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Exchange Programs Steps

Pre-acceptance

Step 1
Attend a General Information Session

Attend an information session to learn the basics of study abroad: eligibility, program types, how to fund your program and more. Information Sessions vary in time and location based on the semester, so keep tabs on the website for the latest information.

Step 2
Make an appointment with the Study Abroad Coordinator
  1. Explore programs available to you and get familiar with the application process.
  2. Visit the host institutions websites to learn more about the university.
  3. Book an appointment with the Study Abroad Coordinator to discuss your program choice(s).

Make an Advising Appointment

Step 3
Complete part one of the Montclair State study abroad application

Start an application by choosing a program and clicking “Apply Now”.

Explore Exchange Programs

Once you create an application, a checklist will appear to guide you through the process. You will need to complete the following materials in your application:

  1. Meet with an Advisor
  2. $100 Non-Refundable Application Fee- paid online via your application
  3. Consent Forms
  4. Waivers
  5. Unofficial transcript

Once all items have a check in the box next to them, you can hit “Submit”!

Post-acceptance

Step 1
Complete part two of the Montclair State study abroad application

You will need to complete the following materials in your application:

  1. Acknowledgement of $300 Participation Fee
  2. Host application
  3. Passport Copy
  4. Emergency Contacts
  5. Medical Disclosure Form
  6. Financial Aid Study Abroad Budget Form- to be completed with an advisor
  7. Complete Work at Another Institution process (google form) to get courses approved
  8. Enroll in Aetna OnCall
  9. Enroll in STEP
  10. Activate AlertTraveler
  11. Attend mandatory pre-departure meetings
Step 2
Host Application

After you have been approved for your program, you will complete the application for the host university. You will need to complete this application by the deadline provided to you. Each university will have a different deadline. After you are accepted by your host institution you will be contacted by them to arrange housing, courses, visas, etc.

Step 3
Work at Another Institution

Courses taken abroad/away should help you progress toward graduation. You must meet with your academic advisor (or major/minor advisor) to determine how your credits will count. You should also consider the courses you can take when making a final decision about where you will study abroad. In this process, students indicate (via our google form) the courses they will take  abroad and how they propose those courses be counted as equivalent to Montclair State courses. Once students submit their study abroad courses and proposed equivalents via our google form, our office will secure approvals of department chairs. When you meet with us to complete this process, please know that you will need to find course titles, course descriptions, and sometimes a prior syllabus for your courses that will need approval as equivalents.

Your Work at Another Institution courses will be referenced when IAI receives your official transcript from your study abroad program, and will enable your pre-approved course equivalents to appear in DegreeWorks.

Step 4
International Travel, Medical, and Security Assistance

The Office of International Academic Initiatives requires ALL students to enroll in Aetna OnCall. This plan is in addition to your current health coverage and cannot be waived.

Step 5
AlertTraveler

AlertTraveler is a mobile app provided by Montclair State that utilizes GPS and your travel itinerary to provide you with information on safety and security in your destination.  Based on your location you will receive alerts that could potentially impact your travel or safety.  All students are required to download AlertTraveler app and enroll through their online study abroad application. A step by step guide can be found in your learning content. Montclair State provides this service at no charge to students.

Step 6
Pre-Departure Orientations

Students are required to attend mandatory pre-departure orientations. Students will receive important information on health and safety, policies and procedures, and cultural adjustment.

Step 7
Housing Cancellation

If you live on campus, contact the Office of Residence Life to cancel your on-campus housing contracts for the semester you are abroad. Meal plans should be canceled by contacting Dining Services.

Step 8
Placeholder Course

Students will be enrolled in a full-time enrollment placeholder course for the term they are abroad. This course will appear on the transcript to maintain full-time enrollment while the student is away. Once the international transcript is received and processed, the overseas transfer courses will also appear. The placeholder course will also remain on the transcript.