Off-Campus Study Guidelines

First Steps:

Students interested in studying abroad should first look through the recommended programs offered by the Office of Off-Campus Study. In addition, students should set up an appointment with the office to learn more about the programs and the process.

Related Offices

Meeting with Faculty

After looking through the list of options, students should meet with a faculty member to discuss the programs and the courses they wish to take. The faculty member will then advise students and help them determine which program is the best for them.

Receiving Credit

Students are guaranteed credit for the courses that their advisor have approved, however students are not locked into these courses and are allowed to change these courses at any time in consultation with their advisor.

Once abroad, when choosing courses, students should consult with their Latin American studies advisor at Bowdoin via email to receive approval. Final credit for these courses will be awarded upon submission of course materials, so students must keep all course syllabi and coursework completed in the courses they wish to have count toward the major. Students studying abroad must also receive a C or above in approved classes to receive credit.

There are also certain limitations on how many credits can be transferred:

Up to three courses from approved off-campus study programs will count toward the major.

Internships associated with participation in an approved program can also be credited as long as they are provided in connection with a seminar and a written research project.

After Study Abroad

Within a month of return to campus, students should schedule a meeting with their advisor to receive final approval for the courses taken abroad and students must submit their course syllabi and completed coursework.

October 1
Students who studied abroad in the spring, or for the year, must turn in their class syllabus and coursework.
March 1
Students who studied abroad in the fall must turn in their class syllabus and coursework.