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Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

How much does it cost?

The UC Davis fees for Summer Abroad programs start at about $4200 and vary, depending on accommodation arrangements and activities included. To find fees for a particular program, please visit the “Fees” section for that specific program. A description of Summer Abroad fees and payment schedule is in the Summer Abroad Student Handbook as well as on the Program Fees and Payment section of this website.

Is funding available?

Most students do not realize that using financial aid and scholarships can make study abroad more affordable. Loans, grants, and scholarships may be applied to help fund a Summer Abroad program. For more information on funding resources, please visit the Education Abroad Center Scholarships and Awards page. Summer Abroad encourages Davis students to attend the "Money Matters" workshop. Students should apply early for financial aid and scholarships to increase their chances of receiving funding.

Can I visit my son/daughter during the program?

Since our programs are intensive, students will have very little free time during the program. We suggest visits after the program, when students will not have academic obligations.

Is it safe for my daughter/son to study abroad?

Student safety is paramount. While no one can guarantee safety, UC Davis Summer Abroad has several health and safety measures in place. Summer Abroad staff monitors current international political, social, and economic conditions and events in program locations. When planning programs and activities, our staff and faculty take precautions in light of this information so that participants have the safest possible experience abroad. In addition, faculty and staff at the program site are available to oversee student safety and to support students who need medical assistance while abroad.

Summer Abroad educates and prepares students for travel. Prior to departure, students receive health and safety information in the Summer Abroad Student Handbook (SASH)in their Program Specific Guide (ask your son/daughter to give you a copy), and at the pre-departure orientation in May. In addition, all students receive travel/accident insurance and travel health insurance, included in the program cost. Our staff also provides students with the information needed to register with the U.S. Embassy.

We encourage students and parents to familiarize themselves with and maintain an awareness of the political, social, and economic climate of their host country before departure and during participation. The Summer Abroad and Education Abroad Center websites provide students and parents with important links related to health and safety while studying abroad, such as the Traveler's Health information available from the Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. Department of State's Travel Safety Information for Study Abroad.

Are there foreign language requirements for Summer Abroad?

No. Summer Abroad courses are taught in English, with the exception of one of the programs taught in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Where will my student live while abroad?

Accommodations vary by program. Students may stay in residence halls, apartments, shared houses, hostels, hotels or home stays. Specific housing information can be found in your student's Program Specific Guide and under “Location” for specific programs. In addition, Summer Abroad staff can assist you or your student with questions about housing.

Can my student live with family or friends abroad?

No. Students are required to stay in the arranged housing. However, if a student chooses to visit friends or family on a free weekend, he or she may do so. Students should consult the program itinerary, course syllabus and the instructor before planning weekend travels because many programs include required weekend activities—and students often have weekend homework. No refunds will be available for nights when students are not in arranged lodging. Note: Traveling students are required to complete a "Weekend Travel Form" when not staying in the assigned housing.

Where can I find emergency contact information?

Emergency contact information will be available in the Program Specific Guide and will also be distributed on a wallet-sized card with your student’s pre-departure orientation materials. Ask your student to share this information with you.

Where can I find more information about making flight arrangements for my student?

Students will receive an email with more instructions for booking their flight after the program is confirmed. This information will also be in the Program Specific Guide – which your student can download through the Enrolled Access page after the program is confirmed. Please be aware that some programs begin in one location and end in another; please do not make flight arrangements without these instructions.

When can my student study abroad?

This summer! Students do not need to wait until their junior year to study abroad. Summer Abroad programs are open to freshmen, sophomores, graduating seniors, and alumni. Incoming freshmen who have fulfilled the eligibility requirements have also participated.

How can I help my student prepare for a Summer Abroad program?

Parents are welcome to attend the Spring Orientation on Saturday, May 15, 2010 on the UC Davis campus. This orientation is a program-specific meeting with the instructor, who will give an overview of the program's academic focus and provide specific advice about local currency, weather, and food.

In addition, an online orientation will be available with information about preparing for travel and on health and safety.

We also encourage parents to read the Summer Abroad Student Handbook (SASH), which includes more advice about keeping in touch with loved ones, obtaining needed vaccines, packing effectively, and purchasing airfare. The Program Specific Guide (PSG) will contain specific information about which airport to enter through, how to travel to the accommodations, and what to bring—including textbooks. Participants will have access to the PSG through the student log-in. Ask your student to show you the PSG.

How can I learn more?

Still have questions? Visit the pages below to find more specific information about each or our programs:

You are also welcome to contact Summer Abroad staff for more information about our programs, policies, and procedures.