International Programs
NC State University and the College of Veterinary Medicine provide many diverse programs and opportunities for international experiences, collaborations and courses. Knowledge of global issues and practices enhances expertise, perspectives, and cultural awareness. We encourage students to participate in international programs as selective/elective experience or as a fourth-year rotation. Learn how to plan a trip here.
Opportunities for Global Experiences
Extramural in Vet International Programs
Extramural fourth-year rotation placement in a foreign country working on a veterinary medicine-related project.
Veterinary International Experience
Students can pursue a veterinary experience as a selective or elective in an international setting under the guidance of a supervising veterinarian or CVM faculty member.
Galapagos Zoology and Medicine
Experience a unique, equatorial archipelago and much of its natural history and cultural offerings. Lectures, laboratory sessions, and learning excursions will cover a variety of zoological and medical topics dealing with native invertebrates, fishes, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
Additional Resources: For further information on the NC State International Veterinary Students Association (IVSA) and previous student travel experiences, please visit the NC State IVSA website.
International Program Travel Awards
CVM International Program Travel Awards are given each year based on availability of funds provided through the dean’s office of the College of Veterinary Medicine. The deadline for submission of an application is typically end of October and end of February.
Information on financial scholarships from the Study Aboard Office (SAO) are available on the SAO website.
Please be aware that the SAO scholarship deadlines are very early (potentially nine months prior to travel). It is recommended that you submit a SAO application even if you are uncertain of traveling to ensure that you can potentially receive scholarship funds. Please visit this webpage for more information.
The Study Abroad Office charges all applicants a nonrefundable application charge (which is subject to change). The charge directly supports office operational costs, allowing us to provide a full range of advising and support services to students, faculty, and staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost and what funding opportunities are available for CVM students?
The cost of traveling abroad varies for different regions of the world; in general, the total cost including airfare can range from about $2,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the destination, length of stay, housing and food costs, and other expected and unexpected expenses. You should give some thought to the issue of financing your trip as part of your planning process. You can get further suggestions on cost, financial aid and scholarships from the NCSU Study Abroad website.
Funding opportunities include:
- CVM International Program Travel Awards
- Foundation Travel Funds (subject to availability)
- NC State Study Abroad Scholarships
- IVSA
- SAVMA
- Dodge Foundation, other foundations
- Local churches, community groups, Rotary clubs, etc.
How do I apply for a CVM International Program Travel Award?
CVM International Program Travel Awards are given each year based on availability of funds provided through the dean’s office of the College of Veterinary Medicine. There are two opportunities to submit applications for the funds. The deadline for submission is typically end of October and end of February. A panel of members from the Global Health Education committee will review all proposals.
Where can I get the application form for a CVM International Program Travel Award?
CVM International Program Travel Awards information and application forms will be announced via email to all DVM students in late September and late January each year. Completed applications should be provided to CVM-Extramural@ncsu.edu (Student Development).
Can family or friends come with me on a faculty coordinated international trip?
It is possible, but only if there are spaces available on the trip and approval is given by the project coordinating faculty member. NCSU DVM students have first priority for these trips, followed by DVM students from other schools. If approval is given, spouses or family may participate and are expected to follow all of the same rules as the veterinary students.
What about vaccinations and health risks?
Students are responsible for investigating the health risks of places they are intending to travel using information provided at the CDC websites, NCSU Student Health Services, and other resources. It is your decision as to whether to take the recommended vaccinations or medications; all students are required to sign a waiver in this regard. Each student traveling abroad is required to carry the travel health insurance offered by the main campus international programs office. Further information can be obtained through the NCSU Office for Study Abroad.
What about foreign animal diseases? Do I have to do anything?
The NC State CVM guidelines for travel abroad and best practices should be followed. If you are traveling in a foot and mouth disease endemic area, you must not be involved in any activities that bring you in contact with ruminants, horses, swine or other susceptible species for two weeks on return to the US or any other FMD-free area. For seniors taking VMP 999, this means it is best to register for a block in pathology, clinical pathology, small animal medicine or surgery. Avoid any blocks that would take you to a large animal area.
Students returning from an endemic area should NOT go to TAU (Teaching Animal Unit) or the barns to purchase dog food for two weeks. Many students take inexpensive foot wear on their trips and leave it behind when they return. Others bathe their shoes and exposed clothing in a vinegar wash to reduce the chance of spreading virus. If you are traveling to an exotic Newcastle’s disease area, do not interact with poultry or pet birds for two weeks. Classroom activities are OK so long as there are no laboratories where you would come in contact with inappropriate species.
You will be required to review and complete any required tasks indicated in the Biosecurity for International Travelers document.
When do I receive my funds?
Awards are paid upon successful completion of the experience as evidenced by a passing grade for the course. This includes submission of the required report, photos. You will be required to submit all receipts to Bobbie Fox in Accounting/Business Services. She will process a check for you, which can take up to three weeks to receive.
