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First Year Abroad

The First Year Abroad program allows students to complete the first twelve months of their Florida State careers studying abroad with International Programs. Students can choose to spend their first year at any of our study centers: London, England; Florence, Italy; Panama City, Republic of Panama; Valencia, Spain. Students can opt to change their location for the summer term and spend it at another study center, though visa restrictions apply for some locations.

Students interested in attending the Valencia program should please contact Tina Brooks before applying to the program, for guidance related to the visa process. It is still possible to participate, but the visa process must be addressed immediately and individually.

Note: Students interested in science or engineering majors must choose The Florida State University Panama or Valencia locations to meet their prerequisites.

Program Benefits and Rewards

  • FYA is designed for seamless continuation toward graduation.
  • Students take up to 49 credit hours over 12 months, beginning in the fall term.
  • Classes are taught in English, except for foreign language classes. Additionally, living among native speakers immeasurably aids Spanish or Italian skills.
  • Classes satisfy requirements of the Liberal Studies Program, many minors, and first-year prerequisites for most majors.
  • An academic advisor ensures students follow “mapping” for their majors.
  • First Year Abroad fulfills the summer residency required of Florida State students.
  • The rewards of being an FYA student continue upon return to the main campus. Upon completion of a minimum of 36 FSU credit hours at their European or Panama IP study center with an FSU GPA of 3.0 or better, FYA students who are in good judicial standing are assessed in-state tuition rates for the remainder of their first undergraduate degree at Florida State in Tallahassee.

For a typical four-year degree, the savings could total $35,000 to $40,000 dependent upon the student’s study location.

Locations, Faculty, Classes

  • Each location’s resources—historical sites, art, libraries, museums, government, and professionals—are fully integrated into courses.
  • Faculty members have a passion not only for their subjects but for the cities, for the cultures, and for undergraduate teaching. International Programs faculty are by nature intellectually curious, globally conscious, energetic, inspired and inspiring.
  • Small classes and personal attention create an intimate, liberal arts college atmosphere: no huge lecture classes, much more one-on-one instruction. . . a chance to grow and mature. Confidence, independence, and self-knowledge are chief rewards of this program.
  • FYA programs run concurrently with broad curriculum programs at each study center, so students share excursions, classes and other program components with upper division students. For more information about these corresponding programs, please visit the respective broad curriculum pages: London, Florence, Panama, and Valencia.
  • Each study center also has its own website with additional information: London, England, Florence, Italy, Panama City, Panma, and Valencia, Spain.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
FYA Program Students must meet the following criteria:

For Program Assistance: Contact our FYA program coordinators by email Lauren Schoenberger and Betty Seymour or by phone: (800) 374 -8581.

PROGRAM DATES

For program dates and fee payment schedule information, please select the "Important Dates & Deadlines" tab above.

PROGRAM FEES:
Each program fee is comprehensive, including: up to 49 credit hours; housing; health insurance; center cultural excursions and activities; full-time administrative and academic support; some meals or vouchers (London, Valencia and Florence); and some visas (Florence, Republic of Panama, and Valencia). Students who take fewer than 49 credit hours are not entitled to a refund of any fees.The structure of FYA programs is dependent upon immigration laws of the host country. Thus, the structure, dates, and fees of each program are subject to change.

Fees for 2013-2014:

Florence - $39,995
London - $39,995
Republic of Panama - $36,750
Valencia - $39,400

Note: Financial aid may be applied toward program fees.
Additional Note: FYA program fees do not include a university assessed per credit hour technology fee.

The commitment is for the full year, but students are billed by semester with amounts broken into two payments. Students apply for the full program by applying to the fall program for their chosen location. The dates and fees shown below are only those for the fall semester.

Download FYA Booklets

Printer-friendly FYA booklets are provided for download below:
FYA Poster for In-State Guidance Counselors [4 MB, PDF]
FYA Poster for Out-of-State Guidance Counselors [4 MB, PDF]
FYA Program Booklet for In-State Students [14 MB, PDF]
FYA Program Booklet for Out-of-State Students [14.4 MB, PDF]

