About Study Abroad

Why study abroad?

Study abroad helps students develop leadership skills, increase international understanding and enhance their own self -awareness. The experience opens doors for graduate school and career opportunities.

Who’s eligible?

Any student in good standing can apply for a semester, summer, or winter abroad. Check with the Study Abroad Coordinator to determine the specific requirements for the different programs.

How do I apply?

Talk to your advisor as soon as you consider this an option, so you can plan to fit the courses from your semester abroad in your degree requirements. Review the programs offered to determine in which country you plan to study. Then make an appointment with Bernadette Brennen, Study Abroad Coordinator – Upper Level Gallagher Center, 716-286-8360.

Do courses count towards my degree requirements?

In most cases, as long as you plan your study abroad course selection with your advisor and have it approved by the Assistant to the Dean of your college, your coursework should apply towards your degree. If you are considering study abroad, talk to your advisor as soon as possible.

Do the grades I receive abroad appear on my Niagara University transcript?

Students who study abroad through the options that the university offers receive credit for Niagara courses. Students will receive a letter grade for each course they take while abroad; the university will not disregard a course (e.g. when the student receives a D or F) unless the student chooses to enroll in the course as an audit at the time of completing the course advisement form or immediately after placement tests abroad (see audit policy).

If a student chooses to go abroad through outside programs, then the credit will be treated as though the student is transferring the courses back and the Niagara transcript will not reflect the grades, only the number of semester hours.

What is the study abroad audit policy?

Students who study abroad may choose the option of declaring an audit for any course not required of their degree program. They must declare the audit at the time they complete their course advisement form. If upon their arrival abroad, they find that an approved course is beyond their level but they still wish to attend it for enrichment, they may also select an audit by faxing or e-mailing their request to their dean, while sending a copy to the study abroad coordinator. Students must declare the audit within a week of placement testing abroad. If the request is approved, the dean will place a memorandum in the student’s file and send verification of approval to the student and the academic advisor. This decision is not reversible. Students should be aware of how the audit will affect their course requirements and their financial aid. In most cases, it is essential that the student not drop below 12 semester hours or full-time status. The course title, along with the grade of N, will appear on the student’s transcript.

Study Abroad Program