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Application Process

Admission Criteria

Who should apply?

Students enrolled across UMB’s Schools and academic programs may be able to take this course for academic credit. This program is not exclusive to gerontology students. If a student is interested in the course, then faculty are available to consult with your program director.

Program Eligibility

All students applying to the UMB study abroad course should have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. Students whose GPA is currently below a 3.0 are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Diane Martin (diane.martin@umaryland.edu) to discuss your application and eligibility. 

Additionally, applicants are expected to be in good academic standing. Students must maintain a strong, consistent academic record and meet the academic standards set forth by their respective school. Students are not eligible to participate in a study abroad program while on active academic probations.

The course annually accepts 10-12 students to participate in this unique learning experience in Japan. A brief application is required. Only students accepted into the course will be permitted to register.  

To apply to participate in his short-term travel course to Japan, please complete the application found here: https://umaryland.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cSeemwoOh0NhIkC

 

 

 

The application consists of the following components:

  1. Basic personal information
  2. Academic information
  3. Passport/Travel Visa Information
  4. A short essay (~500 words):
    • Describe your background and reasons for choosing this course to explore aging-related topics while studying abroad in Japan.
    • Explain what you think the benefits will be of this experience to your course of study and long-term plans?
  5. A letter of support from your academic coordinator or program director

 

Application deadline: December 6, 2024, at 5 PM
Students notified of acceptance: December 16, 2024, at 5 PM

Tentative dates of trip to Japan: May 23, 2025 - June 4, 2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

Passports

Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyong the end date of your travel. Processing times for U.S. passports have increased significantly. Standard passport issuance is 10-12 weeks. You can pay an additional $60 if you want to expedite your passport in 4-6 weeks. Additional information is available at U.S. State Department passport information. You can find locations for submitting passport applications at the U.S. State Deparment's Passport Acceptance Facility Search Page.

Visas

Every country has their own process, requirements, and fees for applying for a visa. Check the visa requirement for each country you are visiting and traveling through. Apply for visas through international consulates and embassies.

A Tourist visa is required to visit Japan. Please refer to the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo's COVID-19 information for more details on tourists permitted to travel to Japan at this time.

A consular office may deny your visa application, so it’s best to adhere to their requirements and apply as early as possible. It is important that you know what is required of you before attempting to enter a country. Failing to obtain a visa could result in a denial of entry into a country, and even criminal charges.

International Students

Check with the Office of International Services before traveling outside the United States. Be aware that it may take non-U.S. citizens longer to obtain a visa, so research this information early in your planning.

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