For over 20 years, FSU’s First Year Abroad (FYA) program has offered students the opportunity to spend their first year of college abroad at one of FSU's four study centers! Spending two semesters abroad provides a life-changing opportunity to be fully immersed in the culture, history, and customs of another country and to develop a unique understanding of what it truly means to be a global citizen. During the program, students can complete experiential learning credits, liberal studies courses, as well as language requirements and first-year prerequisites for most majors.
FYA Tuition Waiver & Scholarship
Non-Florida residents who complete 15 credit hours each semester and complete the FYA program with a cumulative FYA GPA of 3.0 or higher will receive an FYA out-of-state tuition waiver for the remainder of their first undergraduate degree at FSU. Florida residents who complete 15 credit hours each semester and maintain an FYA GPA of 3.0 or better receive a $1,000 scholarship toward the cost of the FYA spring semester!
Getting Started
Step 1: Read the FAQs at the bottom of the First Year/First Semester Home Page.
Step 2: Choose your Study Center. Use the garnet tabs below to explore each location, its course offerings, program fee & financial aid details, visa information, and program dates & important documents. Also, check out “Which Study Center is right for me?"
Step 3: Apply to your chosen study center location using the garnet pencil under the Description tab. If the application link is not available, check the garnet Dates & Docs tab below to find out when applications will open.
Contact our dedicated First Year Programs Team via email (IP-FirstYear@fsu.edu) or phone (850) 644-3272, with any questions or for assistance choosing a location. If you would like to schedule an in-person or virtual meeting with a First Year Programs representative, please click here to book an appointment.
| Code | Term | Arrival Date | Departure Date | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FY04 | Fall FYA 2025 | 09/15/25 | 12/13/25 | Closed |
| FY05 | Spring 2026 | 01/08/26 | 04/23/26 |
Pursuant to Italian legal requirements, students interested in studying at FSU Florence must be at least 18 years of age by the start of the program.
Contact IP-FirstYear@fsu.edu for more information.
Founded in 1966, FSU Florence is one of the oldest U.S. study abroad programs in Italy and one of the few located in the historic, medieval heart of this remarkable city. The study center is located in the 16th century Bagnesi Palace on Via de Neri, one of the city’s most famous streets and a paradise for foodies. FSU Florence is only two blocks away from the Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, the Galileo Museum, and one of Europe’s most renowned outdoor spaces, the Piazza della Signoria. The study center features an atrium with coffee bar, glass-ceiling library & courtyard, interior & exterior student lounges, nine classrooms, two computer labs, state-of-the-art textiles and media labs, as well as a Tuscan-style tasting & learning kitchen. On-site security means students, staff, and faculty alike can use the study center as a safe and secure gathering spot for both academic and social activities.
Click here to learn more about FSU Florence
Housing on these programs is in shared Florentine-style student residences within a 25-minute walk of FSU Florence along beautiful medieval cobblestone streets. Each residence includes shared, furnished living, kitchen, and dining spaces, as well as washing machines, Wi-Fi, and a cleaning service with a change of bed linens and towels. Meal vouchers that can be redeemed at dozens of local cafés and restaurants throughout Florence are also provided. Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing. Please click here for a listing of recommended hotels in Florence.
Immersion/social events planned for this program may include:
* Plans may change due to unexpected events and/or new opportunities.
| Code | Term | Arrival Date | Departure Date | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LY04 | Fall FYA 2025 | 09/03/25 | 12/12/25 | Closed |
| LY05 | Spring 2026 | 01/08/26 | 04/23/26 |
The FSU London Study Centre is housed in a series of historic 17th century townhouses located in the heart of the historic Bloomsbury district – just a block away from the British Museum! Students can visit a variety of historic sites within walking distance, such as Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, and countless other landmarks & events in this capital city. The study center features a library, computer lab, conservatory & student lounge, lecture theatre, classrooms, and administrative offices. Security is our top priority with swipe card access, 24/7 reception, and on-site Program Assistants available to assist students at any time.
