Definitions of Types of Programs
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As a UNI student studying abroad, there are many types of programs from which you can choose in order to find the best fit for you. In general the program you choose will either be a:
Semester and academic year program
- Exchange
- Partnership
- Iowa Regents'
- Provider
Short-term program
- Instructor-led
- Non-instructor-led
- Iowa Regents'
- Provider
Semester and Academic year programs
The UNI Study Abroad Center has formal agreements with approximately 50 foreign institutions in over 30 countries. Generally, UNI students take regular university courses with students from their host country. Some universities also offer a selection of courses geared for foreign students, which may be taught in English.Students participating in UNI semester or academic year programs may earn UNI credit, just as if they were taking courses on campus at UNI. Each participant is instructed to pre-approved ALL courses taken abroad to satisfy graduation requirements toward major, minor, LAC, and/or elective courses. All grades earned for the courses undertaken are computed into the official UNI GPA, just as they would be for grades earned in courses taken on campus.
In most cases, students are responsible for paying for housing, food, transportation, and general costs of living in the host country, just as a student would pay for those same expenses while studying at UNI. A few programs offer discounted room/board, and/or a stipend. Some programs may also have additional program fee.
Short-term programs
Short-term programs are considered such a miscellaneous category of programs due to their variety of cost, destination(s), program activity, and sponsoring foreign institution and/or affiliate. The majority of short-term programs will last from 2-8 weeks in length, and consist of 10-25 students. Short-term programs sponsored by the Study Abroad Center need to have a certain number of students in order for the program to occur.Student applications are open and available usually in August-September as the master list of programs are typically approved for upcoming winter break, spring break, and summer sessions.
The first big expense that students should expect to pay is airfare, normally ranging depending on program location. Flight arrangements are the responsibility of the student to purchase before departure. The Study Abroad Center will give specific instructions on program dates for arrival in-country as soon as the program is full.
Provider/Non-UNI Programs
A program affiliated with UNI is run by a for-profit organization or program provider that has an official agreement with the UNI Study Abroad Center stating that its program or programs are approved for the automatic transfer of credit. Each affiliated program is different; all of them, however, are designed specifically for US students.Students participating in these programs take many of their courses at the affiliate's "institute" or "center" with other American students. Often students with advanced language skills, however, may take university courses at an associated university with students from the host country.
Most affiliates charge a comprehensive fee for participation, which typically includes tuition, housing, food, and possibly transportation. Often times, the cost of such programs is more expensive than UNI exchange programs. Students should consult the specific affiliate's program catalog for detailed cost information.