Applying to USAC
Deadlines
USAC accepts applications after the deadline if space is still available. However, USAC encourages you to submit your application early due to the large demand for many of the programs. Applying early helps ensure your placement in the program of your choice and on the group flight (if one is available for that program). It also enables USAC staff abroad to reserve your housing sooner. There is a $300 deposit/application fee, $200 of which is refundable if you cancel your registration before the deposit refund deadline. A position hold payment is also due on the application deadline (amount varies by program, refer to the last page in the program section). Both the $300 deposit and the position hold payment will apply to your program fee. They are not additional charges.
If you are applying after the application deadline, the position hold payment and application fee are due with your application. A portion of this may be refundable if you cancel your registration 45 days prior to the program start date (unless otherwise noted in the Program Fees and Options Form for the program to which you are applying).
Programs have different application and payment deadlines. Please see each program section for specific dates.
top
Eligibility and Accreditation
For most programs, any student who is at least 18 years old with an overall GPA of 2.5 or better on a 4.0 system, and who qualifies for admission at a USAC-affiliated university is eligible to apply to a USAC program. It is preferred that you have previously completed one semester of university work prior to your term abroad. Some programs may have different GPA and/or class standing requirements. Please see the information listed on the front page of each program section.
Your first step is to apply for admission to USAC. For your convenience, the application has been provided at the end of this catalog, or you may apply online. Available openings are filled in the order of applications received. When your application has been accepted, you will receive online notification (see "USAC Student Gateway" section) and a packet containing additional forms and instructions.
Some home universities require prior approval of coursework. Because USAC students come from universities worldwide, it is impossible for us to know the policies of every participant’s home university. We recommend you speak with your academic advisor or admissions office to ensure automatic transfer of credit to your school. Whenever possible, USAC will provide course descriptions or syllabi if your university or advisor requires this information.
Each USAC course meets or exceeds accrediting agencies’ standards of 15, 50-minute contact hours per credit, or the equivalent. Contact hours do not include long distance or inter-site travel time, tours outside the focus of a specific course, meals, recreational activities, receptions or local travel. Contact hours can include course specific tours, guest lectures, student projects or other activities furthering the specific objectives of the course.
top
Non-Member University Students
It is easy to participate on a USAC program if you are not a student at one of the USAC Member universities. First, you may apply to USAC online or in the application at the end of this catalog. USAC will provide you with instructions to be registered properly. In some cases, you will receive credit directly from one of our university partners abroad. You will then work with your home university to transfer the credits. In every instance, USAC will walk you through the process.
top
Extending Your Program
While you are abroad, you may choose to extend your program term at the same location or at a new site upon completion of your original program. Your previous session fees must be paid in full prior to extending your program term and an additional application deposit may be required. Contact your Resident Director or the USAC Central Office at enrollment@usac.unr.edu for more information. Additional information will be emailed to you or your Resident Director and/or added to your Student Gateway account for completion.
top