Do you want a short-term study abroad program? A full year? One based overseas or in the States? Learn about what's available when you study outside the U.S.
Sponsored at home or internationally?
Study abroad programs usually fall into two categories:
- Sponsored by a U.S. institution
- Sponsored by an international institution
The sponsor offers the program and generally makes your academic and living arrangements. According to Ann M. Moore, author of The Unofficial Guide to Study Abroad, programs can then be further broken down into university enrollment or "island" programs:
- U.S. sponsor/university enrollment. American schools help U.S. students enroll directly in university classes in another country.
- International sponsor/university enrollment. Host universities overseas directly recruit American students and make academic and living arrangements.
- U.S. sponsor/"island" program. American schools make overseas arrangements for American students and also create the curriculum.
- International sponsor/"island" program. Overseas institutions arrange study programs exclusively for American or international students.
How long do you want to stay?
Program start and end dates will vary. These program are generally offered for the following durations:
- Short-term programs last a few weeks (usually less than a semester).
- Semester (fall or spring) — coinciding with your college or university in the U.S.
- Summer — summer months, varies depending on your program.
- Academic year — coincides with your academic year in the U.S. Schedules, school breaks and holiday will most likely vary depending on your host country and the program you are in.
