What Are The Steps?

Why Study Abroad?

Going abroad can inspire the development of new perspectives, particularly affecting academic pursuits. Faculty and instructors overseas may have different approaches to teaching and may offer new insights into subjects, potentially altering the trajectory of your studies. Leaving campus and entering a new learning environment can be a beneficial step in your academic career by: 

  • Increasing your curiosity 
  • Introducing new perspectives
  • Exposing you to graduate programs, thesis topics, or new interests in your field 
  • Confirming your commitment to an academic area of study 
  • Encouraging the development innovative problem-solving skills 

You can gain valuable skills for your future career by choosing to pursue education abroad. Upon returning from studying away, students often report higher levels of:

  • Foreign language competence
  • Motivation and Initiative
  • Cross-cultural communication skills 
  • Adaptability and Flexibility 
  • Networking skills

Working with counselors at the Career Education & Development after your program abroad will help you articulate the professional skills that you have gained. They will guide you on how to highlight your experiences in your resume, cover letter, and future interviews. 

Adjusting to daily life abroad can be challenging. Adapting to new cultures, cultures, customs, environments, and languages takes time and effort. Overcoming these daily obstacles boosts confidence and enhances your ability to adjust to unfamiliar environments and new situations. After your study abroad experience, you may feel more self-sufficient, resilient, and independent. 

Studying abroad is a deeply immersive experience that fosters the development of  lifelong friendships and connections. Sharing transformative experiences abroad brings others closer together, allowing you to build an expanded global social network in the process. 

What You Need to Know 

  • Minimum GPA Requirement: 2.5
  • No academic probation
  • Be at least a second semester freshman/transfer student

Steps to Study Abroad

  1. Meet with OGE

    Meeting with the Office of Global Engagement is always your first step when you are thinking about education abroad. Schedule an initial meeting with an advisor at OGE, and from there, you'll discuss your goals, review program options, address any questions, and know your next steps.

    Schedule an Appointment With Us!

     

  2. Attend Education Abroad 101 Info Session

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    In these 45-min workshops, we'll cover all the bases of education abroad, including: 

    • Eligibility criteria & updates
    • Types of programs
    • Step by step instructions 
    • Tutorials on navigating the OGE website/ViaTRM
    • Additional useful resources

  3. Find Your Program 

    The first step in exploring study away programs is identifying your goals. Consider the following questions: 

    • Are you interested in satisfying academic requirements? 
    • Would you like an internship or research experience? 
    • Do you simply need credits? 
    • Are you seeking personal growth or professional development? 
    • Is your primary goal to live abroad and explore a different culture? 

    While there is no right or wrong program, it is important to choose a program based on a well-informed decision. Here are four top factors to consider in identifying the best study abroad program for you: 

    • Academics: Choose a program to match your major/minor/general education requirements and desirable courses.  (What areas of study do you want to pursue?) 
    • Personal Goals: Contemplate the outcomes of the program to your expected goals, such as language skills, boosting confidence and independence, etc. (What types of experiences would you like to accomplish abroad?)  
    • Program Costs: Compare the overall cost of the program, including tuition, fee, housing, meals, airfare, local travel, visa, etc. 
    • Time Length: How long can you commit to study abroad?  
    • Funding: Explore the variety of scholarships available to fund your experience. Financial aid may be applicable  

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  4. Apply (Stockton)

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    Fill out and submit an application to study abroad by the deadline. You will need to secure a letter of recommendation to complete your application. 

    Winter/Spring: March 1

    Summer/Fall: October 1 

  5. Apply (Provider, if necessary)

    Depending on what program you apply to, you may need to submit a second application. 

    All provider programs require their own application. You will find this application and the provider's individual due dates on the provider's website.

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  6. Meet with Academic Advising 

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    Once you've narrowed your search, meet with your academic advisor/preceptor to review the program(s) you've selected. Your advisor/preceptor is pivotal in the education abroad process. They will help you decide when in your undergraduate career is the best time to study abroad, and their collaboration will be needed later on as you choose courses abroad. 

  7. Meet with Financial Aid 

    The financial aid department will review your financial aid account and give you insights on what funding options you have available. 

    *This is a perfect time to consider applying for scholarships! OGE is knowledgeable on all the various opportunities students have to receive financial resources to support their education abroad endeavors. 

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  8. Pre-departure 

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    The pre-departure period is essential to get ready for travel and life abroad. During this time, you'll need to submit all required forms and make sure your passport and visa are prepared. Completing a pre-departure certification course is also a must; it will give you important information about living and studying in a different country.

    Pre-departure orientation meeting attendance is required. This is where you'll get valuable tips and insights to help you adjust and make the most of your upcoming experience.

  9. Re-Entry 

    OGE will host a Re-Entry event for all students returning home from their programs abroad. This is aimed at providing space for students to exchange stories, process their unique experiences, connect with other global alumni, and check in with the staff at OGE. In addition, students will find ways to globalize their resumes! 

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