Study Abroad

Rock Creek Bldg. 3, Rm. 223 | 503-614-7151 | FAX: 503-614-7170 | studyabroad@pcc.edu

Programs

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Whether you participate for a summer, semester or a whole year, it is sure to be a life-changing experience!

If you are interested in any of these programs, contact the Office of International Education and review the Go Global! Steps to Study Abroad web page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions (click to get the answer) about study abroad. Please let us know if you have additional questions.

Who is eligible to participate?

PCC Study abroad programs are designed for undergraduate credit. While a minimum age of 18 years is a frequent requirement, in some programs, students under 18 (min. age of 16) may also be considered, given sufficient maturity and academic background (and consent by guardian or parent).

What are the requirements?
At least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale is required. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation, official college transcripts, and additional pre-requisites.
When must I apply?
Please consult the deadline information for the individual programs. Be sure to plan ahead in order to complete the many details necessary for study abroad in another country.
What will it cost?
Costs for study abroad programs vary, depending on the cost of living and currency exchange rates in various countries, but the total cost for a term abroad is often less than the cost at a private college or university, or roughly comparable to that at a public institution. For details on specific program costs, please refer to the program brochures.
Will the credits transfer?

Yes. If you are participating in a PCC study abroad program you may receive from 12 to 18 credits per term (except summer programs) for successful completion of the program. The grades for your courses are part of your PCC transcript. It is very important to meet with your academic adviser prior to your departure to see how the credits will apply to General Education requirements and transfer schools.

Do I have to find my own housing?

Housing is secured by the host institution for programs in Italy and Mexico. Students participating in the program in Spain are responsible to find and secure their own accommodations. Depending on the program, you will live in shared apartments, or in "Home-stays" with families from the country. All host families are screened by the program provider (Instituto Cultural Oaxaca-Mexico), and most home-stays include at least one meal per day. Each housing situation has its advantages.

Do I need to speak the language?

Language proficiency is a prerequisite for the program in Spain. Language proficiency is not a prerequisite to participate in most of our programs, but you must study the language of the host country during your time there. The overseas program in Italy is taught in English. For study abroad programs with a language component, you will be placed in the appropriate level language course by the host institution.

Do I have to arrange my own travel?

International air travel is arranged for the program in Italy. Students are responsible to make their own international travel arrangements for the programs in Mexico and Spain.

Do I need a passport or visas to study overseas?

A passport is always necessary if you are traveling out of the country. You must apply in person if you are applying for the first time, or are renewing a passport issued over eleven years ago, or if you were younger than 18 when your last passport was issued. You may apply in person at selected post offices, at federal or state courts of records, or at one of the passport agencies of the U.S. Department of State (www.state.gov). Proof of U.S. Citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate or previous U.S. passport), two recent photos (2X2) and current I.D. with photo or physical description are required. You may renew a passport by mail if yours has expired recently.

Apply early since processing an application can take 6 to 10 weeks. A visa is written permission to visit a country granted by the government of that country. Requirements vary from country to country. You may need a special student visa if you plan to study in a country for over 3 months. Information relating to visas may be obtained from the nearest embassy of the country but first check with the Office of International Education.

Do I need to have medical insurance to go overseas?

Yes, medical insurance is very important when visiting another country. Contact your insurance company to check if your policy is valid while traveling abroad. If you are not currently covered under your own policy or your parents, insurance can be purchased at a relatively low cost.

Can I get a job while I’m studying overseas?

It is not advisable to participate in an overseas program with the intent of obtaining a job to support yourself. Most foreign labor laws will not allow you to seek paid employment. In addition, it is difficult enough to adapt to a new culture, without having to worry about finding a job.

Parent Information

If you are the parent of a student preparing to study abroad, you may have many questions. We hope this information can serve as a resource to you and your student. One of the most important things we stress is open communication between you and your child. The following are a list of topics you should discuss together before he or she departs:

  • Finances
    • access to money while abroad
    • budget
    • tuition payments
    • loan papers
    • credit cards
    • local currency
  • Health
    • recent physical
    • medications needed while abroad
    • special medical conditions
    • health insurance while overseas
  • Contact information for
    • Site Director or Host Institution (as applicable)
    • your son or daughter's residence
    • closest U.S. Consulate or Embassy