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Student Resources
The Global Center strives to provide students with as many resources as possible to help in planning their adventure abroad. In this section, you will find a wide array of information to help make this process as easy as possible.
- International Requirement
As part of our commitment to the value of understanding multiple perspectives and the impact of global transformation, SOLES degree students must, as part of their requirements for graduation, undertake an international experience. We believe these experiences contribute to the entire learning and professional preparation processes for our students and graduates.
Options for fulfilling the international requirement may vary between departments. All students are required to first meet with their academic advisor for pre-approval for all options. - Important Dates
Application Windows
Important dates Fall 2020 April 1-22, 2020 Intersession 2021 September 8-29, 2020 Spring 2021 October 5-26, 2020 Summer 2021 December 1-22, 2020 Withdraw Policy
The withdraw policies vary each semester and are based on the cost of each individual program.
Deadlines for Application Enrollment Process
Fall 2020
- Deadline to Activate Application
- Deadline for all application requirements (material submissions, signature documents & questionnaires)
May 1 - Deadline for Wellness Clearance Forms (if requested by Global Center)
May 15 - Deadline to Upload Passport & Flight Itinerary
TBA - Application Procedures
Overview of Study Abroad Enrollment Process
When students open an application for a study abroad program, their default application status is "Pending". During this time, students will need to complete the requirements listed in their USD Abroad application portal. After these preliminary requirements have been completed, they will be prompted by their study abroad advisor to initiate the study abroad enrollment process. There are three steps in the study abroad enrollment process (Step 1, Step 2, Step 3). Within each of these steps, students will be prompted to complete certain requirements. These steps including a description of the requirements within each step are detailed below:
Step 1: Activation Required
After students' pending applications have been reviewed by the study abroad advisors, they will be prompted to complete Step 1 of the enrollment process. In this first step, their application status will read, "Step 1: Activation Required". At this time, students will need to activate their application by clicking the “Yes, Agree” button in the “My Application” section of their online application. Doing so will signify that the student wishes to continue with the application process and will work on completing remaining application requirements. In order to move to Step 2 of the application process, students are required to complete this important step.
Step 2: Application Active/Review by USD
After clicking "Yes, Agree" in the "My Application" section of their application, an application is activated but not yet complete. At this time, students must complete all requirements (material submissions, questionnaires) by the established deadline. Deadlines for completing all application requirements are listed on the Important Dates and Deadlines page. Failure to complete the application requirements by the deadline will result in the withdrawal of an application and may result in additional charges.
As part of Step 2 of the enrollment process, students will be required to provide information related to their wellness to verify that there are no contraindications to travel abroad. The Global Center and/or Wellness Units at USD may request additional documentation related to students' readiness to travel from the student or from the student's health/mental health professional. This additional documentation must be submitted by the established due dates as listed on the Important Dates page.
Students should NOT purchase their flight while in Step 2 of the enrollment process. Once application statuses have been changed to "Step 3: Enrolled" students will receive flight information from their study abroad advisor. Should students decide to withdraw from the program after their application has been activated, they will be held to the Refund Policy.
Step 3: Program Enrollment
When students' application status reads: “Step 3: Enrolled” this confirms that they have met all eligibility requirements, and have completed all application materials. They are now confirmed to study abroad. Therefore, they can proceed to purchase flights. It is highly recommended that students purchase flight insurance to protect them in the event that they are not able to participate in the study abroad program (due to an emergency, if they become ineligible, etc.).
Description of Application Statuses
All official application statuses are listed at the top of the students' application under “My Application.” Please note that there are different application statuses and students are responsible for understanding the implications of their status. Below is a description of the application statuses used by the Global Center. Students should refer to this list to clarify their application status as indicated on their application and decision email (sent by their Studies Abroad Advisor):
- Pending- Students have not yet been reviewed and/or application is incomplete.
- Application Complete- Under Review- Student has completed the preliminary application requirements and the application is being reviewed by the Global Center
- Step 1: Activation Required- Students must activate their application by clicking on the "Yes, Agree" button under the "My Application" section of their application.
- Step 2: Application Active- Application is active and students are prompted to complete additional application requirements.
- Step 3: Enrolled- Student is confirmed to participate in the program (by all study abroad parties).
Cancellation Policy
Students are able to cancel at any time during the enrollment process, however, there may be fees incurred based on the date of cancellation.
- Financing
Global study courses are considered part of the University's academic curriculum. Financial aid, therefore, is available to eligible students. However, it is important to note that financial aid packages may vary depending on which program the student is attending. Students should contact the USD One Stop Student Center to discuss this prior to submitting an application for a course.
