Student exploring his surroundings while studying abroad.
Study Abroad

FAQ

Eligibility and How to Apply

Academics

Costs, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

Preparing for Study Abroad (Pre-Departure)

Returning to Pace Campus (After My Program Abroad)

Eligibility and How to Apply

  • Who is eligible to participate on the FYE London program?
    • Students who (1) receive an offer of admission to Pace University to start in the Fall 2023 semester, (2) receive an invitation to apply to the FYE London program, and (3) complete the FYE London application
    • Admitted to either the New York City or Pleasantville Pace campuses
    • Minimum high school GPA of 3.0 (unweighted)
    • 18 years of age prior to the program start date
    • Have a passport valid through July 1, 2024
    • Fully vaccinated against COVID-19
  • Who cannot participate on the FYE London program?
    • Students from most majors are eligible to apply. However, there are some academic paths that are not a good fit for the FYE program. Students in the Honors College, the School of Performing Arts, Nursing, and 5-year program students may not participate. Transfer students may not participate. Students in Pace programs/majors with strict curricular requirements may need to check with their Pace school (Lubin, Dyson, CHP, Seidenberg) to see what the implications may be for participating on the FYE program. Science majors can participate in the FYE program and graduate on time, but it requires taking summer classes and the following semesters at Pace are academically rigorous.
  • May I participate on this program in a future semester instead of my first semester at Pace?
    • No. This FYE London program is only open to first-semester Pace students. However, you may study abroad on numerous other programs during your years at Pace.
  • When is the application deadline and how do I apply to the FYE London program?
    • First, apply to Pace University for admission to the Fall 2023 semester.
    • Eligible FYE London candidates will then receive an email invitation to apply to the FYE London program.
    • The FYE London application requires students to submit 2 documents (in PDF form) on their Pace applicant dashboard - by the priority application deadline of March 15 or the application deadline of April 15:
      • Essay (250 words minimum) detailing why you wish to participate in the FYE London program. Refer to qualities such as being independent, flexible, and a problem solver, as well as how this experience might challenge you in ways that will advance your personal and academic aspirations. Address previous challenges you have faced and how you have overcome them.
      • 2-3 page academic paper from one of your recent courses. This will be used for placement into English 120, one of the included courses on this program.
    • Applicants will also be interviewed (virtually) by Pace Education Abroad staff as part of the acceptance process.
    • Review the 'Application Process' tab on the dedicated FYE London brochure page on Pace's Study Abroad portal (Terra Dotta).
  • Can I apply to the FYE program before committing to Pace?
    • Yes. Once you have received admission to Pace University, you will then have the opportunity to complete the FYE London application by April 15 (prior to making a commitment to Pace). However, once you are accepted into the FYE London program, you must commit to Pace to reserve your spot on the FYE London program.
  • How competitive is the program?
    • Spaces are limited and students are accepted on a case-by-case basis, so the earlier you apply, the better.
  • I am waiting to hear about other college admittance decisions before finalizing my choice to come to Pace. Should I still apply?
    • Yes. We recommend that you apply if you wish to be considered as space is limited.
    • March 15 is the priority application deadline.
    • April 15 is the application deadline.
    • We will accept applications on a space-available, rolling basis after the March 15 priority deadline.
  • What happens after I am accepted into the FYE London program?
    • Students will be notified about acceptance to the FYE London program on a rolling basis.
    • If you are accepted into the FYE London program, you will need to confirm your participation at both Pace University and Pace’s FYE London with a $1,000 non-refundable FYE program deposit – due by May 15. (The deposit will be credited toward the Pace bill for the FYE London program.)
    • Prior to departure, you will pay your Pace University bill for tuition and fees and FYE London housing by August 1; attend the mandatory orientation at Pace University in New York City September 11-13; and travel to London on a recommended group flight from NYC.
    • Review the 'Application Process' and the 'Orientations & Arrival' tabs on the dedicated FYE London brochure page on Pace's Study Abroad portal (Terra Dotta).
  • Can I use academic accommodations while abroad on the FYE program?
    • Yes. To request an accommodation for a qualifying disability, a student must self-identify and register with the Student Accessibility Services for their campus. Contact Pace’s Student Accessibility Services for more information. Once you arrive in London, you'll go over your accommodations with the Director of the College (who will forward the information to your instructors).
  • I want to do the FYE program but my parents are hesitant. What should I do?
    • Communication is key! Sending a student off to college abroad can be challenging for parents/family. Bring your family into the study abroad conversation early so you can discuss important topics such as finances and safety. As you prepare for your semester abroad, invite your parents into your research of the program and destination. We have several online resources: a ‘Parents and Families’ resource page, an ‘Information for Families’ tab on the FYE London program page on Pace’s Study Abroad Portal (Terra Dotta), and a comprehensive “Parent Guide to Study Abroad” (free, and available for download in English and Spanish).
    • Pace will also offer virtual information sessions for parents and families addressing common concerns and answering questions. Pace’s Education Abroad staff and the host institution in London will support you and your parents before, during, and after your experience abroad. Reach out to us with questions or concerns: studyabroad@pace.edu.

