Deciding if, where, when and how to study abroad is
easier than you may think!
With
so many study abroad program types and destinations available to you, and the
long check list of tasks you need to complete before actually heading overseas,
it can be difficult to decide where to start. Get yourself organized with these
five steps that will help you plan ahead for your time abroad.
1. Decide if study
abroad is right for you
Sure
studying abroad sounds awesome, but is it a good fit for you?
First, ask yourself a few questions:
If
you answer "yes" to most or all of the questions, study abroad is
probably a great choice for you.
If
you answer "no" to a lot of the questions, it might be time to do
more honest soul searching before you decide.
The
reality is, studying abroad is a unique, adventurous opportunity to try
something new and grow as both a student and a person, and it also comes with
some challenges such as being out of your comfort zone and away from family and
friends.
2. Decide where and when
to study abroad
There
are so many destinations to choose from when deciding where you want to study
abroad that it can often be an overwhelming choice. It might be best if you
first narrow down the type of location that interests you the most, and then
make your decision. For example:
Based
on your answers, you probably have a good idea about the qualities you want in
your study abroad destination. Now it's just a matter of finding it! To help
you find your perfect destination, you can browse by country, browse by city,
consider different program options or follow student bloggers to see what it's
like to live in that location.
Next,
it's time to decide when you want to study abroad in your said location.
Typically, it's best to decide when you plan to go abroad at least nine months
to one year ahead of time, if not more. Many study abroad programs require
applicants to apply at least six months before the program begins, so having at
least nine months gives you time to research, find and apply to a program(s) at
your leisure.
3. Find study abroad
programs
Now
that you have decided where and when you want to study abroad, it's time
to find a program. From summer study
abroad trips to semester-long and full academic year programs, there are
several types of programs to choose from as you decide which is best for you.
As you research your options, it's important to talk directly with the
program(s) of interest to learn more about what they offer, at what cost, and
which amenities are or aren't included such as airport pick-up, onsite
orientation, housing, etc. Learn more about the study abroad application.
4. Talk to your support
system
Meet
with your academic advisor to ensure you can stay on track to graduate on time,
plan the coursework you need to take before you go abroad, the coursework you
should save and take while abroad and the coursework that you will need to take
after you return.
Talk
with your parents about why, when and where you want to study abroad. Deciding
to study abroad is often a family decision, and having an open conversation
with them can help both you and them plan the best study abroad trip for you as
possible. It's important to come to the conversation prepared with your points,
and be ready with answers to their questions.
For
students: Points to discuss with your parents
For
parents: Questions to ask your child
As
you and your family discuss your plans, continue to keep in touch with your
academic advisor throughout the planning and application process.
Not
sure what to do next? Read Accepted, now what?
5. Put study abroad
finances in place
Funding
study abroad is often a concern of many students and parents; however it
doesn't need to break the bank. In fact, many students can apply their
current financial aid packages toward their study abroad programs. For some students who
pay out-of-state-tuition, studying abroad may actually be cheaper than a
traditional on-campus semester. Plus, there are a variety of scholarship opportunities available too.
When choosing your funding options, it's important to remember to start early,
ask for help and seek multiple resources.
Once
you have your finances in place for your program tuition, it's time to start
saving and budgeting for your overseas daily living expenses. As you plan your
budget, prioritize what is worth spending money on and what isn't. For example,
if you can't afford everything on your wish list, would you rather buy an array
of souvenirs and splurge on meals or would you rather take a few weekend trips
to nearby cities? There are plenty of money saving tips that can help you
keep costs down while you're abroad.
Looking for more
information?
Check out our Student Guide for more tips
about how to prepare for study abroad, plus detailed information about how to
obtain the proper travel documents, tips for packing and real-life student
advice about how to make the most of your time abroad.