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10 Steps for Studying Abroad
1. Attend an Information Session
Fall 2009 Information Session Schedule:
November
- Tuesday, November 3 at 11:00am
- Monday, November 9 at 2:00pm
- Thursday, November 19 at 12:00pm
- Monday, November 23 at 3:00pm
December
- Wednesday, December 2 at 10:00am
- Thursday, December 10 at 2:00pm
Sessions are located in the Resource Room in the Office of International Programs, 401 Culbertson Hall. (Above the mailroom).
If you are interested in attending an information session, please call 994-7151 to reserve a space for the day and time of your choice.
2. Apply for your passport
You won't be able to leave without your passport! Please note that processing times for passports have increased. For information for how to apply for your passport, please see the following website:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html
3. Check eligibility requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- Students must have a GPA of at least 2.5-3.0, depending on the program. Direct exchange programs require a 3.0 GPA.
- Students must have at least sophomore standing.
- To study in a foreign language, students must take 4 semesters (or equivalent) of the foreign language prior to studying abroad.
4. Research study abroad programs
Think about what type of program you are interested in:
- MSU tuition exchange (most affordable for resident tuition students)
- Fee-based program (may be less expensive than non-resident tuition)
- Fully-integrated program
- Language immersion program
- Island program
- Faculty led program
- Short-term program
- Homestay vs. student housing
- Big city vs. small town
The Resource Center is open daily from 8-5 for online and library research.
Search MSU Sponsored Programs on the OIP website by clicking on the country where you want to study.
5. Decide when and how long you want to study
Figuring out how long to study abroad is a difficult matter. Many factors push students to shorter programs. The Office of International Programs urges students to study abroad for a full academic year. The most important benefits of study abroad: integrating into another culture, developing life-long friendships overseas, and building foreign language skills, can only be fully attained through an academic year program. However, semester, summer, or short-term programs are available, and are certainly encouraged if it is only possible to study abroad for a shorter period of time.
Meet with your advisor to discuss the best time to incorporate study abroad into your major.
6. Choose study abroad courses and discuss with your advisor
The most up-to-date course information can be found online. Most universities have easy access to course listings on their websites.
Meet with your advisor to discuss equivalencies for courses in your major. Discuss CORE equivalencies with the Registrar's Office.
7. Schedule an advising appointment
You will need to meet with the study abroad advisor to discuss study abroad opportunities before obtaining an application. Contact the Study Abroad Advisor 406-994-7151 to schedule an appointment.
Fill out a Study Abroad Questionaire before the appointment.
8. Complete the Study Abroad Application
After meeting with the study abroad advisor, pick up an application in the International Programs Office.
How do I apply?
Application deadlines:**
Fall Semester: March 1st
ISEP Programs: January 15th*
Spring Semester: October 1st
ISEP programs: August 15th*
*Priority deadline for all ISEP exchange programs. ISEP continues to accept applications for some programs after this date.
**Some programs may have earlier deadlines.
9. Interview with the Study Abroad Committee
All students participating in MSU Direct Exchange and ISEP programs must attend a 15-20 minute interview. This will give you a change to explain why you have chosen your study abroad destination and to ask questions.
10. Receive acceptance from MSU and host university
Apply for your Student Visa (if necessary).
10. Attend the Pre-Departure Orientation
11. Pack your bags and go abroad!
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