Frequently Asked Questions
Who should enroll in this program?
The program is open to students majoring in art or art history and to non-majors. After you file your application, the program director will contact you and can advise you on the course best suited to your background and interests. Students must be in good academic standing and must first be approved into the program through the application process. See the How to Apply page for application instructions, the application form, and for details on eligibility.
Since daily activities will involve considerable amounts of walking and stair climbing, students should be in reasonably good physical condition. Accommodations will be made for students with disabilities.
The most important prerequisite is a desire to learn from the course activities and projects, as well as from the immersion in a different culture and language. Adaptability and an adventurous spirit will also be helpful to the students' overall participation in this program.
Must I be a University of South Florida student to participate?
No. Students in good standing at other academic institutions are welcome, as well as non-degree seeking students. Students at other schools who are seeking credit for this program toward their degree should inquire at their home institution about the transferability of credit. Our Education Abroad Office will provide whatever documentation your school requires for the transfer of credits. Students at other universities within the Florida State University System of Florida should be able to transfer credits since these are regular State University System academic courses.
How much money will I need for personal expenses in addition to the program fee?
This varies greatly depending upon personal spending habits. We recommend budgeting a minimum of $200 per week to cover personal expenses. Some students have survived on $15.00/day by avoiding restaurants and cafes and keeping other personal expenses such as souvenirs and phone calls to a minimum. The program fee is very inclusive and includes not only all your transportation (unlimited use of the metro and bus systems within metropolitan Paris and trains in the surrounding Ile de France region), but also unlimited museum admissions (both for museums you visit with your class and those you visit on your own). Your main personal expense will be food. Every room will have a refrigerator and the residence has cooking facilities, so students can economize considerably by preparing their own meals. Students will have access to student cafeterias where a complete lunch or dinner will cost 3.5 euros (approximately $4.00). The best things about Paris are free. Your instructors, the program director and program assistant will be able to offer you numerous tips on how to conserve your funds if you're on a tight budget. Obviously, if you plan to do extensive shopping or to eat out frequently in restaurants and cafes, your expenses will be higher.
On years with an optional excursion to London, students receive a pass for unlimited use of the transportation systems within metropolitan London and all admissions for group visits to museums are covered. The residence in London provides a full breakfast each morning.
Can I make my own housing arrangements?
Students are not permitted to arrange their own housing. Living in the same residence as the other students contributes to your overall participation in the program and to the coordination of program activities and events.
Can I travel to other places during the program or bring family or friends along to program activities?
Students are not permitted to travel outside of Paris during program. Family and friends are not permitted to utilize program events or housing unless registered in the program.
Will I need a visa to enter France?
You will need a valid passport, but U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays in France of three months or less. If you hold a passport from another country, check with the French embassy about visa requirements (telephone: 305-372-9799). If you don't have a passport you can get an application at most post offices ($100.00 for ten years). Don't delay on this since the passport application must be submitted with an original birth certificate, which may take some time to obtain if you don't already have it. Click here to obtain U.S. passport application forms.