Main Content

Archives: FAQs

Can I audit or take courses pass/no credit?

Audits are not allowed for Study Abroad classes. You may elect a Pass/No-Credit (P/NC) grading option per TCU’s P/NC policies. To select P/NC for courses offered at a partner institution, you must follow instructions communicated in your TCU Online portal, where you can find the form, instructions, and P/NC deadline for your specific program. To… Read more »

Will I get grades for my courses?

Yes. If you are taking coursework at a TCU-in program or a TCU Global Portfolio program, your program will provide a grade conversion indicating how the grades from abroad will be converted to the TCU scale.

How do I cope with culture shock and homesickness?

When you go abroad, the “rules” for behaving and the “meanings” behind attitudes and actions change. They can seem confusing, strange, and even stupid. This reaction is called “culture shock.” Culture shock is a normal response to living in a new environment, and you may experience feelings of isolation, confusion, superiority, and negativity. You might… Read more »

How can I learn more about the culture?

We hope your goal is to learn about and respect cultural differences, to continually be curious and open-minded, and to discover your own identity as a global citizen. What does it mean to learn more about another culture? We often think it means seeing new sites, trying new foods, and experiencing new lifestyles. That’s a… Read more »

Who do I call for help?

You have lots of resources available to help you: Your on-site leaders and staff On Call International (TCU’s Global Assistance Provider): 1-603-952-2062 . For more information, see the On Call Resource Hub. TCU: 1-817-774-0201 or emergencyabroad@tcu.edu  for serious emergencies

What happens when I land?

When you land, you will pass through customs and immigration. During this process, government officials of your host country verify you are allowed to enter the country and that you are not bringing any illegal items into the country. This is a serious, although often tedious process, and should be given the utmost respect. Have… Read more »

What do I need to know about money abroad?

Most countries will use a different currency and will have an exchange rate. Visit http://www.xe.com/ucc/ to see the latest exchange rates. Check with your bank / credit card company regarding fees for the use of international ATMs and other currency transaction fees. We recommend that you choose several different forms of money so that if you have a… Read more »

Should I take credit cards?

Credit cards are useful in case of emergencies or for larger purchases. Check with your credit card company to see if the country where you are studying abroad accepts your credit card. Credit cards should have a “chip” and PIN. Confirm with your credit card company that your PIN will work abroad. Notify your credit… Read more »