Study abroad planning
The opportunity to study abroad will enrich your college experience in ways you never imagined.
Study abroad offers a wonderful opportunity to not only see the world, but also advance the ways you learn about your major, yourself, and your opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world.
You can go on a short-term or a semester- or year-long experience.
Study abroad can be as affordable as or more affordable than studying on campus. Many liberal arts scholarships are available for Illinois undergraduates who plan to study abroad on an approved program. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid for study abroad.
Five steps to help you plan your study abroad experience
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.
Attend a LAS International Programs: First Steps Study Abroad General Information Session to learn more about what to consider when considering study abroad and hear from students that have undergone the study abroad process. Use our calendar to find the next date the session will be held.
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. You may schedule an appointment with an advisor using the LAS Online Scheduler.
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 studying abroad. Learn more about financial planning and scholarships 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 "Application and Deadlines" tab in the brochure of your chosen program. You will need to submit all application requirements which may include a copy of your passport (or copy of receipt of passport application), application essays, online questionnaires, and a recommendation from an academic advisor, teaching assistant, language instructor, or professor. You will also need to meet with a study abroad advisor after starting your application to go over the intricacies of your program choice before being able to submit your application (so plan ahead!). LAS International Programs advisors are available by appointment year-round.
Pay attention to application deadlines. Be sure to plan in advance so that you may complete the required advising and provide enough time for your recommender to complete their recommendation. Also remember that most internal scholarships have the same deadline as the study abroad application deadline.
After being accepted to a program, you'll still need to manage:
- Researching the passport and visa process
- Completing the pre-departure checklist
- Making health and safety preparations
- Planning your academics, including the LAS 291/292 Global Perspective Course (if applicable)
- Preparing for your host destination
- Creating a communication plan with family and friends