Essay
Programs need to assess an applicant’s motivation for studying abroad, and will  therefore ask applicants to write a short essay. Some programs also look carefully at the essay as an example of an applicant’s ability to write clear, coherent prose, free from grammatical and mechanical errors. Please be sure to put your name on all pages of your essay.

Letters of Recommendation
Recommendations should come from your professors and/or faculty adviser. The best person is an instructor who can comment on your academic abilities and how the foreign study program will fit into your overall academic plans. To obtain a recommendation, ask the person who knows you and your work best, even if that instructor teaches in a department outside your major.  It is not advisable to ask an employer or someone else who might be unfamiliar with your academic strengths and/or weaknesses.  While they may be most familiar with you as an individual, they will likely not be able to comment on your potential to succeed in a foreign academic environment.

Foreign Study Adviser Approval
Many applications for foreign study programs require the signature of, or brief statement from, the foreign study adviser testifying that the applicant is in good academic and disciplinary standing* and will receive transfer credit upon successful completion of the program. This authorization is, in most cases, routine and does not require an individual appointment with the foreign study adviser. Approvals should be left with the Office of Programs Abroad in Dowling Hall.

Since about 40% of Tufts juniors study abroad each year, it is imperative that you submit your application forms to the foreign study adviser at least one week in advance of the date you wish to have the approval. Time is required to prepare your recommendation and other application forms before program deadlines arrive. It is not possible to submit a recommendation form to the foreign study adviser’s office immediately prior to an announced deadline and expect your application to be ready on time. Requests for same-day approvals are not accepted.

* Good standing means the student is not on academic probation level 3 or higher or disciplinary probation level 2 or higher. See the Tufts Bulletin for an explanation of the levels of academic probation. See "Tufts University Student Disciplinary System" for an explanation of levels of disciplinary probation.

Transcripts
You may order an official copy of your Tufts transcript by filling out a "Transcript Request Form" at the Student Services Desk in Dowling Hall. There is a $2.00 fee per transcript. Official transcripts will be mailed directly to the program you are applying to unless the program specifically requests that the official transcript accompany your application form. Transcript requests can take 7-10 business days to send, so make sure to plan ahead!

Medical Report
ou may have your “Medical Report” form filled out by the Tufts Health Services or by your family physician. At the time of your examination, be sure to find out what immunizations are recommended for the country (or countries) you will be visiting. Be sure also to discuss with your doctor any medical or emotional problems that might interfere with your ability to take full advantage of your foreign study experience. (Please refer to “What if I have a medical issue?”.)

Application Deadlines

The application deadline for fall or full-year programs varies from December 1 to mid-April; for spring programs, from October 1 to mid-November. BE SURE TO CHECK PROGRAM DEADLINE DATES CAREFULLY. For more competitive programs, students should apply months in advance.

Since the majority of students study abroad in the spring semester, applications submitted close to the stated deadline may be wait-listed or denied. Program approvals should be given to the foreign study adviser in the spring of sophomore year and no later than early September for prompt turnaround. However, once you select a program, you can apply any time after January of your sophomore year, when your transcript shows three semesters of completed work.

It is recommended that students apply early, well in advance of the application deadline. Many programs offer rolling admissions and will provide a decision within weeks of receipt of a complete application. Applying early improves your chances of being admitted to top choices.

The acceptance rate of Tufts students in foreign study programs is very high. With a B (3.0) average, the required level of language proficiency, and the other course prerequisites, the chances are very good that you will be accepted. There is normally no need to apply to more than two programs.