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Course Approval Process

Select the guide that corresponds to the type of program you are participating in. This will give you a step-by-step process on how to get courses approved for GVSU credits.

Exchange/Provider

For students studying abroad through Exchange programs or Provider programs, the course approval process is more involved. We recommend getting started on it right away and we are happy to assist you throughout the process.

Check out the guide below to get started.

Exchange/Provider Course Approval Process Guide

Independent Study

Independent Study is a very unique way of receiving credit for your study abroad experience. Typically students are not receiving a transcript and must enroll in a GVSU independent study course. Every instance is different.

Contact: [email protected]

Internships

For students participating in credit bearing internships abroad, the process is similar to Exchange/Provider programs, but there is more assistance from your coordinator throughout the process of retrieving course approvals from departments. This currently applies only to internship only, not Internship + Study Combos, where students should reference the Exchange/Provider Guide linked above.  The course approval process can start once you are accepted and working with your GVSU study abroad coordinator.

Contact Kristen Cloutier with questions [email protected]

Course Approval Database

In order for your courses from your study abroad experience to transfer to GVSU, you will need to use the Course Approval Database. Within this system, you will be able to look at courses other GVSU students have had approved in the past, you will be able to add a new course to the database, and you can even request General Education Foundations credit.

Course Approval Database

  1. Login and create a profile
  2. Create your profile with a few basic questions
  3. Start viewing previously reviewed courses and request new ones!
Page last modified August 10, 2026