# Summer FAQs ## Summer FAQs ![Student sitting on colorful bench](/sites/g/files/omnuum9021/files/styles/hwp_21_9__1920x825/public/2025-10/Baveja_Hanel_2018_France.jpg?h=adbabade&itok=FHi-CDEs) ## expand\_more ### Applying and Financial Aid Open all sections Close all sections ### How do I apply for summer study abroad? expand\_more Visit the [Apply to Summer Study Abroad page](https://oie.fas.harvard.edu/apply-summer-study-abroad) for information on how to apply to study abroad during the summer. ### Can I apply to more than one program at a time? expand\_more Yes. You may request course approval for up to two programs for summer study abroad. ### Can I apply to a program that is not on the Suggested Programs List? expand\_more Yes. You may apply to programs not on the summer [Suggested Programs List](https://oie.fas.harvard.edu/summer-programs), but make sure to submit your application forms early to leave sufficient time for course review. All programs must be at least 4 weeks long, have courses lasting at least 36 contact hours, and be able to issue (upon your completion of the program) a transcript showing courses, grades, and credits/hours earned. ### Is financial aid available for summer study abroad? expand\_more While traditional financial aid is not available for summer study abroad, Harvard College offers robust summer funding. Please visit [Summer Funding page](https://oie.fas.harvard.edu/summer-funding) for more information. ## Academics and Credit Open all sections Close all sections ### Language Course Information expand\_more - Each Harvard language department determines whether or not a language course abroad is credit-worthy. - Students taking beginner-level language courses abroad are required to pass a language placement exam administered by the relevant Harvard language department upon completion of the study abroad program. - It is your responsibility to inform yourself of the appropriate language department guidelines and the [Harvard College policy on receiving credit for language courses abroad](https://oie.fas.harvard.edu/term-time-receiving-credit-language-courses). ### Can I fulfill the language requirement through study abroad? expand\_more Yes, it is possible to fulfill the language requirement with courses taken abroad. See the [Harvard College policy on receiving credit for language courses abroad](https://oie.fas.harvard.edu/term-time-receiving-credit-language-courses). ### Is it possible to fulfill General Education requirements through summer study abroad? expand\_more - No. Courses taken on OIE-approved programs may not fulfill General Education requirements. For more information, please see the [Harvard College Handbook for Students](https://handbook.fas.harvard.edu/book/general-education-requirement). ### Can I earn credit for an internship? expand\_more No. While you are encouraged to pursue an internship and service learning opportunities for personal enrichment, these experiences will not be considered as a part of your full academic course load and are not eligible for transfer credit. ### Can I earn credit for an independent study course? expand\_more Yes, you may take an independent study course *as part of your program* with a local professor, if offered. Remember to have the course syllabus reviewed by your academic department (for concentration credit) or the OIE (for elective credit). However, you may not complete an independent study with a Harvard professor while abroad. ### Can I take a course Pass/Fail? expand\_more Courses must be taken for a letter grade. If you are planning on taking a course that has no other grading basis besides Pass/Fail, please contact the OIE as soon as possible. ## Practical Matters Open all sections Close all sections ### What should I know about managing my health insurance? expand\_more You must have comprehensive health care coverage to study abroad. Visit the [Harvard University Student Health Program website](http://hushp.harvard.edu/coverage-while-traveling) for more information on health insurance coverage while traveling. ### Where do I find information about health and safety? expand\_more Please visit the [Global Support Services website](http://globalsupport.harvard.edu) for all of your health and safety needs, including the list of health and safety pre-departure requirements, individual country and region information, and much more. You are required to submit a variety of health and safety pre-departure documents prior to studying abroad. You can find more information on the OIE's Prepare to Go [webpage](https://oie.fas.harvard.edu/summer-prepare-go). ### What if my study abroad plans change? expand\_more To cancel your summer study abroad plans you must inform the OIE, your study abroad program or foreign institution, and any funding sources as soon as possible.