Click here to learn more about FSU London
Students studying at FSU London live in shared flats in the center of London. Short walks and easy access to city buses and the London Underground allow students to safely explore this fascinating city. All flats are located either above the study center or in comparable local-area accommodation. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens, furnished living areas, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a weekly cleaning service with a change of bed linens and towels. Students have 24-hour secure access to FSU London’s library, computer labs, laundry facilities, conservatory & student lounge, classrooms, and administrative offices. Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing. For a list of hotels near the campus, please click here.
Immersion/social events planned for this program may include:
Bath and Stonehenge, Bruges and Flanders, The Lake District, Yorkshire, Cornwall
Hampton Court Palace, Cambridge, Oxford, Brighton, Blenheim Palace
Tower of London, Kew Palace and Gardens, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Greenwich, Kensington Palace, West End and Off West End Theatre Performances
British Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Modern, Churchill War Rooms, Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, Charles Dickens' House, Hyde Park, Houses of Parliament, Old Bailey, Harrods, Museum of London, Bank of England, Royal Albert Hall, Abbey Road, Sherlock Holmes Museum, Wellcome Collection
Guided coach and walking tours of London, movie nights, pub quizzes, Thanksgiving Day meal (Fall only), Afternoon Tea (Spring only)
| Code | Term | Arrival Date | Departure Date | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PY04 | Fall FYA 2025 | 08/21/25 | 12/13/25 | Closed |
| PY05 | Spring 2026 | 01/05/26 | 05/02/26 |
Situated within the City of Knowledge across from the Panama Canal, FSU Panama offers the amenities of a full campus. With students studying from all over Latin America and the Caribbean at FSU Panama, there is a unique opportunity to meet FSU students from a variety of different backgrounds. The City of Knowledge houses various international, non-profit, and government organizations as well as a food court, swimming pool, basketball court, gym, and other amenities available to students. FSU Panama features classrooms, study spaces, science labs, as well as a library and a bookstore. The student lounge & terrace on the top-floor provides views of the Panama Canal and is the perfect place to spend time with friends. Between classes, students can sit and enjoy views of the rainforest and an empanada from the small café. On-site security provides a safe and secure learning environment for all FSU Panama students.
Click here to learn more about FSU Panama
Students studying at FSU Panama live in a newly constructed, dormitory-style residence within the City of Knowledge complex. Located just a short walk or shuttle ride away from FSU Panama, each room is equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, mini-fridge, study-space, and balcony. On their floor, students have access to a kitchenette with a microwave, coffee maker, and refrigerator. Fingerprint entry grants students access to a fully equipped kitchen, coin-operated laundry room, vending machines, and student lounge on the main floor. A selection of small restaurants and a nearby convenience store makes it easy for students to purchase household items, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy a leisurely meal with other students and City of Knowledge residents. Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing. For a list of hotels in Panama, please click here.
Immersion/social events planned for this program may include:
* Plans may change due to unexpected events and/or new opportunities.
Applications for FSU Valencia are closed due to program capacity; please select another study abroad center. Please contact IP-FirstYear@fsu.edu with any questions or concerns.
| Code | Term | Arrival Date | Departure Date | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VY04 | Fall FYA 2025 | 09/03/25 | 12/13/25 | Closed |
| VY05 | Spring 2026 | 01/08/26 | 04/23/26 |
Positioned behind the iconic Torres de Serranos, FSU Valencia is located in the heart of Valencia’s historic district. The study center brings history to life with exposed 10th century Moorish walls and glass floors that showcase 14th century leather tanning tanks. Modern comforts, including classrooms, a computer lab, study spaces, and administrative offices blend in seamlessly with the historic learning environment. A beautiful river-bed park is just steps away from the study center, and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences is within walking distance. 24/7 reception and swipe card access provide safety & security for students.
Click here to learn more about FSU Valencia
Program housing is in shared apartments in the historic district of the city. Apartments are located either on the top floors of the study center or in nearby buildings. Amenities include fully-equipped kitchens, lounge space, cable TV, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, weekly cleaning service with a change of bed linens and towels, and secure access to the study center’s library, computer lab, and study spaces. Meal vouchers that can be redeemed at restaurants across Spain are also provided. Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing. For a list of hotels in Valencia, please click here.
Immersion/social events planned for this program may include:
* Plans may change due to unexpected events and/or new opportunities.
