Studying abroad from Berkeley (US) to an Irish University?

Applying to College
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Hello everyone,

I am student at UC Berkeley who took the year off to sort myself and my life out. I have been out of school since June and am supposed to come back this upcoming Fall (2017). I withdrew my last semester due to medical issues…all of which I’ve gotten ‘sorted’/gotten control over this past year that I had off. I am a rising senior, starting Fall. I only mentioned this for background context…

Regardless, I am keen on going back to school again soon, as I actually miss studying (!). However, I am very interested in taking classes (even if it’s two or so) abroad this summer for a more dynamic and enriching experience. I know Irish universities take FAFSA, and I am interested in attending UCD (Dublin), Trinity, or NUIG (Galway). I study international relations, so I find it to be relevant experience for that reason as well. I was wondering how I would go about taking classes (if this is possible), how the articulation process works (since I am not enrolled again at my uni until Fall), and how financial aid works. I would not mind taking private or federal loans out.

Unrelatedly, I do have an Irish work/study visa so I have already got that sorted out.

Does anyone have experience in this realm? Any advice is much, much appreciated.

Thanks!

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As I understand it, Irish universities don’t offer FA as such, but you can use fAFSA to apply for federal and private US loans to study there at least if you’re embarking on a full degree course. I don’t know if you’d be able to usei t for short study abroad or summer courses, or if these courses would be transferable for credit towards your Berkeley degree - it would probably be advisable to contact the universities.

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@Conformist1688 is right: no fin aid. Also, have you looked to see what is actually available? There is no articulation: you will have to ask UCB if they will accept the credits.

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It makes much more sense to see what study-abroad/exchange programs you may access through Cal where you may be able to apply your fin aid.

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