Choosing a Program
With such a wide array of study abroad programs available, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?
In the Study Abroad office we’re here to help – with suggestions, advice, resource materials, and forms. We hope you’ll stop by even if you’re just beginning to think about whether or not study abroad is for you.
In the meantime, start off your decision-making process by asking yourself these questions:
- What factor is most important to you? Country/region? A particular subject area or personal interest? Something else? What’s important after that? Knowing your priorities will help you rule out many programs and ultimately decide among your top choices.
- How much foreign language immersion do you want? To attend a university where only that language is spoken? To communicate all in English? Or some level in between? Think hard about how prepared you are to use a foreign language academically and socially.
- How much time do you want to spend? An academic year? One semester? A summer? A few weeks? Budget, comfort level, and personal obligations are all factors governing this choice.
- Where do you want to be? In a major city? Large town? Rural village? Do you want a field study trip traveling from place to place?
- What living arrangements do you prefer? Dormitory or student hostel with dining hall? Apartment and kitchen? Host family with home cooking? Camping with rustic oudoor cooking? Do you want an English-speaking roomate?
Also, It's important to find out if you are responsible for making your own living arrangements. - What are the eligibility requirements? Every program has different minimum academic requirements. Make sure you meet them before you fill out any applications.