Study Abroad Programs
Take your academic career abroad! Gain school credit, immerse in a new culture, and push yourself out of your comfort zone.
Top Study Abroad Providers

Featured Provider of the Month
with Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
Featured Study Abroad Opportunities
This Month’s Recommended Study Abroad Programs

AIFS Abroad
Traveling and seeing the world doesn’t necessarily mean taking a break from your studies. Study abroad with AIFS and broaden your academic knowledge while learning about foreign cultures!Serving more than 1.5 million students since 1964, AIFS is a reco...

WorldStrides
Spend a semester in Switzerland, where stunning Alpine scenery, sparkling lakes, and an international atmosphere create the perfect setting for academic discovery. Study at the University of Geneva, one of Europe’s leading research institutions, and jo...

University Studies Abroad Consortium
The colorful, vibrant country of Thailand is considered the "land of smiles," and for good reason: the friendliness and hospitality of the Thai people, 95 percent of whom are Buddhist, will enrich your experience living there. Khon Kaen is located in t...

EF Education First
Learn French in Nice with EF Language Abroad and experience the perfect mix of language learning and Riviera living. EF’s French program in Nice is an unforgettable way to study abroad and live like a local.Located on the sun-soaked Côte d’Azur, EF’s i...

Expanish
Spend your summer studying in Barcelona, one of Europe’s most exciting and culturally rich cities. The Expanish Summer Program allows students to earn academic credit while exploring Spanish and Catalan culture through engaging coursework and cultural ...

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to pro...

Go Abroad China Ltd.
Join Go Abroad China's University Chinese Language Program to master Mandarin at China's most prestigious institutions, including Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU), Peking University, and Fudan University. Designed for all proficiency leve...

SAI Programs
Paris College of Art (PCA) is a premier art and design school rooted in the rich artistic landscape of Paris. For over 30 years, the school has offered visiting and degree seeking students the opportunity to engage with the Parisian art scene while dev...

