Cheltenham, England

FAQ about Cheltenham

Where is BCA Cheltenham study center located?

BCA Cheltenham is located in the Gloucestershire, England. Cheltenham is an attractive and peaceful town of 110,000 inhabitants, situated in the county of Gloucestershire, in the picturesque Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty, which annually attracts six million tourists from all over the world. Cheltenham is centrally located, and not far from much larger cities such as London (two hours), Birmingham (40 minutes), Bristol (40 minutes) and Oxford (40 minutes) with direct rail links to all. The city dates back to Saxon times, but became "established" by the visit of King George III to the Cheltenham Spa in 1788. Modern businesses and the presence of a 7,000-strong student body at the University of Gloucestershire keep Cheltenham youthful and energetic. For these reasons, it is the ideal location for a well-rounded study-abroad experience.

What can I study at BCA Cheltenham?

The University of Gloucestershire offers classes in 45 fields of study. The university has four campuses each with a specific interest of study in mind. To see a complete list of course offerings please check out this site.

Where will I live?

BCA Cheltenham students usually live in Regency Halls, student housing near the UoG Francis Close Hall campus. The student residences have single, en suite rooms with shared kitchens. All linens and towels are provided, so you don’t need to bring anything. The BCA Cheltenham resident director will send you an e-mail about housing preferences a few weeks before your arrival.

Will my school accept credit from BCA Cheltenham?

Each university has its own policy for transferring credits, so you will want to check with your university registration and records office to determine whether BCA credits are accepted. Upon completion, BCA sends transcripts from the University of Gloucestershire and BCA course reports to you and your college or university. If your school requires a transcript from a US institution, BCA will provide you with a transcript from Elizabethtown College, which is BCA’s school of record.

Will my financial aid transfer?

Financial aid from an individual school is transferred at the school’s discretion, but all federal aid is transferable. Students should consult their financial aid advisor for further information and advice.

Why study with BCA? What sets BCA apart?

BCA is one of the nation's oldest independent organizations committed to promoting international understanding and academic excellence through college study abroad programs for US students and adult seminars for faculty and administrators. Rooted in the values of peace and justice, BCA promotes international understanding, awareness of global citizenship and academic scholarship through educational exchange. Among the special qualities of BCA's programs: unique opportunities to study peace and justice issues in places where conflict has profoundly affected culture, history and daily life; cultural immersion - which we believe offers the richest possible experience; and a lot of academic and administrative support, which helps both students and their home colleges and universities.

What are the application deadlines?

BCA encourages interested students to apply as soon as possible to get the process in motion. Applications for the spring semester are due by November 15. Fall semester applications are due by May 15. Students should expect an answer from BCA within three weeks after submitting a complete application.

Do I need a visa to study in Cheltenham?

No. A visa is not necessary to attend Cheltenham if a student plans to study one semester abroad. However, if a student wishes to study the full year in England (any amount of time over 6 months) he/she are required to obtain a visa. Also, if a student plans to apply for an internship or work for pay in the UK, he/she must also apply for a visa. For more visa information please visit www.state.gov/s/cpr.rls/fco, www.travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.htm, and travel.state.gov/passport.

Can I study abroad as a freshman?

A requirement to study abroad with BCA Cheltenham is to have at least one year of undergraduate study. However, BCA encourages students to plan early if they intend to study abroad. Depending on the flexibility of a student’s major, it may become more difficult to study abroad in later years. Proper planning will ensure the student will be on track for graduation. Please contact your faculty advisor to create a plan that works best for you.

I’m worried my GPA may not be good enough. Should I still apply?

Yes. BCA does employ minimum GPA standards for each study center. The required GPA varies by program and is an important tool in evaluating a student’s application; however, it is not the only consideration. BCA also takes into account the student’s personal statement and their letters of recommendation.

How many courses will I take?

It is important to speak to your academic advisor prior to studying abroad to decide what modules are needed to meet academic requirements of your college or university. Generally, students take four or five classes during the semester, receiving three credits for each module.

E-mail us with your questions

inquiry@bcaabroad.org

Questions? Please call:

1-866-222-6188