While most students study abroad the spring or summer semester of their junior year, you can do so any time after you have completed 24 credits on a Pitt campus. We believe the best time for you to study abroad is whenever you feel ready, whether that be academically, financially, or mentally.
We recommend that you begin planning your global experience no later than one full academic year prior to your anticipated departure. Ideally, you will begin planning to study abroad during your first year of study at the University of Pittsburgh. The earlier you start, the easier it is to find courses to fit your academic plans. You can best prepare by researching our programs to find the right choice for you, talking to our peer advisors, program managers, and meeting with your academic advisors.
Application deadlines for the academic year may vary on exact dates. Generally, you can expect programs to follow the time frames below but you'll want to check each program's page to verify the deadline.
| Spring | Early October |
| Plus3 | Early December |
| Summer | Late January |
| Fall and Full-Year | Late March |
To be eligible to apply for a program, you have to have completed 24 credits on campus, have at least a 2.75 GPA, and a fairly clear judicial record. That said, there's a lot more that goes into reviewing applications, so we encourage you to read all of our Application Requirements to understand how we'll review your application.
Yes! You must complete 24 credits on a Pitt campus before you are eligible to participate in a global experience.
Yes! Various departments on campus offer global experience programs for graduate students. You may also be able to participate on a program designed for undergraduate students, with your Dean’s approval.
Yes! You should be aware that there may be additional visa requirements. You should speak to your global experience advisor before choosing a program.
Generally, participating in a global experience does not affect your graduation date as long as you plan carefully and select a program that meets your academics needs. If you plan on participating in a global experience during your final term, you should know that your official graduation will most likely be delayed by one semester due to the time it takes for our office to receive your grades and transcripts. Get in touch with a member of our staff for more information.
Yes, but only the semester after you have graduated. Get in touch with us at globalexperiences@pitt.edu for more information.
Generally, you can participate in a global experience during your final term. However, there are a few things to know: You must receive permission from the Dean of your school or college to do so. This form is available as a part of your global experience application. Your graduation will most likely be delayed by one semester due to the time it takes for our office to receive your grades and/or transcripts.