Personal Goals 

  • Why do you want to go abroad? 
  • What goals do you hope to accomplish? 

Academics

  • Does the program offer courses in your major(s) or minor(s) to help keep you on track for graduation? 
  • What are the experiential learning opportunities? 
  • Are there internship/research/volunteer opportunities? 

Program Length and Timing 

  • When do you want to go?
  • How long do you need to be abroad to meet your goals? 
  • When does studying abroad fit into your degree plan best? Your academic advisor can help you figure this out. 

Location

  • Where do you want to go? Don't limit yourself to English-speaking countries. Courses taught in English are available on most of our programs. 
  • Do you want to be in an urban area or a rural community? 
  • Do you speak another language or want to learn one? 

Costs and Scholarships

  • Does the cost of the program fit your budget? 
  • What is included in the cost of the program? What personal expenses do you need to budget for? 
  • What is the cost of living in the host city/country (e.g., meals, transportation, entertainment)? 
  • What scholarships are available? 
  • Are there country-specific scholarships available or scholarships offered by the program provider? 

Logistics

  • Would you prefer a more structured, highly supportive program or a less structures, more independent program? 
  • Do you have a strong preference for the type of housing you will live in (e.g., residence hall vs. homestay)? 

Identity Abroad

  • What is the attitude toward your identity (i.e., race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality, etc.) in the host city/country? 
  • If you have a disability, what kind of accommodations and accessibility are available where you would be living and studying? 
  • If you identify as LGBTQ+, are same-sex relationships legal? 
  • Is it safe for women to travel alone in the host city/country? 

Other Considerations