Study Away

• Travel after the New Year, tentative dates, January 5-18, 2027
• Approximate cost: Approximately between $3,200-$4,000. Final price is contingent upon potential private funding for the trip.
• Student Financial Services can help you discuss funding.
  • Includes cost of course, unless you are an overload
  • Flights, accommodations, all excursions, transportation, all breakfasts, some lunches and dinners, guide and fun.
• The course is flexible and is designed to meet the needs of a course you need to fulfill (Humanities, elective, independent study, etc.).

• Tortuguero National Park
  • Tortuguero is only accessible by boat!
• San Gerardo Valley
• Terraba River
• Corcovado National Park
• Boat tour and snorkeling in Isla Del Cano National Park
• Boat trip to Drake Bay
• Arenal Volcano
  • Swim in the blue river!

Secure your spot today! There are only 5 spots left for 2027!

Please contact Kristen Malinowski-Paine or Boyd Brown for additional information and/or to register for the trip and class!

If you are ready to make a non-refundable deposit of $1,000 deposit, please click here on a laptop, not your phone, and choose “trip 1.”

• Students are required to attend an Info Session before applying to any program
• Each semester, we will provide details about these sessions on the HUB, social media, and around campus

Info Session Dates:

• • Dates for Fall 2026: TBC

• After completing step 1, you may begin your application process. Email the Study Away Office with the locations you are interested in. We will send you a link to the application page.

• Below is a list of locations we offer:

  • Spain
  • Greece
  • England
  • Scotland
  • Ireland
  • Prague
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Please reach out if the location you are interested in is not on the list.

• Applications must be completed by the Study Away Office’s deadlines, which is a year prior to your desired semester away.

  • Spring & Winter 2027: April 23, 2026
  • Fall & Summer 2027: December 14, 2026

• A one-time application fee will be billed by the provider. The fee amount will vary depending on the provider.

• Students are required to attend a Budgeting Workshop or a one-on-one meeting.
• Because students are not allowed to work while studying abroad, this workshop is intended to provide students with essential budgeting skills
• Each semester, we will provide details about these workshops on the HUB, social media, and around campus

Budget Workshop Dates:

• Fall 2026 dates: TBC

• Once you’re approved to study abroad, make sure you check your emails regularly to complete any additional documents, as it is required for the visa application.
• Approved students will be required to attend a Visa Application meeting. Scheduling instructions and additional details will be provided via email to accepted students.

• Your official transcript will be sent to the Registrar’s Office at the end of your term.

  • If applicable, it is your responsibility to request a transcript from the host university and ensure it is sent to Nichols Registrar’s office.

• Your credits and grades will be officially evaluated for final credit transfer upon receipt of your transcript by the Nichols College Registrar’s Office.

• Your grades from the host institution will be factored into your GPA.

• Grades cannot be changed by Nichols College after they are awarded by the host institution. There are NO exceptions to this policy!

Students requesting accommodations may be required to provide documentation from their physician outlining their diagnosis and accommodation needs. Depending on the host program, additional documentation may also be required.

We encourage you to be in touch with the Study Away Office, Advising Services, and your host program as early as possible so that we may best advise you on program selection and support.

• Advising Services Contact Information:

  • Email: Advising@nichols.edu

  • Phone number: (508) 213-2431

Online Resources

• Mobility International USA: Mobility International is a disability-led non-profit organization advancing disability rights and leadership globally. MIUSA is a cross-disability organization serving people with a broad range of disabilities.

• US State Department: A site overseen by the US Department of State that will allow you to enter a country or area to find information for mobility-impaired travelers in the Special Laws & Circumstances section. Unlike the United States, many countries do not legally require accommodations for people with disabilities.

When participating in a study away program, students will be billed directly by Nichols College. Your Student Account will reflect the costs associated with your study away experience.

Below is a basic overview of what costs will entail:

• Nichols College’s tuition
• Provider’s Housing Fee
• Provider’s Insurance

Some services are included in the program cost; however, the specific services vary by provider.

• Below is a general list of what is typically included:
  • • Group airport pickup
    • Guaranteed housing (upgrade housing at an extra cost)
    • Excursions and local activities (option to add additional activities for extra costs)
    • Volunteer activities
    • 24/7 advisor and onsite support
    • Transcripts
    • Alumni and social networks

• Below is a list of what’s not included:
  • • Airfare
    • Luggage fees
    • Visa application fee
    • Meals and expenses
    • Laundry
    • Local transportation
    • Local SIM card
    • Textbooks
    • Other travel

Students are responsible for all personal expenses. These vary from year to year and place to place. We recommend you check the website of your host program to see if further information is available.

Because financial aid varies by student, students should meet with the Student Financial Services Office to discuss any questions about their aid.

