The International Studies Minor Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply for the minor?
You can apply after you have declared a major and have some idea where you are going to study abroad. You do not need to wait until you have completed all required courses. Applications should be in by the end of the semester before you are graduating.
I think I have completed all requirements. What is the first step to getting the minor?
You must fill out the application and check sheet. Have it signed by your current (primary) major advisor. Bring the paperwork to 231 Burrowes Building for acceptance and processing.
If I study abroad, does that mean I automatically get the minor?
No, you need to apply for the minor. Applications and checksheets are available to print or in 231 Burrowes Building.
I have studied abroad; does that mean I have fulfilled the International Studies minor?
No, study abroad is only one requirement for the minor. Advanced coursework at Penn State is also required.
Is it mandatory to study abroad?
Yes, you must earn 12 credits in an approved semester-long Penn State Education Abroad program, no more than 6 credits of which may be foreign language study beyond the 12th - credit level.
How will I know if I have been accepted in the minor?
You will receive an email from the Department. You will also see the minor appear on your degree audit.
Some of these courses I am taking are for my major. Can they double-count for the minor?
Yes.
What if I do not take the course I put on the application but take another approved course?
Please notify our Undergraduate Coordinator of the change. Final approval is not made until the semester you are graduating.
What is related advanced coursework?
Related advanced coursework is part 3 of the minor requirements. It comprises 6 credits of 400-level courses that must be selected from the approved list
of courses with international focus or in consultation with an International Studies Minor Advisor in the Department of French and Francophone Studies. You may not use courses from education abroad to satisfy this requirement.
I have already studied abroad but my audit isn't showing it.
Most study abroad courses need to be manually entered on the degree audit. This occurs during the semester you are graduating.
Why isn't the minor showing up on my degree audit?
If you have more than one minor, only the first minor will print out on the audit through e-Lion. However, web-view audits will list all your minors. Just stop by any office on campus and ask for a degree audit of your International Studies minor.
When will my minor be approved?
Final approval and required degree audit adjustments will be made the semester of graduation.
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