Study Abroad vs. Study Away

The student is independently enrolled in a program or institution that is not GW. This may be a semester or short-term program in the U.S. or in another country.

In these cases, the program/tuition costs are paid to a program or institution that is not GW.

• Students must speak with their Study Abroad Advisor and follow the processes and policies set by the Office for Study Abroad.
• Students must apply to study abroad through GW Passport.
• Study Abroad credits must be pre-approved in GW CATS.
• Students generally earn 15 credits per semester or 30 credits for an academic year through GW Study Abroad programs. Under special circumstances, students may transfer up to 18 credits per semester to a maximum of 36 credits total.
  (Note: Global Bachelor’s students may study abroad for three semesters and are allowed to exceed this limitation; they are expected to take 15 credits but may take up to 18 credits per semester.)

• Study Away is not within the responsibilities of the Office for Study Abroad.
• School-based Academic Advisors are the first point of contact for students intending to Study Away.
• Study Away credits must be pre-approved with the Transfer Credit Approval form.
• Students do not use GW Passport or GW CATS.
• Students can transfer up to 9 credits (or 3 courses for a maximum of 12 credits) total through Study Away.
• Not all programs/institutions will qualify for credit transfer.
• Transcripts must come from an approved institution as determined by the registrar’s office.