Course offerings are listed below by semester and location. Incoming freshmen considering the First Year or First Semester Abroad programs are encouraged to contact IP-FirstYear@fsu.edu before applying with questions about how course offerings in each location align with your intended major. FYA & FSA students must enroll in a minimum of 15 International Programs Credits during each semester abroad.
Current FSU students abroad can make an appointment to discuss courses with their academic advisor or the International Programs academic advisor via Campus Connect.
Incoming freshmen admitted to FSU for the summer term or through the Seminole Pathways program must enroll in an online course, Global Foundations, offered by International Programs during the Summer B semester prior to going abroad (Late June – Early August). After successful completion of the course (grade of “C” or better), students begin in-person coursework abroad for the fall semester.
*/**/***/****/^ Courses followed by these symbols denote cross listing. Students may take one or the other, but not both.
Program Fees
The FYA program fee is comprehensive and includes up to 17 academic credit hours per semester; housing through the end of the spring term; international health insurance; excursions & activities; administrative, academic, & pastoral support; some meals or vouchers (as described for each location); and visas (Florence, Panama, and Valencia). Students who take fewer than 17 credit hours per term are not entitled to a refund of any fees. The program structure, dates, and fees are dependent upon immigration laws of the host country and are subject to change.
Payments
The FYA program fee is divided into four payments, with two payments due prior to the start of each semester. The first fall payment is a non-refundable $2,500 commitment fee that confirms participation in the FYA program, followed by payment for the remaining balance of the fall program fee (payment amount varies by location). Two equal payments are then due prior to the beginning of the spring semester. Find more information & specific due dates on the Dates & Docs tab above (click on the ‘FYA Dates & Payment Info’ button).
Financial Aid
Almost all sources of Financial aid (Florida Prepaid, Bright Futures, Loans, Grants, VA funding, Scholarships) are applicable toward program fees. Read the IP Financial Aid Handbook and click on the boxes below to learn more about each type of aid.
If you have any questions about Finances, contact the IP Financial Aid Coordinator at IP-financialAid@fsu.edu.
Florida Bright Futures scholarship funds may be used to help pay the program fee for every semester a student is abroad.
The Florida Department of Education website contains additional information concerning eligibility, renewal criteria, appeal processes and legislative updates.
| Credit Hours | Bright Futures Academic | Bright Futures Medallion |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | $640.65 | $480.48 |
| 6 | $1281.30 | $960.96 |
| 7 | $1494.85 | $1121.12 |
| 8 | $1708.40 | $1281.28 |
| 9 | $1921.95 | $1441.44 |
| 10 | $2135.50 | $1601.60 |
| 11 | $2349.05 | $1761.76 |
| 12 | $2562.60 | $1921.92 |
| 13 | $2776.15 | $2082.08 |
| 14 | $2989.70 | $2242.24 |
| 15 | $3203.25 | $2402.40 |
| 16 | $3416.80 | $2562.56 |
| 17 | $3630.35 | $2722.72 |
| 18 | $3843.90 | $2882.88 |
Note: Eligibility for Bright Futures in the summer requires enrollment in at least six credit hours.
Florida Prepaid (FPP) tuition and local fees and/or dorm benefits may be used to pay International Programs fees.
To use a Florida Prepaid dorm account during the summer term, the purchaser of the Prepaid account must contact Florida Prepaid and complete the steps required to authorize use of the summer dorm plan for studying abroad. All other plans will be billed by FSU without additional authorization.
Contact Florida Prepaid directly at 1-800-552-4723.
| # of Credits Enrolled | FPP Tuition | FPP Local Fees* | Dorm Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $115.08 | $34.73 | $4050.00 |
| 2 | $230.16 | $69.46 | Per Term** |
| 3 | $345.24 | $104.19 | |
| 4 | $460.32 | $138.92 | |
| 5 | $575.40 | $173.65 | |
| 6 | $690.48 | $208.38 | |
| 7 | $805.56 | $243.11 | |
| 8 | $920.64 | $277.84 | |
| 9 | $1035.72 | $312.57 | |
| 10 | $1150.80 | $347.30 | |
| 11 | $1265.88 | $382.03 | |
| 12 | $1380.96 | $416.76 | |
| 13 | $1496.04 | $451.49 | |
| 14 | $1611.12 | $486.22 | |
| 15 | $1726.20 | $520.95 | |
| 16 | $1841.28 | $555.68 | |
| 17 | $1956.36 | $590.41 |
International Programs strives to award an average of $200,000 in scholarships annually to about 100 students.
