Frequently Asked Questions
What if I want to study somewhere that isn't listed?
If you cannot find a program to fit your needs from the Global Studies-affiliated programs, you must petition to apply to the program you prefer. If approved, you are guaranteed credit toward your St. Catherine degree and the use of your financial aid. Contact the Office of Global Studies about the petition process.
What if my GPA is below 2.5?
Students applying for all global studies programs must have a cumulative minimum grade-point average of 2.5 to obtain approval. Some programs require a higher average.
Will my study abroad credits transfer to St. Kate's?
Once you are approved to study abroad by Global Studies, courses taken during study abroad are considered "in residence" credits. They will be added to your St. Kate's transcript and the grades will be computed into your GPA. You will need to get the courses pre-approved before leaving campus to determine how the credit will be used toward your degree.
I'm a transfer student, can I study abroad?
Transfer students must spend two semesters as a full-time student on campus and meet all other requirements before undertaking a semester or year-long study abroad program.
Transfer students may apply for short-term programs at any time and must meet individual program prerequisites.
I'm not a St. Kate's student but am interested in a St. Kate's program. Can I apply?
Yes, to some programs.
Non-degree students (interested participants who are not students or who are enrolled at another institution or alumnae) may apply for a short-term program on a space-available basis with the permission of the faculty director and the Office of Global Studies. However, all applicants must register for the course and pay the full program fee. Please notify Global Studies immediately during the application process if you are not a degree-seeking student at St. Catherine.
What if I need accommodation for a physical or learning disability?
There are many programs for study abroad that will work with students with a need for academic or physical accommodation. The Office of Global Studies encourages students with such needs to explore the possibility of study abroad.
We will be happy to work with you to research study abroad options and hopefully find one that will suit you personally as well as academically. Then, you will need to work with the O'Neill Center for Academic Development and the program provider abroad as well.
Students who make requests for accommodations that require advance planning are urged to self-disclose when they first meet with a study abroad advisor. Or, you may also do so immediately upon acceptance to the program. Unfortunately, late requests may result in the delay, substitution, or denial of accommodations. Global Studies and the study abroad program will make every reasonable effort to accommodate late requests.
Do I have to find my own housing?
No, it is normally part of what the program provides. Depending on the semester or year-long program you choose, you might stay in student residences, a pension, a student hostel, an apartment or with a homestay. Short-term participants live in hotels, university housing or in homestays. Check with the program you are interested in to find out about housing options and the housing application process.
Do I have to be fluent in a foreign language?
No, you don't have to be fluent.
More and more, students may study in a non-English speaking country yet take courses in English. However, St. Kate's strongly encourages you to study the language of your host country while you are there.
Programs designed for language majors and minors typically require at least 2120 or 2250-level language ability prior to study abroad. These immersion programs are taught completely in the host country's language. It is also possible for language majors and minors to study abroad if you are at a language level below 2120.
Language intensive programs are available for students who wish to complete 6–12 credits of a foreign language in one semester or summer.
January-term courses at the intermediate level of Spanish are usually taught each year in Spain or Mexico.
How do I apply for a passport?
To travel to most countries outside the United States, you will need a passport. If you don't have a passport or it is expired, you can apply for one. Obtaining a passport can take from six to eight weeks, so begin the application process early. Information about passports can be found at the U.S. Department of State.