Planning Your Study Abroad Experience

Once you have decided to study abroad, commit yourself and begin planning. Most programs require that you apply at least six to nine months before departure.
Gather information by completing the Study Abroad Information Request form and meeting with the study abroad adviser in the Office of the Provost to determine what programs are available to West Liberty students.
Meet with your faculty academic adviser to see how a study abroad experience will fit into your academic program. Discuss: your general education requirements yet to be met, can these be taken abroad; required courses in your major yet to be taken, can these be taken abroad; elective courses in your major, can these be taken abroad?
Decide on a program and the length – a semester, a summer, or a full year. What country? What language will you need? Do you want an internship?
Estimate costs – talk with parents, and the Financial Aid Office. Federal aid is generally available to qualifying students for study abroad.
For most programs you will apply online and should follow all application and enrollment procedures.
Apply for a passport at least six months before departure. You can apply for one at any Main U.S. Post Office (2501 Chapline St. in Wheeling) or online. An original birth certificate and two photo IDs are required. If you already hold a passport, it should be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you intend to return.
You will generally need one or more academic recommendations when you apply for a study abroad program.
Research study abroad scholarship opportunities and begin the application process well in advance of the deadlines. Scholarship programs can be found under “scholarships” on this site. Also, federal aid is available to qualifying students for study abroad programs, including summer terms if available so be sure to consult with the campus Financial Aid Office.

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