Current FSU students who have applied to an international program can apply to the International Programs scholarship opportunity through the FS4U portal (link below). Before applying, students should review the list of available awards that are made from this opportunity as well as the application process instructions.
| Program Start Date | Scholarship Open Date | Scholarship Application Deadline | Scholarship Award Decisions Communicated to Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2025 | April 29, 2024 | September 4, 2024 | Prior to September 18, 2024 |
| Summer 2025 | November 1, 2024 | December 31, 2024 | Prior to January 15, 2025 |
| Fall 2025 | January 5, 2025 | April 16, 2025 | Prior to May 1, 2025 |
| Spring 2026 | April 28, 2025 | September 3, 2025 | Prior to September 17, 2025 |
Other departments at FSU also offer their own study abroad scholarship opportunities. You can review the list of scholarships administered by other FSU departments by following the link below.
Other departments at FSU also offer their own study abroad scholarship opportunities. You can review the list of scholarships administered by other FSU departments by following the link below.
Follow the link below for a general listing of scholarships that may be available for international study. These scholarships are available to both FSU students and non-FSU students.
Multi-Term Discount
Students who have completed 15 or more credit hours on programs administered by the International Programs office, earning at least a 3.0 average or above in their course work at an international location(s), are eligible for a discount for subsequent IP program. The discount is $500 for summer session or $1,000 for fall or spring semester. Students who believe they qualify for this discount must contact IP-FinancialAid@fsu.edu. Note: This discount is built into the program fees for First Year Abroad program students.
FSU assesses a technology fee which is NOT included in the International Programs fee. The technology fee rate for 2024-2025 is assessed at $5.25 per credit hour for all students, regardless of location of study.
After registering for classes for the term abroad, the student will be charged the applicable technology fees; these fees are paid directly to Florida State University Office of Student Finance. Failure to pay these fees will result in a late payment charge being assessed to the student by Florida State University Office of Student Finance. International Programs has no control over these fees or any associated late payment penalty.
International Programs fees do NOT include Facilities and Equipment Fees, which are assessed each semester for some majors (Medicine, Motion Pictures Arts, Music, Nursing, Fine Arts, Dance, Digital Media Production, etc.) even though you are studying overseas. If you are in one of these colleges/majors, you will be assessed a fee. Details can be found on the Registration Guide, under 'Fees and Financial Information.'
The world is within your reach! Talk with a member of IP's Finances Team to learn how your financial aid can help you have a study abroad experience of a lifetime!
Book an appointment with an IP Financial Aid representative, click here. For additional questions, contact us at IP-FinancialAid@fsu.edu. Be sure to follow us on social media @fsuip for updates.
If a student will be receiving any form of financial aid or payment assistance, including Bright Futures, Florida Prepaid, other scholarships, veteran’s benefits, or has a 529 savings plan and needs additional time to gather those resources, the fee deferment allows those receiving assistance to delay paying a portion of their program fee until the beginning of their program term, when most financial aid will have disbursed. A deferment does not reduce the balance owed, it only changes the due date of the portion deferred. All amounts deferred are due 10 days after the program term starts. Always review the cancellation & fee liability policy for your program before completing a deferment. The online fee deferment is located in the International Programs Student Portal under the Money Matters area. Login here to access the portal.
Application Fee
All study abroad applicants are required to submit a non-refundable, non-transferrable application fee in order to have their application reviewed by International Programs. Paying the application fee does not guarantee admission to a program. Application Fee amounts vary by program.
Commitment Fee
Once admitted to the First Year Abroad (FYA) program, a non-refundable commitment fee is required to confirm your participation in the program. The FYA commitment fee must be paid rather than deferred. Applicants are liable for the FYA commitment fee on the commitment fee payment due date. Students whose offer of admission to Florida State University is rescinded after the commitment fee is paid will not be eligible to participate but will remain fee liable for the commitment fee.
