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U-M Study Abroad Process

Overview

Study abroad is one of the best ways to gain an in-depth experience of another country and culture. This may be especially true for your first experience living abroad, since study abroad programs typically provide a support structure for everything from academics to accommodations.

The degree of cultural immersion you'll experience will be affected by a number of factors, which you'll want to consider when choosing a program. Courses offered by study abroad programs range from direct enrollment in host country university classes, to courses taught specially for the (mostly U.S.) students enrolled in the study abroad program. The courses may be taught in English, even if the language of the host country is not English, or they may be taught in the foreign language of the host country. Foreign language prerequisites range from none at all to advanced. Another important academic consideration is the relevance of subjects offered to your degree. Experiential education options such as internships, service-learning and field research are offered by many study abroad programs.

Living arrangements offered by study abroad programs vary, from being housed with a family, to living in a dorm with a local student, to accommodations which house the (mostly U.S.) program participants together in one building, to programs which leave it up to students to find apartments on their own.

Costs of study abroad programs vary, but studying abroad is not necessarily much more expensive than taking classes in Ann Arbor, and U-M financial aid can be used for U-M study abroad programs.

This section contains detailed information and resources to get you started in the process of studying abroad.

Enrollment Options	Provides information on a) enrolling through U-M or other institutions, and b) choosing courses with other Americans, host-country students, or students from many countries.
Academic Credit Options	Provides information and resources for assuring academic credit for your study abroad program.
Funding Your Study Abroad	Provides information and resources for obtaining financial aid and scholarships.
Funding Internships and Research	Provides information, resources, and helpful tips for funding options for co-curricular education abroad experiences.
Departure Checklist	Provides information on what needs to be done before, during and after studying abroad to ensure a successful experience.

Last reviewed: 5/07