We accept applications year-round on a rolling basis.
Applying early increases your chances of securing a spot on the ship, as voyages do fill up.
Admissions
Recent College Graduates
While Semester at Sea voyages are designed for undergraduate study, and the vast majority of participants will be in that undergraduate population, we do welcome recent college graduates on our voyages, as well.
Overview
Recent college graduate applicants are held to a higher standard of admission and should display exceptional academic records. Students currently matriculated in a graduate program are eligible to participate — however, we do not offer graduate-level courses. You will participate full-time in the academic program alongside your undergraduate peers.
How to Apply
Application Checklist
Here’s what you need to apply to SAS as a recent college graduate.
Requirements
Admission Requirements for Recent College Graduates
- Graduated with a bachelor’s degree from a post-secondary institution by time of voyage
- Preferred cumulative GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 during undergraduate career. If needed, our team will complete a GPA conversion as part of the review process
- You must be at least 18 years old at the time of embarkation.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
Students whose first language is not English, or whose current university curriculum is not taught in English, must provide an English language proficiency test score:
- TOEFL, PTE Academic, IELTS Academic, or Duolingo results are preferred
- Minimum score required for admission consideration: TOEFL IBT – 79, PTE Academic – 53, IELTS Academic – 6.5, or Duolingo – 110
- Alternatives to TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, or Duolingo may be considered on a case by case basis
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about applying to Semester at Sea as a recent college graduate
When should I apply?
Semester at Sea operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning there are no application deadlines for specific semesters. However, it is recommended that you begin the application process 12 months before the semester in which you would like to participate. Applications will continue to be accepted until approximately one month before the start of the voyage.
Is the program open to students in all majors?
Yes, students from all majors regularly enroll in Semester at Sea. More than 40 majors are typically represented on any given voyage.
What are my chances of gaining admission?
If you are in good academic standing and have a good record with regard to behavior on your home campus, you will be given every consideration. Semester at Sea operates with the philosophy that all undergraduate students should study abroad. We will work with you to help make it possible.
Do I have to apply for a specific semester?
Yes, however, you can transfer your application to a different voyage without reapplying. You will be required to provide updated transcripts to be considered for admission to the later voyage.
Is the admission application fee refundable?
No, the $75 admission application fee is not refundable.
How long will it take to hear about my admission?
Once the Office of Admission has received your completed application, you will receive a reply in about 7-10 business days. It is advisable to follow up and verify that all components of your application have been received.
When do voyages fill?
It varies. Voyages typically fill one to four months prior to sailing. We encourage you to submit your application early but please contact our office if you have a last-minute opportunity to join our program for the semester.
Do I need a passport? What about visas?
Yes, if you do not already hold a passport, you should apply for one now. If you do have a passport, you should check its expiration date. Your passport needs to be valid for six months beyond the end of the voyage. We advise purchasing the largest passport book available. Specific passport requirements are available for confirmed Lifelong Learners via the voyage prep portal.
Visa requirements vary depending on the countries included on the itinerary. Typically, you will need to secure two or three visas individually. Some of the group visas will be obtained by ISE.