Undergraduate Study Abroad

Petition Process

Breadcrumb

Petition Process

A petition is a way for students to request approval for a program that they feel meets their academic goals more effectively than a Brown, CASA, or Approved program.

Given the number and variety of approved study abroad options already available through the Study Abroad office, petitions should be submitted for unusual circumstances only. If you have reviewed the Brown, CASA, and Approved program offerings, but did not find a program that meets your academic needs, you may be allowed to petition another program.

Approval of a petition is not guaranteed. Students are strongly urged to apply to a Brown, CASA, or Approved program as a backup.

Petition Guidelines

Start the petition process early — about one year before you plan to study abroad. You do not need to wait until the petition deadline to submit a petition.
Petitions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Each student's concentration(s), rationale, faculty approval, and transcript are evaluated individually. A program that was previously approved for one student does not guarantee approval for other students.
Students may only submit one petition per semester.
Petition programs must be accredited and meet the Brown study abroad language requirement.
Students must submit their complete petition application to the Study Abroad office by 5 p.m. on the application deadline.
Very Important: If your academic needs can be met by a Brown, CASA, or Approved program—or the petition program is located in the same city/country as those programs—it is unlikely that your petition will be approved.

Petition Steps

1. Schedule a Study Abroad Advising Appointment

2. Discuss the petition program with the study abroad advisor

3. Submit your completed Petition Application form and supporting materials

4. The study abroad office and CAS will review your petition

5. Study Abroad will notify you about the final decision

Additional Topics

Explore Programs

Discover which study abroad program best aligns with your goals and interests.

Types of Programs

Brown undergraduates may choose from a variety of study abroad program options to earn academic credit for a semester or academic year abroad. From directly enrolling in a university overseas to participating in a language immersion program to studying at a field station; there is a program to fit your interests!

Summer Programs

We encourage students to consider international opportunities during their time at Brown. Here you can view options and learn more about studying abroad over the summer.