International Studies and Programs

The UMSL Global Community

For close to 60 years, UMSL Global has engaged in a wide range of initiatives, programs and services that share the transformative power of international education.

UMSL Global comprises various campus units that work in partnership to advance international engagement across the university. These teams collaborate intentionally to attract talented students and scholars from around the world; deliver comprehensive support, programming, and global experiences for students, faculty, and staff; and provide a wide range of global services and initiatives for the UMSL community.

Global Students & Experiences (GS&E)

A unit of the Division of Student Affairs, Global Students & Experiences (GS&E) supports incoming international students and empowers outgoing students to study abroad. Through Study Abroad and ISSS, the unit provides comprehensive guidance, engaging programs, and immersive global learning opportunities. In collaboration with International Admissions and Recruiting, GFAN, faculty, and academic and student support units across campus, Global Students & Experiences delivers exceptional service, a global mindset, and transformative experiences for the Triton community.

Study Abroad Programs

The Study Abroad section of this Bulletin contains details about campus study abroad and international exchange programs. Those programs are administered by GS&E’s Study Abroad team.

International Student Support Services

International Student Support Services (ISSS) serves as a key resource for international students, providing essential guidance and coordinated support throughout their experience at UMSL. ISSS offers expertise in visa and immigration matters, nonacademic advising, and onboarding through the Global Triton Welcome International Student Orientation.

In addition, ISSS fosters student engagement and connection through intentional cultural and social programming and works closely with campus partners to connect students with appropriate university resources as needed.

Study Abroad

The University of Missouri–St. Louis is committed to helping students expand their perspectives and develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. One of the most effective ways to build this understanding is through study abroad. Living and learning in a different country provides valuable academic insights, fosters personal growth, and enhances adaptability and independence.

Global Students & Experiences offers UMSL students across nearly all majors the opportunity to participate in programs around the world. Options include academic year, semester, and summer programs, as well as short-term, faculty-led experiences during winter intersession and summer. Through individualized advising, students are supported in selecting programs that align with their academic plans, career objectives, and personal interests.

Fees and Financial Aid

Program costs vary based on the program type, included services, and location. For many programs, students continue to pay UMSL tuition and fees, along with additional expenses such as airfare, housing, meals, and personal costs.

Students participating in semester- or year-long programs are typically placed in university housing or receive assistance securing appropriate accommodations. In most cases, eligible students may apply their existing UMSL financial aid toward approved study abroad programs. In addition, Global Students & Experiences offers scholarships to qualified applicants to help offset program costs.

Application

Application deadlines are typically in mid-February for summer, fall, and academic year programs, and mid-September for winter intersession and spring programs. Students are encouraged to allow sufficient time—generally one to two months—to research program options and prepare a strong application.

Selection is based on a review of academic performance, faculty recommendations, and approval of the proposed course of study by the appropriate academic unit. Some programs may also require proficiency in the language of instruction. Most opportunities are designed for undergraduate students in their sophomore through senior years, though a limited number of options are available for first-year and graduate students.