The essence of off-campus study finances at Macalester is simple enough: students pay Macalester tuition for the off-campus study semester, plus the room and board of the program or overseas university. Even if the program or university tuition is less than Macalester’s, Macalester students pay Macalester tuition. On the other hand, if the off-campus tuition is more than Macalester’s -- a rare event -- the student pays the higher sum.

The corollary to this policy is that all Macalester financial aid (except work study) goes with the student during the off-campus semester. International students can utilize financial aid for off-campus study if it is required by their major (International Studies not included) or minor. Any international student can use financial aid for Macalester’s program in the Netherlands - Perspectives on Globalization.

In practice this means that for most students the financial differences between a regular semester and the off-campus semester are marginal. The biggest difference comes in the cost of transportation; after that come incidental costs such as passports, visas, pre-departure medical exams, living costs of the destination (Paris, Tokyo, Oslo and others are expensive), walking-around money, and discretionary travel. All of these vary enormously from place to place.

Every student approved by Macalester will receive a Cost Sheet. The Cost Sheet estimates a student’s educational expenses for the semester -- tuition, living costs, travel, etc. A copy goes to Macalester’s Financial Aid Office for the adjustment of the student’s financial aid for the off-campus semester. Students and parents get a copy too.

Cost Sheet

This brief summary does not capture all of the individual variations. Students should raise finance questions during their advising sessions at the International Center or with IC staff any time, or with Macalester’s Financial Aid Office. Parents may also call or write the International Center. College policies regarding the financial aspects of off-campus study may be found in the Handbook for Off-Campus Study.

Many scholarships are available specifically for study abroad experiences, and all Macalester students are encouraged to apply for scholarship funds. Planning ahead is key, as the deadlines for some scholarships are before students need to apply for their programs.

Scholarships

Outside Scholarship Policy