Domestic Study Away

U.S. Study Away and Domestic Study Away Through GEO

Related Link: Global Engagement Office

Note that the terms: "domestic exchange," "leave of absence," and "visiting student" are carefully defined in the paragraphs below.

U.S. Study Away

In consultation with a dean, students can plan a "leave of absence" from Swarthmore to study elsewhere in the U.S. The other school would have to permit what are typically called "visiting students". Importantly, taking a leave to become a visiting student elsewhere means any Swarthmore financial aid will not travel with you, and you would need to make your financial arrangements with the other school directly, just as you would have to contact the other school to see if they would take you as a visitor, etc. Many schools are very happy to take visiting students, and my office can facilitate your going by writing an official letter saying you have Swarthmore's permission to study elsewhere as a degree candidate here, but there is no Swarthmore institutional support for studying elsewhere domestically while on a leave of absence. Students doing this do so on their own.

Students planning a leave of absence should consult with a dean and complete the necessary form prior to the deadline published each semester (usually December 1 and April 1). The form asks students to specify the date of expected return; students need only notify the Dean of their return if their return date changes from that originally indicated on the completed form. Please note that some leaves might affect the student’s health insurance coverage.

Credit for work done on leaves of absence: U.S. study away follows the same rules as summer school, etc., and credit may be possible.

Note that taking a personal leave of absence to study abroad without going through the Global Engagement Office and its payment plan means credit earned elsewhere cannot be transferred to the Swarthmore degree.

Domestic Study Away Through GEO

The Global Engagement Office (GEO) maintains a standing list of pre-approved domestic programs, but will also advise candidates regarding other U.S.-based opportunities that may be appropriate to their needs.

When engaging in Domestic Study Away, students remain registered at Swarthmore and are charged regular Swarthmore tuition, room, and board.  All eligible students will receive the same financial aid for a semester on Domestic Study Away as for a semester on-campus. 

Students must apply through the Global Engagement Office following the same process used for study abroad. Approval is contingent on various factors, both at Swarthmore and at the other institution. Neither is automatic nor guaranteed.   

Learn more about Domestic Study Away