Commitment Fee Payment Deadline
Admitted applicants who have not paid the non-refundable FYA commitment fee in full by the published commitment fee payment deadline will be ineligible to participate in the program (i.e. International Programs will change the student's status to cancelled and the student will have no further fee liability). Applicants who apply to a program after the regular commitment fee payment deadline has passed must pay the entire commitment fee to be eligible for admittance to the FYA program.
Remaining Program Fees
All admitted applicants must pay or defer program fees in accordance with the dates and amounts published in the First Year Abroad Payment Schedule in order to avoid being canceled from the program.
Submitting Cancellations and Refund / Release From Fee Liability Requests
Submit all cancellations and requests for refunds or release from fee liability in writing via email to IP-Cancel@fsu.edu. Applicants should include their last name and program code in the subject line of the email. Alternatively, requests may be submitted in writing to International Programs at the following postal address:
Attention: Refund Committee
Office of FSU International Programs
A5500 University Center
282 Champions Way
P.O. Box 3062420
Tallahassee, FL 32306-2420
Refunds/Release of Liability of Program Fees
Refunds of program fees/release of liability for program fees will be granted for student cancellations prior to the start of the program under the following circumstances, upon providing appropriate documentation:
Partial Refunds/Release of Liability of Program Fees
Partial refunds/partial release of fee liability for program fees may be granted in instances of student withdrawal prior to the start of the program under the following circumstances, upon providing appropriate documentation:
Refund and Release of Liability Policy Details
In evaluating requests, the refund committee considers the timeliness of the notification in relation to the event causing the need for withdrawal and timeliness in relation to the start of the program.
Refunds/Release of Liability of Program Fees When IP Cancels a Program
Refunds of program fees/release of liability for program fees will be granted when International Programs cancels a program prior to the beginning of the applicable term.
If FSU International Programs cancels a Study Abroad Portion of a program after the start of the term due to causes beyond the control of FSU International Programs, including, but not limited to, acts of God; natural disasters; riots; war; epidemics; terrorist activities; government restrictions; failure of suppliers, subcontractors, or carriers; or travel warnings or prohibitions issued by the World Health Organization or any U.S. federal government agency, including the Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. Department of State, no refunds of any kind will be issued. However, FSU International Programs, in its sole discretion, may issue refunds for unused program costs such as housing.
Tuition Waiver Policy for Out-Of-State Students
Upon completion of two consecutive semesters abroad and a minimum of 15 FSU credit hours at their European or Panama IP study center with an FSU GPA of 3.0 or better and having met all financial obligations related to participation in the First Year Abroad program, out-of-state students will receive an FYA waiver reducing the out-of-state tuition rates to the in-state tuition rates for the remainder of their first undergraduate degree at FSU in Tallahassee. This arrangement is contingent upon the student remaining in good academic and judicial standing. Upon return, students must attend consecutive semesters without interruption (summer terms excluded), progressing toward their degree completion, and staying "on map." The FYA out-of-state tuition waiver is applied after the drop/add period has ended each term.
For most participants — including U.S. citizens — a student visa is required for programs
lasting longer than 6 months.
This applies to our First Year Abroad program in London.
Please reference the information below for details regarding immigration requirements and other important
considerations.
Visa Application Process
Passport Validity Requirements
Visa Fees
Financial Support
Biometrics Appointments
Non-U.S./Dual Citizens and Residents outside of the United States.
Pursuant to Italian legal requirements, students interested in studying in Italy must be at least 18
years of age by the start of the program. Contact IP-Info@fsu.edu for more information.
For most participants – including U.S. Citizens – a student visa is required for programs lasting longer than 90 days.
This applies to First Semester Abroad, and First Year Abroad programs in Italy.
Please reference the information below for details regarding immigration requirements and other important considerations.
Student Visa Requirements Based on Nationality
Immigration policies and visa application processes will depend on your nationality (the country that issued your passport book):
Passport |
Visa Process & Requirements |
|---|---|
| USA, Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom |
FSU International Programs is authorized to apply for visas on behalf of students holding passports from these countries,
provided you are currently residing in the United States.
While students must still submit supporting documents to IP, you will not be required to visit an Italian Consulate in person to complete your application. |
| European Union Countries, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland |
If you hold a passport from an EU or Schengen member state, you are exempt from the student visa requirement.
