While Abroad

Your study abroad experience is in progress! We encourage you to remember that this is a program, not a “trip”. You have the opportunity to fully engage with your host community and culture. Remember to be open to differences, be curious, and be kind to yourself as you navigate this experience.

We encourage you to refer to the Education Abroad Handbook for information about finances abroad, daily life, health and safety, identities and cultures, and sustainable travel while abroad.

24/7 UVA International Studies Office contact number +1 434-982-3010

Transfer Credit

The classes I'm taking while abroad are different from those I had approved on my Study Abroad Transfer Credit Approval Form when I applied. What do I need to do to ensure the credits transfer?

To obtain transfer credit approval for courses to fulfill your major/minor/language requirement: Email the course title and syllabus to the corresponding Director of Undergraduate Programs.

Once you have their email approval for the course, send that, along with the syllabus to the designated person/office in your school of enrollment listed below.

To obtain transfer credit approval for general elective (non-major/minor/foreign language) credit, email the course title and syllabus to the designated person/office in your School of Enrollment listed below.

Questions? Contact your UVA Education Abroad Advisor.

How will my transfer credits be applied to my UVA record?

The credits you earned abroad will be added to your student record once UVA receives an official transcript from your host institution or program provider. Once your transcript is processed, the credits you earned will be listed on your transcript as “credit received” in accordance with your transfer credit approvals. Your transcript must match your transfer credit approval forms for your credit to be processed, and students must earn a minimum grade for credits to transfer to UVA. Grades for transfer credit courses do not appear on your UVA transcript, and they are not factored into your UVA GPA, but be mindful that others may see them in the future when you apply to graduate school or other advanced degree programs. Your unofficial UVA transcript will show the specific courses you took abroad, while your official UVA transcript will not.

Planning Ahead

I’m studying abroad for a semester. Do I need to register for next semester’s classes while abroad?

Yes! If you’re abroad for a semester or year, you will most likely be abroad when registration opens for your next semester on Grounds in November or March. You will still enroll in courses in SIS as usual. Make sure you don’t have any holds (UREG will ensure you don’t have an Advisor hold), and that you’re able to successfully log into SIS, before your actual enrollment open date.  Keep the time difference in mind when you get your registration window. You may have to get up early or stay up late! Additional details can be found in the Education Abroad Handbook.

How can I vote while abroad?

Check with your state regarding submitting an absentee ballot. Mailing documents from abroad can entail a significant delay, so it is best to apply for your absentee ballot as soon as possible.

Where do I get help while abroad?

While you’re abroad, the staff at your host institution or program provider, or your faculty director, will be your primary contact for any on-site concerns. Save emergency contact details listed in the Education Abroad Handbook and provided to you by your program or host institution for quick access. You are also welcome to contact your UVA Education Abroad Advisor, if you have general questions, including those related to UVA. The UVA Education Abroad Handbook is another great resource that answers many questions by providing additional information and resources

Additional Resources