The University of St. Thomas

FAQs for Inquiring Students

FAQs for Inquiring Students

What if I want to study somewhere that isn't listed?

If you cannot find a program to fit your needs from UST-sponsored programs, you must petition to apply to the program you prefer. If approved, you are guaranteed credit towards your St. Thomas degree and the use of your financial aid. Meet with a Study Abroad Advisor for more details. 

What is my GPA is below 2.5?

Students applying for semester or year-long study abroad programs must have a minimum grade point average of 2.5 to obtain St. Thomas approval. Some programs require a higher average. The minimum GPA for short-term programs is 2.0, although individual programs may also require a higher GPA.

For students interested in semester or year-long programs with a GPA lower than 2.5 but not on academic probation, there is an appeal process for study abroad approval. Ask a Study Abroad Advisor for more details. 

I'm a transfer student, can I study abroad?

Transfer students applying to a semester or year-long program must complete at least one semester at St. Thomas before going abroad. If you apply to study abroad during your first semester on campus, grades from previous universities will be reviewed and approval will be conditional upon successful completion of your first semester at St. Thomas (i.e., you earn at least a 2.5 GPA, or higher if required by your chosen program). 

Transfer students may apply for short-term programs and must meet individual program prerequisites. 

I'm not a St. Thomas student but interested in a St. Thomas program, can I apply?

Yes, to some programs. 

Short-Term Programs: 

Non-degree students (interested participants who are not students or who are enrolled at another institution) may apply for a short-term program on a space-available basis with the permission of the faculty director and International Education. Please notify IEC immediately during the application process if you are not a degree-seeking student at the University of St. Thomas. 

Semester or Year-Long Programs:

Non-St. Thomas students may apply for the Catholic Studies program in Rome on a space-available basis and pending approval by the Catholic Studies department. 

What if I need accommodation for a physical or learning disability?

There are many programs for study abroad that will work with students with a need for academic or physical accommodation.  The Office of International Education encourages students with such needs to explore the possibility of study abroad.  We will be happy to work with you to research study abroad options and hopefully find one that will suit you personally as well as academically.  Then, you will need to work with the Director of the Enhancement Program--Disability Services and the program provider abroad as well.

Students who make requests for accommodations that require advance planning are urged to self-disclose when they first meet with a study abroad advisor.  Or, you may also do so immediately upon acceptance to the program. Unfortunately, late requests may result in the delay, substitution, or denial of accommodations. The staff and the study abroad program will make every reasonable effort to accommodate late requests.

Do I have to find my own housing?

No, it is normally part of what the program provides. Depending on the semester or year program you choose, you might stay in student residences, a pension, a student hostel, an apartment, or with a homestay. Short-term participants live in hotels, university housing, or in homestays. Check with the program you are interested in to find out about housing options and the housing application process.

Do I have to be fluent in a foreign language?

No, you don't have to be fluent.

  • More and more, students may study in a non-English speaking country yet take courses in English. But, St. Thomas does require that you study the language of your host country while you are there.
  • Programs designed for language majors and minors typically require at least 212 or 300 level language ability prior to study abroad.  These immersion programs are taught completely in the host country's language.
  • Language intensive programs are available for students who wish to complete 6 - 9 credits of a foreign language in one semester/summer.
  • January-Term courses at the 211 or 212 level of Spanish are usually taught each year in Spain and Mexico.


What if I need a passport?


This Passport Information document summarizes the application process.