Florence, Italy

Fall Florence

FY04-9-13

CourseTitleCredits
ARH2000Art, Architecture, and Artistic Vision*3
ARH4310Early Italian Renaissance Art: 15th Century3
ARH4450Modern European Art: Postimpressionism through Surrealism3
ARH4933Florentine Renaissance*3
CPO2002Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics**3
CPO3930The European Union**3
ECO2000Intro to Economic Thinking (online)3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics (online)3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics (online)3
ENC1101Freshman Composition and Rhetoric3
ENC1144Freshman Article and Essay Workshop***3
ENC3310Article and Essay Technique***3
EUH3431Modern Italy^3
HUM4931Special Topics: Italian Life & Culture#^3
ITA1120Elementary Italian I4
ITA1121Elementary Italian II4
ITA2220Reading and Conversation4
ITT3430Masterpieces of Italian Literature in Translation3
ITT3501Modern Italian Culture: From the Unification to the Present^3
ITT3523Italian Cinema3
MAC1105College Algebra3
SLS1122Academic Success1

Spring Florence

FY05-1-14

CourseTitleCredits
ARH2000Art, Architecture, and Artistic Vision*3
ARH4312Later Italian Renaissance Art: 16th Century3
ARH4450Modern European Art: Postimpressionism through Surrealism3
ARH4933Florentine Renaissance*3
ART1300CDrawing Foundations3
CGS2100Microcomputer Applications for Business/Economics (online)3
CPO2002Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics**3
CPO3930The European Union**3
ECO2000Introduction to Economics (online)3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics (online)3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics (online)3
ENC1144Freshman Article and Essay Workshop***3
ENC3310Article and Essay Technique***3
EUH3431Modern Italy^3
EUH4140Renaissance3
FOL3930The Culture is in the Cuisine3
HUM2235Humanities: Renaissance to the Enlightenment3
HUM4931Italian Life & Culture^3
ITA1120Elementary Italian I4
ITA1121Elementary Italian II4
ITA2220Reading and Conversation4
ITT3501Modern Italian Culture: From the Unification to the Present**3
ITT3523Italian Cinema3
LIT2020The Short Story3
MGF1106Mathematics For Liberal Arts I3
PGY2100cPhotography for Non-Art Majors3
POS3930Media and Politics3

London, England

Fall London

LY04-9-13

CourseTitleCredits
ARH2000Art, Architecture and Artistic Vision3
CLA3502Women, Children, & Slaves in Ancient Rome: The Roman Family3
CPO3123Comparative Government & Politics: Great Britain3
ECO2000Introduction to Economics (online)3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics (online)3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics (online)3
ENC1101Freshman Composition and Rhetoric3
ENL3334Introduction to Shakespeare3
EUH3530England, the Empire and the Commonwealth3
GLY1000Dynamic Earth3
GLY1000LDynamic Earth Lab3
GLY1102Dinosaurs and Disasters on an Evolving Earth3
HIS4930Tudor England3
HUM4931Topics in the Civ. of Britain: British Life & Culture3
LIT3383Women in Literature3
MAC1105College Algebra3
REL1300Introduction to World Religions3
SLS1122Academic Success1
SPC2608Introduction to Public Speaking3
THE2000Introduction to Theatre*3
THE3061Introduction to Theatre in London*3

Spring London

LY05-1-14

CourseTitleCredits
ANT2100Introduction to Archaeology3
ANT2100LIntroduction to Archaeology Lab1
ARH2000Art, Architecture and Artistic Vision3
ARH3057History & Criticism of Art II3
CGS2100Microcomputer Applications for Business/Economics (online)3
CPO3123Comparative Government and Politics3
ECO2000Introduction to Economics (online)3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics (online)3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics (online)3
ENC1144Freshman Artcle Essay Workshop**3
ENC3310Article and Essay Technique*3
ENL2022British Authors3
ENL3334Introduction to Shakespeare3
EUH320620th Century Europe: A Survey3
HIS4930History of London3
HUM4931British Life & Culture3
MGF1106Mathematics For Liberal Arts I3
PGY2100cPhotography for Non-Art Majors3
REL1300Introduction to World Religions3
SPC2608Public Speaking3
THE2000Introduction to Theatre*3
THE3061Introduction to Theatre in London*3

