Columbia College | Columbia Engineering

Home / / Frequently Asked Questions / Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

The following is a list of frequently asked questions from across the offices supporting Columbia College and Columbia Engineering collected here in one place for your convenience. You can browse by topic/department or search by keyword.

Undergraduate International Travel - Programs, Student Affairs

How do I apply for Program Approval?

Program Approval applications can be submitted through the Undergraduate Travel Web App.

What types of travel need Program Approval?

Any new international program that is Columbia-Led, Columbia-Facilitated and/or Recognized International Travel that is open to undergraduates of Columbia College, Columbia Engineering and the School of General Studies requires Program Approval.  

When do I need to apply for Program Approval?

One program organizer is expected to apply for Program Approval after key logistical components of the trip are determined (i.e. all destinations, accommodations, transportation, activities and/or excursions). The faculty, staff or student leader program organizer must complete a Program Approval application at least six weeks prior to departure.

Do I have to reapply for Program Approval each time I facilitate the same trip?

Approved programs will be automatically available in the Undergraduate Travel Web App each semester. However, existing Columbia-Led, Columbia-Facilitated and/or Recognized International Travel programs that have changes to program destinations and/or to any of the risk variables must log in to the Undergradute Travel Web App to reapply for Program Approval.

Can I add additional details and/or destinations to my application once it’s been approved?

Yes! You may make edits to to your application at any point. Please note that adding new details and/or destinations will place your application back in “Review” status until the Undergraduate Travel Review Committee reviews, assesses and provides a new determination.  If locations added are of a medium, high or extreme location risk rating, your application may need require steps as well as a new review and assessment.

How do I know if my Program Approval application has been received? Approved? Denied?

You will receive an email from utrc@columbia.edu when your application is received, as well as when a final determination has been made. You may also check the status of your application or any other required steps of the Program Approval process by logging in to the Undergraduate Travel Web App.

How long will review and approval of a Program Approval application take?

We are committed to reviewing and assessing applications in a timely and prompt manner. Each Program Approval application will be reviewed and assessed individually for several risk variables, as the safety and security of our students is our priority.

What happens if I do not apply for Program Approval?

Undergraduate students from Columbia College, Columbia Engineering and the School of General Studies may not be able to obtain School Sponsorship if the programs they want to attend have not received Program Approval, and as a result they will be in violation of the Undergraduate International Travel Policy should they still attend your program. 

FAQ Topics