OUTGOING EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
Are you an FMU student interested in expanding your academic and personal horizons by studying abroad for a year, a semester or just a few weeks? If so, then you’ve come to the right place.
The courses you take through an international exchange usually count toward your FMU degree requirements, and because FMU typically offers Ready to Experience Applied Learning (REAL) funding to help defray the cost of air travel, studying abroad need not be more expensive than studying here!
Also, you may now participate in exchanges and travel courses sponsored by Coastal Carolina University. To learn more, explore this site or contact one of FMU’s International Program coordinators.
Note that passport, visa, and other regulations can change from year to year and that the responsibility for procuring a visa and other documentation ultimately rests with each student. FMU cannot be held liable for loss of personal items (from theft, fire, etc.), nor for missed connecting flights, hospital stays, etc., during an exchange.
I encourage you to avail yourself of these exciting opportunities and will gladly meet with you and your family to discuss them!
Dr. J. Mark Blackwell
Director of International Programs
FH 154 | 843-661-1657 | jblackwell@fmarion.edu
LET’S GO!
STEP ONE: CHOOSE A PROGRAM
Below, you’ll find a list of FMU’s exchange partners, linking to a short description of each institution, the semesters and courses available for study and contact information for your FMU liaison – the person who will steer you through the application and registration process and help you find housing at your host school. Feel free to contact the liaison or the International Program director if you have any questions. Also, be sure to consider the language of instruction for each program; although most of our partners offer courses in English, some offer instruction in native languages as well.
STEP TWO: APPLY FOR THE PROGRAM
Students wishing to participate in FMU’s exchange program must submit an application to the International Studies Committee by the deadlines indicated below. The application form can be downloaded here or you can contact the program liaison for a copy.
Typically, the committee will consider only those students who have completed 30 semester hours at FMU with at least a 2.7 GPA. Complete and return your application and all supporting materials to either of the coordinators before the indicated deadline. Because exchange openings are limited and competitive, applying to the program does not guarantee acceptance by FMU’s International Studies Committee or by the host institution.
A complete application will consist of:
- A completed application form
- A personal essay (300-500 words) addressing:
- Why you are interested in pursuing a study abroad program and how it will benefit your further education and/or desired career.
- If you have previous experience traveling on your own.
- How you have been exposed to another culture, other than your own.
- Previous life experiences that demonstrate a suitable level of independent initiative and ability to take care of yourself, while abroad.
- Two letters of recommendation from FMU faculty members, particularly modern language faculty, if applicable—but not program liaisons or other members of the International Studies Committee.
- Official or unofficial copies of your transcripts
- Advisor course approval
- A copy of your passport (or confirmation that you are acquiring one)
Application deadlines:
For Spring Semester: Sept 25
For Summer/Fall Semesters: March 1
STEP THREE: GET A PASSPORT
All students accepted for the exchange program must have a valid passport to study abroad. Passports can take up to 90 days to process, so you should apply for yours (at most US Post Offices) immediately after your acceptance to the exchange program if not before. Also, some host institutions require that you apply for a visa—typically a stamp or document that fits inside your passport.
STEP FOUR: APPLY TO THE HOST INSTITUTION
After being accepted to FMU’s exchange program, you will receive an information packet with forms you’ll need to complete. These may include some or all of the following:
- An Assumption of Risk and Liability form
- A Statement of Health form
- Medical Insurance and Emergency Contact forms
- An FMU Course Transfer document
When filling out any of these forms, be sure to list a permanent address, as some materials may be mailed to you during our winter or summer breaks.
STEP FIVE: MEET WITH YOUR LIAISON
Your liaison is the person who will help you navigate the application process at your host institution. He or she will have knowledge about the region, campus, curriculum and application process at the school you’ve chosen. Ultimately the responsibility for completing all of your application materials in a timely manner rests with you, but your liaison will be happy to help.
STEP SIX: COVER YOUR BASES
There are various offices at FMU that will need to know your plans. If you live in Student Housing, you will need to contact the Housing Director, Mrs. Cheryl Tuttle (843-661-1360), and let her know you won’t be needing a room—but will when you return. If you receive financial aid, you’ll want to meet with the Director of Financial Assistance, Ms. Kim Ellisor (843-661-1190). You will also need to alert the Registrar, Mrs. Ann Williams (843-661-1175), that you will be taking courses abroad and not attending FMU. Your International Program Coordinators will assist you with all of this.