Centro MundoLengua
Want to live abroad in Spain and gain official university credits in your desired field of study while enjoying an authentic Spanish immersion experience? Come and study with Centro MundoLengua! We are a dedicated Spanish center that has signed agreeme...
How to Study Abroad
Types
Types of Study Abroad Programs
There are three common types of study abroad programs:
- Direct enrollment. This program allows you to study abroad in an international university, often alongside local students. Your course choices may be limited to classes in English, classes for international students, or classes designed for study abroad students, such as language and area studies. In some cases, you might be able to choose any courses offered at the university. These programs are ideal for any student and are usually the desired choice for upperclassmen who need classes in their major.
- Provider or University Program. The second type of study abroad program is one designed entirely by a study abroad provider or a university for international study abroad students. While there may be less interaction with local students, the curriculum may be ideally suited for you and other international students. You may also study alongside peers from around the world. These programs may last a week, a summer, a semester, or a year.
- Customized Program. The final type of study abroad is the customized program, or often referred to as the faculty-led program. This is a study abroad opportunity designed specifically for a group of students from one university and may or may not be hosted by an international university. This might include a research project in the field with other students and researchers, or it may be as simple as a trip organized by your professor visiting key destinations in his/her course.
There are other types of study abroad opportunities, including service learning for university credit, internships abroad for academic credit, non-credit study abroad, including language school learning, or study programs abroad, excluding any credit. You might also consider an exchange program, which is typically a reciprocal agreement between your home university and another university, allowing students to swap places and pay their home tuition and fees.
Why
Why Study Abroad
The majority of students who study abroad report it to be their most significant learning experience during the university program. Students also often report studying abroad as a life-changing experience. It is one of the activities that will help you perform better overall at university, engage more with your classmates and faculty, and improve your communication skills and academic performance. There are dozens of convincing reasons you should consider studying abroad.
Whether or not you study abroad for credit and how you utilize that credit is up to you. For many students, this may be the most important question. Ask yourself important questions to decide why studying abroad might be a great choice for you. Do you want to satisfy some degree requirements? Check off some general studies or core requirements? Do you need a foreign language proficiency for your major? Do you feel like some parts of the world may be better settings for courses in your major?
You might start by making a checklist of your goals in study abroad. If your number one goal is to see Angkor Wat, any program to Cambodia might satisfy your goal. If your primary goal is to take Advanced Nuclear Physics, you need to find a program that offers this class, teaches in English, and allows international students to enroll in advanced courses in Nuclear Physics. If language acquisition is your goal, be sure the study abroad program offers language classes for foreign speakers and that they offer these classes at all levels.
Benefits
Benefits of Studying Abroad
There are countless benefits to studying abroad—broadened horizons, new perspectives, and marketable skills! If you’re interested in a career in international sectors or in the humanities, then studying abroad is a no-brainer. Your cross-cultural communication skills will improve tenfold, and you’ll have the opportunity to study a new language as well. But even if your long-term career goals aren’t internationally-oriented, you’ll still come away from study abroad as a more well-rounded person with cool stories to tell, having learned more than a few new things about yourself in the process.
You know all this, the real benefit will be the internal rewards you get from this experience. You will have memories that last a lifetime, you may make friends who you will be close to for the rest of your life, and you will look at the world through a new set of eyes. The transformation is so profound that students occasionally change their major, decide a career choice and perhaps modify their entire life plan after studying abroad.
There are many more benefits of studying abroad you've never even thought of, too.
Funding
Study Abroad Scholarships & Funding
Many students need financial help in order to study abroad. If you’re studying abroad and you expect to earn credits, federal financial aid may help cover the costs. Each university has its own policies, but most US universities will allow you to utilize federal financial aid as long as your credits are pre-approved and you enroll in the minimum number of classes to remain full-time (typically 12 credit hours during the semester and 6-9 credits in the summer. The best way to be sure is to consult your financial aid advisor, meet with your study abroad office, and talk to your academic advisor to be sure your credits will count. Institutional aid or scholarships from your home university have varied policies regarding their application to study abroad. Often, institutional aid is simply a discount and may not be used for study abroad. Other schools support study abroad and are willing to subsidize the experience by allowing your aid to be utilized.
If you don’t receive financial aid, or if you’re studying through a university or provider where you can’t apply your typical aid, then you may need to rely on study abroad scholarships, study abroad loans, or crowdfunding platforms like FundMyTravel. Your study abroad department will also be a great lead on where to find study abroad scholarships and how to qualify. If you get creative, there are many other ways of paying for study abroad.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is study abroad?
To put it simply, study abroad is a set time (perhaps a semester or year) when you pursue your academics overseas. This can be through a program at your home university, or it can be through an independent study abroad company in coordination with your university or degree program. Although studying abroad is typically done during college, you can try it out in high school too!
Can I study abroad?
You absolutely can study abroad! There may be a few requirements through your university, degree program, or study abroad provider though. For instance, some universities don’t allow you to study abroad with a GPA under 3.0. You’ll also need to consider your academic goals and how studying abroad fits in. For instance, are you an accounting major? You can still study abroad of course, but it may be a bit more difficult for you to find an opportunity in your degree track. Be sure to speak with your study abroad department or academic advisor to figure out the best move for you.
How long is study abroad?
Your study abroad program could be as short as two weeks, and as long as a full academic year. It could be during any season, and during any year of your academic career. How long your study abroad program lasts is up to you and your goals! Do you want to come home fluent in a second language? Then maybe a full academic year abroad is the right choice for you. Do you want to take fun electives or knock out a few additional credits outside the regular school year? Consider studying abroad for a couple months during the summer. Your study abroad department, academic advisor, and program coordinator will be able to help you decide.
And by the way, if you’re interested in earning your full degree abroad, there are lots of options!
What are some benefits of studying abroad?
There are countless benefits to studying abroad—broadened horizons, new perspectives, and marketable skills, just to name a few! If you’re interested in a career in international sectors or in the humanities, then studying abroad is a no brainer. Your cross cultural communication skills will improve tenfold, and you’ll have the opportunity to study a new language as well. But even if your long term career goals aren’t internationally-oriented, you’ll still come away from study abroad as a more well-rounded person with cool stories to tell, having had learned more than a few new things about yourself in the process.
How to get scholarships to study abroad
Most students need financial help in order to study abroad. If you’re studying abroad through your home university, the financial aid and scholarships you normally receive each semester will most likely cover at least part of the tuition. However, you’ll want to check with your financial aid office about the specifics.
If you don’t receive financial aid, or if you’re studying through a university or provider where you can’t apply your typical aid, then you may need to rely on study abroad scholarships, study abroad loans, or crowdfunding platforms like FundMyTravel.
Your study abroad department will be a great lead on where to find study abroad scholarships and how to qualify. We’ve also put together the resources below to help you learn more about finding and securing funding for your study abroad experience.
What are the best study abroad programs like?
With so many study abroad programs available to you, how can you be sure which one is the one? To find the study abroad program that will suit you best, you’ll need to narrow down your goals. What do you want to learn? What do you want to see? Who do you want to be after studying abroad? Do you want 24/7 on-site support, pre-departure assistance, and resume writing help? And what are your absolute dealbreakers? Once you have your answers, it’ll be easy to find the best study abroad programs for you.
Latest Program Reviews
An amazing time in Chengdu!
October 10, 2026by: Alex Pan - United StatesI participated in a two week program at LTL Chengdu, and I had an amazing time while learning a lot! My instructor Wei was super friendly and dedicated, and I could not have imagined a better teacher. She tailored her instruction specifically to my goals and used real world situations to teach so I could have a more immersive and rich experience. Not only did my Chinese language skills improve, but I also learned a lot about the local culture, food, and lifestyle — things I could never get a chance to experience in a traditional classroom. I highly recommend LTL Chengdu and my teacher Wei!

