Study Abroad

Source: https://finaid.princeton.edu/policies-procedures/study-abroad Parent: https://finaid.princeton.edu/how-aid-works/family-contribution

If you receive Princeton need-based aid and enroll in an approved study abroad program during the academic year, aid is available for your semester abroad. Your financial aid will be adjusted based on the cost of your program. If your semester abroad is less than Princeton's costs, your Princeton grant will be reduced accordingly. If the costs are greater than Princeton's, your grant will be increased to meet the costs.

Students participating in fully Princeton-owned programs that are entirely taught and transcripted by Princeton University (e.g., Princeton Field Semester in Kenya and Princeton Tropical Biology Program in Panama) can continue to receive Title IV aid as eligible.

Although Princeton Grant is not available for summer study abroad programs, students participating in the summer faculty-led programs will receive the Federal Pell Grant if eligible.

We will use the approved budget forwarded to us by the Office of International Programs.

For additional details, please read our FAQ below or .

Study Abroad Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find information about studying abroad and how do I apply?

The Office of International Programs (OIP) website has general information about opportunities for studying abroad. To search for and apply for programs, please visit the Global Programs System (GPS).

Will I continue to receive financial aid?

If you qualify for need-based financial aid, you should continue to be eligible for assistance; however, your semester aid award will be revised to reflect your specific cost of attendance.

What will my family be expected to pay?

We assume that the semester portion of the family contribution listed on the “My Financial Aid” page will be available for your expenses while abroad.  If you will be away for the full year, then the whole amount should be available.

How will my aid be adjusted to reflect the costs for my semester abroad?

If your program expenses are less than a semester at Princeton, your University grant will be reduced. On the other hand, if your budget is more than staying on campus, your grant aid will be increased. In rare cases when the cost of attendance is substantially less than Princeton’s, students may no longer qualify for need-based assistance for your semester abroad.

What is included in the cost of attendance and how is the aid office notified?

• The budget used to determine your semester aid will include tuition, housing, travel, meals, and reasonable expenses related to your program abroad (e.g. personal expenses, airfare, books, visa-related costs, etc.) The approved budget will not include storage fees or discretionary spending such as entertainment or optional travel.
• As part of the GPS application process, you must complete the Financial Aid Budget Questionnaire (in GPS) listing your expenses. The Office of International Programs (OIP) will review and approve your budget figures then forward the information to the financial aid office.\

How will I know about my aid adjustment?

Before you leave, the aid office will send you a letter, via email, with semester breakdowns of your expenses and financial aid. The letter will also include an explanation of how your aid will be applied toward your fees and expenses.

How will my aid be used?

Your aid will be used in the following order:

• To cover any Princeton charges
• Any remaining aid will be released to either you or a parent.

Please note that if you aren’t billed by Princeton, it is your responsibility to pay the billing university or program directly.

How do I pay for my airfare and other personal expenses?

Although the cost of attendance will include your out-of-pocket expenses, in most cases a portion of the family contribution should be used for personal spending and travel costs.

When will my aid be released?

The Student Accounts Office will not release any aid funds until you have submitted all required forms. Typically, study abroad funds are released shortly before the start date of the program.

How do I request a financial guarantee letter?

In July (for fall semester programs) or in November (for spring semester programs), the aid office will provide a letter for your visa/program application. If you need to request a payment deferment form or have other related concerns, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

Can I request an early release?

In certain cases, specifically for students with large aid awards, we can arrange to release part of your semester aid before you depart. All requests must go through the Office of International Programs (OIP).

Whom should I contact if I have questions about my expenses, financial aid, or bills?