Applying & Going

Getting Started

Studying abroad can be one of the most rewarding experiences in a student's academic career, but it is one that might seem daunting at first. The USF Education Abroad office is here to help you every step of the way! In order to begin planning your experience, let’s start with these steps.

Step 1: Determine your goals.

Thinking about what you would like to accomplish on a study abroad program will assist you in narrowing down your options and finding the perfect program!
Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Why do I want to study abroad?
  • How will studying abroad align with my personal, professional, and academic goals?
  • What criteria of a study abroad program are most important for me? Think about location, program length, courses you would like to take, language immersion, etc.
  • What duration and time of the year is ideal for a study abroad experience?
  • What do I want to get out of this experience?

Step 2: Explore our programs.

There are 3 main types of programs at USF showcased on our site.

Faculty-led programs:
These programs vary from 1-10 weeks over the summer, spring break, and intersessions and are led by a USF faculty member on-site. These programs are designed and facilitated by USF, providing students with direct USF course credit.

Affiliate programs:
These are hosted by independent education abroad companies who work with other universities/sites all around the world, and USF has signed contracts/ affiliation agreements with a number of these companies. These programs provide USF students with more expansive program options and coursework in a variety of locations.  These Affiliates Include: ACT, AIFS, CIEE, CIS, ISA, BARCEOLNA SAE, SEAMESTER, SIT, TEAN, GREEN PROGRAM.

Exchange programs:
Exchanges are full semester or year program options at universities partnered with USF for students looking to have a longer, more immersive study abroad experience. Students will be charged in-state tuition directly from USF, and pay housing and expenses to the host institution as applicable.

Once you know the difference between the options showcased on our website, look around on our program discovery and begin researching which program is the best fit for you!

Still not sure? Meet with a student recruiter at one of our branch campus!

Step 3: Meet with your academic advisor!

In order to ensure that the program is meeting not only your personal goals, but also fitting into your academic track towards graduation, meet with your academic advisor early on in the planning process. Speaking with an academic advisor can help to choose which classes would be ideal to take abroad, and can help you determine when studying abroad fits best into your college career.

Step 4: Start your application!

Click here to explore our programs.

Deadlines will vary based on the program that you have selected.

Step 5: Research funding options.

USF Offers a variety of funding options and resources. Please visit our scholarship page to explore your options.