



University Studies Abroad Consortium
Why choose University Studies Abroad Consortium?
The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) provides university students with affordable, valuable study abroad programs, and contributes to the internationalization of universities in the United States and abroad. At present, we have program locations in more than 25 countries with many locations unique for study abroad. Students from any university are welcome to participate and join student...
The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) provides university students with affordable, valuable study abroad programs, and contributes to the internationalization of universities in the United States and abroad. At present, we have program locations in more than 25 countries with many locations unique for study abroad. Students from any university are welcome to participate and join students from more than 800 universities worldwide who are or have been in our programs over our 40-year history. Our mission is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to succeed in today's society. We pride ourselves on providing well-rounded, academically sound, and credible programs in non-traditional locations or unique parts of more traditional pl...
University Studies Abroad Consortium Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
I think about it everyday of my life!
May 19, 2025by: Kate Burke - United StatesProgram: USAC Spain: Madrid - Spanish Language, Art & Spanish StudiesI loved every minute of it. I didn't mesh a lot with other groups members, my one thing I would change would be that I wish the group was bigger but I have no complaints about anything else. The staff is amazing, living in the dorms was fun and I learned so much more than I could ever imagine.
Reflecting on Life Abroad at the University of Reading
May 17, 2025by: Nathalie Lopez - United StatesProgram: USAC ENGLAND: Reading - Undergraduate CoursesDuring the Fall 2021 semester, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad at the University of Reading in England. Although the journey to get there was long and marked by a year of deferral due to the pandemic, the experience was well worth the wait and ultimately became one of the most enriching chapters of my life. From the moment I began university, I knew I wanted to study abroad. When the time finally arrived, I was beyond excited, ready to embrace the unexpected. I chose England not only because I had family there but also because, from a young age, I envisioned spending an extended period immersed in its culture. After attending a study abroad fair during my freshman year, I gathered brochures from various programs and explored my options. Eventually, I came across USAC, which offered affordable opportunities and access to reputable universities in the UK. Despite there being only four program locations in England, I ultimately chose Reading for its proximity to popular destinations, beautiful green campus, and highly regarded business school, which aligned with my academic goals. Looking back, I couldn’t be happier with my choice. One of the highlights of preparing for the semester was connecting with fellow students ahead of time. A USAC participant reached out before the semester began and organized a group chat for everyone attending the Reading program. Meeting other students virtually before arriving made the housing process smoother and helped me transition more comfortably. One of the most rewarding aspects of studying at Reading was the incredible diversity on campus. I met students from all over the world, which not only enriched my cultural perspective but also made everyday interactions exciting and educational. From trying new foods and getting tips from local students to embracing unique cultural experiences, I made it a point to immerse myself fully. One of my most memorable experiences was a 14-mile hike along the English coastline, organized by the USAC program director. It was both challenging and breathtaking, and I still cherish the sense of accomplishment I felt. Another highlight was sharing cultural traditions with friends - my American peers and I made a classic dessert to share with our British friends, who in turn treated us to a homemade British meal. These exchanges made our friendships even more meaningful. The fast and efficient public transportation system and Reading’s central location made exploring the UK incredibly easy. I visited Oxford, just a 20-minute journey away, where I toured the historic university that inspired the Harry Potter films. A weekend trip to Snowdonia National Park in Wales left me in awe of its beauty; I’ll never forget encountering three rainbows in one day while exploring the park and nearby villages. During Reading Week, we went to Edinburgh, Scotland - a trip filled with so much joy. As the semester came to an end, I found it hard to believe it was over. The experience had exceeded my expectations in every way. I made lifelong friends, explored new places, and embraced every opportunity that came my way. My time at the University of Reading left me more independent, open-minded, and eager for future adventures. Thanks to the USAC community’s continued support, my dream of living abroad didn’t end with my semester in England. Four years later, it’s now my reality. Studying abroad transformed me, giving me skills, perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime.



