Students in Columbia-sponsored programs receive direct Columbia credit and the courses and grades appear on their academic transcript. Credit from approved outside programs is certified as transfer credit toward the degree for all courses completed with a grade of C- or better. The Director of Undergraduate Studies maintains full discretion to review students’ completed study-abroad program and to approve courses to be counted for major or related credit.

In order to be cleared by the College for study abroad, candidates in your department need to consult with you about how study abroad will affect their progress in the major. They will also seek your input on whether the courses they propose to take abroad may be eligible for major credit. 

Students are advised that prior approval for courses does not guarantee major credit. They should understand the criteria your department will use in making these determinations. Upon their return, students will make available to you their grades and evaluations, as well as the course descriptions, syllabi, class assignments, papers, and examinations for all their courses.

It is useful to keep a record of your decisions for future reference – for yourself in advising a particular student, for future Directors of Undergraduate Study, and for developing departmental consistency in these decisions.

Academic Affairs will provide you with a list of your majors studying abroad each semester. If you do not have this list, or you have any questions about study abroad, please contact Scott Carpenter, associate dean of Global Education at 212-854-7444 or sc2764@columbia.edu.