Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility Questions

Application Questions

Travel & EAP Extension Questions

Academic Questions

Financial Questions

Eligibility Questions

Who's eligible for EAP?

To participate in EAP you must be an undergraduate or graduate student at UCLA. Program options are available for students starting the summer after their freshman year. Most EAP application deadlines are 6 - 9 months advance of departure. Students are encouraged to meet with an EAP counselor early in their college career to plan and prepare for a summer, semester or year abroad.

What is the minimum GPA requirement?

The GPA requirement varies by program, so be sure to consult your program's requirements.

Do I need a foreign language?

Many EAP countries have options that don't require prior knowledge of a foreign language and offer a variety of courses taught in English. However, some programs only offer coursework in the language of the host country. Students interested in studying a foreign language abroad should note that EAP also offers many Language and Culture Programs with minimal language prerequisites. Students should speak with an EAP counselor for more specifics on program requirements.

Can I apply if I'm a transfer student?

Absolutely! Although transfer students might have tighter schedules and more to consider when planning on going abroad, the EAP program encourages you to explore your options through us. We send many transfer students abroad every year. Students are encouraged to plan carefully in consultation with their EAP counselor.

Can I study at UCLA if I am from abroad?

If you are a registered student at one of EAP's host universities you may be eligible to attend UCLA as a non-degree reciprocity student. For more information, please visit our EAP Reciprocity page. Students from foreign universities not affiliated with EAP should review the information for International Students.

Can I go to more than one country through EAP?

Yes, students often participate in more than one EAP program. However, this takes careful planning. Check with your EAP counselor for any conditions.

Application Questions

When are applications due?

Selection is on a first-come, first-served basis and are accepted up until a program's application deadline. Please check out UCLA's EAP Application Deadlines for all countries.

Where can I get an application?

Applications are online. Click HERE to begin your online application.

When should I start planning for EAP?

Begin planning for EAP as early as possible. Many programs have specific language and other academic prerequisites. Consider general breadths, elective, and major requirements you should complete at UCLA and which can be done abroad. Determining the right program and completing the application process takes time. The application deadlines for a few programs are almost an entire year before departure and priority is given to early applicants, so start planning now.

Travel & EAP Extension Questions

Can I go early or do I have to travel with the group?

Usually students make their own transportation arrangements. Some students do travel in the destination country or region before the start of the program. Please note, however, that you are responsible for all arrangements until the official start date of your program. Official start dates are listed in the projected calendars, which appear on each of the EAP country pages.

Can I stay in the country after the program ends?

Yes, if your visa allows. Keep in mind that once the program has ended, you are responsible for all arrangements. Some students take advantage of being abroad to stay an extra few weeks or months to travel. You can purchase up to three additional months of health insurance through EAP for coverage outside the U.S. during this period.

Can I extend my participation once abroad?

Yes, many programs have an option to extend participation. If your program has an extension option you must complete the Departmental and College Pre-Approval to Extend form as part of your application. This does not obligate you to extend but facilitates the process should you decide to extend while abroad.

Academic Questions

Will the courses I take abroad count toward graduation?

With careful planning and advising from your college/school and departmental advisor, you can make normal progress towards graduation.

Will my units and grades transfer?

Yes, you will receive UCLA credit and grades for all classes taken while on EAP. Please note that it can take up to three months grades to appear on your DPR (degree progress report). For more detail, please visit the Academics Page.

How many units do I take while abroad?

You are required to take a full-time load while abroad. This is usually 3-5 courses per semester.

Do I have to go for a full year?

No. We offer summer, semester and academic year options.

Do I have to study in my major field while abroad?

Many students choose courses outside their major while abroad and explore new areas, develop their language skills, fulfill GE requirements, or take classes toward a second major or a minor. However, some host institutions, such as those in the United Kingdom, require that you take most of your courses in your major field.

What happens to my status at UCLA while I am on EAP?

You continue to be enrolled and registered at UCLA while you are abroad. Before your departure, the UCLA EAP office notifies the Registrar's office that you will be participating in EAP.

I want to graduate the quarter I get back, is that possible?

It may be possible to walk in the commencement ceremony if your program ends early enough. However, it can take up to three months for your grades to transfer to UCLA from abroad. You must set your official graduation date for at least one quarter after the program finishes. EAP can write a letter, at your request, to explain your situation to graduate schools and other programs.

What happens if I want to quit early?

By withdrawing from EAP you are also withdrawing from UCLA. Your UCLA school or college has the final authority to determine the conditions of readmission. You will be held responsible for any financial aid that has been advanced to you as well as payments due to EAP.

Financial Questions

How much does it cost to go on EAP?

There is a specific budget for each program, which includes the same UC education and registration fees that you would normally pay for a similar period at UCLA, a mandatory insurance fee, room, board, books, round-trip transportation, on-site orientation, intensive language program expenses (where applicable), and personal expenses. Visit the "Finances" link on each of the EAP country pages.

Will my financial aid apply and cover all my costs?

EAP students are eligible for full financial aid. Students that wish to receive financial aid should submit their FAFSA by the government’s deadline in March. The Financial Aid Office will readjust your award based on your actual program costs. There are also many Scholarships available.

What types of financial aid are available for EAP students?

All EAP students are eligible for need-based EAP Scholarships -- there is NO APPLICATION process for this. In addition, students are eligible to receive all forms of conventional financial aid at UCLA--grants, scholarships, subsidized and unsubsidized loans—with the exception of work-study, which may be converted to loans. Some countries (UK and Australia) allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week. Most other countries do not allow foreign students to work.

Who are my finance contacts at the University-wide Office of EAP (UOEAP)?

Please refer to your EAP General Guide or UOEAP Finance Contacts.

To whom do I pay registration fees?

Checks should be made payable to “The Regents of the University of California” and mailed to:

Universitywide Office, Education Abroad Program, 6950 Hollister Avenue, Suite 200, Goleta, CA 93117-5823

Please refer to the payment schedule included in your Finances portion of your Participation Forms and Instructions.

If you receive financial aid, your fees will be deducted from your financial aid and you will be responsible for any remaining balances. Your registration fees will not appear on your UCLA BAR statement.

How will I receive the financial aid funds?

You must fill out the EAP EFT form and return it to UOEAP for direct deposits. You must fill out this form even if you are registered for Bruin Direct Deposit. Be sure to attend a financial aid workshop for more details. Students are notified of upcoming workshops via email.

Who do I contact if I change my address?

Your UOEAP financial coordinator, Operations Specialist, and EAP counselor. Also, you must update your contact information in MyEAP.

Do I need a Power of Attorney while abroad?

Power of Attorney is not required however, may be useful depending on the management of your finances while abroad. Be sure to attend the EAP financial aid workshop for more information. Students are notified of upcoming workshops via email.

Do I keep a bank account in the U.S. or start one abroad?

This varies by country. Be sure to read your EAP County Guide to make the best decision. For more information on finances while on EAP, visit the UOEAP Finances site.

What if I extend from a semester to a year program while abroad?

Your financial aid package will be revised once the extension has been approved by UOEAP.

When do I receive the financial aid disbursements?

As disbursement dates for various forms of aid vary, students are encouraged to attend a financial aid workshop. Students are notified of upcoming workshops via email.