Common Study Abroad Questions:
Q: What are the benefits of studying abroad?
- Gain international experience and perspective
- Enhance your resume and job prospects
- Learn a new language and culture
- Make lifelong friends from around the world
- Personal growth and development
- Understand the world on a more global scale
Q: How do I choose a study abroad program?
- Consider your academic interests and goals
- Research different countries and cultures
- Compare program costs and scholarships
- Talk to current or former study abroad students
- Attend study abroad fairs or information sessions
Q: What are the application requirements for study abroad programs?
(Checklist)
- Be in Good Academic Standing at your home institution
- Be enrolled in an academic institution during the program's active semester
- Purchase a passport for international travel
- Completed application form for your desired destination
- Meet with the Registrar's Office and/or advisor for course approval advice for chosen destination
- Gain approval signatures needed for required degree course substitutions at your home institute
- Do not miss the down payment and regular payment deadlines
- Transient students from another institution may take only the study abroad course(s)
Q: How can I afford to study abroad?
- Apply for scholarships and grants
- Save money by working part-time or full-time
- Take out loans or ask family/friends to invest in your future
- Participate in a work-study program
- Apply for a virtual exchange program
Q: What are the safety concerns of studying abroad?
- Research the crime rates and safety precautions of your chosen destination and be aware
- Register with your home country's embassy or consulate
- Most programs require and therefore provide travel insurance
- Be aware of your surroundings and take proper precautions, such as not walking alone at night and not carrying large amounts of cash
Common Study Abroad Facts:
- Over 370,000 American students study abroad each year.
- The most popular destinations for study abroad are the United Kingdom, Australia, China, France, and Italy.
- The average cost of studying abroad is $18,000 per year, $3,000-$5,000 for shorter summer semesters.
- There are many scholarships and grants available to help students afford to study abroad.
- Studying abroad can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.
Additional Tips for Studying Abroad:
- Start planning early.
- Do your research.
- Be open to new experiences.
- Be prepared for culture shock and/or reverse culture shock.
- Take advantage of your time abroad.
- Make the most of your study abroad experience.