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Study Abroad FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Can Study Abroad?

You can! WTAMU undergraduate students with a GPA of at least 2.0 who have completed at least one semester at WTAMU are eligible to study abroad. Consult individual programs about eligibility requirements. Some programs require sophomore or junior standing and many have minimum GPA requirements, usually from 2.5 - 3.0.

If you are a graduate student, you have study abroad opportunities availabe as well. Please inquire with the

Where Can I Study Abroad?

Through WTAMU faculty-led, affiliate and reciprocal exchange programs, students can study abroad just about anywhere.

How Long is a Study Abroad Program?

You're encouraged to consider studying abroad for a semester or academic year. Summer programs are also available. The length of time you spend abroad will depend on your particular needs and goals, your financial resources, as well as the limits placed on you by your academic program at WTAMU.

You may be hesitant to apply for a semester or a year-long program because you feel that this is a long time to be away. However, if your goal is to master a language or become completely immersed in another culture, you may find that even a year seems like a short time. Returning study abroad students often report back about how fast their time abroad went by and how much they regretted having to return home after one semester, just as they were "getting the hang of things" in their host country.

How Much Does it Cost?

Not as much as you might think. Costs can vary dependent on where you go and for how long. AT WTAMU, you can take advantage of an exchange agreement with universities abroad. WTAMU students can study at an international university for essentially the same cost as remaining here. Tuition and fees are paid at here and housing is usually paid for in the host country. Additional expenses include international travel, meals, passports, visas and incidentals, such as travel within the host country or region.

Costs can be similar to staying at WTAMU in countries where the cost of living is significantly less than in the U.S., such as China, Mexico or Costa Rica. High-cost cities, such as London or Rome, can be substantially more expensive. It's best to explore many options before deciding which program you'd like to join.

*Don’t forget* We have a scholarship program that can help fund your study abroad program as well as many other scholarship opportunities!


Can I Apply My Financial Aid and Scholarships?

Yes. Most federal, state and campus-based aid can be applied. The Office of Study Abroad also offers an IEF scholarship which typically ranges from $250-$2000. In addition there are also many third-party scholarships available for study abroad. Please inquire with the OSA for more information.

Can I Get Academic Credit?

Definitely! WTAMU students can transfer up to 15 credit hours per semester.

Will I Have to Delay Graduation?


Not necessarily. With planning, you can remain on track to graduate in four years and still study abroad for up to a year. Plan early and work closely with your college, academic advisers and study abroad coordinator to design the best course of study.

Some find it best to remain at WTAMU for an extra semester or year after studying abroad because of the new focus they gained overseas. Your own circumstances and needs will determine the best course of action for you.

Do I Need to Speak a Foreign Language?

Not necessarily. Many programs, including some in countries where English is not spoken as a native language, do not require any foreign language background. Many of these programs in non-English speaking countries emphasize language study, especially in languages such as Polish that are not readily available on U.S. campuses.

Where Will I Live?

This depends on the program. The most common types of accommodation arranged for study abroad students are residence hall-type housing, homestays or sharing an apartment with students in the program.

Residence hall housing is similar to what is offered at WTAMU. You'll usually have the option of  a roommate or  a single room with an additional charge. Most students will share a bathroom, kitchen and "living room." These are often self-catering arrangements in which students are responsible for buying and preparing their own meals. There's more freedom and responsibility than in American university residence halls.

Homestays may be a good way to immerse yourself in the host country, especially if you’re studying language. The experience of living with a family can provide insights other arrangements can not. However, homestays may be more restrictive in that you will be expected to conform to the rules and norms of the family, which will be different from your own family.