How to Apply

Before you apply, do not hesitate to meet with a study abroad adviser to discuss your options.

There are different processes for applying to Columbia-Led and Columbia-Approved Programs. Please see below for more information.

If You Are Applying to a Columbia-Led Program

Semester/Academic Year program Applicants

Choose one of the Columbia-Led Programs and click on "start an application" to create an Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement (UGE) profile and application. All application materials are accessible in your UGE account. Program requirements vary; but, you should prepare to submit:

  • one or two recommendation letters
  • your transcript
  • short essay

You then need to complete the clearance process with your UGE adviser. The clearance deadline is the same date as the application deadline. The clearance process helps you understand how study abroad fits into your Columbia undergraduate education. See below for specific processes:

  • Columbia College Students: In your UGE application, make sure to fill out the clearance questionnaire early. Once you complete the questionnaire, make an appointment with your study abroad adviser to discuss your plans and to complete the clearance process.
  • General Studies Students: In your UGE application, make sure to fill out the clearance questionnaire early. Once you complete the questionnaire, connect with your GS Study Abroad Adviser to complete the clearance process.
  • Columbia Engineering Students: Download the clearance form in your UGE application and the course approval forms. Work with Dean Leora Brovman as well as your CSA adviser to complete the forms. Then, schedule a meeting with your study abroad adviser to discuss all completed documents and complete the clearance process.

You must also discuss your plans with your major adviser. In this discussion, make sure that you are making good progress with your major or concentration. Also, discuss how your study abroad credits may transfer to your major or concentration.

Summer Program Applicants

Chose one of the Columbia-Led Programs and click on "start an application" to create an UGE profile and application. All application materials are accessible in your UGE account. Program requirements vary; but, you should prepare to submit:

  • one recommendation letter
  • your transcript
  • short essay

Your adviser will contact you after reviewing your application if a meeting is needed.

If You Are Applying to a Columbia-Approved Program

Columbia approves over a hundred third-party provider programs and a few exchange programs that students may attend. Applying to these programs requires one extra step in the application process described above. Besides creating an UGE application, you must also complete an application on the third-party provider (i.e. SIT, Middlebury, IFSA-Butler, CIEE etc.) or exchange (i.e. UCL, HKUST, Bocconi etc.) website. Note: Application deadlines for third-party provider programs may be earlier than UGE clearance deadlines.