Are you thinking about studying abroad this spring? If so, keep this timeline in mind for the application and planning process:

~October 1 Program Application Deadlines:
For spring, many programs have an October 1 deadline (if not earlier). Check with your chosen program…

• Reid Hall Deadline: October 1
• KCJS Deadline: October 1
• Berlin Deadline: October 15
• Tsinghua Spring Deadline: October 1

Each study abroad program will have a different deadline, but most admissions are rolling. You should start the application process now. Usually, you will need two professor recommendations, transcripts, an essay & the program application. Some programs require a form from your study abroad dean. This usually takes approx 2 weeks to gather together. Once you’ve submitted your application, it takes anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks to hear back from your program.

October 1: Clearance Deadline
In order to study abroad, you need to receive academic clearance from CC/SEAS or GS. The clearance process is to ensure that studying abroad will not delay your graduation and that your plan makes sense. Briefly, it checks that you’ve made good progress towards the Core; have adequate language preparation; have taken a regional course; are in good academic standing.

If you are CC or SEAS, see Dean Scott Carpenter in 105 Carmen. If you are GS, see Dean Vanessa Karahalios in 403 Lewisohn. Once you are cleared, bring your signed form to 204 Lewisohn to have your plan approved by the appropriate advisor.

October 3: The Study Abroad Fair
More than 50 approved programs will be on campus to answer your study abroad questions. If you are stilling exploring your options, this is a wonderful opportunity to speak with faculty and program representative, as well as with returned study abroad students. 12:30-4:30 Lerner Auditorium

October-November: Program admissions notification
You should be hearing from your chosen programs now. Once you are officially admitted to your program, you should make sure to apply for housing abroad and look into visa details.

November 15: Registration Deadline
You should have heard from your program by now. You need to register to study abroad by turning in a Registration form to 204 Lewisohn. This maintains your registration while you are abroad in order to keep you affiliated with Columbia and to maintain your housing guarantee and financial aid. Available in 204 Lewisohn or online: http://ogp.columbia.edu/pdf-files/registration_8_15_07.pdf

November 15: Pre-departure meetings for all outgoing students