How Croft Works
See how Croft works, what students study, and how the program helps them build a clear path through International Studies.
Inside the Croft Experience
Croft operates differently from a traditional major. Students apply directly to the Institute, move through a defined International Studies curriculum, study a modern language every year, spend at least one semester abroad, and complete original research before graduation.
Families can expect a clear path through the program, with guidance around applying, scholarships, coursework, study abroad, research, and the larger Croft experience.
Your Path Through Croft
Start with the Croft Application
Students apply to Croft in addition to applying to the ÍøÆØÃÅ. The Croft application includes three letters of recommendation and two essays, helping the Institute learn more about each student’s academic strengths, interests, and readiness for the program.
Each entering class includes a limited cohort of high-achieving, highly motivated students, creating a small, academically focused community.
Apply for Scholarships
Croft awards competitive scholarships and selective funding for study abroad. Students who apply to Croft before the January 10th deadline are automatically considered for the Croft scholarship.
Selected finalists are invited to interview, either in person or remotely.
Build Your Academic Path
Croft students begin a modern language in their first semester and continue language study throughout all four years. Their progress culminates in a nationally recognized Oral Proficiency Interview, giving students an independent assessment of their language proficiency before graduation.
Students also select both a regional concentration and a thematic track. Regional concentrations include East Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East and North Africa. Thematic tracks focus on areas such as culture, economics, politics, and healthcare or public health.
Study in the Region You Learn About
Every Croft student studies abroad for at least one semester, with some completing a full academic year abroad. Students study in a country connected to their language and regional focus, often through direct exchange programs where they complete academic coursework alongside local students.
Croft advisors help students plan this experience carefully so study abroad fits their academic path and keeps them moving toward graduation.
Complete Original Research
In the senior year, Croft students complete an independent thesis under faculty guidance. The project brings together regional expertise, thematic focus, and language skills through original research.
The senior thesis gives students a serious piece of work they can carry into graduate study, fellowships, public service, and future careers.
Connect Your Experience To What Comes Next
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Find Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Faculty and staff help students connect with opportunities that support their academic and professional goals, including internships, national fellowships, research experiences, public service, and other ways to build on their Croft education.
Explore Internships, Fellowships & Opportunities -
See Where Croft Leads
Croft graduates use their International Studies background in public service, law, medicine, business, education, nonprofit work, and international careers.
Learn About Life After Croft -
Meet the Croft Alumni Community
After Croft, alumni continue to support the Institute and one another through mentorship, professional connections, and shared investment in the student experience.
See Croft Alumni in Action
Ask Your Croft Questions
Families sometimes have questions about applying, scholarships, language study, study abroad, and whether the program is the right fit. Our admissions team can help you understand the program, talk through next steps, and connect you with the information you need. In the interim, Ian Gowan is overseeing recruiting and admissions and can be reached directly with any questions.
Ian Gowan
Instructional Associate Professor of Spanish and Croft Associate Director