ARCH Abroad
Explore the world with your fellow ARCH scholars.
Join members of your ARCH scholars cohort for an exclusive, semester-long study abroad experience.

ARCH Abroad
Expand your horizons with an exclusive ARCH scholars study abroad program.
What is ARCH Abroad?
Each year, groups of first- and second-year ARCH Scholars have the opportunity to extend their Honors experience through ARCH Abroad programs, which are offered during the spring semester only. Currently, these opportunities include a semester in London, England, and one in Aberystwyth, Wales. A program in Rome, Italy, is planned to launch in 2027.
The London program is based in the South Kensington area and is administered in partnership with the Foundation for International Education (FIE), a London-based nonprofit with more than 25 years of experience coordinating study abroad programs. Over the course of the semester, students take courses in British life and culture, global leadership, and service learning, complemented by guided tours, site visits, and independent exploration. Second-year students may also participate in an internship aligned with their academic interests.
In Aberystwyth, students study at Aberystwyth University, founded in 1872 as the oldest university in Wales and recognized as the birthplace of the discipline of International Politics. The university is a center of excellence for teaching and research, with 98% of its work meeting internationally recognized standards (REF 2021). Nestled in the heart of Wales, the campus offers access to beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultural traditions. Consistently ranked top in England and Wales for Student Experience (Good University Guide 2025) and top in Wales for Student Satisfaction (National Student Survey 2024), Aberystwyth offers more than 100 student societies and sports clubs, along with free Lifelong Learning courses.
The Rome program partners with The American University of Rome (AUR), the oldest American degree-granting institution in the city, founded in 1969. AUR offers an American liberal arts education to students from around the world, with all courses taught in English. Located on the highest hill in Rome, the campus overlooks the historical center, offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding hills. Students have access to a wide range of courses across the liberal arts, providing a rich academic experience in one of the world’s most historically and culturally significant cities.
Living and studying abroad offers ARCH Scholars the opportunity to develop new perspectives, expand their understanding of global cultures, and strengthen their adaptability in diverse environments. Immersion in another country fosters independence, cross-cultural communication skills, and a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of today’s world. Whether in London, Aberystwyth, or Rome, ARCH Abroad programs combine rigorous academics with the rich personal growth that comes from living and learning in a new setting.
How to Participate
Access to the program is available to incoming ARCH scholars on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested in participating for Spring 2026, please fill out the form ASAP. You will be able to select your desired location in the form.
If you’ve received an invitation to join the ARCH Scholars Program or are a returning ARCH Scholar (will be a sophomore in 2025-2026), you can now .
Once you have completed the form, the Honors College will be in touch throughout the spring/summer with further details about confirming your seat and the next steps in the process. Keep an eye on your email inbox for more information about ARCH Abroad information sessions, important dates, and more!
ARCH London Program Details
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Cost
Please refer to the 'FIE Scholarships' section below for information on available scholarship opportunities.
Spring 2026 program cost: $19,195
South Carolina resident students will be able to use state and federal aid to help pay for this program. Non-resident students will be able to use any federal aid.
Fees include:
- CofC Center for International Education Application Processing
- FIE tuition, fees, and student housing
- Service learning placement experience
- Co- and extra- curricular activities throughout London with the FIE Student Life team
- 24-hour on-call site staff
- Health monitoring and medical referral service; FIE staff presence for all serious illness or injuries
- Student support and advice through the full complement of the FIE London team
- Attendance and an opportunity for student presentations at the FIE Student Global Leadership Conference in London, held annually in April
- Extended group orientation from before departure and upon arrival in London with thorough health and safety briefings and city tours before classes start
- Oyster Card - students are provided with a Transport for London pass for the duration of their time on the program. The pass covers Zones 1 and 2 of the underground tube and all above-ground bus service. FIE will "top up" the passes of any students who have service learning placements outside of Zone 2 during the placement period.
Fees exclude:
- Transatlantic airfare, passport and visa fees (service learning placements require a Tier 4 visa for most students)
- Meals
- Textbooks, lab fees, and academic materials
- Optional FIE extracurricular activities
- Personal expenses and independent travel and expenses
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Scholarships
Students are eligible to apply for FIE's Semester Scholarships, valued at $3,000 per award. Students choose a specific "route."
