The University of Mary Washington encourages students to enrich their liberal arts education through a variety of education abroad programs, which range from academic, research, internships, athletics, clubs, volunteering, and service learning in other countries. Any currently enrolled student with at least 12 accumulated UMW credits and a 2.0 GPA may make education abroad part of their Mary Washington experience.

A wealth of academic programs are available in a variety of locations for all academic disciplines. Faculty-led programs, based on the expertise and interests of UMW professors, are offered during the summer and over the spring and winter breaks. Students may also enroll in summer, semester and academic year programs approved by the Center for International Education (CIE).

Students exploring the possibility of education abroad work closely with the Center for International Education. Preparations must be made well in advance and include the guidance of CIE as well as the student’s academic advisor(s). CIE assists students with program selection and approval, transfer credit, and other administrative and cultural preparations, and supports them while abroad and upon re-entry to UMW. With careful preparation and planning in conjunction with CIE and the student’s academic advisor(s), students may use coursework as well as research endeavors, internships, volunteer opportunities and service learning to fulfill degree and major requirements.

CIE also supports international students, both exchange and degree-seeking, in their adjustment to the academic, cultural and social aspects of living and studying in the United States. Serving as the point of contact with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of State, CIE provides education and guidance to support compliance with the federal immigration regulations governing international students in the United States.