Deciding on the study abroad program that's right for you takes time, but it's definitely worth it in the end. To help you with that process we're offering a step-by-step guide to choosing the best study abroad program. Following these simple steps will help ensure that you have the best possible experience, whether you decide to study German in Austria or learn Hebrew in Israel.
Step 1: What Works For You?
Jot down your goals and constraints on paper. In order to find a program that matches your academic, financial and personal preferences, you need to clearly define those preferences. What is it that you want to accomplish? When can you go? What can you afford? While your ambition may be to study Portuguese in Lisbon, does it make more financial sense right now for you to learn Portugal in Brazil and try out that new knowledge while taking a semester abroad in Portugal next year?
Step 2: Where To Go?
Select a location BEFORE you select a program. We believe that atmosphere is the key ingredient in the overall learning recipe. You will learn more in an environment where you feel comfortable. Are you a city slicker, or do you prefer small towns? What do you like to do outside of class? Do you prefer a thriving nightlife or fewer distractions from your studies? Are you interested in indigenous cultures, or are European cultures more enticing? If you love the beach and water sports, you might want to try a program to learn French and surfing in Biarritz, France, but if you love museums and shopping, you might prefer to study French in Paris.
Step 3: Which Programs Meet Your Needs?
Research and compare program details. Not every international study program is right for every student. When evaluating different programs, we recommend that you answer the following questions:
- What are the deadlines, start dates and payment policies? What are the requirements? (language level, GPA, etc.)
- Are the elective courses taught in English or the local language?
- What is the student/teacher ratio?
- Where is the campus located? (near a city center, public transportation accessibility, etc.)
- What amenities are offered? (on-site cafeteria, computer lab, library)
- What are the housing options?
- What extracurricular activities are offered?
- What excursions are included?
- Are volunteer or internship opportunites available?
- What other services are included? (travel insurance, mobile phone service, etc.)
- What type of transcript is provided? (U.S. college or foreign university?)
Step 4: Who Puts It All Together?
Find the right study abroad provider. Independent organizations and private/state universities both provide study abroad programs at foreign institutions worldwide. In your research, you may find that the program you want is offered by several organizations. In that case, you should select the one with the best service and value and with whom you feel the most satisfied. Keep in mind that you will be studying far from home, and you will have a better time studying Spanish or learning French in a foreign land if you are confident with your agent. Here are some questions for you to ask when evaluating providers of study abroad programs:
- Are they dependable? (Ask for references, how many students they sent, years in business)
- Are your questions answered in friendly and timely manner? Are you satisfied with their responses?
- Do they demonstrate an understanding of the location and the finer details of the program? What do you get for your money?
- Do they provide extra services? (excursions, mobile phones, in-country transportation, extra activities, other lodging options, etc.)
- Are the payment and refund policies flexible? (credit cards payment, late registration, postponements, etc.)
To get started, here are some links to study abroad organizations, language schools and study abroad directories:
Academic Programs International
Alliances Abroad
AmeriSpan Study Abroad
CdL Spanish School
Languages Abroad
Lingua Services
Links Abroad
Study Abroad Links
Comments