Application Process > Selection Criteria
Successful applicants to the Brandeis study abroad process must demonstrate the following characteristics: (Study abroad program requirements will vary by program- please be in contact with the programs individually if you have questions about their selection criteria.)
Academic Appropriateness of Program and Location
Applicants must justify their program choices in terms of appropriateness for their academic, linguistic and cultural learning goals. This may be within the context of a liberal arts education or specific academic goals, normally focused on a student’s major field. Students must also be able to articulate how their particular location choice supports their academic goals. You will need to address these issues in the essay question of the Brandeis Study Abroad Application (quoted below).
If you are applying for approval for more than one program, you must answer the questions for all programs and locations listed.
"Please type a personal statement (750 words) describing how this study abroad experience will further your academic goals. How have you prepared yourself academically for study abroad in your chosen country? Why have you decided to study abroad for the year/ semester? What do you expect to gain from studying at your chosen host institution? How will this study abroad program relate to your major/ minor, general academic goals, Brandeis education, and future career goals? Describe any courses you are particularly looking forward to taking overseas."
Please be sure to answer all of the questions thoroughly.
Initiative, Maturity, Responsibility and Adaptability
As part of the selection process, Student Life disciplinary records and a student’s academic record are taken into account. The successful completion of an off-campus study program requires initiative, maturity, responsibility, and adaptability. It also requires tolerance and a willingness to adjust to living and learning conditions very different from and often much less comfortable than those on the Brandeis campus. While studying off-campus, students are responsible for representing Brandeis University well in all situations. Students who are on academic or disciplinary probation or warning are not eligible to participate in off-campus study.
GPA Requirement
The minimum grade point average that is required for study abroad at Brandeis is a 2.8/ 4.0. While a student’s GPA is an important factor in the selection process, meeting the requirement does not guarantee acceptance.
Progress Toward Graduation
The proposed off-campus study may not impede a student’s normal progress toward graduation. Students must work with the Study Abroad Liaisons and their major or minor advisors to be sure they can complete their majors in time for commencement. The Study Abroad Liaison's signature is required on the Brandeis Study Abroad Application.
Declaration of Major
Students will not be allowed to study off-campus for credit on a semester or academic year program until they officially declare a major. Forms are available in Academic Services (Usdan 130).