Student Financial Services Contact Information:

• • • Email: SFS@nichols.edu
    • Phone: 508-213-2288

Nichols College launched SELF (Student Experiential Learning Fund) in the Summer of 2021 to help subsidize expenses related to external internships, experiential learning opportunities and study away. The fund is made possible through the generosity of several donors to ensure that cost is not an obstacle to students pursuing important experiential learning opportunities that support career exploration.

• Student Experiential Learning Fund (SELF).
• Deadline: the first of every month.

The Study Away Office have reviewed these scholarships, but it’s important to exercise caution when applying for any external scholarships.

• Outside Scholarship Opportunities

• STEP 1: Set an appointment with your advisor and the Registrar to discuss Nichols College equivalent courses you should take while you are away.

• STEP 2: Set an appointment with Student Financial Services about your finances for studying away.

• STEP 3: If you live on campus, please contact Residence Life to arrange or update any housing situations at Nichols College prior to studying away.

• STEP 4: Schedule a Visa Application Meeting with the Study Away Office.

• Many students (though not all) will also need a visa prior to their departure. A visa is an official document issued by the country you wish to visit, granting you temporary permission to enter the country for a certain amount of time. Visas vary depending on the length of stay and the purpose of your visit. They can be paper documents or just a stamp in your passport, depending on the country.

• If your host country requires it, your program will provide you with student visa application information after you are admitted. You will need supporting documents from both your host institution and Nichols College. Follow the instructions PRECISELY and PROMPTLY, as visa timelines may be tight. It is best to schedule an appointment with the U.S. Embassy no later than 8 weeks before your departure.

• Check with your program to see if it collects information for any necessary visas. If you are planning to travel outside of your host country, verify if a visa is required for your destination(s). Be sure to know if you can re-enter your host country on your student visa if you leave.

• The visa process is often one of the most frustrating and complicated parts of the study abroad process for students. Simply put, getting a visa is a privilege and not a right that we can guarantee. Students must abide by all regulations set forth by the U.S Embassy or Consulate of the country that they are applying to.

• While Nichols College Study Away Office cannot advise on the visa process and procedures for every country, we will attempt to provide you with some resources. As visa regulations can change often and without notice, your first and best source of information will always be your program and the Consulate itself. Depending on where you go and what provider you use, they may offer “Batch Visa Processing.” This is a much easier process, and it is advised you obtain your visa by batch processing if available through your program.

All students are required to be enrolled in a international health insurance while abroad. Students should check their approval letters and confirmation paperwork from their host program to find out if their program will cover insurance or if they have supplemental health insurance. You can also call your current health insurance to see what they cover.

• If you are not already covered by a program plan, you can enroll to GeoBlue Worldwide Insurance.

Studying away provides participants with meaningful opportunities to get out of their comfort zone and gain a new worldview. As part of your study abroad experience, you may be challenged in not only physical, but also philosophical, personal, and emotional ways you didn’t expect. We encourage you to be aware of the following resources for how to prepare for social-emotional issues that may arise. Remember, you may not be able to access counseling services from Nichols College while you are away. However, we encourage you to utilize their online resources:

• Nichols College Health Services 

• Mental Health Toolbox 

Online Mental Health Resources:

• Managing Mental Health While Abroad
• Study Breaks
• 8 Tips to Handle Study Abroad Stress
• Tips for Traveling with Panic Disorder and Anxiety
• How not to let Anxiety Stop you from Traveling
• International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccinations for host countries of many of the Nichols College study abroad programs. Your host institution’s handbook will provide health recommendations/requirements information prior to departure.

• To find out more about country-specific vaccination recommendations and health data, visit the CDC website or call 1-404-332-4565.

Even though you are abroad, you are still entitled to Title IX protections through Nichols College. Students looking for more information or wish to file a complaint can contact the Title IX Coordinator, Cari Cyr.

Title IX contact information:

• Email: Cari.Cyr@nichols.edu

• Title IX website

Nichols College recommends you register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on the U.S. Department of State website, where you will find additional useful information for traveling abroad. If you are not a U.S. citizen, register with the embassy/consulate of your home country.

Q: How do students choose a program?

Choosing a program can be a daunting task! There is no one-size-fits-all program, and you may want to consider different factors. Many students consider location, language, and academics as primary considerations. For example, do you need courses to fulfill major or minor requirements? (The Study Abroad Office encourages students interested in studying away to save their electives, as this may provide greater flexibility when selecting courses for their programs.) Do you need courses in English, Spanish or French?  After you’ve gotten some of the big questions out of the way, think about how you might like to live – in a dorm, with a local family or in an apartment. Do you want to study with local students at a large University, with a small cohort of Americans, or a combination of the two? Click on this link to make an appointment with a staff member from the Study Away Office to find out more!