Best experience of my life
May 17, 2025by: Emily Rojas - United StatesProgram: USAC Spain: Alicante - European & Mediterranean StudiesStudying abroad with USAC in Alicante was truly the best experience of my life. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported by the entire USAC staff. Everyone was incredibly friendly and helpful, especially the program director, Luis. He genuinely cares about every student, and it shows in the way he goes out of his way to make sure we’re learning, having fun, and making the most of our time abroad. You can tell the staff love what they do—they create such a positive and caring environment. Almost every weekend, we went on trips and tours of the city or nearby towns, which helped me experience so much of Alicante and its beautiful culture. Whether we were visiting museums, exploring castles, or just walking along the beach, every outing felt meaningful. I was able to see and do so much more than I ever expected. I stayed in an apartment during my time there, and it was so cozy and comfortable—it quickly felt like home. Living in the city made me feel like a real Spanish student. I got to shop at the local markets, walk to class, and immerse myself in everyday life in Alicante. Every day felt like a new adventure, whether I was trying new foods, practicing Spanish with locals, or just enjoying the view of the sea. I also learned so much from my teachers and classes. The professors were passionate, approachable, and made the material interesting and relevant. I felt like I was not only learning about the language but also truly understanding the culture and way of life in Spain. If I could do it all over again, I would go back to Alicante in a heartbeat. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and I’m so grateful for everything USAC made possible.
University Studies Abroad Consortium Programs
Browse programs you might like

The USAC program is based at the University of Alicante, which has a student population of 30,000 and offers two diverse academic areas: Intensiv...

Chiang Mai is fondly referred to as the “Rose of the North” for its beautiful and relaxing atmosphere amidst friendly smiles, temples, and flower...

The San Sebastian program opens an academic window on the Spanish and Basque people, introducing you to the rich diversity of Spain and offering ...


Study in Lyon to learn and live in one of the most attractive cities in France, creating a fresh combination of the bustle of a large European ci...

Located on Spain's southeast coast, Valencia is a Mediterranean city in all aspects. Locals embrace outdoor living and recreation by taking advan...

The Bilbao/Getxo program is ideal for students who wish to develop an international business career and/or a bilingual career. You may stay for o...
Media Gallery
Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Maria Jacob
Participated in 2013
Maria is 23 and just graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts. She has been to 16 countries thus far, and ...

Maria Jacob
Participated in 2013
I wanted to go abroad again, and figured it was a great opportunity to travel as a college student. Many of my friends who had done programs were really happy they went, so they absolutely pushed me in the right direction.

Erin Wilson
Participated in 2014
Erin is from South Carolina, born and raised near the beach. She went to Clemson University and has a bachelor’s in animal and veterinary science. Eri...

Erin Wilson
Participated in 2014
I have always had a love of travel, and I decided after my sophomore year that I wanted to study abroad to have a cultural experience!

Megan Boyle
Participated in 2016
Megan is from Fort Collins, Colorado and studied abroad during her junior year at Colorado State University. She is currently an Intern with GoAbroad ...

Megan Boyle
Participated in 2016
When I was younger my family and I moved a lot, however I had never been outside the U.S. When I was getting ready to apply for colleges, my high school had provided information on studying abroad which sparked my interest, so when choosing a college I made sure my school had a study abroad program. I was always interested in learning about new cultures and different languages, so studying abroad to me always seemed like a great way to learn about both and immerse yourself in a foreign country.
Ready to Learn More?
The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) provides university students with affordable, valuable study abroad programs, and contributes to the internationalization of universities in the United States and abroad. At present, we have program locations in more than 25 countries with many locations unique for study abroad. Students from any university are welcome to participate and join students from more than 800 universities worldwide who are or have been in our programs over our 40-year history. Our mission is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to succeed in today's society. We pride ourselves on providing well-rounded, academically sound, and credible programs in non-traditional locations or unique parts of more traditional pl...

University Studies Abroad Consortium

University Studies Abroad Consortium
Ready to Learn More?
The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) provides university students with affordable, valuable study abroad programs, and contributes to the internationalization of universities in the United States and abroad. At present, we have program locations in more than 25 countries with many locations unique for study abroad. Students from any university are welcome to participate and join students from more than 800 universities worldwide who are or have been in our programs over our 40-year history. Our mission is to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to succeed in today's society. We pride ourselves on providing well-rounded, academically sound, and credible programs in non-traditional locations or unique parts of more traditional pl...
Articles

Awards
Check out awards and recognitions University Studies Abroad Consortium has received












