Students Studying Abroad

Statement of Understanding for Students Studying Abroad (Non-MSU sponsored tour/program)

1. In order to know the funds available to you for your study abroad tour/program, you must apply for financial aid, if you have not already done so, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) 6 weeks in advance of your program/tour application date.  You may apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov

(Non-MSU sponsored tour/program.  This will allow for the FAFSA data to be received at MSU, Mankato and any required processing (i.e. verification, residency, grade eligibility, etc.)     

2. The absolute deadline for the FAFSA application to be completed is the application deadline for your program/tour.  Once the application is received at MSU, Mankato you will be responsible to complete your FAFSA application including all additional processing requirements.  The FAFSA application for 2005-2006 covers the Fall 2005, Spring 2006 and Summer 2006 terms.  Summer term also requires a separate application normally available online approximately mid-March at the Student Financial Services website.

3. You must has received your financial aid award letter outlining funds available. In order to determine if you may be eligible for financial aid (loans) in addition to the original amount indicated on your award letter, which you may have already received, you will need to complete a Budget Adjustment Request available at the Campus Hub.  Attach a copy of the International Programs Office (IPO) Cost Worksheet (available from the IPO office) to that form.  You may complete this step prior to your appointment with Karen Bunde (see step 4).  Please be sure that you determine and indicate the number of credits you will enroll for as well as any course related excursions with the IPO office when you complete the Cost Worksheet. 

4. Because the credits for your program are not MSU credits, you need to complete a Consortium Agreement process no later than the application deadline for your study abroad program if you plan to receive financial aid of any kind.  Without it, no financial aid, which includes scholarships, grants or loans, can be disbursed to you for your study abroad term.  Please make an appointment with Karen Bunde in Student Financial Services (via the Campus Hub). Bring copies of the completed and signed Office of International Programs Institutional Accreditation Form and the International Programs Office (IPO) Cost Worksheet with you to the appointment.

Related:
MSU International Programs Office