The study away process begins well in advance of your anticipated departure date. You begin during the fall semester of the academic year before you study away, and your journey continues beyond your return to campus. We have provided two timelines for you below: the first for the advising and application process, and the second for after you have been approved to study away and as you prepare for your departure. Detailed information with links to additional resources can be found at the bottom of the page as well.
ADVISING & APPLICATION
Fall semester of the academic year before you study away
PRE-DEPARTURE
Advising & Application Detailed Timeline
SEPTEMBER
- Attend Mandatory First Step Study Away Information Sessions in order to have access to the Pre-Advising Questionnaire and Application (view dates on CSA calendar)
OCTOBER
- Complete the Pre-Advising Questionnaire Online
- Meet with CSA advisor in-person (required)
NOVEMBER
- By Thanksgiving, request to open program application
- Complete Application for Macalester approval, including:
- Basic information
- Communication authorization
- Coursework details
- Short answer questions
- Additional essays, if required*
- Required to apply for: non-approved, limited enrollment, and exchange programs
DECEMBER
- Submit application by deadline in early December
EARLY SPRING SEMESTER
- SARC (Study Away Review Committee) will inform you of approval decisions
- Center for Study Away will work with you on any next steps
Pre-Departure Detailed Timeline
6 MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
- Check passport
- Must be valid for 6 months after program end date
- If you don’t have a passport, apply for one.
- Apply to program or university (this process varies by program)
- Plan budget
- Apply for scholarships
3 MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
- Prepare for wellness
- Get vaccinations
- Complete medical, dental, and vision exams
- Discuss travel plans with therapist or counselor
- Prepare to have sufficient medication
- Apply for a visa (if needed)
- Make travel arrangements
1 MONTH PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
