UWM Study Abroad Application
3–9 months before departure, apply to your program of interest.
From the Program Search page, find your program of choice, click “Apply Now” and complete the requirements in the application portal. After the deadline, our team will review your application and send you next steps for the host university or program abroad.
Depending on your program, you may need to submit:
- Academic recommendation(s)
- Language evaluation
- Personal statement
- Transcript
- Passport copy (or proof of purchase)
- Note: Students without a valid passport must show proof they’ve applied for one. A receipt confirming the passport application is sufficient; the physical passport is not required by the application deadline.
- Apply early for your passport through the U.S. Department of State.
Not every program requires every item. We clearly tell you what applies to you and when it’s due.
Deadlines:
- March 1: Summer, Fall and Academic Year programs*
- October 1: UWinteriM and Spring programs*
*Deadlines may vary by program. Check individual program pages for program-specific deadlines.
Scholarship Applications
3–9 months before departure, apply for scholarships. This means you’ll complete scholarship applications at the same time you apply for your program abroad. Do not wait until you’ve been accepted to the program.
Deadlines: Vary by scholarship. Check individual scholarship websites for their application deadlines.
Host University or Program Application
Most programs also require a separate application to the host university or program provider. This step will either happen at the same time you complete your UWM application (3-9 months before departure) or after you receive nomination or approval from CIE.
The UWM study abroad application portal includes program-specific instructions that explain how and when to apply to your host institution or provider. This application may include:
- An online application
- Academic information
- Additional forms required by the host institution or program provider
Deadlines: Vary by program. Check your host university/provider websites for their application deadlines.
Visa Applications
Some programs will require you to get a visa. A visa is official permission from a foreign government that allows you to enter, stay and study in that country for a specific period of time. The visa process is essential, and delays or missed steps can affect your ability to participate in your program.
This is a CRITICAL step that takes place after you are accepted to a program. Detailed, step‑by‑step guidance will be provided in your post‑decision materials once your program placement is confirmed.
As the student, you are responsible for securing your visa. CIE can provide required documentation and general guidance, but embassies and consulates control visa processing timelines and approval decisions.
Non‑U.S. citizens: You must meet with a UWM immigration coordinator early in the planning process to ensure you maintain your immigration status while studying abroad.
Important to know:
- Visa processing can take weeks or months.
- Carefully following instructions and deadlines is essential.
- Requirements vary by country, program and citizenship.
- If your visa is not approved on time, your travel may be delayed or prevented.
