If a student cannot be absent from campus for a semester, there are still two viable
options: Short-Term Faculty-Directed Programs (STFD) or a summer semester abroad.
STFDs are one-to-eight-week credit-bearing programs led by MSU staff that offer immersive,
unique experiences abroad with a pre-planned itinerary at a set program cost.
Several affiliate program providers offer credit-bearing summer semesters abroad (four
to eight weeks) for students who may not be able to attend for a Spring/Fall session.
If students wish to use 529 funds, a Kauffman or Hagen scholarship, or Veterans benefits
to fund your education abroad experience fully or partially, the Direct Bill process
may be applicable. The Office of Education Abroad will pay all or a portion of your
program fee to your provider. In turn, the office will place that fee on your MSU
student account. So, students will pay MSU instead of their program provider.
To be eligible for an MSU faculty-directed program, students must hold a 2.0 GPA (or
higher if required by the program director) and a good disciplinary standing with
the Office of Student Conduct (e.g., not having conduct holds that bar them from participating
in an education abroad program).
There are three ways to be sure that your courses abroad will transfer back to MSU
credit upon return:
It’s recommended that students start planning a year ahead of their education abroad
program, but it never hurts to start thinking about it sooner!
Student accommodation abroad will be dependent on the program which they attend as
well as the student’s preference. Long-term programs will often offer a choice between
university dorms/residence halls, homestays, student apartments, and independent housing
options. Short-Term Faculty-Directed programs have pre-determined housing options
based on the program director's preference and regional logistics. These may be hotels,
homestays, or student-living.
Short-Term Faculty-Directed programs are typically 1-8 weeks long. These are great
for students who have less experience or are apprehensive towards travelling.
Long term programs (through exchanges or affiliate program providers) offer sessions
in the spring, fall, summer, or during full academic years.
