1. Attend an information session or meet with the Study Abroad Coordinator
   
   You will learn about deadline, eligibility requirements, and approved programs. Check the Office of International Programs website for regularly scheduled information sessions.

2. Research Approved Programs
   
   It is your responsibility to get research programs and courses, and get copies of course descriptions and/or syllabi.  Research your options and countries of interest in the Office of International Programs and through the OIP website. Make lists of the courses you need at Champlain and what you might take abroad. 

3. Meet with your Faculty Advisor
   
   Discuss your study abroad plans with your faculty advisor as early as possible. Your faculty advisor can help you determine the optimal time for you to go abroad as well as advise you on course selections.

4. Apply for a U.S. Passport
   
   This can take time, so it is best to get a head start on it. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website for more details.

5. Meet with the Study Abroad Coordinator
   
   Fill out the Meeting Request form, call 865-6437, or email studyabroad@champlain.edu for an appointment to discuss your study abroad options and to get the Champlain Study Abroad Application. 

6. Apply for approval to study abroad through Champlain
   
   Submit Champlain Study Abroad Application; essay; faculty recommendations; unofficial transcript; and list of proposed courses to the OIP by the deadline. March 15 for fall, academic year, and summer, and October 15 for spring.

7. Once you are approved by Champlain to study abroad, complete program application
   
   Exchange program applications must be submitted to the OIP. Third-party program applications must be submitted to the program provider. You will be responsible for monitoring application deadlines, soliciting faculty recommendations and payments. 

8. Complete the Course Approval Petition
   
   All courses must be reviewed by appropriate Program Directors prior to your departure; ideally you will secure approval for double the number of classes you will actually take. This gives you a fall-back position should a course or courses be closed, full or otherwise unavailable to you. Submit the completed form to the OIP.

9. Meet with your Academic Advisor
   
   Give a copy of your Course Approval Petition to your academic advisor, and discuss registration for your return to Champlain. 

10. Apply for your country-specific Visa
    
    Follow the recommendations from your program sponsor about applying for a visa, and making your travel arrangements.  You may also visit the U.S. Department of State's foreign entry page for more info.

11. Register for the SAP placeholder course during your regular registration time
    
    Registering for “SAP,” will help ensure that you receive credit for study abroad. Once you receive official acceptance to your study abroad program, you must submit your acceptance letter to the OIP. Then you may register for the course entitled “SAP” (Study Abroad Program). This must be completed prior to your departure from Champlain. By registering for “SAP”:
    • Champlain will be able to recognize your status as a study abroad student
    • Your financial aid will be processed and disbursed upon confirmation of enrollment
    • You will be able to access the Champlain registration system to register for your Champlain courses from abroad
    • You will not have to re-apply to Champlain
    • You may have access to your emergency assistance insurance coverage
       
12. Complete all forms and waivers
    
    Collect all necessary Champlain forms and waivers from the OIP. Sign and return them to the appropriate Champlain offices.

13. Attend a pre-departure orientation
    
    Mandatory orientation sessions are held at the end of the semester before you go abroad. You will be notified of the date, time and location of this meeting.

14. Enjoy your study abroad experience!

15. Complete a Program Evaluation Form and attend a re-entry gathering.

For More Information

To find out more about Champlain's Study Abroad Programs, please contact the Office of International Programs: 802-865-6437 or email Peggy O’Neill at oneill@champlain.edu.