Study abroad planning

For many students, studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It is a chance to visit new places and merge your interests into an international experience that enhances your development and understanding of how the world works.

However, planning is essential to maximize any study abroad experience, from considering study abroad to planning your re-entry to Illinois. For example, before considering a program or location, consider your interests.

• Personal: You want to challenge yourself, be independent, discover empathy for others, or build friendships
• Academic: Acquire another language, witness sites and artifacts you've been studying, conduct fieldwork, participate in a particular lab, or gain an international perspective of your field
• Professional: Perhaps you want opportunities to intern abroad, attend networking events, or observe international work cultures

Considering your interests and goals can help you pick the program that is best suited to you.

You have many choices when it comes to studying abroad. You should consider what type of program you think would be the best fit for you. For example:

• Length of program: Multiple programs offer different durations that span a semester, an entire academic year, or just a few weeks.
• Type of program: When considering a program, it is important to think about what type of learning environment you desire. For example, do you want learning to be more self-directed or independent with other international students? Or, would you prefer to learn with other study abroad students from the University of Illinois?
• Living arrangements: Different programs offer different choices, from living in a dorm with local students or an apartment with fellow study abroad participants, to living with a local family. When considering living arrangements, think about your goals.
• Meet with a study abroad advisor: LAS International Programs advisors can help you explore the options available to you based on your goals. They're available from 1-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Student Academic Affairs Office in 2002 Lincoln Hall or by appointment. 

Then, search for a program that fits your lifestyle and goals:

Academic planning

Once you've narrowed your choices, you should meet with your academic advisor to discuss how a certain study abroad program might affect your path to graduation. Discuss your goals for the program with your advisor and bring a list of potential courses that you might take.

Financial planning

You should also consider the finances of study abroad. Learn more about financial planning and using financial aid for study abroad 

You've made an informed decision and you're ready to apply. You can apply on the program pages where you found your program of choice:

Simply click the "Apply now" button on the "Apply" tab in the brochure of your chosen program. The application process is a two-step process:

1. Pre-decision: You'll submit a preliminary application to be reviewed. Be sure to check the application deadline and the materials you may need to submit, which may include a copy of a valid passport, transcripts, and other documents. After you complete your preliminary application, it will be reviewed by a range of study abroad faculty and staff.
    
2. Post-decision: Upon acceptance to a program, you must complete a new set of application requirements specific to particular programs. Requirements vary based on the location of your host institution and the administrative practices themselves.

Pay attention to the deadlines. Most program applications require electronic recommendations to be submitted on your behalf, be sure to request any recommendation at least two weeks prior to the application deadline.

After being accepted to a program, you'll still need to manage:

• Research on the passport and visa process
• Review the pre-departure checklist
• Make health and safety preparations
• Plan your academics, including the Global Perspective Course (if applicable)
• Research your host destination
• Create a communication plan with family and friends