So you are thinking of studying abroad....

There are many benefits to studying abroad. You will grow and learn while you are abroad adjusting to living in a new culture. While studying abroad you will experience new customs, foods, languages, and much more. This experience will give you a new perspective of people in other countries, people in your own country, international students on PSU's campus, and yourself.

Studying abroad will also set you apart from other college students. Less than two percent of all college students study abroad. This experience will stand out on your resume or application to employers, graduate schools, and other organizations.  Hopefully, it will help you get that interview that may lead to a job or place in a graduate program.

Finally, studying abroad will give you a chance to travel and see a new part of the world. Many students will travel to other cities and countries besides where they are studying while they are abroad.

Apply to Study Abroad

Frequently Asked Questions

You may have a few questions before you decide whether or not you will study abroad. Some your questions may be covered here and through this web site. If not, contact the Study Abroad Coordinator in Whitesitt 118 to help toward an international experience.

How can I find out more about Study Abroad?

If you are still figuring out if you want to study abroad and want more information, here are some resources to find out about PSU study abroad programs.

1. Come to the Study Abroad EXPO held every Fall.
Faculty who are leading Group Study Abroad Programs will be there along with exchange students from universities where you could study abroad, other study abroad organizations, and of course the Study Abroad Coordinator.
2. Come to a Study Abroad Info Session.
The schedule for sessions can be found on the University Calendar and also on the Study Abroad bulletin board outside of the International Programs & Services Office in Whitesitt Hall.
3. Talk with past study abroad participants
Become a Fan of Pittsburg State Study Abroad on Facebook where you can connect with past participants. Also there is a PSU Study Abroad Blog where you can read about past participants' experience. Finally you can contact the Study Abroad Coordinator who can help connect you with past participants.
4. Make an appointment with the Study Abroad Coordinator.
Email, phone, or stop by Whitesitt 118 to set up a time to talk with the Study Abroad Coordinator about your study abroad options and questions.

How do I find the Study Abroad program right for me?

Start by looking through the study abroad options offered through Pittsburg State. You can learn more about PSU Group Study Abroad programs, exchange options, and other programs through the Programs link.

When you are choosing a program there are a lot of different factors to consider to make sure you are picking a program that fits your needs. It is important for your success as a study abroad student to find a satisfactory program. Some questions to ask yourself are:

What types of courses do you want to take abroad?
Where in the world do you want to go?
Do you prefer a big city or a small town?
Do you want to go with a group of PSU students or individually?
How much will the whole study abroad experience cost including Visa costs, airfare, food, housing, travel costs, etc?
When is the best time academically for you to go?
What language do you want to take class in?

Make a list of your priorities in a program and use this list to evaluate the programs you are considering.

Once you have an idea of what youa re looking for, you can search for programs using our STUDIO ABROAD SITE

How do I apply to Study Abroad?

All students planning to study abroad at PSU will need to apply to study abroad no matter the program they have chosen. The application process depends on the type of program that you choose.

If you have chosen a Group Study Abroad Program, you will complete the Step 1 Application for Group Study Abroad. You should also contact the faculty leader of that program  because there may be additional steps to applying to the program depending on the program. The faculty leader will also tell you where to hand in application materials.

If you have chosen an Individual Study Abroad Program, the first step is the Step 1: Application for Individual Study Abroad. You must complete this by October 1st for Spring study abroad and March 1st for Fall and Summer study abroad. The application must be returned to the Study Abroad Coordinator in International Programs & Services. The next steps in the application process depend on the type of program you have chosen.

For more information on the specific process to apply to study abroad follow this link.

How can I fund my Study Abroad?

Study abroad does take some budgeting. You should carefully look at the costs for programs you are considering and your budget and use that to help find a program. Many students start saving at least a year before they travel abroad for study abroad. Financial aid is available for study abroad for those who qualify. There are also many scholarships specifically directed to study abroad students. For information about specific institutional, government, and private scholarships check out the Funding link.

For Individual and Group Study Abroad Programs, consult with the Study Abroad Coordinator to find out your options for financial aid and scholarships. You may also consult Financial Assistance to get advice about loans and scholarships.