Many students at USI may be considering studying abroad but might have doubts or be unsure how to sign up. The university offers a variety of study abroad options across six continents and provides multiple scholarships to help fund these trips.

USI offers four types of study abroad programs: exchange, direct, faculty-led and internship/volunteer. The most popular is the exchange program, where students pay USI tuition while an international student pays tuition at their home institution, essentially swapping places.

One of USI’s exchange partnerships is with the University of Osnabrück in Germany, a long-standing collaboration open to all majors. The program includes housing, transportation to cultural and historic sites, guided tours and social events.

Faculty-led programs are run by USI faculty and are often part of a course. For example, the Croatia study abroad program this summer is part of “Destination Promotions and Leading Organizations: Lessons from Game of Thrones.” The course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the tourism industry and explore leadership principles through the lens of the popular television series.

Costs vary depending on the program and student preferences but USI’s Center for International Programs estimates an average expense of $11,401.55 without scholarships.

For students concerned about affordability, USI offers several scholarships that can be applied to study abroad programs including the Patricia L. Aakhus International Studies Travel Scholarship and the Study Abroad Ambassador Scholarship. Additionally, campus students are encouraged to apply for the Gilman International Scholarship, a federal award providing up to $5,000 for students with high financial need.

The Center for International Programs on campus encourages all students to consider studying abroad, emphasizing the academic, professional and personal benefits of international experiences. Studies show that students who participate in study abroad programs tend to achieve greater success in their academic and professional careers.

Students interested in learning more can visit usi.edu and search “study abroad” for information and meeting times.