J-TERM
Can’t choose just one country? IAU offers January Term (J-Term) Traveling Seminars that visit multiple locations. On J-Term, students travel for two to three weeks between the fall and spring semesters. Students can also choose to start their study abroad experience early by participating in a J-Term before their spring semester in Aix-en-Provence, Barcelona, Madrid, or Florence.
Program Dates
December 29, 2026 – January 16, 2027
Application Timeline
Jun 1
Application Available
Sept 30
Applications Close
Oct 2
Deposit Deadline
J-Term Programs
J-Term Cost
| 2027 J-Term Fees | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | $4,623 |
| Program Fee | $2,143 |
| Total Cost | $7,200 |
FAQs
What is J-Term?
J-Term is a short, intensive academic term offered in January between the fall and spring semesters. IAU’s J-Term programs combine coursework with immersive travel, allowing students to earn academic credit while studying abroad.
Who is J-Term for?
J-Term is ideal for students who want a short-term study abroad experience, need additional credits, are studying abroad for the first time, or cannot commit to a full semester abroad.
How long are J-Term programs?
IAU J-Term programs last 2-3 weeks from the end of December until mid-January.
Do I need prior coursework or language study?
No prior language study or specialized coursework is required unless specified on the program page. All IAU’s J-Term courses are taught in English.
How will my credits transfer back to my home university?
Please speak with your school’s advisors about how the course credit will transfer back to your home university.
At the end of your program, the IAU Registrar’s Office will process and send your transcript to your home university. Transcripts typically reach your university by mid-to-late February.
Are courses taught in English?
Yes. All IAU’s J-Term courses are taught in English.
What is included in the program fee?
Program fees include housing, 3 academic credits, academic site visits, on-site support, international health insurance coverage, transportation for activities and inter-country travel during the program, daily breakfasts and some additional meals.
Airfare to and from the program, some meals, personal expenses, and passport or visa fees are not included.
Where will I live during the program?
Housing is arranged by IAU and may include hotels, apartments, or student residences, depending on the program and location.
What kind of support will I have during the program?
Students receive on-site support from IAU staff and faculty, as well as access to 24/7 emergency assistance. IAU emphasizes safety through pre-departure orientation, vetted housing, local staff support, and established emergency protocols.
Are scholarships available?
Scholarship availability varies. The deadline for scholarships for J-Term programs is October 1st. Students should check the financial aid & scholarship page or contact IAU admissions for current opportunities at admissions@iau.edu.
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements depend on citizenship and destination. Most U.S. passport holders do not need a visa for short-term J-Term programs, but students are responsible for confirming requirements.
MAYMESTER
IAU’s Maymester programs offer students the opportunity to take a 3-credit seminar course at the beginning of the summer during the month of May. Maymester seminars take a global perspective, and emphasize the experiential learning that comes with being in an academic environment outside the classroom, with excursions and trips that accompany coursework.
Maymester Programs
| Seminar | Cities Visited | Program Dates |
|---|---|---|
| The Many Faces of France |
Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Lyon, Strasbourg, Paris |
May 11-29, 2026 |
| The Biz: Film Making and Marketing | Cannes | May 10-24, 2026 |
Maymester Application Dates
Dec 1
Application Available
Mar 17
Applications Close
Mar 17
Deposit Deadline