by Debra Menager

Created on: September 01, 2009

You've probably learned a lot about yourself while deciding which college to attend, picking your major and moving away from home. Now may be the perfect time to stretch your horizons a lot further, to study abroad. Discover more about the world and yourself.

Discover What Study Abroad Options Exist:

Check your college resources to see where (what countries), who (names of foreign colleges and universities) and what type of programs they offer. You may discover more interesting opportunities than you expected. Explore a little further. Before you start applications, do a little independent research on the countries and the universities.

Narrow it down to first, second, and third choices. Your research will make these applications much easier. Details on why and how you could fit well into their college program makes your acceptance much more likely.

Independently Operated Study Abroad Programs:

If your college doesn't offer any programs you like, you can also apply independently for other summer study and travel programs. It may cost more (financial aid may not be available, but check anyway).

Before depositing any money on an independent study abroad application, check with your college counselor to verify that these independent options are valid educational programs. Ask whether any credits can be applied towards your degree here. They probably won't. But if possibilities exist, fill out the required forms far enough in advance that your college can process your request for consideration before you go.

Study Abroad Programs Affiliated With Your College:

It's more likely that your college offers numerous study abroad programs, with one or more for any country you like. These programs will be easier to negotiate. You can expect more assistance and a better fit with your degree requirements.

Evaluate Where and When You Will Study Abroad, and Why:

Take a fun yet serious look at where this journey may eventually lead you, and what it means to you now. Discuss with your college advisor why you want to go abroad, along with how long and when, to get a good fit with fulfilling your major requirements. The right decision for you, on where and what you do, may be based on reasons such as:

1. Fits your major, or add to a secondary line of study (for a minor or a dual major).

Your college major may aim you towards where you want to go, and your department advisor can help you pinpoint when (sophomore or junior year probably) is best for you. Discuss programs and

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>