FIE became a Fund for Education Abroad Access Partner in 2018 to provide additional funding.
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Program Details & Class Structure
FIE's academic and administrative hub is Foundation House, a five-story Edwardian mansion housing modern classrooms, staff offices, and a student lounge. The Administration, Academic & Experiential Education, Communications & IT, Facilities, and Student Life teams are located in Foundation House.
Metrogate House serves as the largest student residence with laundry facilities, mail pickup for all FIE residences, a 24 hour PC lab, and our dedicated Facilities Support Team. Metrogate House also accommodates three classrooms for FIE students as well as staff offices allowing our staff to be easily accessible to students.
Weeks 1 through 7: Students take FIE's Key courses in British Life and Cultures which runs the duration of the program. Students take 2-3 more elective courses which will start and finish in the first seven weeks of the program and meet twice a week for three hours per session. Students will also prepare for service-learning placements.
Week 8: Mid-semester break
Weeks 9 through 15: Service-learning placements and continuing coursework. Students continue to participate in their key course and begin the experiential education seminar course: International Service and Leadership Course which includes participation in the Student Global Leadership Conference. Service-learning placements will take place for 8-10 hours a week engaging students with schools, libraries, community centers, and youth projects to realize creative projects such as performances and art work with various constituencies. Training for work within diverse audiences, awareness-raising and support in student development will be provided and offered as part of the placement and coursework. London is rich with registered charities and not-for-profit organizations that serve to deliver public services working to improve life in the city and beyond.
Classes
Students can choose from a selection of course work in the following areas:
classes coming soon!
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Housing
FIE's student residences are located in some of the most vibrant part of London, a short walk or tube ride from classes. Depending on the building, students live in double, triple, or quad occupancy rooms and each bedroom is fully furnished. Common kitchens are equipped with cookware, silverware, and dishes. Wireless internet access is available in all residences. Pay as you go laundry facilities and an 11-station PC Lab is open to FIE students 24/7 in Metrogate residence. All residences feature common living areas where students can interact. ARCH students would likely be paired up and rooming together and/or living in the same building near each other.
Metrogate House is an essential part of your FIE London experience! It was created from three 19th-century townhouses and is located a short 10-minute walk from Foundation House and just three minutes from the amenities of Gloucester Road. Metrogate House is home to the Study Lounge and Quiet Study Area, open to FIE students from all residences.
Hyde Park Gate is an impressive townhouse is just a ten-minute walk from Foundation House. Hyde Park Gate is comprised of seven spacious apartments overlooking Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. Not only is this superb residence conveniently located for students’ academic pursuits, but it is also close to High Street Kensington; a busy and bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and museums.
Manson Place is a townhouse located in the heart of South Kensington. It has a variety of accommodations ranging from two bedrooms to large, multi-bedroom apartments. This residence is within easy walking distance to the Foundation House as well as other FIE residences.
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London Immersion Opportunities
FIE encourages students to proactively take advantage of and participate in the many opportunities to interact with local people and culture FIE offers.
- The FIE Student Life Team plans weekend or day trips for all FIE students to participate. They often have local activities to explore and enjoy London, but sometimes plan weekend trips for those who wish to travel outside London. The Student Life Team will also help in planning more elaborate trips around the UK and Europe for students who wish to travel more on their own time during weekends or break.
- London students have associate memberships in the Imperial College Student Union which offers more than 300 clubs and societies and access to Imperial's various student cafes and restaurants. Imperial also hosts a variety of social events like pub quiz nights and free concerts, all of which are open to FIE students.
- In addition to joining a sports/fitness society through the Imperial College Union, FIE has a relationship with a local gym where students can join for a discounted fee.
- HOST is a voluntary UK organization that aims to help international students make the most of their time in the UK by bringing them together with friendly British families - FIE subsidizes the student participation fee.
- All FIE courses required 3-4 co-curricular trips (museums, walks, class outside, historical visits, etc.) so students are guaranteed to explore London using it as a classroom.