Panama City, Republic of Panama

Fall Panama

PY04-9-13

CourseTitleCredits
ACG2021Introduction to Financial Accounting3
ACG2071Introduction to Managerial Accounting3
AMH2010History of the U.S.3
ART2003CSurvey of Studio Art Practices3
BSC1005Biology for Non-Majors3
BSC1005LBiology for Non-Majors Lab3
BSC2010Biological Science I3
BSC2010LBiological Science I Lab1
CGS2100Micro Computer Applications for Business/Economics3
CHM1020Chemistry For Liberal Studies3
CHM1020LChemistry For Liberal Studies Lab3
CHM1045General Chemistry I3
CHM1045LGeneral Chemistry I Lab1
CPO2002Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics3
CPO3034Politics of Developing Areas3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics3
ENC1101Freshman Composition and Rhetoric3
ENC1102Freshman Writing, Reading and Research3
ENC1145Freshman Special Topics in Composition3
GEA1000World Geography3
GEO1330Environmental Science3
GEO4340Living in a Hazardous Environment3
GIS3015Map Analysis3
GLY1892Environmental Issues in Geology3
HUN1201Science of Nutrition3
INR2002Introduction to International Relations3
INR3502International Organizations3
INR3933Special Topics in International Affairs3
LAH1093Latin America: A Cross-Cultural History3
LAH4470History of the Caribbean3
MAC1105College Algebra3
MAC1114Analytic Trigonometry2
MAC1140Precalculus Algebra3
MAC2233Calculus for Business3
MAC2311Calculus with Analytic Geometry I4
MAC2312Calculus with Analytic Geometry II4
MAN3240Organizational Behavior3
MAR3023Basic Marketing Concepts3
MGF1107Practical Fine Math3
PHI2100Reasoning and Critical Thinking3
PHI3882Philosophy in Literature3
PHM3331Modern Political Thought3
PHY2048CGeneral Physics A with Lab3
PHY2049CGeneral Physics B with Lab3
PSB2000Introduction to Brain and Behavior3
PSY2012General Psychology3
REL1300Introduction to World Religions3
REL2240Introduction to The New Testament3
SPC2608Public Speaking3
SPN1120Elementary Spanish I4
SPN1121Elementary Spanish II4
SPN2220Intermediate Spanish I4
SPW3104Readings from Modern Spain3
STA2023Fundamental Business Statistics3
SYG2010Social Problems3
URP3000Introduction to Planning and Urban Development3
URS1006World Cities: Quality Of Life3

Spring Panama

PY05-1-14

CourseTitleCredits
ACG2021Introduction to Financial Accounting3
ACG2071Introduction to Managerial Accounting3
ART2003CSurvey of Studio Art Practices3
BSC1005Biology for Non-Majors3
BSC1005LBiology for Non-Majors Lab3
BSC2010Biological Science I3
BSC2010LBiological Science I Lab1
BSC2011Biological Science II3
CCJ3011Criminology3
CGS2100Microcomputer Applications for Bs/Ec3
CHM1020Chemistry For Liberal Studies3
CHM1020LChemistry For Liberal Studies Lab3
CHM1045General Chemistry I3
CHM1045LGeneral Chemistry I Lab1
CHM1046General Chemistry II3
CHM1046LGeneral Chemistry II Lab3
CPO2002Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics3
CPO3303Politics of Latin America3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics3
ENC1101Freshman Composition and Rhetoric3
ENC1102Freshman Writing, Reading and Research3
ENC1145Special Topics in Composition3
EUH2000Ancient and Medieval Civilization3
GEA1000World Geography3
GEO1330Environmental Science3
GEO2200cPhysical Geography3
GEO4930Geography of Transportation3
GIS4043Geographic Information and Processing Systems3
GLY1892Environmental Issues in Geology3
HUN1201Science of Nutrition3
INR2002Introduction to International Relations3
INR3933Special Topics in International Affairs3
LAH1093Latin America: A Cross-Cultural History3
LAH3456History of Panama Since 19403
LAH3500History of South America3
LIT2081Contemporary Literature3
MAC1105College Algebra3
MAC1114Analytic Trigonometry2
MAC1140Precalculus Algebra3
MAC2233Calculus for Business3
MAC2311Calculus with Analytic Geometry I4
MAC2312Calculus with Analytic Geometry II4
MAN3240Organizational Behavior3
MAR3023Basic Marketing Concepts3
MGF1106Math for Liberal Arts I3
PHI3882Philosophy in Literature3
PHY2048CGeneral Physics A with Lab3
PHY2049CGeneral Physics B with Lab3
PSB2000Introduction to Brain and Behavior3
PSY2012General Psychology3
QMB3200Quantitative Methods in Business Decisions3
REL1300Introduction to World Religions3
REL3170Religious Ethics and Moral Problems3
SPC2608Public Speaking3
SPN1121Elementary Spanish II4
SPN2220Intermediate Spanish I4
SPN2240Intermediate Spanish II3
STA2023Fundamental Business Statistics3
SYG1000Introduction to Sociology3
URP3000Introduction to Planning and Urban Development3
URS1006World Cities: Quality Of Life3
WOH1030Modern World Since 18503