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Academics

  • What courses will I take in London?
    • All FYE London students take 6 courses, which total 17 credits. Below are the courses that will be taught in Fall 2023*:
      • Introduction to University Life / UNV 101 – 1 credit
      • Modern Britain / HIS 202 – 3 credits
      • Young Adult Fiction / LIT 212Q – 3 credits
      • Critical Writing / ENG 120 – 4 credits
      • Public Speaking / COM 200 – 3 credits
      • Introduction to Computing / CIS 101 – 3 credits
    • *Subject to change
    • The FYE London program fulfills a Pace University 'Learning Community' requirement. A Pace Learning Community links courses and disciplines so that students and professors share a coherent and enriched learning experience. This fulfills a Pace core requirement for all majors.
    • Review the 'Academics' tab on the dedicated FYE London brochure page on Pace's Study Abroad portal (Terra Dotta) for a short description of each course.
  • Will the grades I receive on the FYE London program affect my GPA?
    Yes. The grades you receive on the FYE program are factored into your Pace GPA. They are considered Pace courses, delivered in London.
  • Can I take different courses than those listed?
    • No. All FYE London students take the same courses for the semester abroad, as a cohort.
  • Can I take additional courses in London (or asynchronously at Pace)?
    • No. The FYE London curriculum does not allow for additional courses.

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Costs, Financial Aid, and Scholarships