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Student Support Services
Accessibility, Health, Counseling, Safety, Security, & Emergency Medical Support
FIE prides itself on going above and beyond the typical offerings of a study abroad provider to ensure that students are well supported in every facet of their experience. Safety for program participants is FIE's highest priority.Their approach ensures participants are supported and well educated on issues that affect their physical safety, emotional well-being, and overall preparedness.
- FIE works closely with its university partners, placement sites, and affiliated organizations to provide an accessible experience for all students. FIE Accessibility Manager will assist your students with their accessibility needs or queries, from pre-application through their entire study abroad experience
- FIE London has a licensed counselor/psychotherapist who can meet with students who are exploring difficulties during their time abroad. Three counseling sessions and referral for ongoing counseling is a complimentary service offered by FIE
- Health monitoring and medical referral service; FIE staff presence is offered for all serious illness or injuries and in cases of hospitalization
- Emergency 24/7 support is available in person or via telephone from Metrogate Residence front desk staff
- Providing program participants with critical pre-departure information on issues related to health and safety preparedness
- Training participants on potential health and safety issues that may arise during their stay, including situational analyses and ways to identify dangerous situations, along with culturally specific guidelines to acceptable behavior, clothing, and overall conduct
- FIE staff and faculty are trained in US Title IX and Clery responsibilities and will coordinate with Title IX and Clery staff on the home campus as needed
Student Life Team
The FIE Student Life Team is responsible for student health and well-being. Throughout the semester, they offer ongoing help, information, and advice on a broad number of issues in a well-rounded 'drop-in' Student Life Office.
Access
Wireless Internet access is available in all residences. Pay as you go laundry facilities and a 11-station PC Lab is open to FIE students 24/7 in Metrogate Residence. All residences feature common living areas where students can interact.
Residence Life Supervisors
Residence Life Supervisors, or "RLS," live in all FIE residences and assist students with various residence life questions and concerns outside of standard hours. FIE RLSs draw on their experiences of living and working in the education sector in London to enhance residential experiences.
Transportation
Students are provided with a Transport for London (Oyster Card) for the duration of their time in the program. The pass covers Zones 1 and 2 of the underground (tube) and all above-ground bus service.
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More about FIE
The Foundation for International Education (FIE) is a London-based non-profit educational organization established in 1998 to provide customized partnership programs and individual student enrollment programs in London, Dublin, and Amman. FIE's partner institutions find value in our expert staff, experienced faculty, sound infrastructure, unique curriculum, and global stewardship. They offer a variety of ways to build and deliver academic programs rich in experiential learning. FIE's coursework spans a variety of disciplines, and emphasis is placed on academic rigor and the utilization of London as a classroom. FIE is a leader in academic internship provision, and over the years has developed a robust network of partner organizations trained to receive student interns from the United States.
Watch FIE's
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Who is eligible to participate?
ARCH London is an exclusive study abroad opportunity only for students in the ARCH Scholars Program. This study abroad program will run during the spring semester only. ARCH students are welcome to participate in this study abroad during their first or second year of the ARCH Program.
ARCH Wales Program Details (Aberystwyth University)
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Cost
Spring 2026 program cost: $13,119
- Students do not pay tuition to the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø
- Only federal and state aid is applicable
Fees include:
- ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø CIE Application Processing
- Housing
- Laundry
- Official Transcripts
- On-site orientation
- On-site staff support
- Pre-departure Advising
- Tuition
- Internet access in housing
- Internet access on site
Fees exclude:
- Transatlantic airfare
- Airport drop-off/pick-up
- Local transportation
- Travel insurance
- Application fees
- Country visa/permits
- Passport application expenses
- Meals
- Textbooks, lab fees, and academic materials
- International medical insurance
- Personal expenses and independent travel and expenses
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Program Details & Class Structure
The Spring 2026 semester will run January 2026 - May 2026 (16.1 weeks).
Students will earn transfer credit at the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø if they earn the US equivalent of a C or better. Students must have all courses approved for transfer credit by the appropriate academic department at the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø. For more information on the transfer credit policy and to check the course approval inventory for courses that have already been approved for transfer credit, please visit the .
Students typically will enroll in 3 modules (courses). 2 out of the 3 modules should be from the same .
