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About the Global Awareness Program

Program Components

There are three GAP components that together blend language, global courses, international immersion and co-curricular involvement in a unique recognition program. To qualify for GAP certification, a student must complete any two out of three of the following components. A student completing all three components will receive the highest level of GAP distinction.

All currently enrolled KU undergraduate students are eligible to register and participate in GAP. Please note that component requirements vary slightly for international students.

A. International Experience

Study AbroadParticipation in a study abroad program conducted in a foreign language.*
If you are an international student, you automatically fulfill this component.

Internships, practicums, research projects or volunteer activities abroad for which a student earns KU credit are also eligible.

* If your study abroad program takes place in an English-speaking country or your classes abroad are conducted in English, you must also complete two semesters of a foreign language.

More on study abroad at KU Office of Study Abroad.

B. Academic Component

The academic component consists of studying a foreign language and taking courses with international content. A complete listing of foreign language options and current international courses is available.

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For US students

Foreign Language
A minimum of two semesters of college level study (or its equivalent as determined by the appropriate language department) in the same modern foreign language with a grade of C or better.

International Courses
Three courses with a significant modern international focus in three* different departments with a grade of C or better.
*Students in professional schools may choose to take two of the three courses in one department.

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For international students

Foreign Language
Meet the University requirements for English proficiency.

International Courses
Two courses with a significant modern international focus and one course with a US focus with a grade of C or better.

C. Co-Curricular Activities

guitar playingThis component of GAP is the most flexible and offers the greatest variety of exciting opportunities. There are hundreds of international activities, performances, clubs, exhibits, lectures and events happening each semester. Students can choose from an extensive list of international events and service endeavors. Visit our events page for a calendar of events and many great ideas. We invite you to take advantage of KU's dynamic international life...and earn GAP credit too.

 

Once you accumulate 60 co-curricular points, you have completed this component.

It is expected that most students will participate in more than one activity or service to demonstrate significant involvement in co-curricular and/or service-oriented activities of an interantional nature. We recommend you document your involvement in your GAP portfolio as you go.

Once you have finished 2 or more GAP components, you are ready to prepare your GAP portfolio.