Center for Global Engagement

Center for Global Engagement

Patricia Trent, Executive Director

Mission

The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) strives to infuse an international dimension to Longwood’s concept of the citizen leader. Bringing qualified international students to campus, providing quality learning opportunities abroad, and empowering faculty to explore transnational research and teaching opportunities, the CGE prepares students to be successful leaders in a multicultural world.

Study Abroad

Study Abroad programs are available in the form of short-term group programs led by Longwood University faculty during summers or winter intersessions, one- or two-month academic summer programs, and semester and year programs and internships. About a year ahead, students should start the planning by making an appointment with the study abroad director, or study abroad advisor in the Center for Global Engagement. Study abroad opportunities are open to all students; a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5 is required for most partner study abroad programs, and 2.0 for most faculty-led programs. Modern Language majors are required to study abroad for at least one full semester, Honors students and students minoring in International Studies also have a study abroad requirement. All federal, state, and institutional financial aid, with the exception of Federal Work Study, may be applied toward the costs of approved study abroad programs. Numerous scholarships are available for students wishing to study abroad. For complete information on upcoming programs, requirements for participation, credit transfer, and application procedures; and for help in selecting a program and for program approval, please visit the Center for Global Engagement in Lankford 201. The CGE website contains information that will be helpful as you begin to plan study abroad:

Study Abroad

International Admissions

Longwood admits qualified international students who have completed secondary school in their home countries, in US high schools, and/or college transfers from the US and abroad. International students must submit certified copies of translated secondary school or college transcripts and/or national exams; and proof of English proficiency if student is a non-native speaker of English.  When English proficiency exams such as TOEFL or IELTS are unavailable, students may request an Interview Assessment. Standardized tests such as SAT or ACT are not required but might be considered in scholarship decisions and for entry into the Honors College. Students who fall below the minimum English proficiency requirement but are otherwise admissible may be eligible to enroll through the English Bridge program.

In addition to enrolling degree seeking students, Longwood admits non-degree seeking international students for semester or year-long study. International exchange students from partner schools enroll through the one-to-one exchange arrangements the CGE has with partners in seven countries.  Direct enrollment is available to short-term, non-degree seeking, non-partner students.

The CGE works closely with the Athletics department to address the admissions and enrollment needs of international student athletes, ensuring NCAA Division 1 compliance.

More information on the admissions requirements for international students can be found here.

English Bridge Program

EBP is an academic transition program for new, non-native English speaking, undergraduate students. Students will enroll as first semester freshmen taking a mix of required courses including academic English and Citizen 110 for Bridge students. Students will be mentored and coached through their first academic year to ensure their success. The EBP does not require additional fees, and EBP students are eligible for scholarships.

English Language Bridge Program

International Students and Scholars 

The CGE provides non-immigrant visa advising, airport transportation, orientation, cultural programming, and field trips for international student/scholars.  Additionally, CGE staff serve as advisors to two globally focused student organizations: Global Leaders, and International Student Advisory Council.

International Student and Scholar Services

CGE Faculty Development

The CGE provides opportunities for faculty to travel in support of transnational collaboration and to explore possibilities for future faculty-led programs. Additionally, the CGE offers support to new international faculty, and develops training and educational opportunities for faculty and staff on intercultural communication and working with international students.