Study Abroad Option

Frequently Asked Questions About Study Abroad

answered by Taylor Hicks 

Have Questions About Taking Part in a Study Abroad Program? We've Got Answers. Check out the frequently asked questions below.

1. What countries are the most fun to study in?

That depends on what you want to get from you study abroad opportunity. Each country and study abroad program offers something entirely different to participants, so it's important that you do your homework before you go. For example, if you enjoy traveling, then it's important that you find a study abroad program that allows you to take weekends and breaks off to travel away from the city in which your program takes place. Some study abroad programs even build travel into the program - either arranging weekend trips or traveling to a different country each week. Look around and investigate options.

2. Can I study abroad even if I don't speak a foreign language?

Of course! If your college or university does not allow you to study abroad unless you speak the language, then look into a study abroad program, such as IES. You can also study in a country that is English-language based, such as England or Australia.

3. What happens if I don't like my living arrangements?

Most study abroad programs allow you to switch living arrangements if you run into problems. Make sure ahead of time that you have flexibility. Keep in mind that living in a different country often results in culture shock. Before you make your decision to switch living conditions, be sure you have given your current condition ample time to get used to. Who knows - it might grow on you.

4. Will I get credits for my college study abroad program?

That all depends on your university and the program you select for study abroad. Consult your advisor, university handbook or study abroad office for information about your university's particular rules.

5. Should I go during the summer or school year?

Either-or. Most summer programs are shorter (4-6 weeks) and semester long programs run about 10 weeks. Consult your university's study abroad office for advice on how to work your school's study abroad system to it's fullest potential.

6. Is college the only time to study abroad?

No. you can study abroad in high school, graduate school and even as an adult.  There are even specialized study abroad programs that students can take for no credits, such as a culinary tour through Italy or a French-language intensive course in Belgium. Do a little research into study abroad programs that might interest you - whatever you seek, it's guaranteed that there's a program available somewhere that suits your needs.

7. How long do study abroad programs last?

That depends on your program. Summer programs can last up to six weeks, while semester-long study abroad programs generally run for the whole semester. You can also look into shorter study abroad programs for adults wishing to indulge in a special study abroad vacation.

8. Will I get graded while I'm studying abroad?

That depends on how your high school or university handles credits. Most universities will give full credits to students participating in their own study abroad programs. Others will give credits for programs, but no grades unless the program is directly sponsored through the university. Still other universities will give no credit for study abroad programs not completed through the university.

9. How expensive is it to study abroad?

Usually you can estimate that the study abroad program will be about double your normal tuition and room and board, if you are going through your own university. If your university costs $10,000 per year, then the study abroad will cost about $17,000 - $20,000. On top of that, you have to factor in costs for travel, food and entertainment. Food and entertainment will be about $75-150 per week.

10. How do I choose a study abroad program?

Research. Decide what you want from you study abroad experience and then look around for programs that fit that desire. Ask friends and friends of friends about their experiences. Word of mouth and personalized experiences are the best way to gauge the value of a particular program. We have reviews on this site to help you get a good idea about the pragmatics of study abroad programs, so we encourage you to take a long look around.