Are study abroad grades impactful?

Study abroad grades can be impactful depending on the context. If the program is credit-bearing and recognized by your home institution, the grades often count toward your degree. This affects your GPA and academic standing, making them significant for future academic or career opportunities.

However, some universities only award pass/fail credits for study abroad programs, minimizing the direct impact on GPA. Employers and graduate schools may still value the experience for its cultural and skill-building benefits, even if grades aren’t emphasized. Always verify grading policies with your home institution to understand how study abroad performance will be recorded and assessed.