Study Abroad
Take Your Education Somewhere New
Studying abroad can give you the opportunity to experience another culture, develop independence, gain new perspectives, and continue making progress toward your education.
Programs vary widely in destination, length, academic focus, cost, housing, and eligibility.
The key is finding an experience that fits your academic goals, finances, and comfort level.
Start With Your Goals
Before choosing a destination, think about what you want from the experience.
You might want to:
- Study a particular subject.
- Develop language skills.
- Experience another culture.
- Complete an internship or research experience.
- Gain international experience related to your career.
- Challenge yourself personally.
Knowing your goals can help you evaluate programs beyond simply choosing a place you'd like to visit.
Explore Your College's Programs
Start with your college's study abroad or international education office.
Ask about:
- Available destinations
- Academic programs
- Eligibility requirements
- Program length
- Application deadlines
- Housing
- Support while abroad
- Costs
- Scholarships and financial aid
- How credits apply toward your degree
Your college may offer its own programs or work with partner institutions and approved providers.
Make Sure the Credits Fit Your Degree
Before committing to a program, talk with your academic advisor.
Understand:
- Which courses you'll take.
- How the credits will transfer or apply.
- Whether they meet major, minor, general education, or elective requirements.
- Whether participating could affect prerequisite sequences.
- Whether the experience changes your expected graduation timeline.
Get necessary course approvals before leaving whenever possible.
Understand the Full Cost
Compare more than the program price.
Your budget might include:
- Tuition and program fees
- Housing
- Meals
- Airfare
- Local transportation
- Passport or visa costs
- Insurance
- Books and supplies
- Personal expenses
- Communication
- Independent travel
- Currency exchange differences
- Ask what is included and what you'll need to pay separately.
Explore Financial Aid & Scholarships
Financial aid may be available for eligible study abroad programs, but how your aid can be used depends on the program and your circumstances.
Talk with both the study abroad office and financial aid office before making financial commitments.
Also research scholarships specifically for international education.
Explore Financial Aid →
Research Your Destination
Learn about the place where you'll be living—not just visiting.
Research:
- Culture and customs
- Language
- Transportation
- Climate
- Local laws
- Currency
- Healthcare
- Communication
- Safety
- Current travel information
Understanding local expectations can make the transition easier and help you interact more respectfully with your host community.
Prepare Your Documents
International travel may require:
- Passport
- Visa or other entry documentation
- Program documentation
- Insurance information
- Health or vaccination documentation
- Emergency contact information
Requirements vary by destination and program.
Start early. Some documents can take significant time to obtain.
Understand Health & Safety Support
Before leaving, know:
- Who to contact during an emergency
- What support your program provides
- How you'll access healthcare
- What insurance coverage applies
- How your college communicates during an emergency
- What to do if travel conditions change
Review current travel information from appropriate government and program resources.
Prepare for the Experience
You don't need to be fluent in another language to benefit from every study abroad program, but learning about the language and culture can help you navigate daily life and interact more thoughtfully.
Approach the experience with curiosity and respect.
Part of studying abroad is learning how other people live, communicate, work, and understand the world.
Bring the Experience Home
After returning, think about what you learned.
Consider how the experience influenced your:
- Academic interests
- Career goals
- Communication skills
- Independence
- Cultural awareness
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability
Add relevant experiences and skills to your résumé and be prepared to explain what you learned to future employers or graduate programs.
