Frequently Asked Questions

When should I study abroad?

Anytime! Most students consider taking advantage of this opportunity after their sophomore year. Make an appointment with an adviser to discuss how the Italy program can enhance your experience and still keep you on track for graduation

What are my chances of being accepted into the program?

In general, if you meet the academic and general requirements of the program, and if all application materials are received prior to the deadline, you will probably be accepted. Remember, the program operates on a rolling admissions basis and could fill before the deadline occurs, for this reason, we strongly encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Is studying abroad expensive?

Actually, the Italy program is very affordable and is often equivalent to costs incurred during a regular semester at UNL. There are plenty of ways for students to travel cheaply throughout Europe, but it all depends on the individual's travel style. Students can spend an infinite amount of money, but the budget travelers can save on almost every aspect of travel and still experience as much, if not more than the ones who spend more. Budgeting is your best bet!

Is financial aid available?

Federal Financial Aid can be used to study abroad. Financial aid and scholarships through UNL generally apply towards the CIU program as well. Occasionally, the Consortium has scholarships available, which will be announced upon availability. Other forms of aid can be found on the Internet or possibly through your office of study abroad.

What are classes like?

Classes are taught in English by professors in exactly the same manner as you would expect at UNL, but with the added benefit of coursework related to international issues.

How will my credits transfer?

All Consortium students will receive a transcript from the University of Kansas. Students should consult with an academic adviser to determine how classes will count towards their degree.

Is it possible to work abroad as a student?

Foreign students studying in Italy are generally not eligible to work on a formal basis during their period of study.

What is the campus like?

The campus is located in the middle of the small town of Paderno del Grappa. Facilities include a tanning bed, pool, basketball and tennis courts, athletic fields, and a television room with a wide array of movies available, a game room with ping pong and pool tables, a gym with free weights, treadmills, and more.

Where will I be living?

Students are housed in residence halls in a gated campus facility. The availability of single occupancy rooms may fluctuate from semester to semester, if double rooms are required, students are given the opportunity to choose roommates. Most rooms have a private bath, bed, desk, and closet. Linens are included and are changed weekly by the house keeping staff. During our larger programs (summer), communal bathrooms may be used.

What kind of things can students do in Paderno?

Paderno is located near the base of Mount Grappa, which is a great resource for hiking and sight seeing. There are other outdoor activities nearby such as rafting, horseback riding, and bicycling. There is also fantastic shopping located in Asolo, Bassano, and Venice, as well as some outlet stores like Northface, Benetton, and Diesel. There is also an open-air market in nearby Crespano del Grappa held every Sunday morning that is easily within walking distance. A movie theatre and bowling alley are within driving distance as well as some great restaurants. Paderno itself has several restaurants and cafes within walking distance that students enjoy.

Do I need to bring my computer?

There is a computer lab with Internet access on campus with enough computers to satisfy the needs of all CIU students. There may be times that you will have to wait for a computer, but this is rare. Having your own computer is usually more of a hassle than a convenience.

Are the travel breaks structured?

Travel breaks are purposely not structured so that students have the flexibility to travel where and with whom they choose. It is up to the students to find travel partners/groups. There is usually at least one other person who has the same interest in traveling to a particular destination so there are plenty of opportunities to meet and get to know many people.

How easy is it to get from place to place?

Public transportation is a breeze. Buses run regularly from Paderno to local towns and train stations at an affordable rate. Schedules can be found on campus. If a bus is not available you can take a taxi, always ask for the fare before you choose your taxi because fares can be competitive. Trains are also convenient for your travel breaks. The Venice or Treviso airports are also convenient ways to travel, especially when going long distances, some very cheap fares can be found from Venice to popular European destinations.

How will I call home?

There are pay phones located on campus; calls can be made with phone cards purchased at a small convenience store called a tabacchi. The full semester participants will be able to purchase or rent cell phones. The cell phone international rates are relatively good compared to pay phone rates.

How do I send things home?

The office on campus is equipped to send FedEx packages. There is also a post office in Paderno for mailing letters and packages. If you plan on shipping things home, consider shipping them through the post office by ground mail. It takes 4 - 6 weeks to arrive but is a lot cheaper than shipping by air. There is also a Mail Boxes Etc. in Bassano that can assist students who are traveling at the end of the program and want to ship suitcases home. Stamps can be purchased at most stands that sell postcards and in a tabacchi.

How will my family ship things to me?

All package can be sent to:

Remember, when sending packages, a customs declaration form must be filled out. This form will ask for the value of the contents of the package, this means the commercial value. Always declare no value for the contents of the package or else there will be a customs fee upon the package's arrival. If you do not intend to resell the items that are shipped to you, which is most likely the case, then also clearly mark on the declaration form and on the package: FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY, NO COMMERCIAL VALUE.

How will I get money?

ATM's are located all over Europe with English as an optional language. There is one ATM located on campus and one at the local bank. Most banks offer on-line banking services, which makes it easy for students to keep track of account activity while abroad. Credit cards are also a convenient and safe way to spend money and more places are accepting them everyday.