SOLES Financial Aid - Students may also explore financial aid available from the School of Leadership and Education Sciences in the form of loans and scholarships by visiting the SOLES Financial Aid website. If you are considering applying for financial aid to assist with the cost of going abroad, be sure to work that element into your personal timeline as well.
There are several other external opportunities to fund research, study abroad, or teaching that could fulfill or contribute to fulfilling the international requirement. Keep in mind that meticulous and early planning is always critical to obtain financial aid. Some foundations, such as Rotary International, require applications over one year in advance. See International Exchange Opportunities for funded opportunities.
- Diversity & Identity Abroad
LGBTQ Students and Study Abroad
If you identify as LGBTQ and plan to study abroad, find ways to prepare yourself for a different culture and its ideas about gender and sexual identity.
You may already identify as a lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, or queer student, or you may still be exploring your identity. In either case, you will find that the social climate, laws, and personal interactions of other cultures will often differ from the U.S. (and California/San Diego in particular). While researching study abroad programs and preparing for departure, it is important to reflect on the culturally based ideas and definitions of gender and sexual identity. Consider carefully how your identity as a LGBTQ person may influence your relationships with host nationals, your cultural adjustment, and your overall education abroad experience.
Learn About Your Host Country Before You Go
In some cultures, Western understandings of "gay" and "straight" don't exist, or don't carry the same importance as they do in the U.S. People involved in same-sex relationships may not see this as an identity. In other cultures, there are active social movements for civil rights for sexual and gender minorities. In preparing for your study abroad experience, it is important for you to research the LGBTQ climate of the country you will be visiting.
If you are open about your gender, sexual identity and/or gender expression, consider the following as you research potential study abroad countries:
- The culture of a country might make you feel like you are either "sent back into the closet" or, in countries that are more progressive than the US, freer to express yourself.
- If your host country is NOT progressive or accepting of the LGBTQ community, make sure you understand the political climate and consider your personal safety before confronting this way of thinking.
- Some countries will make it easier for you to come out; make sure that you have a support network during this time.
- If you are not public about your identity, realize that finding that community will be a bit more difficult while abroad. Finding groups or organizations before you go is essential. Check out the links in the campus and international resources sections.
Race and Ethnicity Abroad
Racial and ethnic relations vary by culture, meaning that while you’re abroad, you may be part of an ethnic minority or majority for the first time in your life or have to think about your identity in a new way.
For instance, if you’re visiting a country where you have ethnic or racial roots, you may have to consider the local norms and expectations in ways that other students with different backgrounds may not. Remember that in countries with pre-existing ethnic or racial conflicts, you may be inadvertently identified with one group or another simply based on your appearance. On the other hand, perhaps you’ll be considered American first, and your ethnic or racial identity will be secondary.
You can prepare yourself for the situations you may encounter by researching the minority, majority, and plurality racial and ethnic composition of your host country and exploring its history of racial and ethnic relations.
Questions to Ask
- Where do people of my race/ethnicity fit into my host country’s society? Am I likely to be a target of racism/classism, or am I going to be treated the same way in my host country as I am in the US?
- What are the cultural norms of my host country? Are there religious/cultural institutions or rituals that they adhere to?
- What is the history of ethnic or racial tension in the country? Is the situation currently hostile to members of a minority race, majority race, or particular ethnicity or religion?
- Are issues of racism/ethnic discrimination influenced by immigration in my host country? How do politicized immigration concerns fuel racial tensions? What is the character of immigrant communities?
- Are there laws in the host country governing race relations? Ethnic relations? What protections are offered to ethnic or racial minorities?
Gender Abroad
Whether you’ve traveled before or this is your first time abroad, it’s important to consider your host country’s cultural attitude towards gender identity and gender expression. Depending on where you are, you may find different gender roles and norms than you’re used to. It’s possible that you may be treated differently or be expected to treat others differently based on these factors. Everyone should consider possible issues, challenges, and changes they may face while abroad regarding societal perceptions of gender. When researching potential programs, consider your host country’s cultural differences and how these might impact your everyday life.
Learn About Your Country
Societal expectations based on gender can differ between countries and can influence interaction.
Questions to Ask
- What is the attitude towards gender in my host country?
- What are considered typical gender roles in my host society?
- What are the society’s perceptions and expectations for men, women and transgender individuals in my host country?
- What are the gender stereotypes of Americans in my host country?
- How do men treat women in my host country?
- Are there differences in political and social power based on gender?
- How do my personal values compare with my host country’s attitudes about socially accepted gender roles?
Disability Abroad
Students with disabilities participate in study abroad programs around the world; the key to a successful experience is planning. Understand, however, that attitudes, accessibility, and accommodation for students with emotional, mental, learning, or physical disabilities may vary at different program sites and locations.