  • How and when do I pay the FYE London non-refundable $1,000 deposit to confirm my spot?
    • Accepted FYE London students will be instructed to pay the FYE London program deposit through their Pace applicant dashboard – due no later than May 15, which will be credited toward the Pace bill for the FYE London program.
  • What are the tuition and housing costs of the FYE London program?
    • Participants will be charged Pace tuition and fees for the Fall 2023 semester, as well as $9,500 for an FYE London program and housing fee in London.
  • What is included in the FYE London program?
    • Full academic program
    • Dedicated on-site support - including FYE London Program Coordinator who lives alongside students in the housing and an FYE London Academic Director (Pace Professor)
    • Access to London host institution campus facilities
    • Single room in London housing; access to a shared kitchen; in-room access to internet
    • NYC orientation. Mandatory 2-day/2-night pre-departure orientation in New York City, including meals and housing in a shared room (prior to departure for London)
    • London on-site orientation (including a welcome dinner, events, and activities)
    • Airport transfer from Pace University to NYC-area airport during September orientation
    • Group transfer from London airport to the London housing during September orientation
    • London monthly transportation pass
    • International emergency health insurance
    • Cultural and weekly social programming; theater and concert events; visits in and around London to museums and historic sites; and day trips to local sites of historical and cultural interest
    • Academic advising in London, and registration guidance for Pace classes for the following spring semester
    • Review the 'Costs' tab on the dedicated FYE London brochure page on Pace's Study Abroad portal (Terra Dotta).
  • What about flights to/from London?
    • Flights are not included.
    • The FYE London program begins with on-site orientation in New York City (early September), so students need to purchase flights into New York City, and from New York to London.
    • Pace will designate a recommended outbound flight only (USA to London) in September, but no return flight - so that students have maximum flexibility in booking their return flight when the FYE London program ends. A Pace University staff person will accompany students on the outbound flight. FYE London students may make their own flight arrangements from NYC orientation to London, as long as they arrive in London by the start of the FYE program.
  • What isn't included in the program?
    • Flights (to/from London and to New York for orientation)
    • Meals in London (students will have access to a shared kitchen)
    • Passport
    • Any pre-departure COVID tests that are required by UK and USA immigration
    • Personal expenses (estimated between $2,000 -$3,000 for the semester)
    • Airport transfers upon arrival in New York City and departure from London at the end of the program
    • Review the estimated budget sheet for the semester program under the ‘Costs’ tab of the FYE London program page on Pace’s Study Abroad Portal (Terra Dotta).
  • What types of scholarships apply to the FYE London program?
    • FYE London students are eligible for all Pace merit scholarships, NY state, and federal aid.
  • Do any of my scholarships count towards the $9,500 FYE London program and housing fee?
    • No.
  • If I deposit and change my mind before departure for London (cancelling from the program), what is the refund policy?
    • The $1,000 deposit is non-refundable.
    • Refunds for Pace tuition and fees will be handled according to the terms outlined in Pace’s academic catalog. Refunds for London housing (once confirmed) will be handled according to the London housing’s contract signed by each student the month prior to departure. Mid-semester withdrawals will require Pace to perform a recalculation of eligibility for financial aid under the mandated federal formula (Return of Title IV Aid Calculation). Read more about Pace’s study abroad policies here.
  • Are there any COVID-19 related risks of the program being cancelled?
    • If Pace cancels the FYE London program due to elevated COVID-19 concerns (or under-enrollment) prior to the start of the program, Pace will refund students their deposit and fees paid. Pace would work with students to be transferred to a regular first semester at Pace with on-campus housing.
    • Pace students may plan to study abroad with the understanding that they do so at their own risk. Any financial losses incurred because of program cancellation (either prior to or during the term abroad) related to travel, quarantine, border closures, or health issues related to COVID-19 will not be reimbursed by Pace. Read Pace’s policies on international travel and COVID-19 considerations.
    • Pace strongly suggests that students purchase fully refundable airline tickets and “Cancel For Any Reason”/CFAR trip cancellation insurance. Pace is not responsible for any personal expenses incurred as a result of program cancellation.

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Preparing for Study Abroad (Pre-Departure)