Valencia, Spain

Fall Valencia

VY04-9-13

CourseTitleCredits
ANT2100Introduction to Archaeology3
ANT2100LIntroduction to Archaeology Lab1
CHM1045General Chemistry I3
CHM1045LGeneral Chemistry I Lab1
CPO2002Introduction to Comparative Government & Politics3
ECO2000Introduction to Economics (online)3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics3
ENC1101Freshman Composition and Rhetoric3
ENC1144Freshman Article and Essay Workshop*3
ENC3310Article and Essay Technique*3
GEB3213Business Communication3
HUM2210Humanities: Pre-History to Late Antiquity3
HUM2235From the Renaissance to the Enlightenment3
HUM3930Humanities: Special Topics: Culture & Civilization of Spain3
HUN2125Food and Society3
LIT3383Women in Literature3
MAC1105College Algebra3
MAC1147Precalculus Algebra/Trigonometry5
MAN3240Organizational Behavior3
MAN3600Multinational Business Operations3
MAR3023Basic Marketing Concepts3
SLS1122Academic Success1
SPN1124Comprehensive Elementary Spanish4
SPN2220Intermediate Spanish4
SPN2240Intermediate Spanish II3
SPN3300Spanish Grammar and Composition3
SPN3400Spanish Reading and Conversation3
SPN3440Language and Culture in Business3
SPN3510Cultures of Iberia3
SPN4540Regional Cultural Studies: The Spanish Civil War3
SPT3391Hispanic Cinema3

Spring Valencia

VY05-1-14

CourseTitleCredits
BSC2010Biological Science I3
BSC2010LBiological Science I Laboratory1
CGS2100Microcomputer Applications for Business/Economics3
CHM1046General Chemistry II3
CHM1046LGeneral Chemistry II Laboratory3
ECO2000Introduction to Economics (online)3
ECO2013Principles of Macroeconomics (online)3
ECO2023Principles of Microeconomics (online)3
ENC1142Freshman Imaginative Writing Workshop3
ENC1144Freshman Article and Essay Workshop*3
ENC3310Article and Essay Technique*3
GEB3213Business Communications3
HUM3930Spanish Culture & Civilization3
LIT3383Women in Literature3
MAC1147Precalculus Algebra/Trigonometry5
MAC2233Calculus for Business3
MAC2311Calculus with Analytic Geometry I4
MAN3240Organizational Behavior3
MAN3600Multinational Business Operations3
MAR3023Basic Marketing Concepts3
MGF1106Math for Liberal Arts I3
MUH2051Music Cultures of the World3
SPN1124Comprehensive Elementary Spanish4
SPN2220Intermediate Spanish4
SPN2240Intermediate Spanish II3
SPN3300Spanish Grammar and Composition3
SPN3400Spanish Reading and Conversation3
SPN3510Cultures of Iberia3
SPN4440Business Writing in Spanish3
SPT3391Hispanic Cinema3
SPW3030Approaching Hispanic Literature3

 

*/**/***/****/^ Courses followed by these symbols denote cross listing. Students may take one or the other, but not both.

Please review the following information which will help you prepare for your year studying overseas.

All forms with the exception of the Health Compliance packet should be returned to the Florida State University’s International Programs, A5500 University Center, Tallahassee, Florida 32306-2420; fax: 850-645-4659. (The Health Compliance packet should be returned directly to Florida State University Health Services, c/o The Health Center Compliance Office, 109 Collegiate Loop, Tallahassee, Fl 32306-2140, Ph. 850-644-3608./ Fax 850-644-8958).

Fall 2013—First Year Abroad

Summer 2014—If you will be changing locations, complete another Important Forms packet for each new location.

FYA Visa Requirements
All FYA program locations require student visas. With the exception of Valencia, students will receive details after acceptance. Students interested in Valencia must review the specific Valencia Visa page. (New applicants and those who have not yet begun the FBI background check and Apostille Certification should contact Tina Brooks immediately, before applying to the program. It is still possible to participate, but the visa process must be addressed immediately and individually.)

Visa Information for FSU IP Participants

Immigration laws, visa requirements, and application processes vary depending on location. International Programs provides visa support for most programs which require visas for US citizens. Specific details are noted on each program page for which visas or entry clearance applications are required. U.S. citizens living abroad, must contact the appropriate consulate for the steps to obtain necessary visas. Non-US citizens should review the information below for requirements specific to your program. The State Department provides specific visa requirements by country.

