Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the College of Communication and Information's financial incentives for study abroad. If you have a question that is not addressed on this list, please email Miriam Matteson at cciexplore@kent.edu.
1. Who is eligible for the CCI Explore Travel Savings Accounts?
Every full-time undergraduate student with a CCI major can apply, except for seniors in their last semesters before graduating and regional campus students. To receive a travel savings account, a CCI undergraduate student must be have a 2.0 GPA, have demonstrated financial need and apply through a very simple CCI Travel Savings Account Questionnaire.
2. How do I apply?
Once each semester, we will provide students with the link to a simple CCI Travel Savings Account Questionnaire that will serve as your application for the travel savings accounts and, if you need it, a First Passport reimbursement scholarship. Each semester, we accept applications for a two week period of time, and we will send a link to the application questionnaire in your kent.edu email.
3. What happens if I miss the fall application period?
We will offer another two-week application period in the spring.
4. How is my financial need determined?
Each student's financial need is considered on an individual basis, as determined by the FAFSA. If a student does not have a FAFSA on file, they will not be eligible for these study abroad incentives. Once applications are received, CCI will obtain each student’s FAFSA information from the Financial Aid Office and determine their eligibility.
5. How will I know if I've been approved for a travel savings account?
We will send you an email telling you that you've been approved and the amount of funds that will be awarded to your travel savings account.
6. Which study abroad programs are covered by the CCI Explore travel savings accounts?
These saving accounts apply only to CCI study abroad programs: Florence, Prague, Lisbon and China.
7. Do I need to be accepted into a CCI study abroad before I can apply for a travel savings account or First Passport?
No. The questionnaire will ask your preferred CCI study abroad destination and your preferred timeframe, but we know your plans can change. We do encourage you to speak with your academic advisor as soon as you apply for a travel savings account, however, so you can factor your study abroad plans into your academic schedule.
8. Do I have to use the funds in my travel savings account the same semester that I apply for a travel savings account?
No. The funds will remain in your travel savings account until you are ready to participate in a CCI study abroad program or until you have landed a global internship.
9. Can I apply for a travel savings account more than once?
No. This is a one-time award. However, if your application is denied because you don't have a FAFSA on file, you can apply later if you complete the FAFSA process.
10. If I transfer to another Kent State department or college, will my travel savings account transfer with me?
Unfortunately, no. This program is for undergraduate students with CCI majors who participate in CCI study abroad programs.
I have a CCI minor, but not a CCI major. Am I eligible?
No. Only students with CCI majors are eligible.