Frequently Asked Questions

Are N.U.in students at a social disadvantage when they arrive on campus in January?

Northeastern’s campus is transitional in nature, meaning students are constantly coming and going, either for domestic or global co-ops, study abroad, or other experiential learning opportunities. The N.U.in Program fits in perfectly with this culture, and students are not at a disadvantage by entering in January.

Due to this constant movement on campus, there is always a Spring New Student Orientation, a student activities fair, and Welcome Week activities offered each January for all incoming students. The N.U.in Program also holds a welcome event for N.U.in students, and former parents have commented that arriving to campus can be likened to a reunion, as students are excited to see each other after forming such close friendships while abroad.

Additionally, The N.U.in Program assists students with their transition to campus, providing opportunities to meet new students and feel comfortable while they adjust to the Boston campus environment.

Where do students live when they arrive on campus for the spring semester?

All N.U.in students are guaranteed on-campus housing in the spring. During the fall semester, while they are abroad, students are prompted to fill out a housing survey. Once submitted, our Department of Housing and Residential Life does their best to place students in housing according to their preferences. Students are placed in residence halls or apartment-style accommodations depending upon availability.

Can parents visit students while they are abroad?

Parents are always welcome to visit their students! We recommend waiting until students arrive and receive their course schedules for the semester so that both parties can consider the best time to visit based on coursework and break dates.

What happens if there is a medical or health emergency while students are abroad?

The N.U.in site staff that accompanies students abroad is fully trained and prepared to handle any emergency. Our partner institutions have assisted with setting up relationships with local hospitals nearby, and staff is aware of all safety protocols. There is an on-call phone number that students can call 24/7 to reach a staff member should an emergency situation present itself. In addition, the Boston staff have an emergency phone and are kept aware of any situations at the locations abroad. Parents are typically notified of emergencies either by their students or staff.

Why is there a Service-Learning requirement for N.U.in students?

The goal of the Global Experience course and Service-Learning requirement is to help N.U.in students prepare for, gain from, and reflect upon their term abroad as a profound global experience. By actively engaging in the local community, students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local language, history, and culture. Many students who visit a Service-Learning site regularly find that they build relationships with the local people they work alongside.

What types of courses do N.U.in students take?

Students take the one-credit Global Experience course, which is taught by N.U.in site staff and ties in closely with Service-Learning, in addition to a country-specific course and courses that fulfill Northeastern Core and/or major requirements. For more detailed information on courses, please visit the “Academics” pages for each location.

Am I eligible for financial aid during the fall N.U.in semester?

Students can view their financial aid package through the Application Status Check site where they also found their admission letter. Because The N.U.in Program is a pre-matriculation program, only need-based Northeastern grants can be applied to the fall N.U.in semester. All other federal loans, grants, and work study funds can be applied to future semesters, beginning in the spring.