Preparing for Clinical Training and Growing Into the Doctor I Want to Become
October 10, 2026by: Isla Cooper - AnguillaBeing in my third year of the MD programme, I have started thinking more seriously about the kind of doctor I want to become and the skills I will need once I begin working with patients. There is still so much for me to learn, and sometimes the amount of knowledge required can feel overwhelming. At the same time, I find it motivating to see how the things I study now will eventually help me understand patients and make informed decisions. I want to feel prepared when I enter a clinical environment, not only because I know the theory, but because I can use that knowledge in practice. For me, building that confidence step by step is one of the most important parts of my medical education.
Very good summer in Nagoya
October 10, 2026by: Tobias Hawes - United StatesI am very glad that I came to Nagoya this summer. My Japanese skills improved immensely, I started a new martial art (though I'm still not very good at jiujitsu yet), I made many new friends, and I was able to see and do things I wouldn't have been able to otherwise. I liked how much free time we had; I and many of my classmates spent a weekend or two traveling outside of the program, and that was beside some very interesting field trips. Overall, I think this was a very good program.
Swedish Summer 10/10!
October 09, 2026by: Tina Lee - United StatesProgram: DIS – Summer Courses
My time in Stockholm during the summer of 2026 was one of the best moments of my life! The entire program was well organized, and I always felt informed, prepared, and supported throughout the process. Academically, the opportunity to learn in a different educational environment, gain new perspectives, and connect what I was learning in the classroom to experiences outside of it. The courses were engaging and gave me the chance to grow both academically and personally. As someone studying abroad alone in a new country, I also felt safe and comfortable navigating the experience. This was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity that I will always be grateful for, and I would absolutely do it again if given the chance!
My teachers
October 09, 2026by: Brandon Gregory - AustraliaI had a really great experience at this Chinese learning school! The teachers, especially Ann and Jamie, were amazing and genuinely helped me improve my Chinese. They were patient, encouraging and always willing to explain things when I didn’t understand. Their teaching made learning Chinese much more enjoyable, and I became a lot more confident in my speaking and understanding. You can tell that they really care about their students and want everyone to do well. I’m really grateful for all their help and would definitely recommend this school to anyone looking to improve their Chinese!
really happy with my experience at NAU - in my third year of PreMed now
October 09, 2026by: Tariq Bashir - United KingdomPremed taught me that you cant always rely on the subjects you already know well. Biology was always easier for me but I had to put more effort into chemistry and some of the other topics. I started spending more time reviewing the material and going back to things I didnt understand the first time. The study resources were really useful for that because I could work through difficult topics at my own pace. Over time I became more disciplined with my studies and more confident about tackling subjects that used to feel difficult. I think that is something I will take with me into the next stage of my education.
The most amazing experience of my life
October 09, 2026by: Madeline Conlon - United KingdomProgram: API: Experience Barcelona, Spain (Scholarships Available)
Studying abroad in barcelona through API was the best experience of my life! I had the freedom to explore a new place and immerse myself in a new culture while also having the security of knowing I had API there to help me if I needed it! The housing was amazing and way nicer than I expected it to be. The program cost itself turned out to be incredibly worth it as it it included housing, multiple cultural excursions, and metro cards for transportation.
Best Experience of my life!
October 09, 2026by: Luke Oswald - United StatesProgram: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea with WorldStrides
My experience studying abroad in South Korea was so much more than I could have ever expected. Honestly, I went into it thinking I would just try a bunch of new foods and do some sightseeing. However, it ended up being so much more than that. I attended Hanyang University, where I met so many amazing people and formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime. One thing I quickly realized was that everyone around me was in a similar position. We all wanted to explore, try new things, and make the most of our time in Korea. Because of that, it was incredibly easy to connect with people and build meaningful friendships. Before I knew it, my schedule was completely filled. Every day brought something new, whether it was visiting a different city, trying a new restaurant, going on a hike, or simply meeting someone new. For me, this was far outside my comfort zone. I had never traveled internationally before, and I barely knew how to speak Korean. However, the people around me made the experience so much easier. I probably asked more questions than I could count, and I'm sure I annoyed a few people along the way, but everyone was always kind and willing to help. Overall, studying abroad in South Korea taught me that there is so much more to a country than what you see on the surface. Being able to experience Korean culture firsthand, explore new places, and share those moments with friends made the experience truly unforgettable. What I originally thought would just be a few months of traveling and studying turned into one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.



