someone in the study abroad office to find out more!

Q: Do I need to speak another language?

Programs are offered in many languages, and English language programs are not limited to the United Kingdom or Australia. You can enhance your major with English language courses in places like Italy, Spain or the Netherlands.

Q: Can I study abroad in the summer?

In addition to summer and January term study abroad options, we also have internship opportunities abroad.

Q: What are the program dates?

Program dates vary each semester depending on the program of your choice. Exact dates are set by the host program, not Nichols College.

Q: What are the requirements for approval to study abroad?

Please refer to the 'Requirements' page for Nichols College's requirements to study abroad.

Q: What is the typical level of courses taken overseas?

The level varies depending on the program or institution, but in general, all study abroad program courses are registered as at least 200-level courses. Each department at Nichols College makes a determination on the equivalent course level.

Q: Are there programs for particular majors?

Yes, there are programs specifically designed for certain majors. However, students are not required to choose a program directly tied to their major. Please contact the International Programs office to explore programs that offer courses relevant to your major or minor. For your best interest, we recommend consulting with the Registrar before selecting courses related to your major.

Q: What kind of academic support is offered?

Academic support varies depending on the program type, educational system, country, and culture. Students should expect less academic and social support compared to what is typically available on a U.S. campus. These cultural and educational differences do not necessarily mean the host institution or program is less friendly or helpful; rather, they may expect students to take more initiative and reach out if they need assistance. While increased independence is often a reported benefit of studying abroad, don't hesitate to ask for help—support is available if you need it! 

Q: How are study abroad programs evaluated?

Almost all of our programs are directly administered by a U.S.-accredited program provider or third-party institution. Additionally, Nichols College International Programs staff regularly conduct site evaluations of each program and gather student feedback for review. Our office also utilizes numerous professional resources, including study abroad advisors, professional groups, and regular conferences, as well as quality standards set by the profession.

Q: When will my grades be posted?

After you program ends, your transcript may not arrive right away. Grades are not submitted as quickly from abroad as they do when you're at Nichols College. Don't worry! Registrar will receive your transcripts and do what is necessary to translate the grade to your Nichols College transcript.

For questions regarding your grades and transcripts, contact Ashley Ottman from the Registrar's office.

Q: How do students make travel arrangements to host country?

Students at Nichols College generally make their own travel arrangements. Most host programs offer advice, preferable dates to arrive and depart or airport pick up service. API offers Fare Finder, which offers discounted student rates for travel.

Q: Do students have time to travel while studying abroad?

Students can usually find time to travel on their own while studying abroad. However, even with the opportunity to travel, academics should remain a priority.

Q: Do students need a passport?

Updated passport photocopies are due at the time of application. It is the responsibility of each student to obtain or update a passport for international travel. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the student's return date.

Passports should be updated well before submitting the study abroad application. For information on how to order or update a passport, visit the U.S. Department of State - Passport. Passport applications may be expedited for an additional fee.

Q: My visa application requires a “Letter of Enrollment” or “Letter of Support” from my University, where do I get that?

Email the Director of International Programs and she will provide you with the letter you need.

Q: Help! I need an FBI background check, fingerprints, or some other criminal background check from the police! What do I do? Where can I get a background check?

First, contact your program and the consulate that you’ll be working with to ensure that you're receiving the correct background check. Also, contact Public Safety as they may be able to assist with some of these. Be specific in your request – you are not asking them for a visa, but for the print or the check. If you need a 'LiveScan,' you may be able to find additional locations through these resources:

• LiveScan Location Search

• Identogo

Q: Can international students study abroad?

Yes, you can! F-1 students may be interested in studying abroad or away as a complement to their studies at Nichols College. If you are considering studying abroad or away, it is important to understand your options and how studying abroad may affect your F-1 status. While F-1 student is permitted to study abroad after the completion of their first term, students at Nichols College are not eligible to apply until they have been in residence at Nichols College's for one year. Always check with the International Programs office before applying to ensure you are complying with any immigration regulations.

If you will be completing an internship as part of your study away experience, please check with the International Programs office to make sure you have proper authorization.

Q: What is the impact on CPT and Pre-Completion OPT?

If approved by the International Programs office, and if your study abroad experience meets the full-time enrollment requirement, a semester abroad can be counted toward eligibility for CPT or Pre-Completion OPT.

Q: What is the impact on Post-Completion OPT?

Students may not be eligible for post-completion OPT if participating in Out of the Country Study Abroad experiences during their graduating semester for the following reasons:  

• Students outside the U.S. are not in any non-immigrant status while abroad.

• The student is not residing in the U.S. with a current I-94.

• The student may not be able to return to the U.S. after program end date.

• The student must submit OPT application from inside the U.S.

Q: How will students be billed while studying abroad?

There will be a one-time application fee billed by Nichols College's Student Financial Services.

A study away administrative fee will be placed on the student account for each term away. Your program will bill Nichols College directly and you will be billed accordingly from Student Financial Services in your Nichols College account.

Q: Will there be unexpected costs?

Students should always be prepared for unexpected costs. The International Programs fee does not cover independent travel, personal expenses beyond typical meals, supplies/books, plane tickets, passport/visa applications, or departure taxes. These expenses vary by program and individual.

Some organizations or programs offer additional 'optional' excursions that may or may not be included in your program cost. These excursions can be purchased by the student on-site and typically involve group travel.

Q: Are there scholarships available?

Please see the Scholarships page for more information.

Q: Will I be safe while studying abroad?

Nichols College take health and safety very seriously. In conjunction with our partners, local and international law enforcement, and consulates, we regularly monitor news and situations that arise. Additionally, all of our program providers have comprehensive emergency protocols in place.

Q: Should I register with the U.S. Department of State's STEP?

Nichols College recommends that you register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on the U.S. Department of State's website, where you will find additional useful information for traveling abroad. If you are not a U.S. Citizen, register with the Embassy/Consulate of your home country.

Q: Will I need international health insurance?

In addition to domestic coverage, all students must be enrolled in international health insurance while abroad. You can learn more here!

Q: Where do students typically reside?

Each program features different housing arrangements, which may include dormitory, suite/apartment-style housing on campus, off-campus housing, or homestays. When possible, efforts are made to integrate students with host country nationals or other international students.

Q: What dining options are available to students?

Depending on the program's arrangements, students may eat meals in the dining hall or cook in apartment kitchens. Typically, host universities abroad offer no meal plans or only limited meal plans.

Q: How can students stay in touch with home?

Students typically receive their host program's address and phone number shortly before departure. Be sure to check your personal cell phone plan's policies regarding international calls. Many students choose to purchase an inexpensive cell phone plan abroad upon arrival. WhatsApp is also a great app to use with Wi-Fi while abroad, allowing you to stay connected with anyone who has the app back home, and enabling you to text or call free of charge.