General guidelines
You must be at least 18 years old, in good academic standing and have been fully enrolled for at least one semester at MU to study abroad. A 2.75 GPA is the general requirement for most programs, and a 3.0 is required for exchange programs, though this may vary.
Disciplinary probation or sanctions will be considered when making acceptance decisions. Students who have been dismissed from University of Missouri housing are not eligible to participate on any University of Missouri study abroad program.
Language proficiency
Many programs offer courses taught in English, even in non-English speaking countries.
If the primary language of instruction for a program is not English, you must have reached the required level of proficiency necessary to participate. Check the individual program requirements for any language prerequisites.
Things to keep in mind
MU students study abroad in their freshmen, sophomore, junior and senior years. The ideal timing will depend on your degree program, so talk to your academic adviser as soon as you know you’re interested in study abroad. You’ll want to begin researching programs at least one semester before the deadline — or even earlier if you have a highly sequenced major. With advanced planning, study abroad can actually accelerate your degree program.
Programs are available for students in any major. You should work with your academic and study abroad advisers to find a program that best meets your needs. If you aren’t enrolling directly in MU courses while abroad, you will complete a course proposal as part of your application that helps you determine how courses you take abroad will transfer back to MU and fit into your degree program.
MU offers programs in more than 50 countries. Interested in studying Spanish? Spain is one possible destination, but don’t forget about countries in Central and South America. And don’t let language be a barrier — many programs offer courses taught in English, even in non-English speaking countries.