  • Where can I find more program information?
    • Along with reviewing these FAQ, you can details about the FYE London program on the dedicated brochure page of Pace's Study Abroad portal (Terra Dotta). Each tab provides information on different aspects of the program, including an overview, the application process, the location, academics, housing, costs, health & safety, passport & visas, information for families, orientation, flights, and more.
  • What are the dates of the FYE London program in Fall 2023?
    • September 11-December 22, 2023 (subject to change). The mandatory orientation is held at Pace in New York, September 11-13. The FYE London cohort flies together to London (on a group flight) on September 13. The FYE London program ends on December 22, 2023.
    • Review the 'Orientations & Arrival' tab for a tentative schedule of the first two weeks of the program on the dedicated FYE London brochure page on Pace's Study Abroad portal (Terra Dotta).
  • What is the group size?
    • The FYE London participants are a select group of high-performing students, who will form a cohort of between 15-25 students.
  • When will I meet the other FYE London students?
    • Pace will offer several virtual meet-ups/events for accepted FYE London students, in spring and summer - for students to get to know each other and learn more about the program before departure. Upon arrival in New York City for orientation, you will be housed together and attend orientation sessions together.
  • What is the housing situation in London?
    • Accommodations for Pace's FYE London program are located in central London, in modern accommodations. The accommodations are close to transport links across the city. In addition to easy travel to the campus for classes, students have easy access to shops, supermarkets, cafes, and parks. Students will have a single room. There may be other non-Pace FYE international students in the housing's shared space. Read more under the ‘Housing’ tab on the dedicated FYE London program page on Pace’s Study Abroad Portal (Terra Dotta).
  • What should I pack/bring?
    • During the summer, Pace will send students a detailed suggested packing list. Students will receive a starter pack when moving into their accommodation, which includes tableware items (plates, mug, glass, bowl, cutlery), cooking equipment (saucepan, spatulas, pan, tin opener, colander), bedding (pillow, duvet, fitted sheet, duvet cover, pillow sheet), full-size bath towel, toilet roll, and bar of soap.
  • Is there a meal plan included?
    • Meals in London are not included in the FYE London program, and there isn’t a meal plan offered. Meals are therefore the responsibility of the student. Students will have access to a shared kitchen to make meals affordably, and there are many excellent budget eateries in London.
  • Can I work abroad in London during the program?
    • No. Due to U.K. immigration restrictions, students are not allowed to work during their semester abroad in London.
  • What about health care coverage abroad?
    • The FYE London program includes a Pace-arranged international travel insurance plan to cover students for the duration of the FYE program. The policy provides emergency medical coverage, remote mental health counseling services, security and emergency medical evacuation, lost or delayed luggage, and more. Read more about Health and Safety while studying abroad.
    • Under the Pace-provided international emergency insurance, the cost of COVID testing is not covered if considered preventative, routine, or elective. It is only covered if ordered by a doctor as part of a course of treatment for COVID symptoms. No insurance will cover the threat or fear of COVID to trigger evacuation, cancellation, or trip interruption benefits. As such, we recommend that students purchase Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance for any prepaid, non-refundable trip costs (e.g. airfare, quarantine expenses for forced quarantine due to positive COVID tests)
  • What COVID-19 protocols are in place?
    • Our FYE London academic partner and housing follow stringent COVID-19 protocols, in accordance with local and country-specific regulations.
    • If Pace were to decide to cancel the FYE London program due to COVID-19 concerns, the $1,000 deposit will be returned in full to any students enrolled in the FYE London program. We will make a final review of the program’s viability by June 30. We have Pace Risk Management protocols that we follow and we consult closely with our UK partner, and we consult numerous other resources.

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Returning to Pace Campus (After My Program Abroad)

  • Does FYE participation impact my housing back on Pace campus in the Spring?
    • No. As a participant in the FYE London program, you are guaranteed housing on the Pace campus as long as you complete a housing form by the December 1 housing deadline. During the Fall semester, you will receive an email from Pace’s Office of Residential Life and Housing with this form asking you to confirm your housing preferences, subject to availability.
  • What happens when I return to Pace campus in the Spring?
    • When the FYE London Fall semester program is over, FYE students will return to Pace alongside the Pace friends made on the FYE program. FYE students will also join 200+ other new students entering Pace in January to start during the Spring semester. FYE students will attend a dedicated orientation for new students, and join study abroad alumni events. Academically, FYE students will work with their Academic Advisor to plan their Pace Path incorporating their coursework taken on the FYE London program. The UNV 101 (Intro to University Life) course instructor doubles as FYE students' Academic Advisor for their first year at Pace. Beginning sophomore year, Pace students will work with their major Academic Advisor.
  • Can I study abroad again while I am at Pace?
    • After a semester abroad, students are caught by the "travel bug" and want to study abroad again. Pace offers semester, summer, and faculty-led study abroad programs. FYE London students can study abroad again through Pace, after completing one full academic year on campus at Pace. Students will need to complete all required steps of the study abroad process, starting with attending an Abroad 101 information session.

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