Why study abroad? The better question is, why wouldn’t you want to study overseas?
Studying in different countries provides access to sights, experiences, and cuisines that are unlike anything you can find at home. Whether you’re exploring cultures that are thousands of years old or enjoying some downtime by some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, you’ll get a fresh perspective about yourself, your limits, your strengths, and your future.
When asked about their experience, more than eight in 10 students say that their study abroad experience changed their worldview.
As a Marshall student, you have an incredible opportunity to study abroad, thanks to a variety of options to help you make it happen, whether you’re looking at a summer in France or a full semester in Japan.
However, between choosing which program you want to do, lining up your classes, and making sure it fits your budget, figuring out how to make it happen can feel overwhelming.
The good news? You’ve got the following guide to help get you started.
- Explore your travel options: Do you want to learn a foreign language, or expand your studies into international areas of business, the humanities, or the sciences? Do you want to go for a single month, a full semester, or possibly longer? You have a wealth of options, so start by looking at what’s possible:
- Faculty-led programs are short-term, usually over summer or spring break, and led by Marshall professors
- Exchange programs are semester or year-long, where you actually swap places with a student at a partner university
- Affiliate programs from non-profit networks ISEP, KIIS, and KEI offer even more destinations and academic options
- Take note of everything you need, including:
- Academic recommendations
- Scholarships and grants to help pay for the trip
- Health insurance
- A passport
- An entry Visa (if required)
- International Student ID card
- Make a checklist of all the requirements. See what you need to apply to a study abroad program and start preparing:
- You’ll need to complete your first two semesters of University
- You must have a minimum 2.50 GPA earned at Marshall
- Complete a Credit Approval Form
- Make your own travel arrangements, if needed
- Be sure to make note of all application deadlines
- Start the application process to lock in your spot. Once you’re ready to start the process, reach out to the Office of Study Abroad:
- Contact or visit the Office of Study Abroad in Old Main
- Talk to your academic advisor to make sure your credits transfer
- Check your financial aid eligibility and scholarship options
- Apply for or renew your passport ASAP
Schedule some time to read Marshall’s Study Abroad homepage. Even better, make an appointment directly with the Office of Study Abroad, and they’ll talk you through the process. Even if you’re a first-year student, it’s a great way to start exploring your options for your sophomore or junior year.