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Steps to Studying Abroad

Attend a Study Abroad 101 Session
Consider your Priorities and Interests
Research the Web site
Meet with a Peer Adviser and/or a Campus/College Representative
Talk to Your Academic Adviser
Meet with an Education Abroad Adviser
Research Funding Resources
Submit an Application


Studying abroad is one of the most challenging and exciting experiences that you will encounter as a college student. We know that planning to study abroad can be a little intimidating, so the process outlined below will help you to find the resources and people you will need as you embark on this adventure!

  • This is the FIRST step to studying abroad!
  • Learn the basics about program options, available regions, application deadlins, scholarships and financial aid, and much more.
  • Talk to returning students about their experience abroad. 
  • View Schedule of Study Abroad 101 Sessions
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Consider your Priorities and Interests

  • Will you fulfill major or minor requirements while abroad, or will you take general education courses?
  • Will you be on a budget while you are abroad?
  • Would you like to improve or learn a language?
  • Would you like to live with a host family, in an apartment, or in a dorm?
  • Would you prefer living in a busy city or in a quiet town?
  • Will you incorporate an internship or service learning into your experience? 

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  • Search the Programs menu to see available summer, semester, or academic year programs abroad.
  • Browse the left navigation menu to learn about How to Apply, Selection Criteria, Academics, Finances, Health and Safety, and resources for Parents and Families
  • Talk to your parents or guardians to discuss your options, including cost and financial aid information. It is of the utmost importance to have the support of your family before and during your study abroad experience.

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Meet with a Peer Adviser and/or a Campus/College Representative
  • Peer Advisers are returning study abroad students who volunteer their time and enthusiasm to advise other students. Each trained Peer Adviser can explain program options, provide an overview of the study abroad process, and share insight into his/her own experience abroad.
  • Each Penn State Campus and College at University Park has a Global Program Representative. See your representative for additional guidance on programs that fit well with your major or fitting study abroad into your academic curriculum.
    • Search for your Campus/College Representative

Talk to your Academic Adviser 

  • Meet with your academic adviser to discuss an academic plan that will integrate study abroad with your graduation time line. Which semester or summer term might be best for you to go abroad?
  • Determine courses you could take abroad, including electives, major requirements, minor requirements, and general education requirements.

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Meet with an Education Abroad Adviser

After you have completed your initial research and narrowed down your list of potential programs, EA Advisers are available to discuss your program and country options in greater detail.

  • Click on the Meet Our Staff section above to schedule an appointment or contact an adviser. Each adviser is assigned a regional portfolio of programs.
  • Address additional questions about costs, course equivalencies, application procedures and specific program information during your advising appointment.

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Research Funding Resources

  • Financial aid and most scholarships still apply on Penn State Education Abroad programs
  • Learn about other study abroad scholarships opportunities, including:
    • Global Programs scholarships -- Grant-in-Aid (GIA), Diversity GIA, Africa/Latin America GIA, Whole World Scholarship (for non-traditional locations) and the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Scholarship
    • College/departmental study abroad scholarships
    • Funding databases
    • Community-based funding sources, including service clubs, organizations, government-sponsored programs, family, and friends

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Submit an Application

  • Visit the "How to Apply" page to learn about the application requirements, process and deadlines
  • Complete all the requirements by the application deadline referenced at the bottom of your program page
  • Contact a Peer Adviser or your EA Adviser for specific application questions  

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