  • Students may be required to make a personal appearance at the appropriate consulate to obtain a visa.
  • Students on multiple programs, consecutive semesters abroad or the First Year Abroad program may have different visa requirements and should contact IP for more information.
  • Students planning travel before or after the program dates are responsible for making their own entry arrangements.
  • Students on some programs must submit their passports in advance of their programs, so the visa can be affixed in the passport. This may impact travel plans.
  • Changes in requirements may affect program structure, dates, and fees.
  • Students who fail to comply with IP or host country visa processes may incur financial penalties, delayed arrivals or cancellations.
  • Students are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance which covers failure to obtain a visa. Further information is available on the Travel Insurance Review website.

For additional assistance, please contact our Passports and Immigration Officer, Tina Brooks


FSU IP Visa Packets

Note: Individual visa packet links are located at the bottom of this page. If the link is not ‘live,’ the visa packet is not yet available.

US Citizens
U.S. Citizens requiring visas to participate on the program will receive guidelines and assistance from International Programs. The receipt of a visa is a privilege, not a right. Each foreign country has the right to establish its own parameters for the granting of a visa, and as an American requesting permission to enter that foreign country, you must abide by all of its requirements. IP cannot guarantee receipt of an entry visa. Students choosing to obtain a visa independently must notify International Programs of this intention, and must be aware that failure to obtain the proper entry or student visa may not release you from responsibility of the full program fees.

Non-US Citizens
Visa applications for FSU IP programs in Florence, Italy, Tianjin, China and Valencia, Spain will be handled in the same manner for non-US citizens as for US citizens. Non-US citizens should use the links below to access the visa packets.

Although International Programs provides guidelines regarding the student visa process for U.S. citizens, non-U.S. citizens are advised to contact the appropriate consulate to learn the student visa procedures governing their nationality. It is the responsibility of non-U.S. citizens to contact our office if any information must be provided by International Programs in order for you to obtain your student visa.

If your program is not listed below, US citizens are not required to have a visa for our program. Please note, every admitted student will receive their visa packet instructions via email. If a country listed below is not linked to a visa packet, the packet has not yet been updated and distributed to the students. Please check back at a later date.

Fall 2013

Spring 2014

  • Florence, Italy (Calendar Year Abroad)
  • Florence, Italy (Semester Students, Interns)
  • London, England (Calendar Year Abroad)
  • London, England (Interns)
  • Panama City, Panama (Semester Students and Calendar Year Abroad)
  • Valencia, Spain (Calendar Year Abroad)
  • Valencia, Spain (Semester Students, Interns)

The biggest factor in deciding when and where to study abroad is often the financial aspect. In fact, too many students assume they cannot afford to participate, missing out on an invaluable opportunity because of failing to explore alternative methods of funding. The Financial Assistance Coordinator at International Programs (IP) is dedicated to helping students through the financial aid application process by conducting financial aid workshops on a regular basis* in addition to meeting personally with each student needing assistance. Students who have received some form of financial aid throughout their collegiate careers, as well as those completely new to the process, receive expert care every step of the way. We also help concerned parents! Additionally, students are strongly encouraged to contact the Financial Aid Office at their home school as early as possible. Finally, Florida State students will find additional helpful information on the FSU Financial Aid website at finaid.fsu.edu.

Technology Fee (NOT included in program fees)

Florida State assesses a technology fee which is NOT included in the International Programs fee. The technology fee rate for 2012-2013 is assessed at $5.16 per credit hour for all students, regardless of location of study.

After registration, the student must go to www.fees.fsu.edu to pay the applicable technology fee; this fee is paid directly to Florida State University Student Financial Services. Failure to pay this fee will result in a late payment charge being assessed to the student by Florida State University Student Financial Services (http://controller.vpfa.fsu.edu/Student-Financial-Services/SFS-For-Students/Payments/Late-or-Non-Payment). International Programs has no control over the fee or any associated late payment penalty.

Financial Aid and Financing Study Abroad Workshops,
Summer Semester 2013

Financial Aid & Financing Study Abroad Workshops will be held at the Student Life Building, room 101. See dates and times of workshops below. WALK-INS WELCOME!


  • Wednesday, May 08, 2013 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM, Student Services Building, Room 214
  • Tuesday, May 14, 2013 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Askew Student Life Center, Room 101

Information for Non-FSU Students

Financial aid
Students who receive financial aid should meet with their financial aid office and discuss plans to study abroad with Florida State. Additional loan monies may be available because the estimated cost of attendance to study abroad is generally higher than studying at the home campus. Most schools require a consortium agreement be signed by the host school (Florida State). Obtain this from the home school and send it to The Florida State University International Programs, A5500 University Center, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2420. We will obtain the necessary signature and return it promptly to the student’s home school. Please read our financial aid procedures: international.fsu.edu/Students/Prospective/College/Financial_Aid.aspx.


