Admissions

To apply for a High School Summer Seminar, visit the High School Checklist.

SEA Semester operates on a rolling admission basis, so we have no application deadlines! We review applications on a first-come, first-served basis until each class is filled. Therefore, we recommend that you apply well in advance of your preferred semester to ensure a spot. Program availability is listed on each program's webpage.

The First Step

To learn which SEA Semester program is right for you, contact your Admissions Counselor! You should also discuss your study abroad plans with your study abroad office and/or academic advisor to make sure of any additional requirements and procedures. We welcome applications from U.S. students as well as from students enrolled in international universities who are seeking a semester's worth of academic credit.

Every semester, SEA Admissions Counselors travel far and wide to visit colleges and universities across the country. Meeting an SEA Admissions Counselor in person is the best way to learn more about SEA Semester, so you should also take a look at our Campus Visits calendar to find out when a Counselor might be in your area!

Meet Your Admissions Counselor

Campus Visits

Application Checklist

1. Complete an application form
   Apply online or download the paper application (pdf). If using the paper form, submit via email to admission@sea.edu or fax to 800-977-8516.
2. Submit the $45 application fee**
   If you apply online, you will pay the fee during that process. If you apply on paper, you may submit the fee separately online or with a check payable to "Sea Education Association" (please write applicant’s name on the check).
   ** WAIVED for students from affiliated institutions. Contact your Admissions Counselor for the waiver code.
3. Submit two writing samples (500-750 words each)

   List your full name on each. Submit via email to admission@sea.edu or fax to 800-977-8516.

   1. Two-part essay (500-750 words): Why have you chosen to apply to SEA Semester and what do you expect to gain from your experience? How will the SEA Semester program to which you're applying (Ocean Exploration, Oceans & Climate, etc.) complement your education? Be sure to address both questions.
   2. Academic writing sample of your own choosing (2-4 page excerpt if longer than 4 pages). This should be a reflection of your best written work from a recent course, and on a topic applicable to your SEA Semester program of interest (science, history, environmental studies, literature, etc.). Please include your name and the context of the sample (course title and brief description of the assignment). Poetry or college entrance essays may be submitted only as a secondary sample.
4. Request and submit high school and college transcripts
   High school transcripts may be unofficial and sent via fax to 800-977-8516 or mailed to SEA Office of Admissions. College transcripts must be official and sent directly from your institution.
5. Submit two (2) academic references
   At least one should be from an instructor (i.e. professor, academic advisor) who has taught you within the past year. We welcome additional references (i.e. academic, personal, etc.). Access the reference form (pdf) (must be downloaded and saved in order to be completed electronically).
6. Schedule an interview with your Admissions Counselor
   Interviews may be conducted over the phone or in person, depending on the Counselor’s schedule. Topics of conversation may include life at your college/university, academic and extracurricular interests, transition from high school to college, your expectations for life at SEA, and how you learned about our program. The interview is also a great opportunity for you to ask questions about SEA.

Passport: Please note that all SEA Semester students must have a valid passport before joining the program.

Financial Aid: If you plan to apply for need-based financial aid, download a financial aid application (pdf) and submit it with your application for admission. If you plan to apply for merit scholarships, please note the application deadline for your preferred semester.

Hear from Recent Alumni

Program alumni are some of your best resources for learning more about SEA Semester. We encourage you to read what our students say to hear about the experience from their perspectives!

Read the Latest Student Newsletter

Catch up with the latest SEA Semester news & updates, student FAQs, and alumni stories: January 2013 e-news.