Think about how you will manage these differences and seek as much information as possible before you depart.
Planning and Campus Resources
If registered with USD Disability Services, consider discussing your study abroad plans with their office as well. Our offices will work with you to discuss reasonable accommodations abroad and assist you with the planning and pre-departure process.
To better help you prepare, please contact us as early as possible.
Online Resources
Mobility International USA: Information on education and travel for people with disabilities.
Resources
Your Study Abroad Program Advisor can help you find more information about the country you plan to go. All of the Study Abroad Program Advisors in the Global Center are Safe Space Allies.
The USD Women’s Commons is a student-centered learning community that provides resources and engages women and men in educational dialogue around gender-related issues. The Women’s Center advocates for a safe, supportive environment that creates equity among all voices..
Campus Assault Resources and Education (C.A.R.E.) is USD’s primary effort to provide support, resources and education to the student community pertaining to sexual assault and sexual exploitation. There are trained CARE Advocates on campus available to support students impacted by sexual assault. CARE Advocates are available to provide support to USD students who may have been impacted by sexual assault, sexual exploitation, harassment, and/or partner violence.
USD LGBTQ Resources. Learn more and connect to various resources on campus, such as PRIDE (student organization), Rainbow Educators, Safe Space Allies and many more.
Other offices on-campus have resources and advising for students who are interested in learning more about race and ethnicity considerations abroad.
United Front Multicultural Center - Health and Safety
All students participating in a USD short-term study abroad program are covered by international health insurance through ACE/EuropAssist. This insurance functions mainly through reimbursement (if the costs are low). There is NO deductible per illness/injury. An outline of the ACE/EuropAssist medical insurance policy will be provided to all students participating a study abroad program, along with an identification card and claim form. The ACE/EuropeAssist travel assistance program is considered supplemental coverage and CANNOT be used to waive out of the sponsored USD Student Health Insurance Plan.
NOTE FOR STUDENTS ON USD'S STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN: All full-time students who are usually covered in San Diego on USD's student health insurance plan will remain enrolled in the USD student health insurance plan while they are studying abroad. If you have questions about this requirement, for domestic students visit the USD Student Health Insurance Requirement website to learn more or e-mail the USD Wellness Area at wellness@sandiego.edu, for international students visit the OISS Health Insurance Requirements website.
NOTE: International students at USD who are studying abroad on an approved USD program that takes place in their home country are not covered by the ACE/EuropeAssist policy. It is the students' responsibility to obtain full coverage insurance. For more information, we highly recommend that these students contact Alyssa Irizarry, Associate Director, of International Student Engagement in the Office of International Students and Scholars.
Students should feel free to contact ACE/EuropAssist if:
- You require a referral to a hospital or doctor
- You are hospitalized
- You need to be evacuated or repatriated for medical or security reasons
- You need to guarantee payment for medical expenses
- You experience local communication problems and need a translator and interpreter
- In the event that a student needs to seek medical attention or has a medical emergency while abroad, s/he is advised to follow these simple instructions:
Call ACE/EuropAssist (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week) at:
1-800-758-5417 FREE toll free in the USA or Canada
1-240-330-1466 collect outside of the USAEmail: OPS@europassistance-usa.com
When calling, please have the following information:
- Name of caller, phone no., fax no., relationship to patient
- Patient's name, age, sex and policy number
- A description of the patient's condition
- Name, location, and telephone number of hospital
- Name and telephone numbers for the treating doctor (where and when the doctor can be reached if known)
- USD international insurance policy number (this is printed on the insurance card)
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the SOLES Global Center by telephone at (619) 260-5901 or by email at: globalcenter@sandiego.edu
- Travel Preparation
In order to participate in a study abroad program, all students must have a valid passport. Passports should be valid for up to 3 months after the scheduled date of return from abroad. Students are advised to check their passport validity as soon as possible to ensure their passport is valid through this extended date (3 months after the scheduled date of return from abroad)—those who have a passport that will expire prior to this extended date will need to obtain a new passport.
Obtaining a Passport
Students who do not have a passport or if their passport will expire prior to the extended date (see above), they should apply for a passport immediately. There are two recommended ways to obtain a passport:
Through an Authorized Passport Acceptance Facility
Students have the option to apply for a new passport through an authorized passport acceptance facility. Standard processing time is 4-5 weeks. For instructions on how to apply, visit the U.S... Department of State website. Before applying for a new passport through an authorized passport acceptance facility, students should first check the date of when they will need to have their valid passport in-hand. Students must have a valid passport in-hand at the time they apply for a visa. Based on this timeline, students may need to expedite their passport when applying through an authorized passport acceptance facility (for an additional fee). Expedited processing time through a passport acceptance facility is 2-3 weeks. Students who need a passport sooner than these processing times should apply for a passport at a Department of State Passport Agency (see below).