After being admitted to your program, email IP-Visas@fsu.edu informing us that you are exempt from the visa requirement and be prepared to share a scanned photocopy of your EU/Schengen passport. To reenter the U.S. after your program, you must travel with appropriate U.S. documentation (e.g. U.S. passport, Permanent Resident Card, or long-term U.S. visa) valid for at least three months beyond your return date. |
| All other nationalities |
Students with passports from countries other than those listed above must apply in person at the Italian Consulate that serves their jurisdiction.
Because appointment availability can be limited, it’s strongly recommended that you schedule your visa appointment as soon as you’re admitted to the program.
For assistance with scheduling consulate appointments or determining your consulate jurisdiction, email IP-Visas@fsu.edu. To reenter the U.S. after your program, you must travel with appropriate U.S. documentation (e.g. Permanent Resident Card, or long-term U.S. visa) valid for at least three months beyond your return date. |
If you currently reside outside of the United States, please contact an Immigration Coordinator at IP-Visas@fsu.edu.
Visa Application Process
Admitted students will receive detailed visa guidance. In the months leading up to your program, you’ll receive the following important documents through the IP Student Portal:
Most documentation for your visa can be prepared within a few weeks, but two requirements may take additional time. We recommend addressing the following visa application requirements 4–6 months prior to your program’s arrival date:
Visa Application Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
| Fully Valid Passport |
Your passport must:
If you need to obtain a new passport for your program, consider using our on-campus passport services. Visit the Passports section on our website for more details. |
| Financial Support Documentation |
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires proof of financial support in the following amounts:
|
International Travel Restrictions
For most participants — including U.S. citizens — a student visa is required for this program.
Please reference the information below for details regarding immigration requirements and other important
considerations.
Immigration Requirements for U.S. Citizens
Immigration Requirements for Non-U.S. Citizens
Passport Validity
Criminal Record Restriction
For most participants — including U.S. citizens — student visa is required for programs
lasting longer than 90 days.
This applies to First Semester Abroad, and First Year Abroad programs in Spain.
Please reference the information below for details regarding immigration requirements and other important considerations.
Student Visa Requirements Based on Nationality
Immigration policies and restrictions will depend on your nationality (the country that issued your passport book):
Passport |
Visa Process & Requirements |
|---|---|
| European Union Countries, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland | If you hold a valid passport from an
EU or Schengen member state, you are exempt from the student visa requirement. After being admitted to your program, email IP-Visas@fsu.edu informing us that you are exempt from the visa requirement and be prepared to share a scanned photocopy of your EU/Schengen passport. To reenter the U.S. after your program, you must travel with appropriate U.S. documentation (e.g., U.S. passport, Permanent Resident Card, or long-term U.S. visa) valid for at least three months beyond your return date. |
| USA & All other nationalities |
If you do not hold a passport from an EU or Schengen member state – including the U.S. citizens – you are required to obtain a student visa.
FSU International Programs is authorized to apply for visas on behalf of students in possession of a valid U.S. or non-U.S. passport, provided you are currently residing in the United States. While students must still submit supporting documents to IP, you will not be required to visit a Spanish Consulate in person to complete your application. Depending on your nationality, you may be required to supply additional documentation. |
If you currently reside outside of the United States, please contact an Immigration Coordinator at IP-Visas@fsu.edu.
Visa Application Process
Admitted students will receive detailed visa guidance. In the months leading up to your program, you’ll receive the following important documents through the IP Student Portal:
Most documentation for your visa can be prepared within a few weeks, but some requirements may take additional time. We recommend addressing the following visa application requirements 4–6 months prior to your program’s arrival date:
Visa Application Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
| Fully Valid Passport |
Your passport must:
You should have a fully valid passport in your possession before beginning the visa application process, which typically starts 4–6 months before your program’s arrival date. If you need to obtain a new passport for your program, consider using our on-campus passport services. Visit the Passports section on our website for more details. |
| Bilingual Medical Certificate |
As a part of the visa application process, the Consulate General of Spain in Miami requires students to
submit a bilingual medical certificate completed by a licensed medical doctor (MD) located within the
Consulate’s jurisdiction.