Useful Links

For over fifty years, The Florida State University's International Programs has been committed to providing an extensive academic and cultural experience that enriches the lives of our students. It has always been our policy to put students' safety first.  Our highest priority is the welfare and security of our students.  We make every effort to facilitate a secure and rewarding learning environment. Students venture abroad to experience other cultures, and to gain a deeper appreciation of their role as American citizens in the world. FSU International Programs is fully committed to helping students realize these aspirations.

Our year-round programs are administered by permanent resident staff members who are sensitive to the unique needs of American students. Program directors maintain contact with our Tallahassee office, local authorities, and United States officials, both at home and abroad.

Each program holds regular meetings of students and staff in which safety procedures and precautions are detailed and re-emphasized.   Each has an Emergency Plan designed specifically for it.  Plans include details about local health care facilities, meeting points and procedures, and contingency plans and funds should it ever become necessary to evacuate our students.

All participants on overseas programs—students, faculty and staff—are advised to monitor and follow all US State Department announcements and travel advisories.  Students are reminded to inform center directors of the details of their independent travel, heed US State Department announcements and travel advisories, and take relevant US Embassy/Consulate contact information with them.



Confirmation Deposit: 
The confirmation deposit is refundable until the close of business on the deposit’s due date.  If an applicant has been granted a deferred payment plan for the deposit and has not withdrawn from the program as of the close of business on the deposit due date, the applicant becomes fully liable for the confirmation deposit.

Program Fee:

  • Program applicants who have demonstrated their intent to participate in the program by payment or by deferral of the confirmation deposit and who have not withdrawn from the program as of the 1st payment due date become fully liable for the program fee as of the close of business on the 1st payment due date.
  • Program applicants who have demonstrated their intent of continued participation in the program by payment or deferral of the confirmation deposit and participation in the first semester of the program, and who have not provided written notice of their intent to withdraw from the program at least sixty days in advance of the beginning of any subsequent semester remain fully liable for all remaining program fees.

Refunds of Program Fees:
Refunds of program fees WILL BE granted in instances of withdrawal prior to the start of the program under the following circumstances:

  1. Cancellation of the program by International Programs
  2. Involuntary call to active duty
  3. Death of the student or death in the immediate family (parent, legal guardian, spouse, child, or sibling)

Partial refunds of program fees MAY BE granted in instances of withdrawal prior to the start of the program under the following circumstances:

  1. Illness of the student of such duration or severity that precludes overseas travel. The student will be required to submit all relevant medical records for review and evaluation by FSU’s University Health Services. University Health Services will advise International Programs’ refund committee of its recommendation. International Programs’ refund committee will notify the student of the decision.
  2. Exceptional circumstances that could not have been foreseen and were beyond the control of the student, as approved by the International Programs refund committee.
    • Timely notification in relation to the event that caused the need for withdrawal will be considered in evaluating refund requests. In no instance will a request be considered if it is made after the end of the semester for which the refund has been requested.
    • Refunds cannot be granted, under any circumstances, in instances of withdrawal after a program has begun.
    • Applicants who apply and are accepted after the published due dates remain liable for fees in accordance with the published due dates.
    • Submitting Withdrawals, Requests for Refunds, and Release from Fee Liability: All withdrawals, requests for refunds, and requests for release from fee liability must be submitted in writing via email to International Programs. Applicants should include their last name and program code in the subject line of the email.
    • Alternatively, requests can be submitted in writing to International Programs at the following postal address:

Attention: Refund Committee
Office of FSU International Programs
A5500 University Center
282 Champions Way
P.O. Box 3062420
Tallahassee, FL 32306-2420

Tuition Policy for Out-of-state students: 
Upon completion of a minimum of 36 FSU credit hours at their European or Panama IP study center with an FSU GPA of 3.0 or better, out-of-state students will be assessed in-state tuition rates for the remainder of their first undergraduate degree at FSU in Tallahassee. This arrangement is contingent upon the student remaining in good academic and judicial standing throughout their FSU career. Students must attend consecutive semesters without interruption (summer terms excluded), progressing toward their degree completion, and staying "on map".

Admission Criteria
Priority is given to students with an overall grade point average of 2.5 or above. Students below the minimum standard may petition for admission. Both in-state and out-of-state students may be eligible, but preference is given to students who are enrolled in The Florida State University and other State of Florida universities. Program enrollment is limited. Early application is advisable. Non-Florida State college students must submit official transcripts to the Office of International Programs (IP).

