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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is "study abroad?"
Study Abroad is the opportunity to earn Southern Miss credit that will apply to your degree plan, in countries outside the United States. See here for an overview presentation on study abroad.
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Internship programs: duration varies
No! While a few programs require some level of another language, most programs are taught in English.
Yes! Your passport must be valid for SIX months after your return date. If you already have a passport, check the expiration date to make sure it is VALID.
Visit the State Department's website for detailed information on how, where and when to apply for a passport.
That depends on the time of year it's submitted. Check here to see current processing times. If you need a passport more quickly, you can expedite processing for an additional fee, or you can apply in-person at a passport agency and receive same-day service. Same-day service is not guaranteed.
A visa officially grants permission for the holder to enter a country for a particular purpose (e.g., study). For most countries, it appears as a stamp in the passport; other countries issue electronic visas. Each country has different rules and regulations regarding student visa requirements, so it is best to check with your host country’s embassy to inquire whether you are required to have a visa for your stay abroad. For more information, visit the State Department’s website for traveling overseas: http://travel.state.gov and type in the country in which you plan to study. From there, you will find more information on entry/exit requirements, safety, customs, vaccinations, etc. In most cases, this site will lead you to the specific embassy site of the country where further information may be obtained regarding visa requirements.
It depends on the country and how long you will be there. For most programs under 90 days, U.S. Citizens will only need a valid U.S. Passport with an expiration date of at least 6 months after the return date. Students who are not U.S. citizens should check the host country’s entry requirements based on passport citizenship.
Students who are participating in programs 90 days or longer, will need a visa. Please visit http://travel.state.gov for details pertaining to the host country’s requirements. The Exchange Program Coordinator is available to assist students with this process.
Please note: visa requirements are subject to change.
9. What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program?
If you are participating in a UK-based program or traveling through the UK, you will need to apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program. The ETA allows visitors to enter the UK for up to six months without a visa.
The Office of Study Abroad will provide information and assistance with enrolling in the STEP program. This program allows U.S. citizens and nationals to register their travel with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the U.S. Department of State.
The U.S. Department of State offers great information specific to the country you are traveling to. Check out these websites for information about cultural norms, entry/exit requirements, and more. Visit travel.state.gov and Students Abroad.
Yes! The first opportunity is the Château Program: Semester in France or our summer programs, as long as the student meets the eligibility requirements.
Yes! Most of our programs allow non-USM students to attend for transfer credit. However, additional documentation is required before acceptance into the program. If you wish to apply financial aid to a USM program, it must come from your home institution.
14. Can graduate students study abroad?
Yes! Many USM programs offer graduate-level classes.
Program costs vary by program. The cost is posted as it becomes available under the cost sheet tab of the program's webpage. The cost sheet includes billable fees that will be paid to USM as well as non-billable estimated expenses that the student will need during the program.
Billable fees include tuition, mandatory healthcare coverage, accommodations, in-country transportation, and program excursions. Specific details are provided under the program's cost sheet tab.
Yes! Financial Aid is available to eligible students, and more information is available on our Financial Aid & Scholarships page and the Office of Financial Aid website.
Yes! Most OSA scholarships are for USM students. Please visit the GO system and complete your application for fall, spring, or summer. Check out our scholarship page for other scholarship opportunities.
You are welcome to consider purchasing additional travel cancellation insurance such as a” Cancel for Any Reason” plan. These policies range in price and policies should be reviewed carefully before purchase since each differs in benefits and coverage. If you are interested in this option to protect against financial loss due to unforeseen events, click here for a list of companies. The OSA is not affiliated with any of the companies and we have not reviewed specific policies.
20. Will my current health insurance work abroad?
In most cases, no, but that's ok because the Office of Study Abroad will enroll you in international healthcare coverage. See here for more information.
21. Can I travel with medication?
Yes, but some restrictions may apply. See here for more information.
22. How do I prepare for my program?
There are lots of ways you can prepare. See here for more information and useful links.