FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When can I go?
Many students choose to go on exchange programs during their junior year of college. Students have usually had several 300 level courses in their major, and are more focused in what they want to study by their junior year. For many exchange programs, we will also allow students to attend during their sophomore year. It is generally not a good idea to go on an exchange program during the semester when you expect to graduate from UNM. Summer and short-term programs and intensive language study are usually open to all students, including freshmen. There are also many programs open to graduate students.
What are the eligibility requirements?
For exchange programs and the UNM Rome Center, we usually expect a 3.0 (B) grade point average and at least 2 semesters of full-time study at UNM (including branches or CNM). For shorter term programs the admission requirements vary. If you have any questions about your eligibility, talk with a study abroad advisor.
Can I use my financial aid?Yes, students on UNM exchanges pay UNM tuition, and therefore can use all of their financial aid and scholarships. Most financial aid can also be used for short-term or affiliate programs. www.unm.edu/~finaid
What are my options for housing?
Most of our exchange partner schools have university owned housing - either dormitories or apartments shared with other students. Some will assist you in finding off campus housing. Many programs offer the option of a homestay with a local family. Shorter term and intensive language programs usually provide a range of housing options for students.
Do I have to go for the entire academic year?We encourage exchange students to spend the entire year and some of our partner schools require that you come for a full academic year. We will consider applications for a one semester exchange on an individual basis if space is available.
Do I have to speak another language?
Exchange schools that teach in the official language of the country require that you are at the 302 level (6 college semesters) proficiency. Some exchange universities in countries such as Denmark, Sweden, Japan and China, teach international students in English. Some of our partner schools offer short-term intensive language courses for non-native speakers prior to the beginning of school.
Will my credit transfer back to UNM?During the application process, you should meet 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. Our exchange partner schools are all accredited and there is usually no problem transfering the completed credits to UNM. For short-term programs and intensive language schools, you must obtain advanced permission for UNM academic advisors in order to transfer credits.
Will I be enrolled in classes with other US students?For exchange programs, that depends on the partner school. Most of our partners enroll students from the US and many other countries, so you will probably be in a very multi-cultural learning environment. You should make an effort to get to know students from other parts of the world and not take refuge in the safety of a group of other US students.
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. You need to find out as much as possible about academic life at your host university before you begin classes there.
What are the deadlines to apply?
Please click here for an updated list of Study Abroad Program deadlines and related program information.
