Promoting Study Abroad

The first step in getting students to study abroad is making them aware of their options and encouraging this opportunity. Many students feel they may not be able to study abroad with their major. Faculty and advisors are crucial advocates in helping students to be properly informed about the opportunity to study abroad, and promoting the experience.

Be informed

We invite all faculty, advisors and staff to learn about study abroad and the importance of this opportunity for Rice students. The more information you have, the more you will be able to share with your students. Read through the information on the Rice Study Abroad website and share it with your students.

Participate in Rice Study Abroad events

We welcome faculty to join us at the Study Abroad Fair, Photo Contest Exhibit, and other events to offer your expertise and suggestions for study abroad or to learn more about the options available for your students.

Share your own experiences

If you have had academic experiences abroad, tell your own story of how the international experience has impacted your academic endeavors and personal goals.

Academic objectives and considerations when discussing study abroad:

  • Study abroad is primarily an academic pursuit at Rice and it should be seen as an integrated part of a student's course of study. Students are encouraged to pursue studies in their major/minor, or focus on a particular academic concentration or language of study while they are abroad.

  • Undergraduates must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for permission to study abroad. Some universities and programs may require a GPA above 3.0; students should carefully evaluate all requirements.

  • Students must enroll as full-time students while abroad (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester, 6 credit hours for summer).

  • Students should plan a course sequence which will best meet their curricular needs. Ensuring that graduation requirements are fulfilled on time should always be a top priority in choosing an appropriate experience abroad.

  • Discuss specific semesters or academic terms that may be best suited for study abroad (engineering or pre-health requirements, completion of specific courses before studying abroad, etc).

  • Discuss study abroad course options with students and suggest courses that may be particularly helpful for the major/minor.

  • Be familiar with major/minor requirements; know which courses students may be able to take abroad and which requirements must be fulfilled at Rice.

  • Discuss courses that may only be offered during a specific term on campus, which would interfere with study abroad during that term.