Off Campus and Study Abroad

Study Abroad Programs

In a world that is becoming increasingly interdependent, study abroad represents a significant means by which students may better prepare themselves to face challenges of the future. Muhlenberg College encourages students in all majors to study overseas at quality institutions in Europe, Oceania, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Our list of over 150 approved programs in 60 countries enables students to engage in the academic and social life of host institutions abroad. In addition, some programs provide opportunities for experiential learning through internships and field work research projects that integrate student involvement in local communities.

Students study abroad after completing their sophomore year, for either a semester or for the academic year during their junior year. Upon receiving approval from the Dean of Academic Life for extraordinary circumstances, students may study abroad during the fall semester of their senior year. Students who study abroad on a college approved program during the academic year receive the same financial aid package that would be provided were they to remain on the Muhlenberg campus.

Opportunities for summer study are available through several Muhlenberg departments. Other summer programs must be approved by the Office of Global Education before students can apply to them.

Students interested in study abroad programs should consult with their faculty advisor and the Office of Global Education staff during the fall semester of their sophomore year. To apply for study abroad, students first complete a Muhlenberg College Study Abroad application. Once approved to study abroad by Muhlenberg, students complete host institution application materials. The Office of Global Education will forward all application materials to the overseas institution. Detailed information regarding admission procedures, transfer credit, and the fee structure are available from the Office of Global Education.

Study Abroad Withdrawal and Refund Policy

Off-campus and study abroad programs all begin at different dates than the Muhlenberg College academic calendar. In addition, the majority of host institutions have harsh withdrawal/refund policies if a student withdraws from the program before it starts. Students withdrawing within 90 days of their program start date will be responsible for any withdrawal or penalty fees the College will owe the host institution. In some cases, the entire tuition, room, and board fees charged by the program may be owed. Students are responsible for reading the withdrawal and refund policy for their program before they sign the host institution’s acceptance offer. In some cases, the policy is stated in the offer letter. Otherwise, it is on the host institution’s application or its website.

NOTE: Student aid, which must be returned to the awarding agency, cannot be used to satisfy amounts owed to the College in the event a student withdraws from an off-campus or study abroad program.