Non-Stanford Study Abroad Opportunities

BOSP can provide limited information to current Stanford students on some of the policies and procedures for participating in a non-Stanford study abroad program. 

Non-Stanford study abroad programs refer to all academic programs offered overseas by other U.S. higher education institutions, third-party providers, or through direct enrollment in overseas institutions. While credit is guaranteed on BOSP programs, students must seek credit transfer approval from the Registrar’s Office for any courses taken on non-Stanford programs.

General Information

Study Abroad Approval Forms

Many non-Stanford study abroad programs require a home institution’s approval or acknowledgement to study abroad. Stanford’s Bing Overseas Studies Program does not sign any approval forms for external programs. We cannot review or evaluate students’ applications, nor can we comment on students’ judicial records, academic records, or credit transfer approvals. 

Leaves of Absence

When Stanford Students participate in non-Stanford programs in Autumn, Winter, or Spring Quarters, they must take a leave of absence from Stanford. For more information about leaves of absence and the steps to request one, please visit this webpage.

University policy on leaves of absence can be found here.

Transfer Credit

Generally, academic work completed at another institution can be considered for credit if all Stanford University transfer credit policy conditions are met. We highly encourage you to speak with your Undergraduate Advising Director (UAD) or someone from your department to discuss transfer credit policies and your academic plans.

For general information about undergraduate transfer credit, please visit this webpage.

For more information about what kinds of transfer credit can be requested, please visit this webpage.