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Global Engagement Office

Non-UM Study Abroad Programs

While our goal is to encourage every University of Montana student to participate in a study abroad experience during their academic career, we recognize that not all students will find a UM-sponsored program that fully aligns with their academic, personal, or professional goals. For this reason, many students choose to participate in non-UM (external or third-party) study abroad programs.

If you are considering this option, the steps below will guide you through important considerations for selecting and applying to a program outside of UM, as well as the requirements for transferring credit back to your UM degree. This includes, academic planning, financial aid eligibility, and credit transfer procedures to ensure you remain on track for graduation while studying abroad. 

While our office can offer limited guidance and general advising, it is important to understand that participating in a non-UM affiliated program is a largely student-driven process and requires you to complete most steps independently, including program selection, application submission, coordination with the external provider, visa preparation, and collaboration with several UM departments to ensure all requirements align. 

Studying through a non-UM program can offer meaningful opportunities for cultural immersion, academic specialization, and global engagement. However, it is essential to carefully review all requirements in advance to ensure your experience aligns with UM policies and your degree plan. 

Important Credit Transfer Information

Students who participate in a non-UM affiliated study abroad program must obtain an international credential evaluation report in order for any coursework completed abroad to be considered for transfer credit at UM. Instructions or how to request this report can be found below.

Please note that transfer credit from non-UM affiliated programs is not guaranteed. Credit is awarded based on the official credential evaluation report, which reviews factors such as institutional accreditation, course credit value, grading scale, and any degrees or certificates earned. 

The University of Montana does not award transfer credit for coursework completed at non-accredited institutions or programs.

How to Get Started

  • When selecting a non-UM study abroad program, students should carefully consider factors such as program cost, academic fit, location, and their overall educational and personal goals. It is also strongly recommended that students consult with their academic advisor early in the planning process to ensure the program aligns with degree requirements and academic progress.

    Your academic advisor, in consultation with your department head (as needed), will ultimately determine whether coursework completed abroad may be applied toward your University of Montana degree requirements. Early academic planning is essential to ensure that credits align appropriately. 

    All UM students participating in non-UM affiliated study abroad programs are required to have their completed coursework evaluated through an approved international credential evaluation service. This requirement applies to any program that is not offered through a UM partner institution or the ISEP network. The University of Montana does not pre-approve non-UM affiliated international programs.

    Important Credit Transfer Information

    Transfer credit from non-UM affiliated programs is not guaranteed. Credit is awarded only after review of the official credential evaluation report, which assesses factors such as institutional accreditation, course credit value, grading scale, and any degrees or certificates earned.

    The University of Montana does not award transfer credit for coursework completed at non-accredited institutions or programs.

     

  • It is essential that you—and, if applicable, your family—carefully evaluate the health, safety, and location of any non-UM study abroad program you are considering. Because these programs are not administered by the University of Montana, students are responsible for independently determining whether a program and its location are safe and appropriate.

    The University of Montana's official travel policy and guidance are available on our International Travel Guidance webpage. All students participating in study abroad—especially those in non-UM programs—are expected to review this information thoroughly as part of their pre-departure planning.

    As you prepare, you should regularly monitor travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State and review health guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Global Engagement Office reviews all travel registrations to help ensure that students are not planning travel to destinations designated as Level 3 or Level 4 by the U.S. Department of State. Students seeking to travel to higher-risk locations must submit a petition for approval and complete a Risk Management Plan (RMP). These materials are reviewed by UM's International Travel Review Committee, with final approval granted by the Provost's Office.

    You are also encouraged to consult additional reputable sources, including official government websites, your program provider, and individuals with direct knowledge of the region.

    Please note that UM faculty, department chairs, and admissions evaluators do not assess or approve the safety of study abroad program locations.

    Ultimately, students participating in non-UM study abroad programs are responsible for making informed decisions about their destination and program. The University of Montana cannot be held liable for the safety conditions associated with non-UM affiliated programs.

  • Once you have selected a non-UM study abroad program, it is your responsibility to contact the program provider directly and complete all required application steps. Each external program will have its own application process, deadlines, and requirements, so it is important to review these carefully and plan ahead. 

    As part of your application, some programs may require official signatures or documentation from various University of Montana offices to verify your eligibility to participate. Below is some guidance on where to direct these requests: 

    • Registrar's Office
      Contact the Registrar's Office if you are asked to verify your enrollment status or confirm that you are in good academic standing at UM. Many of these requests can also be submitted through GrizPortal.
    • Office of Community Standards
      If your application requires verification of your disciplinary standing, this office can provide the necessary documentation. 
    • Academic Advisor and Department Chair
      You should consult with your academic advisor and, if needed, your major or minor department chair to discuss how coursework abroad may apply toward your degree requirements. 
    • Global Engagement Office
      If your program requires approval or a signature from a study abroad advisor, please contact the Education Abroad team at educationabroad@mso.umt.edu. 

    Because this process involves coordination with multiple offices, we strongly recommend starting early to allow sufficient time to gather all required approvals and documentation before your program's application deadline. 

  • Students who choose to participate in a non-UM affiliated study abroad program must follow specific procedures to have their coursework evaluated for potential transfer credit. Because these programs are not administered through the University of Montana or its official partners, additional steps are required to determine whether and how credit may apply toward your degree.

    All UM students who complete coursework through a non-UM affiliated program are required to obtain an official evaluation from an approved international credential evaluation service. This requirement applies to any program not offered through a UM partner institution or the ISEP network. The University of Montana does not review or approve non-UM study abroad programs in advance. 

    Important Credit Transfer Information

    Transfer credit from non-UM affiliated programs is not guaranteed. Credit is awarded only after review of the official credential evaluation report, which evaluates factors such as institutional accreditation, course credit value, grading scale, and any degrees or certificates earned. 

