At the University of Arizona, our goal is to encourage study abroad and intercultural exchange for all university students, regardless of what institution you attend. Therefore, we offer a variety of programs open to non-UA students.
What programs are available to non-UA students?
UA faculty-led programs are available to non-UA students.
If you have further questions about these programs please contact one of our study abroad coordinators.
What are the advantages to studying abroad on a UA program?
- Programs are taught by University of Arizona faculty who offer on-site orientation and in-country program support.
- As an accredited institution, most credits will transfer back to your home university.
- Affordable and comprehensive program options
- Knowledgeable staff available to answer questions from students and advisors.
- Great networking opportunities with students from a different university
- Excellent resume building and career preparation
- Opportunities for cultural and language immersion through home-stays, field trips and local interactions.
- Support services regarding billing, financial aid, and transcripts.
What's the process for applying?
Below are some guidelines to help you prepare for and apply to a University of Arizona study abroad program.
1. Research your program options.
2. Contact a study abroad coordinator for advising and planning assistance.
3. Meet with your current academic advisor (at your home university) to discuss how your study abroad credits will apply toward your degree program.
4. Apply early! Each program has a different deadline so please look at the program webpage for the exact deadline.
5. As soon as you select a program, complete the online application (linked from the program page).
6. As part of the study abroad application process, you will also be prompted to complete a University of Arizona Non-Degree Seeking (NDS) application. You must be admitted as an NDS student and active in the U of A system student in order to participate in a U of A study abroad program, to be enrolled in your study abroad courses, and to pay for your program fees. Undergraduate NDS Application Fees are $50 for Arizona residents and $80 for non-Arizona residents. Graduate NDS Application fees are $50. NDS Application Fees will be included in your total program charges. *International Non-degree Seeking Students must meet UA's English proficiency requirements here.
7. Plan your finances. Contact the financial aid office at your home institution to discuss specific financial aid options. Many universities will allow you to use your current financial aid, but you may need to initiate a consortium agreement with your home institution. Just let your UA study abroad coordinator know if you need any help or assistance.
8. Once you are admitted to the U of A as a NDS student, you will receive a U of A Student ID (SID) and PIN. Your SID and PIN will be uploaded into your study abroad application and will enable you to create a U of A NetID and gain access to your U of A student account (called UAccess) so that you can make online program payments, view your study abroad enrollment, and request an official U of A transcript once your program has ended
9. Keep in touch on a regular basis with your UA study abroad coordinator for updates on the program, payment information and any other questions you may have.
What should I do before I leave?
- Set up an appointment with your UA study abroad coordinator by phone or Zoom to discuss any additional questions you may have about your program, payment and coursework, etc.
- If you are using financial aid for your program, be sure to work with your financial aid office and your study abroad coordinator on how to complete a consortium agreement.
- Do one last check with your home university, assuring you have completed any tasks needed to go abroad (ie. Leave of Absence, Housing, and/or other important issues)
- Get excited!!!