FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When can I go?
2. What are the eligibility requirements?
3. Can I use my financial aid?
4. What are my options for housing?
5. Do I have to go for the entire academic year?
6. Do I have to speak another language?
7. Will my credit transfer back to UNM?
8. Will I be enrolled in classes with other US students?
9. How are courses taught?

When can I go?
Most students study abroad during their junior year of college. Students have usually had several 300 level courses in their major, are more focused in what they want to study by their junior year.For some programs, we will also consider sophomores. Summer programs are usually open to all students.
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What are the eligibility requirements?
A 3.0 cumulative grade point average, at least 2 semesters at UNM (including branches), enrolled as a full time student in a degree program, earned at least 60 hours by departure. If spaces are available, sophomores may apply.
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Can I use my financial aid?
Yes, students on the One-To-One Exchanges pay UNM tuition, and therefore can use their financial aid and scholarships. Most financial aid can also be used for short-term or affiliate programs. www.unm.edu/~finaid

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What are my options for housing?
Most schools have university owned housing - either dormitories or apartments shared with other students. Some will have an off campus housing policy and you are on your own, some have family stay availability.
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Do I have to go for the entire academic year?
We encourage students to spend the entire year and some schools have this requirement. However, if only one semester is available, we will consider your application.
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Do I have to speak another language?
Schools that teach in the official language of the country require that you are at the 302 level (6 college semesters) proficiency. Some schools, in Denmark and Sweden, for example, teach international students in English and have a crash course for non native speakers prior to the beginning of school.
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Will my credit transfer back to UNM?
During the application process, you will be meeting with your academic advisor who will assist you with your course selections at the host school. They will determine if successfully completed courses should transfer back. Once you return, you will petition the department for transfer credit.
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Will I be enrolled in classes with other US students?
Probably. More and more US students are studying abroad, but there are only one or two UNM students that will be attending your host university at the same time you do. (Except Granada!)
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How are courses taught?
Universities overseas have very different teaching methods that UNM students must adjust to during their exchange. Students may work in groups for presentations, attend lectures, tutorials (one professor with a few other students for intense discussions, readings are assigned and must be completed). Students studying on an exchange have more freedom in terms of attending lectures. Universities expect that students are prepared at the time of exams and presentations by work completed outside of class. You will have to adjust your study-habits to fit your host school's requirements.