Previously, I have written about the different types of study abroad programs.
But… not every study abroad program is a good fit for everyone.
Today, let’s break down the different types to help you see what kind of program will be best for you!
After finding the type of program that is a good fit for you, then you can start focusing on the different academic programs, when you should go abroad, and ways to get even more out of your experience.
You hopefully won’t focus too much on the “where” until after you have done a little research. It’s important to find a program that is great for you academically!
Until then, this should help clear things up a little bit:
If you love adventure, figuring out puzzles, meeting new people, and don’t need support from administrators… Exchange programs
Exchanges are ideal for go-getters and self-starters. Students who are okay with not knowing every detail in advance of arriving abroad. Oh, and you will probably have to find your way to the school from the airport.
The deets: You will receive a transcript from your host school (more than likely not U.S. credit). You will probably have to find your own housing (especially in European institutions). Your student account will likely be billed for your home tuition and fees, and you pretty much do your own thing whilst on an exchange program.
If you enjoy all of the things listed above, but you also are willing to go your own way… Direct enroll
Direct enrolls are like an exchange program, but there might not be a formal agreement between your home university and your ideal host university.
The deets: no, really – it’s like an exchange, but your student account probably won’t be billed.
If you like being surrounded by people with similar interests as you, enjoy structure, prefer to have many choices for activities, and enjoy working with administrators… Program providers (semester)
Program providers are more popular now than ever.
These programs are perfect for students who want to travel with students from across the U.S. Also, they are popular with students who are interested in knowing what their class options will be. And maybe students who would like some options for immersing in the host culture.
Did we mention some trip opportunities?
Prague weekend trip with your classmates, anyone?
The deets: you will probably receive a transcript from a U.S. institution with your grades (the fancy term is “school of record”). You will likely have housing provided to you. And you will probably be required to report any personal travel to your provider. They like to know where you are.
If you would love to go abroad for a couple of weeks, enjoy working closely with faculty members, love having an itinerary, and want to meet other students from your university… Faculty-led short-term programs
Faculty-led short-term programs are great for students who are interested in studying with students from your home university!
They include so many things! Better yet, you will be able to develop rapport with a faculty member and meet students from your school.
These week-long to multi-week programs are full of activities, site visits, reflections, and really cool experiences to supplement a class.
The deets: your class will show up on your regular transcript. Your housing, some food, and activities will be included. You will probably have a group flight option. And, you will have some structured free time during which your professor will probably want to have a general idea of where you will be.
If you wanted to study away for a semester but can’t fit it into your schedule… Other short-term programs (summer, winter)
Short-term programs can be managed by providers, can be direct enrolls, can be non-credit bearing, and they can be faculty-led.
The possibilities are endless, so if you are interested in studying abroad for a summer or winter term, use the other guidelines for the appropriate programs to make your decision!
The deets: depends on the type of program you choose!
If you’re not all about them grades, about them grades… Non-credit and other programs
If you want to go abroad for a volunteering experience, an internship, or research opportunity but the experience won’t be eligible for credit at your home university, let me just say this – academic credit isn’t everything.
I know it feels like it is.
But if you have a nice internship on your resume, people will see that experience far longer than they will see any credits on your transcript.
The deets: If you decide to go with a program that will not be recognized as credit-bearing and is not sponsored by your school, you can inform your study abroad office but they will likely not get involved. Your host organization will provide all of the liability, the insurance, and the support.
How did you find the right study abroad program? What helped you make that decision?
Related Posts:
How to Get Credit for Study Abroad Programs
Why I Withdrew from Semester-Long Study Abroad
Ask an Advisor: What Should Students Ask?
When to Start Planning for Study Abroad
Study Abroad Guide: Preparation Phase