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Study Abroad with Non-VU Programs

Switzerland by Evan Jehl

Switzerland by Evan Jehl

If VU does not offer a study abroad program that suits your needs, under certain circumstances you may be allowed to study with another program and transfer the credits back to VU.

Important Notes:

  • As a condition of receiving transfer credit, you must register your travel for and during non-VU programs and comply with all VU global safety requirements per the student international travel policy (see instructions at https://www.vanderbilt.edu/global/travel-registration/ ). See Global Safety website for more information. 
  • Basic Safety and Security Checklist
  • Transfer of credit is not guaranteed. If accepted for transfer credit, only grades of C- or better can be transferred AND these grades will not count in your VU GPA.
  • Transfer credit cannot replace a course previously completed at Vanderbilt.

The first step for VUSE students is to contact Associate Dean Julie Vernon to determine if the proposed study abroad program is acceptable.

If the proposed study abroad provider is determined to be suitable AND you plan to study abroad during the summer only, then go to your landing page in YES and click on the link for "Transfer Credit." Follow the instructions to get each course you propose to take evaluated.  With your first request, be sure to upload your completed Study Elsewhere Review and Acknowledgement – School of Engineering.

If the proposed study abroad provider is determined to be suitable AND you wish to study abroad during the fall or spring semester, you will have to apply for a leave of absence (LOA). IF a leave of absence is granted for study abroad, you will not be able to use VU financial aid or other resources such as housing or VU student health insurance during your leave. To apply for a leave of absence, you must do the following:

  1. Write a petition that describes the compelling reasons why study abroad with this program, rather than any of the VU programs, is important to your education.
  2. Go to your landing page in YES and click on the link for "Transfer Credit." Follow the instructions to get each course you propose to take evaluated. 
  3. Include in your petition your curriculum plan, showing how courses from this program will combine with your VU courses to allow you to meet your degree requirements in a timely manner.
  4. Ask your academic adviser if she/he will endorse your petition. LOA’s will not be approved without the academic adviser’s endorsement.
  5. Submit your petition to Associate Dean Julie Vernon, julie.vernon@vanderbilt.edu