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Study Abroad - FAQs

Q. Who can go abroad?

A. Any student can study abroad, but most programs have a GPA requirement (2.0 or higher), and the better your GPA, the better your chances of getting into the program.

Q. Where can I go?

A. There are programs all over the world (except maybe Antarctica). Pick any country, and you'll probably find a program suited for you to study there.

Q. Do I get school credit?

A. You will at least get elective credit, but usually study abroad credits are treated as transfer credits. Your professors or the academic department at your university have to approve of them in order to apply them towards your major or common curriculum.

Q. How much does it cost?

A. Price usually depends on the country. Some countries’ universities are expensive, whereas others are not and sometimes even cheaper than your university at home.

Q. Will financial aid apply towards my tuition abroad?

A. Need-based financial aid from the federal government can usually be applied towards any study abroad program. Scholarships are different though, and sometimes can only be applied towards your home institutional studies.

Q. What if I only speak English?

A. Not a problem! You still have many options open to you, like studying in an English-speaking country or even in a non-English-speaking country where the program's classes are taught in English. You can also learn enough of the language to get by when you first arrive and take classes to improve your skills. Some programs also offer intense language classes to help you while abroad.

Q. How can I better deal with culture shock before I leave?

A. Finding out as much as you can about the country you’re studying in will only help you become better adjusted to the people and customs. Before you leave, learn about its language, history, and culture. You can do this by researching on the internet, reading the international section of your local newspaper or a travel guide, visiting the local embassy/consulates or tourist offices, and/or talking to people who have already been to your country of choice.

Q. Where will I live?

A. Housing is usually dependent on your program. Sometimes everything is pre-arranged for you and sometimes you'll have to find housing for yourself when you get there. Of course, there are other times when your program will have you going to different destinations and staying in different types of housing.

Q. Will I be able to travel on my own while abroad?

A. Most likely yes.  Studying abroad is just like school where you'll have the weekends free. Unless something is planned through your program, you are usually free to travel anywhere on your time off. This freedom offers you are great opportunity to see other areas of the city you're in or even visit a neighboring country.

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