Choosing a study away program
Each study away program has its strengths and its drawbacks depending on your needs and goals. With a little research and some intentional decision-making, you can find a program that is the best fit for you!
Consider your goals
Think about what your goals are for studying away. Do you want to be introduced to a culture? Are you seeking language fluency? Do you want to take classes in a specific field of study? Understanding your intentions for studying away will help you narrow down which study away programs would give you the opportunity to achieve your goals.
Determine your budget
Discuss finances with your family. The cost of study away programs varies depending on location, program design, length of stay, and value of the dollar abroad. Each program page on our study away portal has details on the estimated program costs and expected out-of-pocket expenses. There are plenty of scholarships out there specific to study away, but you will have to apply for these early because scholarship cycles tend to run half a year to a full year in advance of travel.
Understand your needs
Consider your needs, the study away program structure, and any special accommodations you might need to ensure your health and wellbeing as you think about the location and the length of a study away program.
Plan with your academic advisors
Meet with your academic advisors to discuss your academic goals, scheduling of classes, and the best times for you to participate in study away. If you are a double major, you will want to check in with both academic departments to ensure that your study away choice does not hinder your ability to graduate on schedule. It is important to know if there are any specific degree requirements you will need to complete while abroad to keep you on track.
Meet with the IOP Office
If you would like more information or guidance on choosing a program, you can make a study away appointment on Handshake with the IOP Office.