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Study Abroad Steps

Steps to Study Abroad

If you’re thinking of studying abroad, you probably have many questions such as ... Where do I Start? Where can I go? What can I study? And how am I going to pay for it? The following are starting points for planning your study abroad experience:

  1. Visit the Office of Study Abroad. We'll help you with your questions, give you information about programs, countries and cities and scholarship information. The earlier you start planning for your study abroad experience, the better.
  2. Talk to your academic adviser. Tell your adviser you're interested in studying abroad and think about your four-year plan. Abroad you have opportunities to take courses that directly apply to your major, electives or core courses. There are many opportunities to study abroad during your sophomore, junior and senior years. Discuss the coursework and term of study that will work best for you.
  3. Select a program. Find a program based on where you want to go, the term or your degree plan.
  4. Apply early. Complete all necessary documents and reigister with the Office of Study Abroad to receive financial aid and credit for courses.


Eligibility

Academic Adviser and Dean Approval
Students must have study abroad courses pre-approved prior to studying abroad by their adviser and dean.

Academic Standing
Applicants for study abroad must be in good academic standing. There is a minimum 2.0 GPA requirement. Some programs may require a 3.0 GPA or more, so review the requirements of the program.
    
Language Level
If English is not spoken and you're in the program to learn language, you'll take a placement test upon arrival.  You must have some language proficiency to pursue courses, generally at least four semesters of study at the college level.

Orientation and Program Evaluation
Accepted students attend a pre-departure orientation session with academic, administrative and cultural information. Some overseas programs also offer on-site orientations. Upon return to WTAMU, students are requested to submit written evaluations about their programs.

Semester Completion
Students must have completed a minimum of one semester at WTAMU and making progress toward academic degree requirements as determined by their dean.

Disciplinary Probation
Students can not be on disciplinary probation when studying abroad.
    
Note: Each program has it’s own criteria for participation and students should review the requirements.


Once Accepted

Once you've completed the application, spoken with your adviser and completed your pre-approval of courses form (for long-term programs), your next steps are:
  1. Apply directly to the program you've chosen (separate from the WTAMU study abroad application.) *This does not apply to faculty-led programs.
  2. Contact Charissa Harden in the Office of Financial Aid if you’ll need help financing your trip.
  3. Research scholarships and start applying … don’t forget about the International Education Fee Scholarship through the Office of Study Abroad.
  4. Once you have your passport, you must complete any visa requirements. This needs to be done early so don’t wait until the month before you leave.
  5. Book your plane tickets if they're not included in program costs.
  6. Attend a pre-departure orientation and complete emergency and liability forms.
  7. Cover personal needs like forwarding mail, arranging for plants to be watered, storing your car, etc.
  8. Now it’s time to pack, board a plane and have the time of your life!