To apply for a specific program, you must first go to the relevant program page, and then click on the “Apply Now” button from that page, which you can find by using the program location links on the left margin menu or by using our “program finder."

Program Details
See each program for its details. Fees, courses, prices, dates and all details for all programs are subject to change. Dates listed in this catalog indicate the first night in housing until the morning of the program’s last day. In many instances, this may require leaving the U.S. a day earlier than the first date listed.

Courses and Credits
For course descriptions and semester credit hours per course, see the site specific page on this website. Distance learning courses may also be available.

  • Unless otherwise noted, all courses, except language courses, are taught in English.
  • Courses at all summer IP locations may be used toward fulfilling the university 9-hour summer residency requirement.
  • Fall/Spring students must take at least 12 credit hours through IP. Visa requirements may supersede this policy.
  • Students on 4-week sessions must enroll in 3 credit hours unless the program is designed for students to take more.
  • Students on 5-, 6- and 8-week sessions must enroll in at least 6 credit hours.
  • Students on 10-week sessions must enroll in at least 9 credit hours.
  • Students on sessions of 12 weeks or more must take at least 12 credit hours, with 6 credits in each of the 5- or 6-week sessions (if applicable). Students on the London 12-week session must take at least 3 credit hours per 4-week session.
Note: Specific location requirements for credit load may vary and will be addressed during registration.
  • When International Programs offers online courses, students may not take more than one online course per term.
  • University drop/add policies apply to all programs; however, the IP policy on minimum credit hours remains in effect. Students may not drop below the minimum requirements specified above.
  • Students may be approved to take additional credits beyond those included in the program fee by paying an additional fee.
  • Currently, an additional undergraduate 3-credit course is $700; an additional graduate 3-credit course is $1,100. Standard overload permission requirements apply.
  • Students may opt to take Directed Individual Study (DIS) courses with Florida State faculty at program locations, pending departmental approval. Contact the IP office for information.

International Programs Minors
International Programs offers several minors, designed to enhance and provide focus to a student’s program in England, Italy or Spain. The minors are built around the residency in the respective study center location, but can be pursued before and after it as well. Each minor requires 15 credits (to include at least two disciplines), of which 9 must be taken in at the study center location. Students may choose from various disciplines. Consult the Florida State Bulletin and contact International Programs for formal declaration of the minor.

Information for Non-FSU Students

Not an FSU Student?  Not a problem!
International Programs accepts applications from students from all colleges and universities. Students from other schools are classified as Transient students. This means they are degree-seeking students elsewhere, but will attend The Florida State University for at least one term.

Applications
Apply on-line at International Programs. In addition, be sure to send an official transcript from the home school to International Programs, The Florida State University, A5500 University Center, Tallahassee, FL 32306-2420. If students have attended more than one school, the transcript from the most recently attended school will suffice because it usually has credits from the other school(s) posted.

Completion of the Program
Non-FSU students must submit the FSU International Programs Transcript Request form prior to studying abroad in order to receive one free transcript after the semester grades are posted. Once a program ends and grades are posted, the official transcript from Florida State is sent to the address indicated on the Transcript Request Form.

For Summer semester, grades will post to students’ final transcripts in mid-August regardless of the dates of your program. Grades will post in mid-December for Fall students and in early May for Spring students.

Additional transcript requests and fees must be submitted through the Registrar’s website:  http://registrar.fsu.edu/services/transcripts/apdefault.htm

For More Information
Still have questions? Please call 850-644-3272 or 800-374-8581 or email us at: IP-Info@fsu.edu.

Congratulations – your student is among the elite! Only about 1% of students in US higher education will study abroad as part of their university or college experience.

We are very proud to report that one in four 'Noles study abroad and our students understand the importance of expanding the learning opportunities beyond our borders and becoming globally competent citizens. They have life-changing experiences that are intellectually rigorous, personally challenging, culturally enriching and intensely fun! We know you have raised an independent, open minded student, but you may still be anxious. We strive to provide students with the information and assistance they need to succeed and to strike the ideal balance between supporting students and letting them overcome challenges on their own. We encourage you to do the same – be informed and supportive but not too involved.

Our well-trained staff and faculty, outstanding facilities, thorough orientation programs and extensive emergency plans are worthy of the confidence you’ve placed in us. Learn more about your student’s program by exploring the other tabs on this page.

