Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for applying to study abroad?
- Applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA is 3.0. Each program has its own requirement which may be higher than Clark's.
- You must have declared a major and have a faculty advisor within that major.
- You must be in good standing with the University, and may not be on academic or social probation.
- Language programs typically require previous study in the host country's language, if the language is taught at Clark.
- It is recommended to study abroad in the junior year, although some programs will admit second-semester sophomores.
- While we do not recommend that students study abroad during their senior year, it is possible to study abroad during the first semester, senior year on certain programs. Because of Clark's residency requirement during the senior year, you may not take a foreign leave of absence to study at a non-Clark program.. Read more about specific requirements.
How do I choose a program?
Clark University currently offers 43 semester or yearlong programs abroad, including programs to increase your foreign language proficiency, immerse you in the culture of a foreign country, programs taught in English and Internship/Active Learning programs. Clark also approves many study abroad programs through other institutions for transfer credit (these are considered non-Clark programs). Please note that studying abroad on a non-Clark program requires you to take a foreign leave of absence for the semester/year that you are studying abroad. There is a $750 fee to take a Foreign Leave, and Clark financial aid can not be applied to non-Clark programs. For more information please make an appointment with the Study Abroad and Study Away Programs office.
What is the cost?
Except for the CAPA London Program, students are billed for Clark tuition by Student Accounts, and are billed for housing/board fees directly by their host program. Meals that are not provided by the program are the responsibility of the student. For the CAPA London Program, students pay Clark's International Program Fee (roughly the equivalent of Clark's tuition, room and full board), and Clark pays the program fees in London.
Students are responsible for making and paying for their on travel arrangements, passport and visa (if required), personal expenses, books, and expenses during breaks. On Clark programs, your financial aid will travel with you in most cases. Clark also offers several scholarships to cover the extra costs incurred while studying abroad. In general, studying abroad is often more expensive than studying at Clark.
May international students study abroad?
Yes, but there are some exceptions. Clark does not grant credit to international students who plan to study in their home country.
Also, International Student Scholarships awarded by Clark generally can not be applied to off-campus programs. This includes Study Abroad Programs as well as our programs in Washington, D.C. Exceptions must be approved by the Dean of the College.
Are there programs for particular majors?
Clark has an exchange program with the University of East Anglia, and we generally advise English majors to attend this excellent institution, which also has a very good Environmental Science and Art History program. Psychology majors should attend the University of Stirling or University of Sussex. Sussex has an excellent Pre-Med program as well. Keep in mind that students in other majors can attend these universities as well. Murdoch University in Perth has excellent programs in Environmental Studies, Media Studies and Management. The School For Field Studies programs are also very good for students interested in Environmental Science or Sustainable Development. TheJewish Studies in Prague semester is specifically geared toward students interested in the history, culture and arts of Central European Jews in the 20th century. The Service Learning program in Cape Town, South Africa, is especially focused on providing students with a framework to fulfill their educational and personal goals, while also giving back to the communities in which their learning takes place. Sociology and International Development majors will find this program rewarding as well as challenging. The new program at The Burren College of Art, Ireland, is meant specifically for the serious studio art student.
Major and Minor/Concentration requirement approvals are granted by the individual department.
When are the applications due?
Check out our current application deadlines.
How much credit do I get for a Study Abroad program?
All programs offer students the opportunity to obtain a semester's or year's worth of credit, four or eight Clark units respectively. In this way, a student never "loses time" toward a degree while studying abroad. Please note that it is not possible to earn more than four Clark units per semester.
Besides year-long or semester programs, what are my other options for studying abroad?
You can apply to the May Term Program in Luxembourg.to earn one Clark unit. You can also choose to earn up to two Clark units during the summer study with another university. Before you begin your program you must apply for transfer credit from Clark through the Study Abroad Office.
Who are the overseas and/or US contacts for each Clark Program?
View the Study Abroad Overseas Contacts page.