This step cannot be completed before being specifically instructed. Admitted participants will receive instructions on this process within 4-6 months prior to program arrival. If you are not a resident of a state within the Consulate’s jurisdiction, please be aware that you will likely be required to travel in order to complete this step in the visa process. |
| Support Documents for Under 18 Participants |
Participants under the age of 18 at the time of the visa application, will be required to provide
additional visa support documentation.
The International Programs Immigration Team will provide guidance to admitted participants regarding visa requirements for students under the age of 18 within 4-6 months prior to program arrival. |
| FBI Background Check Applies to First Year Abroad students only |
First Year Abroad participants 18 years of age and older at the time of visa application,
will be required to obtain an FBI Background Check as part of the visa application process for programs 6 months or longer.
This step cannot be completed before being specifically instructed. Admitted participants will receive instructions on this process within 4-6 months prior to program arrival. |
International Travel Restrictions
| Fall FYA 2025 - Important Dates | ||
|---|---|---|
| Applications Open* | Thursday, December 12, 2024 | $100.00 |
| Commitment Fee Due | Thursday, May 01, 2025 | $2,500.00 |
| Fall Full Payment Due | Wednesday, June 04, 2025 | |
| IPre-Depart (Orientation) Meeting | Wednesday, June 11, 2025 - Friday, June 13, 2025 | |
*Early application is advisable as program enrollment is limited and acceptances are offered on a rolling basis. Applicants must first be admitted to FSU for the fall or summer term, or through the Seminole Pathways program.
***
For 60 years, Florida State University International Programs has been committed to providing a rewarding academic experience that enriches the lives of our students. Our highest priority is and always has been the welfare and security of our students.
Program directors maintain contact with our Tallahassee office, local authorities, and United States officials, both at home and abroad. Each program holds meetings with students in which safety procedures and precautions are detailed and regularly re-emphasized. Each program has an Emergency Plan which includes details about local health care facilities, meeting points and procedures, and contingency plans and funds should it ever become necessary to evacuate our students.
Students are reminded to inform International Programs of the details of their independent travel details via our online travel form, heed US State Department travel advisories, and take relevant emergency and US Embassy/Consulate contact information with them.
Students venture abroad to experience other countries, and to gain a deeper appreciation of their role as American citizens in the world. FSU International Programs is fully committed to helping students realize these aspirations in a safe and secure learning environment.
All International Programs fees include international medical and evacuation insurance coverage through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI). A link to our policy is provided below. The coverage will be effective for participants from the day the program starts until the day the program ends. Please note: this policy is NOT intended to replace your domestic coverage. For more information, visit studentinsurance.fsu.edu.
FSU International Programs encourages program participants to consider purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance comes in many forms and can protect you in case you need to change your travel plans due to unforeseen circumstances. The coverage ranges from help with lost baggage to delay in flight plans to trip cancellation.
Travel insurance that covers fees associated with changing your airfare plans is especially helpful for those attending programs that require entry or student visas. Immigration approval can take months with regulations changing often that can cause the need to delay or cancel flight plans. Often airfare arrangements are non-refundable or cannot be changed without fee penalties. Certain types of trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you the cost of your airfare or penalty fees. Travel Insurance must cover failure to obtain visa.
You may wish to begin researching travel insurance and trip cancellation policies by using the Travel Insurance Review website. Their Travel Insurance 101: The Complete Guide to Travel Insurance section is particularly helpful for those just beginning their research. They also have a section that allows you to compare different policies.
Travel insurance is also offered through CISI and Travel Insured International. Please note that this plan must be purchased within 21 days of paying your first fee. For example, if looking to insure the cost of the program, the plan must be purchased within 21 days of paying the commitment fee to International Programs. If wishing to insure only the cost of the flight, the plan must be purchased within 21 days of purchasing airfare.
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (the “Clery Act”), Florida State University must provide annual notice to the campus community regarding the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The 2024 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is now available and can be viewed on the Florida State University Police Department’s webpage. The reports contain statistics from the previous three years of reported crimes that occurred on campus, in off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by FSU, and on public property within or immediately adjacent to the campuses.
Additionally, this report includes important information regarding policy information related to campus security, policies regarding drug and alcohol use, crime prevention, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking prevention, as well as fire safety systems, fire statistics, and fire safety policy information.