Start your academic journey abroad!
Freshman Launch Year (FLY)
Stony Brook University prides itself on delivering a world class education and fostering global opportunities for its students. The Freshman Launch Year (FLY) program is a unique experience that allows newly admitted Stony Brook students to begin their academic journey abroad from their very first semester. Through FLY, students can choose to explore the vibrant city of Shanghai, engage with the tech hub of Seoul, or immerse themselves in Renaissance culture in Florence. Participants earn Stony Brook credit and make degree progress before ever setting foot on campus in New York!
FLORENCE, ITALY
SEOUL, KOREA
SHANGHAI, CHINA
FLY Highlights
- Premapped courses allow students from a variety of majors to feel secure in selecting the best classes to suit their academic goals. All courses earn SBU credit and count toward degree progress.
- On-site SBU program staff available to help guide and support students in a uniquely Stony Brook experience.
- Students will be engaged throughout their program in various social and cultural activities to help broaden their experience and make friends and connections that will last a lifetime.
Deadlines
China: July 31
Italy and Korea: July 31 (subject to availability). We recommend applying as soon as possible for the
best chance of securing a spot.
Apply
Students Admitted to Stony Brook
Admitted to Stony Brook but want to begin abroad this fall?
If you’ve been accepted to another U.S. college or university but are unsure whether
you can begin in the U.S. this fall, Stony Brook’s Freshman Launch Year (FLY) program
offers a unique alternative. Begin your first semester at one of Stony Brook’s global
locations, earning transferable college credit in a dynamic international setting.
These credits can be applied toward a Stony Brook degree through a simplified application
process, or transferred to your original institution with an official Stony Brook
transcript.
New Applicants to Stony Brook University
Missed the regular deadline but still hoping to start your college journey this fall?
If you didn’t apply to Stony Brook by the First Year deadlines (January 15 for Fall,
November 1 for Spring), you still have an opportunity. Through our Freshman Launch
Year (FLY) program, you can begin your college journey at one of Stony Brook’s global
locations with a special application window. You’ll earn full academic credit while
gaining international experience before transitioning to the main campus.
View step-by-step application guide
Students Admitted to Other U.S. Institutions
Admitted elsewhere but hoping to start your college journey abroad this fall?
If you’ve been accepted to another U.S. college or university but are unsure whether
you can begin in the U.S. this fall, Stony Brook’s Freshman Launch Year (FLY) program
offers a unique alternative. Begin your first semester at one of Stony Brook’s global
locations, earning transferable college credit in a dynamic international setting.
These credits can be applied toward a Stony Brook degree through a simplified application
process, or transferred to your original institution with an official Stony Brook
transcript.
Program Cost
FLY students pay standard tuition and fees to Stony Brook University, plus a location specific program fee. Students are responsible for covering their own travel and living expenses. FLY participants enjoy lower housing and fees at their international location compared to the costs of living on campus at Stony Brook University. The FLY program offers a more affordable option, allowing students to save money while embarking on a unique global experience.
Additionally, students can apply their Stony Brook semester scholarships toward their FLY semester program. Click below to see specific program budgets.
Contact Us
flyiap@stonybrook.edu
Tel: 631-632-7030