Villanova University Education Abroad Programs: A World of Opportunities

Villanova University offers a wide array of education abroad programs, enabling students to pursue academic, professional, and personal ambitions across the globe. These experiences range from short, intensive courses to semester-long and year-long immersions, providing Villanovans with transformative opportunities for growth and learning. In the 2024-2025 academic year, 770 Villanova students participated in these programs. Destinations span the globe.

The Surge in Participation

The number of Villanova students studying abroad has seen a notable rise. Liz Campanella, Director of Education Abroad, attributes this increase to students who experienced COVID-related disruptions during high school. Seeing the world opening up again, these students are eager to take advantage of the diverse opportunities Villanova offers. The availability of these programs and the students' enthusiasm to participate have been key factors in this surge.

Program Duration and Popularity

Almost 56 percent of Villanova students studying abroad in the past year participated in semester-long programs, with the Fall Semester being the most popular time to go abroad. This allows students to fully immerse themselves in a new culture and academic environment. Villanova will also be offering two new summer programs this upcoming term.

Academic Considerations and Program Choices

Students carefully consider their academic needs when choosing a study abroad program. Junior Joey Kirner, a biology major aspiring to attend medical school, noted the challenge of finding programs that align with pre-med science course requirements. This highlights the importance of academic advising and program selection to ensure that students can continue their degree progress while abroad.

Junior Emily Jo, who participated in the Honors politics, philosophy and economics Cambridge University program, had dreamed of studying abroad since she was young, and noted that “Studying abroad is such a special opportunity to live somewhere new for five months and get to experience a new culture and way of living.

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Participation by College

The College of Arts and Sciences had the highest number of students participating in education abroad programs this year, with 392 students involved in both university and partner-affiliated programs. The Villanova School of Business (VSB) followed with 300 participants. The high participation from these two colleges demonstrates the broad appeal of international experiences across different academic disciplines.

Nursing Abroad: A Unique Opportunity

For nursing majors, study abroad programs are relatively rare due to the demanding curriculum. Sophomore Maeve Cantwell, who participated in the Sophomore Nursing Experience in Dingle, Ireland, was drawn to Villanova because of this opportunity. This program exemplifies Villanova's commitment to providing specialized study abroad experiences for students in traditionally less flexible fields.

Destination Preferences and Motivations

Campanella notes that student interest in certain locations may stem from family backgrounds or language interests, as many students have studied Spanish in high school. These factors can initially draw students to particular regions, highlighting the role of personal connections in shaping study abroad choices.

The Benefits of Studying Abroad

Studying abroad offers numerous personal and academic benefits. Campanella emphasizes that it allows students to grow as individuals, ignite their intellectual curiosity, and encounter diverse perspectives. These experiences broaden horizons and foster a deeper understanding of the world.

Planning Your Study Abroad Experience

Students can start planning their study abroad experiences early in their academic careers. Visiting Garey Hall provides access to information about the many opportunities available. The Office of Education Abroad (OEA) assists students in identifying opportunities and facilitating the enrollment process.

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Villanova's Commitment to Global Citizenship

Villanova University aims to cultivate intellectually inspired, morally grounded global citizens. Study abroad is seen as an integral part of this mission, providing students with opportunities to broaden their academic pursuits, learn in new environments, and study topics from different perspectives. Students are encouraged to be open to new ideas, immerse themselves in local communities, and reflect on their experiences.

Integrating Career Goals with Study Abroad

Students are encouraged to consider how their study abroad experience can support their career goals. This involves identifying and exploring areas that align with their professional aspirations during their time abroad.

Understanding the Impact on Local Communities

Villanova emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader impact of studying abroad on local communities. Students are encouraged to use their international experiences to reflect on the common good of the global society.

Application and Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for study abroad programs, students must meet certain academic and administrative requirements.

GPA: Students must have a 2.75 GPA or higher.
Standing: For semester study abroad, full-time student status and rising sophomore or junior standing is required. Students wishing to study abroad during the first semester of their senior year must obtain approval from the Assistant/Associate Dean.
Holds: Students may not participate if they have any holds on their account, including financial, academic, or disciplinary probation.
Transfer Students: Transfer students must complete three semesters at Villanova before participating in an overseas program.

Application Deadlines

Spring study abroad: October 15
Fall study abroad: April 15
Summer study abroad: April 1

Some Villanova programs may have earlier application deadlines.

Course Approval and Credit Transfer

Prior approval is required for all courses taken abroad. A completed Course Approval Form (CAF) must be signed by the OEA, the student's academic advisor, and the student. The CAF outlines the student's proposed academic plan abroad and confirms the Villanova University equivalents of the overseas courses. Transfer credit will not be granted without prior approval. Students must obtain the equivalent of a ‘C’ or better in their overseas courses in order for the credit to transfer back to Villanova.

While abroad, students are subject to certain restrictions on the number and type of courses they can take. No more than three business courses may be taken while abroad in one semester and no more than two courses may satisfy the requirements for one major.

Additional Policies

Foreign Language Courses: Students are expected to enroll in courses they are placed into via placement assessment and will receive credit as appropriate.
Major Advising Pages (MAPs): MAPs are designed to help students frame their study abroad experience from an academic perspective, but they are not exhaustive.
COVID-19 Considerations: Students should be prepared for potential changes related to COVID-19, such as new lockdown requirements or limitations to programming. Study in countries rated Level 3 or Level 4 locations will be limited to approved program partners.

Passport Information

The Passport Agency is experiencing a backlog of applications, with processing times of 3-4 months. Students should check their passport expiration date and ensure it is valid for at least 6 months beyond the completion date of their program.

Getting Started

The first step for any student interested in studying abroad is to attend a general information session offered by the OEA. These sessions cover all program types and options. Students can then schedule appointments with OEA advisors based on their major to review their academic plan and discuss course requirements. If a student has already selected a program, they can schedule an appointment to begin the application process.

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