Process and Procedures

This page outlines the steps students move through to participate in the International Experience Program - from attending an information session, to researching costs and funding sources, applying, being accepted, and confirming participation.

In an information session, you can get an in-depth look at the program offerings, ask questions, and walk away with next steps. You do not need to register to attend an information session.

Costs vary by program and location, so it is important to do your research! To plan accordingly, ensure you understand all program costs, how the costs are billed to you, how your financial aid will apply to your selected program, and how program cost compares to spending a semester on campus.

Can I Afford to Go Abroad?

Before you start planning for your international experience, make sure you understand your current expenses. Keep track of how much you spend on tuition, housing, meals, parking, gas, bills, going out, shopping, etc. per semester so you can budget for your study abroad experience. Make sure you understand your current financial aid allowance and scholarships.

As you read each online program brochure, you'll see an estimated program budget. We recommend you compare your current expenses to the estimated program costs.

If you don't have a passport, you'll need one to go abroad! The application process takes at least 10-12 weeks, so start early.

To learn how to apply for a passport, please visit the U.S. Department of State.

You must apply for your first passport in person. Passport applications are accepted in person at certain post offices, public libraries and local government offices; search to find one near you.

If you already have a passport, make sure it is valid for at least six months past your travel dates, and renew your passport early if it is not.

Some countries also require a visa to enter. The program provider for the International Experience Program will assist you in securing the appropriate visa and work authorization.

To participate in an International Experience, you will need approval from either your academic advisor or, if you are in a mandatory co-op program, your co-op advisor. The purpose of the approval is to ensure that your academic schedule will not be not negatively impacted by your absence from campus.

Your academic advisor or co-op advisor must sign the Adviser Approval Form to approve your participation in the program.

Once you've researched the locations, compared costs, investigated funding options, obtained a passport, and gotten approval from your advisor, it's time to apply!

By now, you probably know where you want to go and when. Specific program start and end dates are provided below. Berlin, Cape Town, Santiago and Seville are 12-week programs. Hong Kong, London, Singapore, Toronto and Vancouver are 13-week programs.

You must apply to participate in an International Experience Program.

To apply:

1. Go to UC's International Programs database
2. Click the tab "Co-op Programs"
3. Choose the program you want
4. Click "Apply Now"
5. Log in using your UC 6+2 and password and follow the prompts

We typically start accepting applications at least six months before the program start date. You can apply any time through the application due date (see table below).

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Students are notified by e-mail regarding their status. Notifications go out starting March 25 for fall programs; July 31 for spring programs; and October 25 for summer programs.

Once accepted into the program, you will be asked to complete the Participation Declaration and Internship Questionnaire to declare your intent to participate in the program. This form must be completed prior to resumes being handed over to the program provider for job development.

You will attend an individual and/or group meeting with the program director and personnel from the Academic Internship Council. You'll receive the information and instructions you need to comply with university requirements and successfully progress through the job search and visa processes.

The program director will work with you to complete an employment profile and make updates or changes to your resume. Your preferred employer profile and resume will be forwarded to your site director along with those of other students in the program. You will then work with AIC/CIEE personnel to identify prospective employers and coordinate interviews with them.

You must commit to participate in the program in UC International's online database, called TerraDotta, by the due date:

• To participate in Fall semester, commitment is due June 15.
• To participate in Spring semester, commitment is due November 15.
• To participate in Summer semester, commitment is due March 15.

You must finally confirm your participation in the program by the following dates:

• To participate in the Fall semester, final confirmation date is July 31.
• To participate in the Spring semester, final confirmation date is November 30.
• To participate in the Summer semester, final confirmation date is March 31.

Students who withdraw after the program confirmation date will be held financially liable.

All University of Cincinnati students traveling outside their home country are required to complete the following before departure:

1. Attend a mandatory UC Pre-Departure Orientation
2. Purchase comprehensive international and evacuation insurance through CISI Insurance
3. Provide to UC's International Programs Office:
   1. Flight details
   2. Details of your health, medications and accommodations abroad
   3. Passport information
4. In addition, international students must contact UC International Services before travel to get a travel signature on your I-20 / DS-2019 to maintain your nonimmigrant status. Fill out the Request for a Travel Signature eForm on iBearcatsGlobal to set up an appointment.