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Getting Started for Study Abroad

Ready for your U of A study abroad experience?

In general, if you’re at least 18 and have a year of college credits with a 2.5 or higher GPA, you’re good to go! Here’s a simple, 4-step guide you can follow to get started.

Step 1: Get Inspired

Browse some programs to get inspired! Favorite a few that line up with your interests and education goals.

Browse Programs

Step 2: Let’s Chat

Talk with one of our peer advisors to learn more from someone who’s done this!

Make an Appointment

Step 3: See Your Advisor

Connect with your academic advisor to talk through which programs will work well for your degree plan.

Browse Programs

Step 4: Choose Your Program!

Pick your program and complete the application online. After that, you’ll get an email from your assigned study abroad coordinator with next steps!

Learn More

What Happens Once I Apply?

That’s a simple guide for getting started. Of course there’s more to know!

Here are answers to some questions we hear often.

You can also email us any time to learn more.

It’s best to start your application at least 3 weeks before the deadline! But windows open much earlier, so you have plenty of time to plan for your trip.

For Programs In…Applications Open…
Fall~Dec. 1 the year before
Spring~Mid June the year before
Summer~Nov. 1 the year before

Important: If you need to get or renew your passport, allow at least 6 weeks for that!

Each program is different, so find the “Cost & Funding” information in the program description.

You’ll see specific program costs plus estimates for some other things to budget for.

Important: If you already have financial aid, you can probably use it for study abroad! Find out how.

We can also connect you to financial aid and scholarships specifically for studying abroad.

First, it’s important to know that every study abroad program earns credit:

  • You can do study abroad for language or other gen ed credits
  • You can also filter our programs by subject area to find ones that work for your major or minor

Remember: it’s never too early to talk with your academic advisor to learn more about how study abroad can work for your college plan!

Three more things, for now:

Talk with your family about your goals and what kind of support you’ll need. Maybe send them this page!

Get your passport: Rush orders are possible, but the standard process takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Learn more about traveling abroad based on your personal background and identity.

A visitor standing in front of the colorful mosaic-covered bench at Park Güell in Barcelona, with the city's distinctive architecture in the background.

Talk with Students Who Know!

Our peer advisors are students who can tell you all about study abroad because they’ve done it!

Whether you connect by Zoom or drop in for a chat, it’s a great way to start exploring your own study abroad.

Make An Appointment Drop-In Hours