Q: Do I need to speak another language?

No! Programs are offered in many languages, and English language programs are not limited to the United Kingdom or Australia. You can enhance your major with English language courses in places like Spain or Greece.

Q: Can I study abroad in the summer?

Yes! In addition to summer and winter term study abroad options, we also have internship opportunities abroad.

Q: What are the program dates?

Program dates vary each semester depending on the program of your choice. Exact dates are set by the host program, not Nichols College.

Q: What are the requirements for approval to study abroad?

Nichols College requires that prior to applying for a program, you must:

• Attend an Info Session or a 1:1 meeting with a staff from the Study Away Office,

• Have at least a cumulative GPA of a 3.0, and 

• Students must be in good academic and social standing.

Students are also required to maintain their cumulative GPA and remain in good standing throughout the application process and prior to their departure.

Q: What is the typical level of courses taken overseas?

The level varies depending on the program or institution, but in general, all program courses are registered as at least 200-level courses. Each department at Nichols College makes a determination on the equivalent course level.

Q: Are there programs for particular majors?

Yes, there are programs specifically designed for certain majors. However, students are not required to choose a program directly tied to their major. Please contact the Study Away Office to explore programs that offer courses relevant to your major or minor. For your best interest, we recommend consulting with your advisor and the Registrar before selecting courses related to your major.

Q: What kind of academic support is offered?

Academic support varies depending on the program type, educational system, country, and culture. Students should expect less academic and social support compared to what is typically available on a U.S. campus. These cultural and educational differences do not necessarily mean the host institution or program is less friendly or helpful; rather, they may expect students to take more initiative and reach out if they need assistance. While increased independence is often a reported benefit of studying abroad, don’t hesitate to ask for help—support is available if you need it! 

Q: How are study abroad programs evaluated?

Almost all of our programs are directly administered by a U.S.-accredited program provider or third-party institution. Additionally, Nichols College Study Away staff regularly conduct site evaluations of each program and gather student feedback for review. Our office also utilizes numerous professional resources, including study abroad advisors, professional groups, and regular conferences, as well as quality standards set by the professional.

Q: When will my grades be posted?

After your program ends, your transcript may not arrive right away. Grades are not submitted as quickly from abroad as they do when you’re at Nichols College. Don’t worry! Registrar will receive your transcripts and do what is necessary to translate the grade to your Nichols College transcript.

For questions regarding your grades and transcripts, contact Ashley Ottman from the Registrar’s office.

Q: How do students make travel arrangements to host country?

Students at Nichols College generally make their own travel arrangements. Most host programs offer advice, preferable dates to arrive and depart or airport pick up service.

Q: Do students have time to travel while studying abroad?

Students can usually find time to travel on their own while studying abroad. However, even with the opportunity to travel, academics should remain a priority.

Q: Do students need a passport?

Original, valid passports are due at the time of application. It is the responsibility of each student to obtain or update a passport for international travel. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the student’s return date.

Passports should be updated well before submitting the study abroad application. For information on how to order or update a passport, visit the U.S. Department of State – Passport. Passport applications may be expedited for an additional fee.

Q: Can I travel outside the U.S. during the visa application process?

No, you cannot travel outside of the U.S. during the visa application process, as your passport will be held by the consulate.

Q: My visa application requires a “Letter of Enrollment” or “Letter of Support” from my university, where do I get that?

Email the Study Away Office and we will provide you with the Letter.

Q: Help! I need an FBI background check, fingerprints, or some other criminal background check from the police! What do I do? Where can I get a background check?

First, contact your program and the consulate that you’ll be working with to ensure that you’re receiving the correct background check. If you need a ‘LiveScan,’ you may be able to find additional locations through these resources:

• LiveScan Location Search

• Identogo

Q: Can international students study away?

Yes, you can! F-1 students may be interested in studying away as a complement to their studies at Nichols College. If you are considering studying away, it is important to understand your options and how studying away may affect your F-1 status. Always check with the Office for International Engagement before applying to ensure you are complying with any immigration regulations.

• If you will be completing an internship as part of your study away experience, please check with the International Student Services to make sure you have proper authorization.

Q: What is the impact on CPT and Pre-Completion OPT?

If approved by the International Student Services, and if your study abroad experience meets the full-time enrollment requirement, a semester abroad can be counted toward eligibility for CPT or Pre-Completion OPT.

Q: What is the impact on Post-Completion OPT?

Students may not be eligible for post-completion OPT if participating in out of the country study abroad experiences during their graduating semester for the following reasons:  

• Students outside the U.S. are not in any non-immigrant status while abroad.

• The student is not residing in the U.S. with a current I-94.

