Graduate Study Abroad

Notre Dame graduate and professional students are encouraged to explore the study abroad opportunities offered through their college of study. As every program is different, we have compiled some general financial aid information and policies for students who are interested in studying abroad.

Financing Your Study Abroad Program

To be eligible for an increase in the Cost of Attendance (COA), the study abroad program must be approved for credit by the University. The COA is determined by the individual department and represents the maximum loan assistance available for the program.

Process for Cost of Attendance Adjustment

Students in select required study abroad programs will have estimated costs included in their COA upfront. For other required or optional programs, you may request a COA adjustment. In most cases, these adjustments increase a student's eligibility to borrow additional funds; they do not increase scholasrships. Confirm your participation in the study abroad program with your academic department. Your academic department will reach out to the Office of Financial Aid to provide the COA for your program, which will take into account expenses such as housing and transportation. To initiate the process of borrowing additional funds, complete the Study Abroad Cost of Attendance Adjustment Form. We recommend you submit your request at least 30 days before departure.

Disbursement and Refunds

Financial aid is typically distributed evenly between the fall and spring semesters. For one-semester programs, you can request an additional loan amount specifically for that semester. Federal student loans are disbursed 10 days before classes begin each semester, and refunds are issued after the first day of your program's classes.

Federal Direct PLUS Loan

If you are eligible to borrow the Federal Direct PLUS Loan, and plan to borrow up to the COA to cover your study abroad expenses:

  • Selecting “maximum loan eligibility” when completing the application, instead of entering a specific amount, will allow us to process your initial loan application for the additional amount.
  • If you enter a specific amount, you will have to complete a second loan application to cover your study abroad expenses.