Through a Department of State Passport Agency
Students who need to obtain their passport in less than 2-3 weeks are highly encouraged to apply at a local Department of State Passport Agency. Applying at a passport agency is an expedited service where passports can be generated in 5 days or less. The closest passport agencies are in downtown San Diego and in Los Angeles. Students need to make an appointment through the automated system (24 hours/7 days) by calling 1-877-487-2778 FREE.
Visa Information
Outgoing Students Going Abroad
Visa regulations vary from country to country. Visa requirements are based on each country's specific regulations and will vary depending on your citizenship. Your study abroad advisor will share visa information with you after you have been officially accepted to a program.
When applying for a student visa, materials must be presented to the consulate with jurisdiction over your PERMANENT ADDRESS. In most cases, this needs to be done in person.
It is YOUR responsibility to ensure that you have the most recent information regarding student visa requirements for the consulate under whose jurisdiction you reside. Visa requirements are subject to change and may differ from consulate to consulate.
VISAS FOR SHORT-TERM PROGRAMS: If you are not a U.S... citizen you MAY be required to obtain a visa to participate in a short-term program. For NON-U.S... CITIZENS: Please refer to the consulate web site for the country where you will be studying to determine if you will need a student or tourist visa.
NOTE: If you appear at a consulate without all materials in order, you may be turned away. Remember, there is no legal right to a visa.
- International Exchange Opportunities
Community of Scholars Database
COS database - While this is called the Community of Science, it applies to all disciplines, including education. You can search for funding sources that are specific to you and your interests.
International Internships, Scholarships and Grant Opportunities
- Fulbright Scholar Programs
U.S. Scholar Program:
- Fulbright Scholar Program
- Application Timeline-Deadlines
- Fulbright Scholar List and Links
- Fulbright Traditional Scholar Program
- Fulbright Distinguished Chairs Program
- Fulbright Senior Specialists Program
- Fulbright New Century Scholars Program
- Fulbright Alumni Initiatives Awards
- Fulbright International Administrators Program
- Fulbright German Studies Seminar Program
- Fulbright Institute of Higher Education Awards
U.S. Student Program:
- Fulbright U.S. Student Program
- Types of Grants for Students
- Study/Research
- English Teaching Assistantship
- MTVu (music)
- Public Policy
- Germany, Hungary and Italy
- Critical Language Enhancement Award
- Application Deadlines/Timeline
- Teaching at International American Schools
- Policies
Maximum Number of Courses Taken at Reduced Tuition
Beginning January 1, 2020, SOLES students will be limited to a maximum of two courses for which a tuition reduction will be applied for courses taken as part of the SOLES Global Center programming. Students may enroll in additional study abroad course options, but will be billed according to regular tuition rates for their academic program.
Tuition Remission
Tuition remission may be used for select study abroad programs. Tuition remission is an employee benefit, and thus is processed with Human Resources. The tuition remission benefit can be used toward the tuition portion of all short-term programs. Students are responsible for the program and global center fee.
You may also review the Tuition Remission Step by Step Guide for additional clarification.
Program Changes
The School of Leadership and Education Sciences reserves the right to make changes to the program. Should any significant changes to the program occur, students will be advised of the changes and given the option to withdraw with a full tuition refund.
Travel Warnings and Alerts
In the unlikely event that the U.S. State Department issues a Travel Warning or Alert covering the destination and dates of the program, the following refund policy will apply:- If the warning or alert is issued prior to the commencement of or during the course of the program, students will be given the opportunity to withdraw from the program with a full refund of all tuition and all recuperable fees.
Cancellation and Termination
The School of Leadership and Education Sciences reserves the right to cancel or terminate the program for any reason. The decision to cancel or terminate the program is made in situations which are deemed necessary to protect the health and safety of students, faculty and staff and/or to ensure the integrity of the program. In the event that the program is canceled or terminated, the SOLES Global Center will inform applicants via email and will assist applicants in finding a similar program. In the event that the program is canceled or terminated, the following refund policy will apply:- If the program is canceled prior to the commencement of the program, students will be notified immediately and issued a full refund of all tuition; or
- If the program is terminated during the course of the program, students will be notified immediately, withdrawn from the program and issued a full refund of all tuition.
Under no circumstances is the School of Leadership and Education Sciences responsible for financial losses caused by travel arrangements and housing costs due to the cancellation or termination of the program.