U.S. Study Abroad Programs

Over 80,000 Americans study abroad at the college or university level each academic year. The number of U.S. students going abroad has increased by about two percent annually over recent years, and this type of study opportunity is now an established part of American academic life.

While most U.S. citizens who study abroad go to Europe (over 60 percent), growing numbers are going to Asia, Latin America, and Australasia. The majority of these students (nearly 70 percent) are short-term visitors who are enrolled in courses or programs sponsored, or offered, by U.S. postsecondary institutions or special foreign student programs provided by host country institutions. Most of these study abroad participants, about 90 percent, are undergraduate students. However, a small but significant number of Americans is enrolled in first or higher degree study programs at the university level in foreign educational systems.

General Information for Studying Abroad

Several national organizations provide extensive general information, statistics, and guidance for persons who are interested in studying abroad or professional who may advise such persons. Among them are:

Institute of International Education (IIE) is the largest U.S. organization devoted exclusively to international educational exchanges, particularly at the postsecondary level. It provides statistics, publications, guidance, and links, and also cooperates with the U.S. government in administering several exchange programs, and operates several overseas offices.

NAFSA: Association of International Educators provides useful information and resources to help plan a successful study abroad experience, as well as links to study abroad opportunities.

The College Board Online provides information and guidance on planning and financing study abroad, links to institutions and organizations, and information on obtaining credit for study abroad participation.

The Center for the Internationalization of Colleges and Universities World-Wide provides extensive information and links.

For resources and opportunities for students below the postsecondary level, please go to Primary and Secondary Level.

Information for Students Living With Disabilities

If you are interested in studying abroad but have a disability or advise people who do, then you may want to visit one of the following sites.

Disabled Student Travel is a site maintained by the National Clearinghouse for Academic Advising at Ohio State University.

Mobility International U.S.A. is an organization specializing in helping disabled students have successful study abroad experiences.

Useful Preparatory Information

Please visit Going Abroad to learn about important sources of information and assistance on practical matters such as travel, documentation, health and safety tips, and regulations.