At the Center for International Education (CIE) at Salem State University, we understand that it is a big decision for a student to spend a semester or summer abroad, and that it is a decision made in large part with parents’ support. Here is some general information about our programs. Staff at the CIE are more than happy to include parents in the conversation.
Why Study Abroad?
- Students will earn credit toward their degree
- The experience increases students’ chances of graduating when expected, or even early
- Students become more motivated when they return to campus, and their grade point average usually improves
- The programs abroad help students gain career skills, increases employability
- Internships and service-learning opportunities can count for academic credits
- Study Abroad is highlighted in a student’s resume
Study Abroad Costs
There is a wide range of programs, some of which are expensive, but in some cases, studying abroad can be LESS than spending a semester on campus!
Note: Approximate costs listed in the chart below are for one semester only; final costs may vary by program and housing options. For information on tuition, fees, and other costs at Salem State, please visit the Tuition and Fees page.
| Option | Tuition | Room & Board | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salem State University | $6,544 | $8,091* | $14,635 |
| University of Oviedo, Spain | $1,500 | $2,200 (Homestay, incl. meals) | $3,700 |
| University of Mannheim, Germany | $5,837 | $2,000 (Apartment) | $7,837 |
*The room and board charge listed above reflects that of a double room in either Peabody or Bowditch Hall and the All Access Plan — 7-Day Silver Plan (dining). This is the most common room and board option; however, other options are available. For more information about living on campus and our room and board fees, visit Residence Life.
How Can I Pay?
Financial Aid
Generally, financial aid for the aid year can be applied toward the study abroad program. However, some types of financial aid, including housing grants and the Massachusetts Tuition Waiver, are not eligible during the student's time abroad.
Students must maintain financial aid eligibility, including Meeting Satisfactory Progress and maintaining enrollment each semester, to avoid reductions to their aid.
Financial Aid Process For Study Abroad
The Financial Aid Office will contact students receiving financial aid to schedule a meeting to review their financial aid package, the estimated cost of attendance for their study abroad semester, and the estimated remaining out-of-pocket costs after subtracting their financial aid.
For example, a student studies abroad at the University of Oviedo in Spain for one semester, which costs about $3,700. Their financial aid package includes a $3,000 Pell Grant for that semester. They may use the Pell Grant to cover part of the cost and will need to pay the remaining $700 out of pocket.
Scholarships & Grants
Qualifying students may apply for additional scholarships and grants to study abroad. These are not guaranteed, but CIE staff will help students find these opportunities and apply.
If a student is receiving an outside scholarship, they must check with the scholarship provider to ensure the scholarship can be used towards the costs of their term abroad.
Disbursement and Refunds
Financial aid is disbursed after the census date for each semester of enrollment, including the study abroad semester. Aid cannot be disbursed before the census date.
If a payment is due to the study abroad program before financial aid funds are disbursed, students must make payment arrangements with the program. For any questions regarding payments or fees directly related to the study abroad program, please contact the Study Abroad Office or the program directly.
When the university disburses financial aid funds, it is paid first. If any funds remain after the balance is paid, the university will issue a refund. For any questions regarding refunds, please contact the Student Navigation Center.
Is It Safe?
- Salem State study abroad and the university’s risk management team monitors activities around the world
- The study abroad office uses an online tool to track students while abroad, which helps the university know who is where, when, and how to contact them and their emergency contacts (you!)
- For most programs, there is a full staff at the location who provides the students with emergency action plans
How Will Your Student Be Supported?
- Study abroad staff works with the students from start to finish – from the time students even think about studying abroad, all the way through to when the student returns from a program.
- While your student is abroad, there will be staff at the location who will assist them while there. They will provide:
- On-site orientation, group excursions, health support services in case they fall ill, and any sort of additional assistance a student may need to succeed while abroad
Questions?
For information on visit programs or contact
Lauren Prema, Center for International Education