Responsible Decision Making
We encourage you to discuss responsible decision-making with your student before departure. On occasion, students who are otherwise extremely responsible take uncharacteristically dangerous risks and make poor choices. In many cases, the consequences while abroad are much greater than in the United States. Violations of the Florida State University Student Code of Conduct or other rules and regulations of the program will result in judicial proceedings for which there are sanctions, up to and including expulsion from the program/university. In most countries, the legal drinking age is 18, so the study abroad experience is the first time many students can legally possess or consume alcohol. The majority of students who choose to consume alcohol do so responsibly, but it’s probably not a great surprise that most judicial or legal issues involve excessive alcohol consumption.

Communication
Students typically stay very ‘connected’ while they are abroad. Most of our programs provide internet access, though some have varying levels of access, depending on the location, facilities and nature of the program.

Many students purchase a ‘pay as you go’ cell phone or SIM card once they arrive in country. Others use smartphones or computer devices to communicate via Skype, FaceTime, or apps such as Viber. We encourage you to discuss your method(s) of communication, how often you expect to be in touch, and what you both should do in case of emergency. If you are unable to reach your student in the case of an emergency, please do not hesitate to contact the program director (whose number is included in the site-specific pre-departure pack), our office (850-644-3272), or the FSU Police Department (850-644-1234).

Culture Shock/Homesickness
Most students experience some degree of culture shock while participating on a study abroad program. Ironically, the discomfort that accompanies living in a place that has different values, expectations, standards, practices and in some cases, language, is often rooted in the cultural differences that the student is seeking when studying abroad!

Very often, within a day or two, routine problems resolve themselves or students find a solution and move on. Give your student some time to sort things out, and encourage them to find solutions. Check back with them in a day or two, and you’ll usually find that a problem that seemed insurmountable on Monday ceased to exist by Wednesday! However, for more serious issues, please encourage your student to deal directly with the resident assistant or program leader first rather than involving parents and staff who are thousands of miles away. Resolving problems independently usually yields even greater confidence and more independence. However, should a rare case or emergency arise, please feel free to contact the program director or our office.

Privacy
As a US university that receives Federal funding, we follow the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Your student has the right to authorize us to discuss some or all aspects of his/her program with you (e.g. finances, grades, judicial, etc.). The program application gives the student the opportunity to select an option allowing us to discuss financial aspects with parents/guardians. The student may also complete the Release of Information form, which allows us to discuss even more program-related issues.

Visiting Your Student
Family members often wish to visit students before, during or after their program. We are always happy to meet family members, and we’re pleased to help facilitate a successful visit. In fact, our study centers provide listings of local hotels and hostels: Florence, London, Panama City, and Valencia. Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing. If you visit during the program, please remember the program is an academic one, and your student’s course requirements should still be their priority.

New applicants interested in the Valencia program should contact Tina Brooks immediately, before applying to the program.. It is still possible to participate, but the visa process must be addressed immediately and individually.)

Florence, London, and Valencia

Fee includes: all registration and instructional costs for up to 49 undergraduate credit hours (16 credits per term plus the required First Year Experience one credit course). Housing in shared apartments in London, Florence and Valencia; program social/cultural excursions and activities; health insurance; entry visas (where applicable), international student ID card; T-shirt; full-time academic and administrative support. While school is in session, Valencia, Spain includes 4 meal vouchers per week (each worth 7€). While school is in session, Florence, Italy includes ten 5 Euro meal vouchers per week for fall and spring semesters and seven 5 Euro meal vouchers per week for summer session.

Not included: round-trip international airfare; passport; food except as noted; books and supplies; personal travel/activity/spending money; class-related performances and events. Toiletries and household products such as toilet paper, laundry detergent, bath soaps and shampoo, and university assessed fees (e.g. per credit hour technology fee).

Republic of Panama

Fee includes: all registration and instructional costs for up to 49 undergraduate credit hours 16 credits per term plus the required First Year Experience one credit course. Housing in rented houses; program social/cultural excursions and activities; health insurance; entry visa; international student ID card; T-shirt; full-time academic and administrative support.

Not Included: round-trip international airfare; passport; food except as noted; books and supplies; personal travel/activity/spending money; class-related performances and events.

Note: Students planning on majoring in Science, Mathematics, or Computer Science must attend Panama or Valencia. Courses, prices, and dates are subject to change.

Fall 2013
Aug 29- Dec 12 (105 Nights) $14,975 FY04 Florence FYA FA13  Apply Online

Aug 29- Dec 12 (105 Nights) $14,975 LY04 London FYA FA13  Apply Online

Aug 21- Dec 14 (115 Nights) $14,000 PY04 Panama FYA FA13  Apply Online

Aug 29- Dec 12 (105 Nights) $14,800 VY04 Valencia FYA FA13  Apply Online

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