Academic Overview

Discover what your academic semester in Barcelona will look like, including the required courses and how your credits will transfer to UM.

Earn 12 UM transfer credits

During the fall semester, Start Abroad students will enroll in 12 credits (3 U.S. credits per course) as full-time, non-degree-seeking status students at School for International Studies (SIS). All courses successfully completed (C or higher) transfer back to UM as credit.

Upon returning to campus, Start Abroad courses successfully completed with a grade equivalent of “C” or higher will appear on students’ University of Miami academic records as transfer credit. If a student earns a “C-“ or lower, the transcript will show NC for no credit. Grades earned during Start Abroad will not be calculated into the students’ UM Grade Point Average.

Please note, maintaining good academic standing while abroad is important. Your grades may be considered for future opportunities at UM.

Accordion Group

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  • Required Courses

    • Spanish Language Course (3 credits) — Placement into A1, A2, B1, or heritage-level writing)
    • Academic Writing Foundations in a Global Context (3 credits) — Equivalent to WRS 105
    • Two general electives

  • Coursework

    Students will choose two courses from a list of electives. 

    • Specific course list to be provided

  • Language of Instruction

    Courses are taught in English, except for the Spanish course.

  • Registration Abroad

    After you confirm your participation in the program, the academic team at your host institution will contact you during the summer to help you prepare for the semester. They’ll guide you through your course selection, review your credit and degree requirements, and provide guidance to align your classes with your major and academic goals at UM. This process helps support a semester abroad that is both meaningful and academically compatible with your future studies in Miami.

Academic FAQs

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  • Am I a UM student?

    You will officially become a ’Cane in the spring. However, the courses you take at the School for International Studies (SIS) will transfer to UM and count toward your degree progress—as long as you follow the guidance of your Cane Navigator or Transitional Guide. Some courses will transfer as direct UM equivalencies and may fulfill specific UM requirements.

  • How many credits will I earn after completing the program?

    Start Abroad students will take a total of 12 college credits (3 U.S. credits per course). All successfully completed courses will return to UM as transfer credits.

  • How will course registration work?

    After you confirm your participation in the program, the academic team at your host institution will reach out during the summer to help you prepare for your semester abroad. 

    Suggested coursework specific to each UM School or College toprepare for transfer can be found here.

  • What is the academic environment at the School for International Studies (SIS)?

    The School for International Studies (SIS) offers courses taught in English by local faculty, with small class sizes that provide personalized support. Courses include cultural activities and field study excursions, giving you the chance to explore Barcelona while learning. The environment is similar to a U.S. college classroom, with a collaborative and friendly relationship between faculty and students. You’ll take classes with other Start Abroad in Barcelona students as well as SIS students, and participation is expected in most courses.

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