Study Abroad Overview

Studying abroad can be one of the most exciting experiences a person can have and can shape an individual’s view of the world and their career path.  In an age of increasing global interdependence, preparing students to engage the international community is essential to their personal and professional success and is an important aspect of higher education. The knowledge and experience gained from studying abroad will help students stand out in a workplace that increasingly includes the global community.

Montana State University Billings seeks to increase student awareness, understanding, and involvement in the international community by providing students with diverse and affordable options to study abroad.  Opportunities are available through various exchange programs, faculty-led short term trips, and other study abroad options.  The Office of International Studies assists students by providing information, support, and preparation for these programs.   Please visit our office in McMullen Hall Room 200 to learn more about the exciting opportunities through study abroad.

All MSU Billings programs (Germany, Spain, Costa Rica, Netherlands, China, and Japan) are open to applications from students who have attended MSUB for one full academic year and have a cumulative 2.75 GPA. Students wishing to study abroad through alternative study abroad opportunities (Bozeman, CCIS, ISEP) must meet the specified organization’s requirements. While abroad, students must take courses equivalent to full-time status, with the exception of summer programs.

The cost to study abroad varies depending on what program a student chooses to participate in.  It is important to note that some programs have costs comparable to what it would cost to study in Billings while renting an apartment and taking care of food and other living expenses.  Other programs can be more expensive.  The Office of International Studies is available to discuss these factors with students and assist them in exploring options that best fit their financial situation.

Financial aid (through FAFSA) may be available to students for a study abroad experience. Financial aid is awarded on a case-by-case basis, depending on student eligibility and other various factors. Students should:

• Fill out the FAFSA form early for the semester/year they plan to study abroad.
• Plan to meet with the Director of Financial Aid at least one semester in advance, in order to determine eligibility and funds available.  
• Bring documentation of costs for the trip and their course approval form signed by their academic advisor.

Students should understand that each study abroad experience, like any educational opportunity, is a unique occasion in which all factors cannot be foreseen.  In those rare instances where a program fails to deliver what it promises for reasons within the university's control, fair reimbursement will be provided.  Administration of reimbursements and other details regarding a student's participation are spelled out in the "Agreement to Participate" that all students are required to sign.

A Course Approval Form is to be filled out by students before they leave for their study abroad.  This is to be done in consultation with the student's academic advisor, who will determine applicability of courses toward the student's degree program.  Once a student's study abroad is complete, the host institution sends an official transcript to the Office for International Studies, which forwards it to the Registrar.  The Registrar will work with the student's advisor, referring to the Course Approval Form, to have the courses evaluated and post the credits to the student's transcript.  The Registrar will be guided in evaluating transfer credit by (as appropriate):

            1) Formal agreements that MSU-B has with overseas institutions
            2) Credit awarded for study abroad through a regionally accredited U.S. institution
            3) Accreditation of the overseas institution where the study took place

A student will ordinarily not receive credit for foreign study undertaken without prior planning or approval at the student's home campus.