Courses:
Courses can be found here:
Instructional Languages: English
Subject Areas:
Biochemistry; Biology; Business Administration, Management And Operations; Celtic Languages, Literatures, And Linguistics; Computer Science; English Composition; English Language And Literature/Letters; English Literature (British And Commonwealth); Fine And Studio Arts; Geography; Geological And Earth Sciences/Geosciences; History; History; Information Science/Studies; Integrative Studies; Integrative Studies; Integrative Studies; Integrative Studies; Integrative Studies; Integrative Studies; Integrative Studies; International/Global Studies; Marketing; Marketing/Marketing Management; Mathematics; Physics; Psychology; Sociology; Theatre/Theater
Academics Information:
Credits- The last two digits of every module equals the Aberystwyth Credit amount .e.g., MC10720
Module ending in ‘20’ equals 5 CofC credits
Pass is: 40% for undergraduate courses
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Housing
Housing Type: Residence hall
Housing Information: All students must stay in accommodations provided by the program.
Enjoy living in our Cwrt Mawr on campus accommodation for free with the university’s . Students will be in single bedrooms with shared kitchens and bathrooms.
As a resident in University-managed accommodation, students will receive free Platinum gym membership to the , giving students access to all of the facilities, and fitness and wellness classes.
Location Information:
Aberystwyth is a vibrant and welcoming university town in a stunning location on the west coast of Wales. Nestled between Snowdonia National Park, the Cambrian Mountains and Cardigan Bay it provides a rugged landscape of mountains, rolling hills, valleys, sand, and sea.
Aberystwyth University is a bilingual university and offers students the opportunity to learn the Welsh language, free of charge. Aberystwyth is also the home to the National Library of Wales, one of only six copyright libraries in the UK, and a hub for Welsh language, culture, and history.
With three beautiful beaches to choose from, there’s no better place to spot dolphins, experience our amazing sunsets, and watch the mesmerizing starling murmuration’s, all a short walk from campus.
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Student Support Services
While at University students have access to a range of support services. Working with you, these services can help you achieve solutions for most of the challenges you may face in student life.
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More about Aberystwyth University
Founded in 1872, Aberystwyth University is the oldest university in Wales and is the birthplace of the discipline of International Politics, with the first department of its kind in the world. Aberystwyth University is centre of excellence for teaching and research, with 98% of research undertaken being of an internationally recognized standard of higher (REF 2021).
Choose courses from a variety of subject areas and departments and transfer the credit back to your home university. You will be supported throughout your journey by dedicated advisers to help with your application, visa, arrival and more.
Live in a stunning location in the very heart of Wales, home to beautiful landscapes and a variety of rich cultures. Top in England and Wales for Student Experience (Good University Guide 2025, The Times and Sunday Times), and Top in Wales for Student Satisfaction (National Student Survey 2024), there are plenty of opportunities to follow your passions and explore new interests by joining any of the university’s 100+ student societies and sports clubs and signing up to our free Lifelong Learning courses.
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Who is eligible to participate?
ARCH Wales (Aberystwyth University) is an exclusive study abroad opportunity only for students in the ARCH Scholars Program. This study abroad program will run during the spring semester only. ARCH students are welcome to participate in this study abroad during their first or second year of the ARCH Program.
- Students must be accepted into the ARCH Scholars program
- Students must be Freshman or Sophomores
- Students must possess a valid passport or be eligible to obtain a valid passport
- Students must be in good standing with the College
ARCH Rome Program Details
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More about American University
The Rome program partners with The American University of Rome (AUR), the oldest American degree-granting institution in the city, founded in 1969. AUR offers an American liberal arts education to students from around the world, with all courses taught in English. Located on the highest hill in Rome, the campus overlooks the historical center, offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding hills. Students have access to a wide range of courses across the liberal arts, providing a rich academic experience in one of the world’s most historically and culturally significant cities.
ARCH Rome has an anticipated start date of Spring 2027. More information coming soon!
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Who is eligible to participate?
ARCH Rome is an exclusive study abroad opportunity only for students in the ARCH Scholars Program. This study abroad program will run during the spring semester only. ARCH students are welcome to participate in this study abroad during their first or second year of the ARCH Program.
ARCH Rome has an anticipated start date of Spring 2027. More information coming soon!