Content and price
October 08, 2026by: Andy Marshall - United KingdomProgram: Accredited 120-hour TEFL certification online course $49
It’s good. I was recommended the 168 hours course through a friend but went with the 120 hours since that’s what Jonny recommended when I emailed and told them my situation. The price was good and so was content. Solid.
Language and culture during business trip
October 08, 2026by: Adrian W - SpainProgram: Online Chinese Learning 1-on-1 - Schönberg Education
Their professional online presence had long since caught my attention. My overall experience is outstanding! I made rapid progress with my Chinese language skills through the interactive teaching. Furthermore I earned great insights into Chinese culture through the optional afternoon activities.
Hi adrian! We truly appreciate your feedback and hope you continue enjoying your Chinese learning journey! 😊
Very professional and accommodating !
October 08, 2026by: Jochen W - United KingdomFlexible organization accommodating my needs with a mix of online classes before joining the school and then the very flexible schedule while on site. Very qualified teachers, very experienced in teaching foreigners. We used to mix of material, including articles and textbooks that were specifically designed for my level of Chinese and what I wanted to focus on. I deeply recommend this school to everyone.
Hi Jochen, we truly appreciate your feedback and are glad you had a positive experience with us! Please keep up your great work. 😊
Life Changing!
October 08, 2026by: Kate Peters - United StatesProgram: Decolonizing the Mind: Racial and Environmental Justice
It might be cringe but my time in Southern Africa was genuinely life changing. I not only learned so much from the faculty and staff, but I learned from the members of the cohort, Yango drivers, locals, community leaders, and so much more. With the experiential learning aspect, I was able to engage with community members, speak to activists, and analyze the impacts and legacies of imperialism and settler colonialism in real time. The field trips we go on are actually helpful and connect to what we've been learning in the classroom and expands our scope in a way that you can't get from a textbook or a lecture. The excursions we go on are full of awesome adventures, from Table Mountain, Dune 7 (tallest dune in the world), dune buggies, and seeing beach penguins to museum trips, soccer games, and safaris. The staff and faculty are the nicest human beings in the whole entire world and I'm so grateful that I had their support, especially being miles upon miles away from home.
this was pure class and cheap as chips
October 08, 2026by: Paddy Walsh - Northern IrelandProgram: Accredited 120-Hour TEFL/TESOL Course $39 with certificate
properly found this a bargain, like I paid close to 40 euro but it felt properly good value. took me 3 weeks to pass. when I finished there was a bangload of stuff to download and look at and the certs are legit to look at with a code to check.
Amazing time in Tanzania!!
October 07, 2026by: Ogy Simeonov - BulgariaI completed the Wildlife Conservation Programme in Tanzania in 2021 and it was honestly an amazing experience that I still remember to this day. Everyone was so kind and helpful, and I learned so much about wildlife and conservation during the programme. The classes in nature were amazing and it was great to be able to learn about wildlife while actually being surrounded by it. The weather was great, the people were lovely, and there was always something new to learn and experience. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I’m really glad I had the opportunity to take part. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves wildlife, nature and travelling.



