How to Apply

Willamette Programs

Selection Criteria

Applications are reviewed by the International Education Committee comprised of 5 faculty, the Director of International Education and 2 students. Some programs can be quite competitive. Competition for any one program varies according to kind of program, number of applicants, and spaces available. Preference is given to applicants who will have junior standing or above at the time of the program.

Review of each application is confidential, and all decisions are final. Appeals will be considered only in the case of demonstrated administrative error or an extraordinary change in circumstances normally beyond the student's control.

The International Education Committee's Selection Criteria may be helpful in improving your chance at getting accepted into a program.

Restrictions to Study Abroad

Studying abroad is a privilege that is earned, not a right. Our programs are based on ongoing relationships with our international partners. Student participants are representatives of Willamette University and play a large role in the mutually beneficial relationship that the Willamette community enjoys.

A student must be enrolled full-time at Willamette University during the semester prior to the intended semester of study abroad.
In order to participate in most language programs, a student must be enrolled in a language class the semester prior. (Students who have completed the 331 level may request this requirement to be waived by the chair of that language department.)
Studying abroad for a year is possible however, one of the two semesters must be an exchange program. Exchange programs are indicated on the list of sponsored programs.

Instructions & Application Materials

The deadline for the 2009-2010 academic year is Friday, December 5th, 2008. A complete application must be turned in to the Office of International Education by 4 p.m. on this date

For advice on completing your application and essay, check out our application tips.

If you are applying for off-campus study through Willamette programs, you must download, complete, and submit the following application materials.

Current photo attached to the Application (see Application instructions for more details)
Application and Application Checklist for Willamette Study Abroad Programs
Willamette Study Abroad Language Assessment Form (if applicable)
Personal Recommendation Form from a non-faculty member (i.e., employer, clergyperson, coach, club advisor (okay if faculty member), etc.) in a position of authority
Faculty Recommendation Form
Current Transcript
Advisor Meeting Form

Financial Aid and Credit Information

Credit received will show as generic Willamette credits unless otherwise arranged by your academic advisor and the Registrar. You may use all of your financial aid for WU Sponsored Programs. All Willamette programs cost the same as a regular semester or year at Willamette. You pay Willamette and Willamette pays the program.

Many programs have program fees which include room and board, excursions and onsite support. In some cases you will pay that fee directly to Willamette and in others you will pay the fee to the host university or program provider. Study abroad scholarship and grant information

Non-Willamette Programs

There are two ways to participate in a Non-Willamette Program.

Petition for approval

To do this you complete the regular application process with the Office of International Education. In this case you are petitioning the International Education Committee to approve your Non-Willamette Program. In this case there are two important things to remember:

The committee will expect you to provide a strong academic case for approving your Non-Willamette program.
If approved, you will pay WU tuition and a program fee equivalent to the cost of Willamette's room and board plan B. Willamette University will fund $12,000 towards the cost of the Non-WU program. If the cost of the Non-WU program exceeds $12,000 you will be required to pay the difference. Students will also be responsible for paying any application fees associated with their Non-Willamette program.

Take a leave of absence

Credits may be transferred as generic non-Willamette credits as determined by the registrar. It is, however, Willamette policy not to accept any transfer credit for leave of absence study at a partner institution when a Willamette Program is concurrently operating there. Arrangements for these programs, including how you will get credit, are done by you in consultation with the Office of the Registrar, the Office of Financial Aid and your academic advisor.