Study Abroad Programs Frequently Asked Questions

You can complete the SMC enrollment process for the sole purpose of participating in the study abroad program. However, be sure to check if there are prerequisites for the program in which you are interested. Prerequisites must be completed by the start of the study abroad program.

The current SMC study abroad program offerings do not have a language requirement. The courses are taught by SMC faculty.

Yes. You have until the program begins to complete any course prerequisites. However, you must successfully complete the course prerequisites with a passing grade. A failing grade in a prerequisite course would make a student ineligible to continue their participation

First, you should review program information at www.smc.edu/studyabroad. The website provides information about program details, the application, prices and deadlines process, and rules and procedures and all required forms. A few months prior to a study abroad program, there will be informational sessions offered by the faculty leaders. You are also welcome to send any questions to studyabroad@smc.edu.

No. There is not a fee for processing program applications

Program participants will earn SMC credit for the courses associated with the study abroad program.

The International Education Center registers you for the actual study abroad courses before the start of the program. You receive details at the pre-departure information session or via e-mail regarding your registration.

As with any SMC course, you will need to speak with an academic counselor regarding how your SMC credit may transfer to a university.

SMC specializes in short-term, faculty-led study abroad programs. Programs generally divide time between Santa Monica and the program country, with time abroad from 8 days (Field Studies Abroad over spring break) to three weeks at SMC and three weeks abroad during winter session and summer session programs in South Africa, Belize & Guatemala

Program fees are not all-inclusive. Some program fees include:

• Group roundtrip airfare and airport transfers.

• Excursion, entrance fees, and ground transportation for scheduled activities and events.

• Accommodations.

• Meals listed on the itinerary.

• Third-party provider health and accident insurance.

The program fee does not include:

• SMC tuition/fees/textbooks,

• Meals not indicated on itinerary,

• Personal expenses (shopping, entertainment, cell phone, etc.),

• Passport and visa fees (if applicable),

• Medical/insurance expenses.

Each program fee is different, so please refer to the specific program for detailed fees. Program fees are subject to change and are non-refundable after deadline dates if International Education cancels the program due to low enrollment or other force majeure circumstances.

Program fee payments become non-refundable as soon as International Education makes contractual arrangements for logistic and support services associated with each study abroad program. Service prices are based on group rates set by service providers, not individual rates.