Frequently Asked Questions: Academic

When thinking about going abroad there are many questions that come to mind. Below are answers to commonly asked questions.

1. Do I receive UHM resident credits or transfer credits for coursework completed abroad?

You receive UHM resident credits for coursework completed abroad. These credits will apply toward your major, minor, certificate, graduation, elective, general education and/or focus requirements. You may also use one of the courses to request for a focus exemption.
2. Can I enroll in CR/NC grade option?
No. The grade option for study abroad program courses is A-F only. Exceptions are not allowed.
3. How will I be graded overseas and how will this be recorded on my UHM transcript?
You will be graded according to the target country's grading criteria. The grade that you receive will then be converted to the UHM grade system using the nationally standardized grading scale. Thus the final converted grades will be reported on your transcript. The grades that you receive overseas become a part of your UHM transcript and factor into your cumulative grade point average.
4. Must I take the UHM Resident Faculty Director's course?
If the study abroad program has appointed a UHM Resident Faculty Director, then yes, you must take at least one of the UHM Resident Director's courses.  Exceptions will not be made. You are then free to take a minimum of 3 other classes offered by the host university.
5. Will I be in classes with local students?
The mixture of students in the classes will depend on the program that you have selected. For example, if you are taking French language; then you will not be taking classes with French students. French students already know how to read, write, and speak in French. Thus, you will be in class with international students, which includes you as well. If however, you are taking content classes in English or in the target language, then more than likely you will be in class with local as well as other international students.
6. Is there any likelihood of failing my classes while studying abroad?
Yes, you will fail the classes, if you cut classes; not turn in assignments; miss exams; misinterpret the teachers expectations; assume that how you study for your classes at UHM to get an "A" grade will be the same overseas; etc.
7. If I receive a low grade overseas can this be changed at UHM?
No. Grades will be reported based on the final conversion of your overseas grades to the UHM grade system. Any kind of changing grades is considered conducting academic fraud. Grade disputes must be resolved with the teachers overseas