• The student may not be able to return to the U.S. after program end date.

• The student must submit OPT application from inside the U.S.

Q: Can student-athletes study away?

Yes, student-athletes can study away! The Study Away Office works with student-athletes and their coaches early in the planning process to discuss timing, eligibility, and any athletic commitments that may affect program options. Because athletic schedules and team commitments can impact availability, student-athletes are encouraged to begin planning early.

Q: How will students be billed while studying abroad?

A one-time application fee will be billed by the provider, if applicable. The fee amount may vary depending on the provider. 

Your total cost for studying away will be billed to your student accounts. If you have questions about what aid could be used towards your program cost, please contact Student Financial Services.

Q: Will there be unexpected costs?

Students should always be prepared for unexpected costs. The cost of the program does not cover independent travel, personal expenses beyond typical meals, supplies/books, plane tickets, passport/visa applications, or departure taxes. These expenses vary by program and individual.

Some providers or programs offer additional ‘optional’ excursions that may or may not be included in your program cost. These excursions can be purchased by the student on-site and typically involve group travel.

Q: Are there scholarships available?

Yes, there are Internal and External scholarships available! Reach out to the Study Away Office if you have any questions.

Q: Can I work during my study abroad program?

No, students are not permitted to work while abroad. It’s important to budget accordingly for your semester away.

Once approved by Nichols College to study away, students are required to attend a budgeting workshop or schedule a one-on-one budgeting meeting with the Study Away Office. During this session, students will learn how to plan for common expenses and create a realistic budget for their time away. Students should also consider their individual lifestyles, spending habits, and the experiences they would like to have while studying away. To help estimate personal expenses, students are encouraged to research the average cost of everyday items in their host destination using the Numbeo Cost of Living Calculator.

Q: Will I be safe while studying abroad?

Nichols College take health and safety very seriously. In conjunction with our partners, local and international law enforcement, and consulates, we regularly monitor news and situations that arise. Additionally, Nichols College and all of our program providers have comprehensive emergency protocols in place.

Q: Should I register with the U.S. Department of State’s STEP?

Nichols College recommends that you register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on the U.S. Department of State’s website, where you will find additional useful information for traveling abroad. If you are not a U.S. Citizen, register with the Embassy/Consulate of your home country.

Q: Will I need international health insurance?

In addition to domestic coverage, all students must be enrolled in international health insurance while abroad.

Q: What if I take prescription medication?

Many students who travel abroad also take prescription meds, so you will not be alone! Plan accordingly and discuss with your prescribing physician.

• Certain prescription medications may be illegal or unavailable in your host country. It is your responsibility to discuss this with your physician and your program health insurer early on, and to find out whether these medications can legally be brought into the country or can be prescribed locally.

• If you do plan to travel abroad with a large supply of medication, you should ask your physician to write a letter including:
  • • Country and city of issue, Date of issue and Period of Validity – if the individual is carrying more than a 3-month supply, the physician should explicitly state he or she has given the individual permission to do so.
    • Prescribing physician last name, first name, office address, telephone number
    • Patient last name, first name, sex, place of birth, date of birth, home address, passport number or number of identity card, intended country of destination
    • Prescribed medical preparation, including trade name of each drug or its composition, dosage form, number of units (tablets, ampoules etc.), international name of the active substance, concentration of active substance, total quantity of active substance, duration of
      prescription in days
    • Signature and stamp (if available) of prescribing physician
  • For immigration purposes, travelers have generally been permitted to carry prescription medication abroad as long as they can document that a U.S. physician prescribed the medication.
    • You will need to bring your medication in the original bottle(s), accompanied by a letter from your doctor explaining the medical reason you take this medication, indicating what quantity you take and documenting why you may have a rather large quantity with you based on the duration of your stay abroad (see attached list of what should be included in the letter).
    • You should also be sure to carry the medication(s) and supporting documentation in your carry-on luggage, NOT your checked luggage, so that these items are available in the event of any questions from immigration or customs agents

Q: Where do students typically reside?

Each program features different housing arrangements, which may include dormitory, suite/apartment-style housing on campus, off-campus housing, or homestays. When possible, efforts are made to integrate students with host country nationals or other international students.

Q: What dining options are available to students?

Depending on the program’s arrangements, students may eat meals in the dining hall or cook in apartment kitchens. Typically, host universities abroad offer no meal plans or only limited meal plans.

Q: How can students stay in touch with home?

Be sure to check your personal cell phone plan’s policies regarding international calls. Many students choose to purchase an inexpensive cell phone plan abroad upon arrival. WhatsApp is also a great app to use with Wi-Fi while abroad, allowing you to stay connected with anyone who has the app back home, and enabling you to text or call free of charge.