Tips on Choosing a Program

Study abroad can be an enriching and eye-opening adventure, where learning extends to the world beyond the classroom walls. There is no substitute for living and studying in a foreign country if you want to gain in-depth knowledge of another culture's customs, people, and language. For more on this, check out Why Study Abroad?

So...

What are your personal and academic goals you hope to accomplish abroad? What type of credits do you need?: See your academic advisor to find out what type of credits are necessary to finish your degree and see if he/she has suggestions of courses that would be best for you to take abroad.

Are you looking for University of Arkansas credit directly and/or would you like to study abroad with UA professors?: If so, check out the UA faculty-led short term programs.

Are you looking for a language program?: Do you need beginning or intermediate classes or are you ready for full immersion? Remember that some programs offer classes in English even in non-English speaking countries.

Where do you want to go?: Consider climate, proximity to other nations, urban vs rural, northern vs southern hemisphere. Go the Map to see the different countries available.

How long do you want to be abroad?: Programs can range anywhere from 2 weeks to 1 year. Being abroad for a semester or year will let you truly experience that culture and form lasting relationships.

What about funding?: Look carefully at program fees, what is included? TIP: It is easier to find scholarships for less traditional destinations such as Latin America, Eastern Europe, the MiddleEast and Africa.

Still can’t decide?: Read stories & blogs by past participants, check out the reviews of programs on Abroad101, and ask study abroad alumni about their experiences.

So how do you make this happen...?

Check out the Steps to Studying Abroad to get going today!

We are all looking forward to meeting you and helping you realise your plan to study abroad!

Selected Excerpts Courtesy of Studyabroad.com