How to Apply

Once you’ve selected your study abroad program, notify your study abroad adviser who

Pictured is Amy Hickey in Russia.

will guide you to the application specific to your program sponsor. 

All application materials must be forwarded to International Programs. The study abroad coordinator’s signature is required for formal permission to apply.   If your program has an online application option, please remember to print out a copy of the completed online application form(s) and bring the document(s) to International Programs.  

Copies of all application materials are maintained in your student file. 

1.  Basic Documents

• Two letters of reference (at least one from an NMU faculty member)
• Essay outlining your personal and educational goals for the study abroad experience 
• Dean of Student’s release of conduct information form
• Official NMU transcript, mailed from Student Service Center to International Programs

Additional notes: 

• For all applications, NMU requires the following documents: (Note: Your program may or may not provide its own format for these documents. If you are unsure, contact the study abroad adviser.)

• NMU requires a minimum cumulative NMU grade point average of 2.5 in order to approve an application to study abroad. Individual program sponsors may require proof of higher GPA.

• NMU will withdraw its support of your application if you are under formal academic and/or disciplinary probation or suspension at the time your program begins.
  
• With the exception of faculty-led programs, you must be at least sophomore standing at the time you participate in the program. 

2.  Academic Consortia and Partner Programs

NMU partner programs each have their own application forms.You may choose to download a paper copy or – when available – complete the online version and provide a printed copy to International Programs. These programs require the study abroad coordinator’s signature as part of the application process.   

3.  Bi-Lateral Exchange Programs

The first step in any exchange program is for the exchange officers for each university to verify availability of a placement.You will then be directed to complete the appropriate student application forms required by your host university.

4.  Faculty-led Study Abroad

The Faculty-led Student Application Packet is available in International Programs or directly from the faculty leader. You may also download the materials from this Web site. The completed application is returned to International Programs. All program deposits and payments must be made to the Student Service Center. Neither the faculty leader nor the NMU International Programs is able to accept program fees. 

5.  Direct Enroll and Non-NMU Sponsored Programs

International Programs will assist you in coordinating details of a study abroad experience arranged through a non-partner university or program provider. You remain responsible for application materials, course pre-approval, payments and arrangements for a formal transcript of your courses. You must also provide proof of payment to International Program in order to register for transfer of credits from a non-affiliated program. 

Note:  Institutional grants and scholarships and some forms of State of Michigan financial aid are not eligible for use on non-affiliated programs.