Between autumn leaves and bustling city lights
October 07, 2026by: Elizabeth Glen - United KingdomTwo weeks passed by like a mild Autumn breeze. It was more or less a spontaneous decision for me to pack my luggage and embark on this adventure. But the school made it very comfortable and accommodating for me to settle down in my new home Osaka. My apartment was very nice and centrally located. I loved the proximity to Osaka castle and also Umeda was within walking distance. The school is literally in the heart of Osaka downtown and the surrounding venues didn't disappoint for cute souvenir shopping and simply relaxing at nice cafes around Nanba and Amemura. My classes were indeed intense but I learned so much in my short time I was there and left with a big smile and love for my newly discovered place Kansai. I wish all the staff well and hope our ways cross again soon. Much love from your passionate Elizabeth:)
The best month ever!
October 07, 2026by: Elmar Limas - United StatesI chose AIFS Abroad because of the variety of programs that they offer. I went to Paris, France for a January term to take an Accounting class at the American Business College. The AIFS staff was super helpful with me. Even before departure, they were there for me helping me with my housing options and to coordinate my flights, during my program they invited us to different excursions and to the AIFS office in Paris to know the staff and after the program they were very interested in our feedback and reviews. During my program I stayed with a host family and it was such an amazing thing because i got to experience French culture first-hand while also sharing a little bit about my own culture. The American Business College is a place where students from different cultures and backgrounds share one same perspective on global business with an American point of view, which made everything easier for me. This program had a great impact in my life because it made me get out of my comfort zone and get to know so many people while earning credit towards my degree. I'd recommend AIFS Abroad to anyone looking to study abroad or intern while getting credits towards their degree. AIFS is very helpful, has so many programs available and a staff who is always willing to make the best for you.
An unforgettable summer in Seville, Spain🇪🇸
October 06, 2026by: Suchita Bhojaraju - United StatesMy study abroad experience in Seville, Spain was truly unforgettable. I had the opportunity to explore a new culture, meet people from different backgrounds, and experience everyday life in another country. I loved being able to travel around Spain and visit places like Barcelona and Madrid, while also making memories in Seville. Studying abroad helped me become more independent, confident, and open to trying new things. I would definitely recommend studying abroad to other students because it is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life!


An Unforgettable Summer in Seville, Spain
October 06, 2026by: Suchita Bhojaraju - United StatesProgram: Study Abroad in Bangkok, Thailand with WorldStrides
My study abroad experience in Seville, Spain was truly unforgettable. I had the opportunity to explore a new culture, meet people from different backgrounds, and experience everyday life in another country. I loved being able to travel around Spain and visit places like Barcelona and Madrid, while also making memories in Seville. Studying abroad helped me become more independent, confident, and open to trying new things. I would definitely recommend studying abroad to other students because it is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life!

