Credit Transfer FAQ

Do grades transfer?

Colleges and Universities typically transfer only credits from other institutions. Credits will count toward the completion of your degree but grades will not be averaged into your home school grade point average. Upon completion of the Semester at Sea program, you will receive a University of Virginia transcript. Be advised that graduate schools and some employers will ask to see transcripts for all of your undergraduate work.

What if I encounter resistance at my home institution with regard to my interest in Semester at Sea?

The study abroad office or the academic officials at your school may not be familiar with the Institute for Shipboard Education and the Semester at Sea program. We will be happy to provide program information for their review, and to provide references from faculty who have taught on Semester at Sea and from other administrators who are familiar with the program. Your study abroad office may feel that you should choose from one of the programs they offer. You should have the option to present your rationale for the type of study abroad program that best suits your interests and needs. You may need to state your case to your study abroad office. ISE can assist you with that effort by providing program information and references.You may need to deal directly with your school's registrar simply to arrange the transfer of domestic credit from the sponsoring university.

Will the courses I take on Semester at Sea transfer to my home institution?

The courses you take on Semester at Sea are accredited and the credits are readily transferable to most colleges and universities. It is important that you work with your academic advisor to ensure that the courses you take on Semester at Sea meet your specific academic program needs.