Study Abroad

New Zealand

Washington and Lee is committed to ensuring that “graduates will be prepared for life-long learning, personal achievement, responsible leadership, service to others, and engaged citizenship in a global and diverse society.” Approximately 70 percent of our students participate in an experience abroad during their time at Washington and Lee. This may be through a full term abroad, faculty led Spring Term abroad program, summer programs, international internships, international research opportunities, or service learning.

The Center for International Education is here to assist you in selecting a program that satisfies your personal and academic goals, preparing you for your experience abroad, and reflecting on your experience upon your return to campus.

Important Dates

  • Study Abroad Fair: September 16, 2025 (11:00 am - 2:00 pm)
  • Spring Term Abroad Info Session:  September 30, 2025 (6:00 pm) via Zoom with breakout sessions the following week
  • Winter Term: October 15, 2025
  • Spring Term Abroad: October 20, 2025 (5:00 pm)
  • Oxford Partnership: January 23, 2026
  • Fall Term and Full Year: March 1, 2026
  • Summer Grants: January 30, 2026
  • Summer Term: April 1, 2026

Application Process

Application process for Washington and Lee University’s study abroad opportunities.

Choosing a Program

Studying abroad is an integral part of a W&L education. The purpose of study abroad is to further one’s knowledge of the world and its cultures and to expand the opportunities and arenas for academic inquiry. Study abroad programs for W&L students must offer an intellectually demanding academic experience, with optimum cultural exposure and enrichment, with a dynamic yet safe and secure environment. The Center for International Education will work with students individually to identify programs appropriate to their academic and personal interests.

Applying to Study Abroad

After researching available programs, students may meet with the Study Abroad Advisor to discuss the application and approval process.

Policies and Procedures

Only work comparable to that at Washington and Lee in level, nature, and field may be accepted for degree credit. In order to receive Washington and Lee credit, all documentation (official transcripts, required W&L forms, etc.) must be received by the University Registrar before the end of the first term in which the student is enrolled at W&L or, for students returning from study elsewhere, before the conclusion (last day of classes) of the first 13-week term completed by students upon their return to W&L.

Safety and Security

Resources for safety and security while traveling and studying abroad.

Certificate of International Immersion

Students who show significant commitment to and understanding of global interaction may apply to have their experiences recognized with a Certificate of International Immersion, noted on the transcript and in the listing of honors at Commencement. The International Education Committee awards the certificate after considering a student’s overall academic record (minimum 3.000 cumulative grade-point average) and an essay. The purpose of this process is to allow students to reflect deeply on the value of their international experiences at W&L and abroad.

W&L International Partner Programs

W&L offers a number of programs that are coordinated and led by W&L faculty or are special partnerships between W&L and international institutions. Detailed information to include dates, program cost, and credit can be found on this webpage.

Mark Rush

Director

Hunter Swanson

International Student Advisor

Cindy Irby

Associate Director and Study Abroad Advisor

Jillian Murphy

Assistant Director of International Education and Study Abroad Coordinator

Kristy Reed

Center for International Education Office Manager

Center for International Education

  • Campus Address
    Ruscio Center for Global Learning
    Room 145
    Mailing Address
    Center for International Education
    204 W. Washington St.
    Washington and Lee University
    Lexington, Virginia 24450