Which Study Abroad Program is Right for Me?

There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a study abroad program.  Before you being your search, you may want to identify your goals for your study abroad experience.

Questions to Consider:

• Do I want to learn a foreign language?  If so, which one, and where would be the best place(s) to learn it?
• How long do I want to be abroad?  And when do I want to go?
• Do I need the courses taken abroad to count towards my major/minor?

After considering these questions, you will hopefully begin to focus in on the best options for you.  There are other aspects of studying abroad you may want to consider as you continue the search process:

• Cost: What does the program cost? Cost of living in that city/county? What are the exchange rates?
• Location: Is the city/county well placed for travel?
• Size:  Would I prefer to live in a large, medium, or small city?
• Requirements: Are there academic or GPA requirements?  Are there deadlines?
• Weather: Am I OK with cloudy/rainy or hot/humid, etc weather?
• What’s Included: Does this program include excursions?  Where to?  Will I get a cell phone?  Will I get the support and advising I need before I go?

If after considering all of the above questions and points you are still not sure about which program is right for you, consider talking with an advisor, family and/or friends to discuss which options are best for you.

You can also talk with an API Peer Mentor. Peer Mentors are current students from around the U.S. who studied on an API program and have recent, first-hand experience on our programs, and are great sources of information!