Does the College Offer Different Study Abroad Options?

There are many types of study abroad programs, and one size doesn't fit all. Some are focused on the culture and history of a country, some on service work or research, and some on developing language fluency, just to name a few examples. Some span an entire academic year and some intensive programs are designed for spring break. In addition to considering the length of a study abroad program, location is also an important factor to consider in finding a good study abroad fit.

Does the College Actively Manage the Program?

Look for colleges that are “hands-on” with their study abroad programs. While many colleges run their own programs using their own faculty, others may partner with another university or endorse programs run by third parties. Make sure the college has evaluated any third-party programs to ensure they match the academic quality of the home campus.

Does the College Have a Dedicated Study Abroad Office?

Colleges committed to global education often have a dedicated study abroad office which provides support to students through every step of the study abroad process – from choosing a program and destination to managing visas to ensuring the transfer of credit earned abroad. When researching colleges, find out how accessible and well-staffed this office is and what support it offers, such as information sessions, one-on-one guidance, and other support.

Does the College Have Campuses Abroad?

Some colleges have established their own overseas campuses to not only establish a presence internationally but also to provide students with study abroad experiences within their own academic system. These programs usually ensure that course credits and financial aid transfers smoothly between institutions. Ask whether the college owns or partners with campuses abroad and how integrated those campuses are with the broader academic community.

How Many Students Study Abroad?

Colleges that tout a high percentage of undergraduates studying abroad tend to have robust programs. While most colleges make study abroad optional, a few institutions consider global education so essential to learning that they’ve made international study a part of their curriculum.

Goucher College, for example, requires all undergraduates to study abroad to graduate. Other colleges encourage studying abroad during specific times. St. Mary’s College of California encourages students to travel internationally during its extended January term. The liberal studies program at New York University requires first-year students to begin their studies at a global campus in Florence, London, Madrid (or in Washington, D.C.). If a college program or major mandates study abroad, look into how flexible the requirement is and whether students can choose from multiple destinations and program lengths.

What Support Is Available for Students Studying Abroad?

A good program will have dedicated staff and support services for all participating students — everything from help with choosing and applying to a program to obtaining visas and housing, to crisis management and academic counseling while in the host country. If a college doesn’t have a dedicated study abroad office, find out what support services are provided to students abroad, either by the host campus or third-party provider.

Also find out what financial support is available for overseas study. Colleges dedicated to study abroad may offer scholarships and/or credit for coursework completed in another country.

Does the Faculty Work with Study Abroad Students?

Do any of the faculty at the college or university teach courses abroad? Some professors here in the U.S. may lead for-credit seminars or courses in other countries. For example, an art history professor may take students on a summer tour of renaissance art in Italy, or a business school may offer an exchange program with students at a partner university in Spain. If the college relies on a third-party program, you should find out whether faculty in your major are aware of and support the program and whether they can advise you on how to satisfy major requirements while you are abroad.

Did Students Who Studied Abroad Like the Program?

Ask how many students go abroad each year and where they go. Ask if you can interview some of these students, and look for their comments about their experiences on social media. Students who have participated in your college’s study abroad program may be one of the best resources for evaluating whether or not the program meets your needs.

If studying abroad is on your college bucket list, ask about the study abroad options at the colleges you’re considering, including short-term cultural trips and intensive language-learning to longer programs involving service work, research or professional development. Asking the right questions as you embark on your college search can lead you to the school – and the study abroad adventure – that’s right for you.