Study Abroad
One of the advantages of going to college is participating in study abroad programs, where you get to visit other countries while taking classes, and yes, some of it is covered by your financial aid packet!
Types of Study Abroad Programs
There are different types of study abroad programs. There are short-term 1-2 weeks to a full academic year. You can take classes in other languages, but also in English; they can be electives or major requirements! Studying abroad allows you to learn about other cultures, practice another language, visit foreign countries, participate in research opportunities, and meet friends!
Exchange Programs
Colleges have agreements with foreign colleges, allowing students to study internationally (for a semester or full academic year) and pay home tuition and fees. You can enroll in courses abroad that will count towards your major, minor or other degree requirements.
Virtual International Programs
You can participate in global academic or internship programs. These are less costly, there is no travel involved and you can participate in multiple foreign programs simultaneously.
Faculty-Led Programs
These are usually short-term (1- 6 weeks) for one or a couple of classes. Your professor (organizer) will be the main point of contact. Most programs have between 15 to 30 students and run during the summer, but there are also many winter and spring-break options.
Third-Party Provider Programs
Some colleges have third-party liasons between the students and the study abroad opportunities, organizing travel arrangements, placements and on-site support.
Internships & Research
These can be working positions arranged by the college or a third party. You could earn credit and at the same time be placed in a foreign company or organization.
Direct Enrollment
For this type of study abroad you (the student) will be the one organizing it. You can directly apply and plan a study abroad experience. Make sure to check in with your main campus to meet all the graduation requirements if you are traveling.
Service-Learning or Volunteer Programs
These programs involve work or service-based learning opportunities that allow students to participate in organizations or communities with certain needs.
Semester at Sea
Earn a full semester’s worth of course credit and develop a deeper understanding of the world through onboard and in-country learning opportunities that connect the classroom to the communities you visit.
Study Abroad Advising
Many colleges have a Study Abroad Office or Global Learning Center that offers different opportunities and spaces where you can ask questions and receive more information about your college's offerings.
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Workshops: Sign up for info sessions or visit study abroad booths at college fairs to learn more about deadlines, major-specific opportunities, and upcoming study abroad programs.
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Walk-ins: Visit your study-abroad office and have a quick chat regarding your options and how/where to learn more.
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Advising Appointments: Study abroad staff is available to offer you a one-on-one conversation
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College-specific: your college (e.g., the College of Engineering, the College of Education) might offer major-specific study abroad opportunities. Faculty from your major might be the main point of contact to learn more about study abroad opportunities.
How To Pay For Study Abroad Programs?
Studying abroad will definitely incur additional costs to your college expenses. You will need to account for travel expenses, living arrangements (housing, meals, and local transportation), and whether your financial aid will cover the total cost of tuition at your host institution. You might also want to explore the city and sightsee. Your college's financial aid office or study abroad office is a great starting point to get an idea of how much it will cost to study abroad in the program you are interested in.
Financial Aid
For many programs, you can use your Federal Student Aid (Pell Grant through the FAFSA application), and even State Aid (like Cal Grant, or CalKIDS).
Scholarships
The scholarships you earn are yours to use for your studies, including study abroad. Your college or university most likely offers specific study abroad scholarships for you!
Work Abroad
While studying abroad, you can participate in paid internships, research opportunities that offer stipends, or find a part-time job (like tutoring in your native language).
You may be able to submit a Request for Budget Increase to your financial aid packet from your college's financial aid office.