We have extended the enrollment deadline to May 15, 2024. View the announcement.

Carolina Global Launch

Carolina Global Launch is an exciting path to UNC-Chapel Hill that begins with a semester abroad in Costa Rica, Ireland, Scotland, South Korea, or Spain.

Stirling Castle in Stirling, Scotland.

This opportunity enables you to study abroad during the fall semester, and then enroll at Carolina in the spring semester. Carolina Global Launch is open to first-year applicants who are U.S. citizens and permanent residents.

By participating in Carolina Global Launch, you’ll immerse yourself in a new culture at an international university, selected by Carolina for its academic strength and breadth of opportunities. You’ll also earn credit toward your Carolina degree, take part in exciting excursions, and get to know other new Tar Heels!

Where can I study?

You’ll be able to indicate interest in one of five program locations.

Veritas University

San Jose, Costa Rica

Situated among the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica, Veritas University offers a unique learning environment that will take you from cloud forests to the Caribbean. Veritas is home to a diverse international student body and a rich array of programs ranging from STEM courses to the humanities.

University of LImerick

Limerick, Ireland

Located on the historic River Shannon, the University of Limerick’s idyllic campus is the perfect setting for an Irish adventure. Coursework at the university includes a wide range of humanities-based and STEM classes on a modern yet historic campus.

University of Stirling

Stirling, Scotland

The University of Stirling is ranked first in the UK and fifth in the world for its campus environment, and offers internationally recognized programs in philosophy, education, and psychology. The 310-acre campus features its own loch and castle, and the city itself buzzes with a lively, student-friendly energy.

Korea University

Seoul, South Korea

Located in one of the world’s most exciting capital cities, Korea University is one of Asia’s most prestigious and multicultural universities. Home to approximately 20,000 undergraduate students, Korea University will be the perfect place to visit Korea´s historic past and embrace its vibrant future.

University of Granada

Granada, Spain

Discover Spain’s rich heritage and practice your Spanish language skills in the heart of Andalucía. During its almost 500 years of existence, Universidad de Granada has become a major intellectual center in southern Spain. Granada is known for its tapas, access to nature, and arts and music festivals.

How can I be considered?

On your application for admission to Carolina, indicate which site(s) most interest you.

Expressing interest in Carolina Global Launch will not impact your consideration for fall admission to Carolina.

If we are not able to offer you a spot in the fall class, expressing interest in the program means you will be considered for this opportunity to study abroad during the fall semester and then have guaranteed enrollment at Carolina for the spring semester.

If offered a place in Carolina Global Launch, you will be eligible for financial aid for the spring semester in Chapel Hill. Financial aid is not available for the fall semester while you are studying abroad. Limited one-time scholarships are available for Carolina Global Launch, and we’ll automatically consider you for these based on your application for admission.

As you decide whether Carolina Global Launch is an opportunity that’s right for you, explore our Frequently Asked Questions for the latest updates.