Who Can Study Abroad?

From a full year, semester, or even just a summer abroad, there are many ways to experience international study. Over half of Harvard College students participate in an international experience during their time as an undergraduate.

Harvard students travel with the benefit of exceptional support. From preparation prior to your departure and on-the-ground resources, to funding support and academic advising, students can be confident that their experience will be rewarding and valuable.

  • You must be in good academic and disciplinary standing to study abroad.
  • Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible for semester-time study abroad.
  • All students except for graduating seniors are eligible for summer study.

Office of International Education

The Office of International Education (OIE) advises Harvard College students on all aspects of study abroad.

student in denmark while studying abroad

Getting Started

Planning is key to a successful study abroad experience. It is never too early to begin integrating study abroad into your individual academic plan, seeking advice from advisers and your concentration, and visiting the Office of International Education for guidance. 

To start planning your study abroad experience, you can meet with an Office of International Education adviser during drop-in hours (Monday-Thursday 2:00-4:00 p.m.). You can also meet with a student adviser who has already studied abroad for at least one semester. Student advisers represent a variety of academic disciplines and include athletes, first-generation students, and recipients of financial aid.

Griffin Financial Aid Office

Financial Aid travels with you for semester-time study abroad and covers everything from airfare and visas to books and ground transportation. For more information, visit the OIE financial aid webpage or contact the Griffin Financial Aid Office.

John Harvard Statue

Applying for Study Abroad

Program information and application processes can be found on the Office of International Education website.

To study abroad, you must do both of the following things: 

  • Apply directly to your study abroad program or university for admission
  • Apply to the Office of International Education for transfer credit

Applications Deadlines for Transfer Credit

Semester Time

  • October 1 for Spring Semester study abroad
  • March 1 for Fall Semester study abroad

Summer

  • Mid-February (for students applying for both funding and credit)
  • April 1 (for students only seeking credit)

Important Approvals

To participate in semester-time or summer study abroad, you must have advising conversations with your academic department and Resident Dean. The Office of International Education advisers will help you to understand the process and answer specific questions.

Financial Aid and Summer Funding

Students receiving financial aid from Harvard can transfer their financial aid from Harvard to an approved semester-time study abroad program.

Students seeking to study abroad in the summer can also apply for competitive summer grants and funding available at the College from a variety of sources. To begin searching for funding for summer study abroad, visit the Harvard College Funding Sources Database for available options.

frequently asked financial aid questions for study abroad