Forms & Documents

Applying to a Program or Exchange

Because the UW partners with many different organizations to provide the study abroad opportunities available to you as a student, the application process for each individual program varies. You should carefully read the application instructions on the program handout or listing. (When searching online, this information will be marked “Application”.)  Some programs will require you to apply directly to the organization that runs the program, while most others will have you submit the forms – including the IPE Application Form-- directly to the IPE office. Departmental programs will have their own applications and application procedures that vary slightly from one to another. Again, be sure to check the program listing, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Taken by Elham Simmons while studying in South Africa

Application Interviews

Applications that will be processed via the IPE office will always include an interview with a study abroad adviser. Be sure you know the application date for the program or exchange, and whether you need to set up an interview with an adviser when you turn in the application or if you will be contacted later. An interview with an adviser will usually last half an hour.  For some exchanges, there will be 3-4 students at the same time but for most programs and exchanges you will be interviewed alone.  A few exchanges will include a faculty member at the interview. 

Program and Exchange Acceptance

Usually, you will be notified about your nomination and final acceptance to the program or exchange a few weeks after the interview. The final acceptance to exchanges is always made by the host institution and can sometimes take months to receive. However, your study abroad adviser will usually be able to tell you what the chances for acceptance are. Direct exchanges will also include an application for the host institution. Your study abroad adviser will either give you the application or the internet link where you can download it if you are nominated. A few exchanges require you to turn in a copy of the host institution's application with the IPE application. This will be explained in the hand-out for the exchange.

Passports and Visas

You will always need to have a valid passport when you travel abroad. Most countries will also require you to get a student visa.  Your study abroad advisor will notify you if this is the case. It can take months to get a passport and months to get a visa. Therefore, be sure you have a valid passport that is valid for at least 3 months after your planned study abroad term when you apply.