Please reach out for personalized guidance if you have any questions about studying abroad—such as program options, application requirements, or travel logistics.
A: Students must:
Meet academic and other eligibility criteria (contact Study Abroad Office for specific requirements, ie. credits exceed sophomore status by academic hours, International Studies major with gpa below 3.0, etc)
Complete the online preliminary study abroad application and submit to Department Chair(s)
Obtain department chair approval
* Special Note: The Preliminary Application is different from the Study Abroad Course Approval document. The Preliminary Application assesses whether the proposed course of study abroad is viable, while the Course Approval document is for getting official approval for the courses the student plans to take while abroad.
Complete the online Study Abroad Application
Submit all required supporting documentation with the Study Abroad Application
A: If you are a sophomore and do not have an iNotes account, please contact STS at stsservicedesk@spelman.edu to request access for Study Abroad. Be sure to include "iNotes for Study Abroad" in the subject line. If you experience a delay of more than 24 hours, email studyabroad@spelman.edu for further assistance.
A: Begin planning at least one semester before your intended study abroad term. For scholarship consideration for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026, complete the application process by February 1, 2025.
A: Required documents include:
One-page statement (200-500 words)
Photo with white background
Valid passport copy
Resume
Unofficial transcript (official transcript required the semester before travel)
Two faculty letters of recommendation
Health Statement Form
Course Approval Form
International Travel Authorization Form
A: You need two letters from Spelman faculty members, with at least one from a faculty member in your major department. The SAB Recommendation Form is preferred over traditional letters.
A: You should:
1. Meet with your Academic Advisor or Department Chair to discuss your academic plan
2. Complete the Course Approval Form online
3. Get approval for your planned courses before departing and/or upon enrollment in country
A: No. The Spelman Study Abroad Office will submit transcripts and recommendation letters on your behalf. Forward document requests to Dr. Clay at kclay2@spelman.edu.
A: You can:
Schedule an advisement session with Dr. Karen Clay at kclay2@spelman.edu
Contact the Study Abroad Office for general questions by visiting the Gordon-Zeto Center for Global Education, Milligan Suite 100 (ground floor); Room 1007
Reach out to your Academic Advisor or Department Chair for academic planning prior to submitting Preliminary Application
A: You should:
1. Review Spelman's Approved Program Providers on the study abroad webpage
2. Research different programs' offerings and requirements
3. Discuss options with Dr. Clay during your advisement session
4. Ensure the program aligns with your academic and personal goals
A: For Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 admission and scholarship consideration, complete the semester study abroad application process by February 1, 2025.
A: Yes.
A: No, you can apply to your selected Program Provider concurrently with your Spelman application. However, don't submit transcripts or recommendation letters to the provider - Spelman's Study Abroad Office will handle this. Just notify the office if or when required of your program provider.
A: You must submit the online Health Statement Form as part of your application. This form helps ensure you're cleared for participation in the program abroad.
A: You need:
A valid passport (copy required with application)
Completed International Travel Authorization Form through Etrieve
Any additional documentation required by your specific program or destination country
It's time to explore our beautiful campus! Sign-up today, bring your family, and let us show you what will make Spelman College your home away from home!