STUDY ABROAD

FAQs

Why should I study abroad?

There is ample evidence that people learn well and develop a broader perspective when studying and living in a different culture. As all regions of the world become more independent, it is also increasingly apparent that the truly educated person is one who has had first hand acquaintance with other cultures, both as preparation for responsible citizenship and, in a more practical way, as a basis for a career.

In the words of former Senator J. William Fulbright, who established the Fulbright scholar exchange program, "perhaps the greatest power of educational exchange is the power to convert nations into peoples and to translate ideologies into human aspirations."

Also consider:

• the educational advantage of taking coursework in another culture to complement your academic program
• the enhancement of language skills
• the understanding of another culture unavailable to you through academic study alone
• the deeper awareness of the values and way of life of your own country, your own place in that country, and its place in the world
• the educational challenge of participating in a different educational system
• the chance to learn more about your own heritage
• the provision of an international dimension to your intellectual and career development

Do I have to be able to speak a foreign language to study abroad?

No. Short-term programs especially do not require a language other than English?in fact, the focus of many short-term programs is immersion second language study. However, competency in a second language always expands your options for study. Many of the longer-term options offer a language study component along with some content instruction (for example, business, or culture and history) in English. Of course, a study abroad program in an English-speaking country is always a possibility, too.

When should I start searching for a study abroad program?

A year before you plan to be abroad is not too soon. The earlier you start planning to study abroad, the more time you have to select the right program for you, to adapt your academic path to be consistent with your study abroad objectives, to arrange financing, and to ensure you have all necessary course approvals.

We recommend that you start the application process 6-12 months in advance for semester programs and 3-6 months in advance for summer programs. If you plan to transfer to a 4-year school in a year or more, you may be able to take part in a semester or year abroad as an entering junior. Contact your transfer-in school for more information.

How do I choose a study abroad program?

There are several factors to consider in choosing a study abroad program that reflect your interests and academic needs. Consider:

Language: Are you fluent enough in another language to be able to take classes in that language, or do you need an English-based program that will allow you to focus on subject matter?

Credit: What academic credit do you need to receive in order to continue on your degree progression?

Area of study: Do you want your study abroad experience to deepen your skill in your academic field or round out your knowledge with a completely different experience?

Time: How much time do you have to study abroad?

Type of experience: Do you want a traditional academic classroom experience or something non-traditional such as a field or volunteer opportunity?

Location: Are you deeply interested in one specific location or would you prefer a program or location that will allow you to see multiple countries and cities during your time abroad?

Setting: Do you prefer to live in a modern, high-energy city or do you prefer something more quaint, rural or exotic?

What kind of help can I expect when I participate in an academic study abroad program?

Study abroad programs vary widely in the services they provide to participants.

At one end, some programs are "direct enrollment" programs where you will be primarily responsible for finding your housing, navigating the enrollment processes of the university and generally making your own way as a regular student at the foreign university. At the other end of the spectrum are "island" programs where students are in self-contained groups with other Americans and all aspects of the experiences are centrally coordinated.

Specific services that programs might provide can include: pre-departure and post-departure orientations, local program directors and emergency support, enrollment and registration, housing and local telephones.

I can't afford to study abroad! What should I do?

Study abroad does not have to be out of your reach financially if you plan ahead. For example, if you are currently receiving financial aid at your home institution, you can often apply it to semester-long study abroad programs, as long as you maintain full-time academic status. Other options for financing your semester abroad include scholarships and private loan programs.

Is studying abroad safe?

While no program can guarantee your safety abroad, safety is a manageable issue in most countries. Many countries are likely to be statistically safer than your home state. But no matter where you go, preparedness is critical in having a safe study abroad experience. Some important items to consider:

• What kinds of guidelines and preparation does your study abroad provider give to participants?

• What resources for managing health and safety issues are provided ?

• Does your study abroad provider provide a pre-departure and/or post-departure safety orientation?

• Is medical, evacuation, and repatriation insurance included in your program? If not, is your study abroad provider able to refer you to insurance options?

• Have you prepared yourself by researching the politics, customs and health and safety issues associated with the location you are studying? Have you made plans for any personal medical issues that might arise?

Can I work while I am in another country?

In some countries such as Australia and Canada, opportunities for part-time work are open to foreign students. Check with the education section of the country¡¯s local consulate or embassy for more details, or visit the International Studies Center on campus.

Where will I live?

Most programs have the option of a home stay placement with a local family or on-campus dormitory accommodation, or a combination of the two. Some short-term programs use hostels, hotels or bed and breakfast accommodations. In some cases, private off-campus rental accommodation is available.

Am I eligible for financial assistance?

In most cases, if you qualify for financial aid at your home campus, you can include many of the costs of study abroad in your financial aid packet, especially if you will be enrolled fulltime. In addition, there are scholarship opportunities available for many semester- and year-long programs. For assistance, check with the International Studies Center and Financial Aid Office. Planning ahead is the key to securing financial assistance of any kind.