Best experience of my life!
October 06, 2026by: Alayna Weber - United StatesStudying abroad in Madrid through WorldStrides was truly the best experience of my life! I learned so much about myself and about the world around me. WorldStrides staff were there with me every step of my process and were so welcoming and inviting. I lived with a host family and they were absolutely wonderful. Nebrija was a great university with the best professors. I'm so grateful for this experience and for WorldStrides help along the way!
Umeda Explorations and Amemura Karaoke Nights
October 06, 2026by: Amber Wang - AustraliaMy time with Meiji was unforgettable and I did make a lot of friends. I loved the cultural activities and socialgatherings we had on weekends. I recommend taking the traditional culture and Japanese conversation module. Especially our excursion to a Katana performance and Karate practice was so much fun. I hope to be back soon ♡
Latest Interviews

Arseniy Ovchinnikov
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to gain international experience, improve my English, and learn from professionals in the hospitality ind...

Anastasiya Vinogradova
The Academy of Tourism Antalya
Growing up, I lived in Thailand and practiced tennis, so travel and new cultures always felt natural to me.

Maria Huerta
European Centre for Career Education
What inspired me to go abroad was not just curiosity, but the need to understand the systems that shape people's lives beyond borders.

Andrew Messersmith
College Year in Athens
What inspired me to go abroad was all of the different opportunities that my university provides. I believe that spending a semester abroad can be an ...

Jonathan Ulicny
CES Maastricht
I was inspired to travel abroad because of my commitment to learning more about international cultures and interacting with individuals across Europe....

Vanessa Chairez
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
I was inspired to go about because it truly is a once in a lifetime experience and we are only this young once, so why not take advantage of that. It ...

Bethel University Global Studies
My family has been my motivation and inspiration to go abroad. I come from a family where most of us are complacent with small, everyday life. My fami...

Kesa Ferguson
Academic Programs International
My brother was my primary inspiration to go abroad; seeing his transformative experience in China showed me how much a global perspective can change a...

Lia-Mara Bösch
StudyInBali
What inspired me to go abroad was partly a requirement of my university, as we have to either complete an internship or study abroad for one semester.

John Peterson
Instituto Hemingway
Going abroad was inspired by my desire to step outside my comfort zone and experience life from a different perspective. I wanted to improve my langua...

José Gonzalo Solís Baca
European Centre for Career Education
Traveling has always been a passion of mine, and the opportunity to experience other cultures deeply inspires me. Going abroad allows me to build genu...

Amal Azabova
European Centre for Career Education
Although I graduated some time ago and currently live in Prague, I felt a strong desire to return to a structured academic environment. I wanted to re...

Elise Monroe
Academic Programs Abroad (APA)
I was always determined to study abroad because of the stories my dad told me about his own time living overseas. He once spoke French fluently, and I...

Mikhail Mikhaylov
Learn Russian in the European Union
I wanted to deepen my understanding of the post-Soviet region through direct immersion, especially given my academic focus on conflict mediation. The ...

Makayla Ross
IES Abroad
Studying abroad was not a part of my original 4-year plan. I'd anticipate joining campus clubs, meeting new people and making lifelong friendships, an...

Grant Dockery
IES Abroad
This was not my first experience studying abroad. I have always loved traveling and experiencing new cultures (I'm a big foodie). I also adore languag...

Eddie Kaake
CES Maastricht
I had known from a young age that I wanted to study far from home, but due to the illness of one of my parents, I was afraid to make that jump. After ...

Jon Shepherd
Bethel University Global Studies
My first trip abroad was to Mexico when I was in college, studying Spanish. That experience changed everything for me; it brought the language to life...

Anika Freestone
Phezulu Pre-Vet
I’ve always wanted to go to Africa, or specifically South Africa, to experience and work with its wildlife since I was a little girl. I’ve wanted to e...

Janie Kilby
Forum-Nexus Study Abroad
All three of my older brothers participated in study abroad, and from their experiences and adventures, I discovered my inspiration to have similar ad...
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