Questions to Consider for Study Abroad Applicants
Because there are many different types of study abroad programs, it is important to consider your personal, academic and professional goals when choosing one.
- Do you want a language immersion program, an English-speaking program or a combination of the two? If you prefer an immersion program, do you have the necessary prerequisites to take all your classes in a foreign language? How do you plan to improve your language skills before you leave?
- Do you want to attend classes with other Americans or with students from the host country?
- Do you want courses taught as they are in America or do you want to experience the education system of the host country?
- How will study abroad fit into your academic program at Marquette? Will you be missing important classes?
- How will study abroad affect your progress toward graduation?
- Are there courses you must take while abroad?
- Do you want to live in a major metropolitan area or a small town?
- Do you want to live with a host family, in a dorm or in an apartment?
- Do you want to travel extensively or establish roots in the country where you are studying?
Narrowing your program selections
- What is the program model? Will you have opportunities to interact with students from the host country?
- Who else might be participating in the program? Are the students from one institution or from a variety of places?
- Is financial aid available? Will your current financial aid transfer? (Find out!)
- Does the program offer courses that will count toward your degree? If not, are you willing to take electives?
- What are the housing options? Will you have to share a room? Will the other students be from the United States?
- Is there an on-site staff person, such as a resident director? What type of experience does the staff have? Do they speak the language? Do they know the culture?
- Is there an orientation? Where? When? For how long?
- Is there a group flight? Is it mandatory?
- Does the program provide health insurance?
- What are the program’s policies about refunds and cancelations?
Office of International Education
