Steps to Study Abroad
- Decide what kind of experience you want (study, research, intern or volunteer)
- Determine how the courses or experience will fit into your degree plan or aid your career goals
- Choose a program
- Look over our Choosing a Program section
- Read about the different program types (faculty-led, transfer credit, research, internship and volunteer) in our Program Types section
- Use the Study Abroad Portal to view available programs
- Meet with a study abroad advisor or study abroad peer counselor
- Before your meeting, think about what you want to do (study, research, intern, volunteer or a combination), where and when you want to go, and how long you want to go.
- Visit the Study Abroad Programs Office to ask questions ranging from funding to course credit
- Calculate and compare the costs of different programs that you are interested in
- Determine whether or not you want to go on an academic credit bearing program
- Make sure the program you chose will benefit you academically
- Ask what courses are permitted to be taken away from PVAMU and what courses must be taken on campus
- Talk to your parents, family and friends
- Discuss your budget
- Discuss health and safety of the different countries you are interested in
- See if your parents, family or friends have recommendations on program types or locations
- Meet with a Financial Aid Advisor to discuss your financial aid package
- Are you eligible for federal, state or institutional aid (loans, grants and scholarships)
- If you are currently receiving federal, state or institutional aid, make sure you discuss how this will or will not transfer to your study abroad expenses
- Complete a FAFSA application if you haven't already. Students must have a current FAFSA on file to be considered for many study abroad scholarships based on financial need.
- Visit our Funding section to learn what scholarships are available
- Note all eligibility requirements
- Mark deadlines in your calendar
- Find program options by using our program search. Complete the program application by the announced deadline
- Note: You can only have one active application per term. If you do not see your program option listed, please contact our office.
- Check your email for updates regarding your application status
- Apply for or renew your passport
- Apply for a visa if required
- Attend program-specific meetings
- Pay your program fee by the announced due dates
- Enroll in the appropriate courses
- Research your destination to learn more about the culture, dress, weather, and food
- Pack your suitcase
- Finalize all the last minute details
- Make a list of what you want to accomplish while abroad
- Keep in touch with family in friends so they know you're okay
- Be safe!
- Get the most out of your experience
- Meet with your study abroad advisor once your foreign transcript is received (if one will be issued for your program)
- Network with fellow Panther study abroad returnees
- Consider how your international experience can impact your career and professional goals
- Consider going abroad again
- Complete the survey on your experience abroad