    The University of Montana does not award transfer credit for coursework completed at non-accredited institutions or programs.

    Programs with a "School of Record"

    Some study abroad programs operate through a "school of record," meaning that academic credit is issued by a regionally accredited U.S. college or university on behalf of the program. In these cases, credits are considered domestic transfer credits, and students should refer to the Office of Admissions Transfer Credit Evaluation guidelines for information on how those credits may transfer to UM. 

    If your program uses a school of record, it is important to ensure that your official transcript is sent directly from the U.S. institution (the school of record) to the Office of Admissions at transferevaluations@mso.umt.edu. The Office of Admissions will then review and process the transcript in accordance with UM transfer credit policies.  

    Be sure to confirm with your program provider which institution will issue your transcript and follow all instructions carefully to avoid delays in credit evaluation.

    Non-Transferable Programs

    Not all study abroad programs are eligible for transfer credit at UM. To be considered transferable, a program must meet one of the following criteria:

    • Be formally affiliated with UM, as recognized by the Global Engagement Office
    • Issue credit through a regionally accredited U.S. "school of record"
    • Be supported by an official International Credential Evaluation Report (ICER) confirming institutional accreditation and the award of transferable credits and grades

    Programs that do not meet at least one of these criteria are considered non-transferable.

    In some cases, non-transferable coursework—particularly language study—may be reviewed for Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) with departmental approval; however, CPL is not guaranteed.

    Please note: Non-transferable programs are not eligible for federal financial aid, making it essential to confirm eligibility before applying.

    Students are strongly encouraged to research program accreditation and consult with the Office for Credit for Prior Learning if they have questions about transferability. 

    Credential Evaluation Timing

    Because there is no pre-approval process for non-UM affiliated programs, transfer credit can only be evaluated after your program is complete and final transcripts have been issued. At that point, you will need to request an official credential evaluation report and submit it to the Office of Admissions for review. 

    For more information on submitting academic records and requesting evaluations, please contact the Office of Admissions at transferevaluations@mso.umt.edu. 

  • Before committing to a non-UM study abroad program, students should consult the Financial Aid Office to determine whether their selected program is eligible for financial aid. Depending on the program, this may include federal financial aid, student loans, and, in some cases, limited institutional support.

    It is important to note that UM scholarships, tuition waivers, and other institutional aid typically cannot be applied to non-UM affiliated study abroad programs. Eligibility for funding varies based on program structure, accreditation, and how the program is billed. 

    In addition to UM resources, students are strongly encouraged to review the program provider's website for information on any scholarships, grants, or financial aid opportunities they may offer directly. Many external programs have their own funding options, deadlines, and eligibility requirements that students must apply for separately. 

    Because funding eligibility can vary widely, early consultation with the Financial Aid Office is strongly recommended to fully understand your options before applying or committing to a program.

  • The University of Montana's official travel policy and guidance for international travel can be found on the International Travel Guidance webpage. All students participating in study abroad programs—particularly those outside of UM-sponsored programs—are expected to review this information carefully as part of their pre-departure planning.

    This guidance outlines important expectations related to health and safety, emergency procedures, travel registration requirements, and other considerations relevant to international travel. Because policies and requirements may be updated periodically, students should ensure they are reviewing the most current information available. 

    If you have questions about the expectations outlined in the International Travel Guidance webpage or are unsure how they apply to your specific program, we encourage you to contact the Education Abroad team at educationabroad@mso.umt.edu for assistance.

  • Before beginning your study abroad experience, it is important to complete several key preparation steps to ensure a safe and successful transition abroad. One of the first and most important requirements is to register your international travel with the University of Montana. 

    In addition, students should register their trip with the U.S. Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment provides important safety updates and allows the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in the event of an emergency while you are abroad. 

    Travel registration with UM and enrollment in STEP help ensure you have access to essential safety resources and that both UM and U.S. government services can provide support if needed during your time overseas. It is also the primary way students are informed of important requirements.

    In addition to these registrations, students should carefully review all pre-departure materials provided by UM and their program provider. These resources are designed to help you prepare for living and studying abroad, including planning for health care, communication, cultural adjustment, and logistical considerations. 

    We strongly encourage students to complete these steps early and thoroughly, as careful preparation is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful international experience. 

  • While you are studying abroad, there are several important steps to keep in mind to ensure your coursework and academic progress are properly managed upon your return.

    Credential Evaluation for Credit Transfer

    To receive credit for a non-UM affiliated study abroad program, you must obtain an official international credential evaluation report. This report is required for all coursework completed through non-UM programs and is used to determine how your credits may transfer back to the University of Montana.

    Please ensure that the credential evaluation report is sent directly from an approved evaluation provider to the Office of Admissions at transferevaluations@mso.umt.edu. Instructions for how to order an international credential evaluation report can be found here. 

    Planning for Your Return to UM

    While abroad, you are encouraged to stay engaged with your academic planning at UM. You can access the UM course catalog and class schedule at any time to review upcoming course offerings and begin thinking about your next registration cycle or remaining degree requirements.

    If you plan to enroll in classes for the semester following your program, you will need to register while you are still abroad using GrizPortal. To do so, you must obtain your advising PIN from your academic advisor. We strongly recommend that you connect with your advisor before departing for your program and save their contact information so you can easily communicate during your time abroad.

    If you expect to graduate shortly after your program, it is especially important to confirm that you are on track to meet all degree requirements. You should review graduation requirements on the Office of the Registrar's webpage to ensure you are staying on track. In addition to staying in touch with your academic advisor, be sure to verify your status and confirm that all necessary steps are completed prior to returning to the U.S.