How do I find out if programs or universities abroad are good or not?

It’s likely that the university you choose for your international studies will have a large community of students both from the local area and all around the globe. There are many ways to find out more about study abroad programs.

Many "study abroad" programs involve a group of students and professors from one or several U.S.universities and a program director going abroad together. These programs provide a high level of support to the students.

Travel arrangements and excursions, as well as housing and meal arrangements, are often arranged by the director and are included in the program cost. This type of program may be good for someone going abroad for the first time.

Exchange programs give less support but a higher degree of cultural immersion. While arrangements for your housing, meals and course registration will usually be made by the international education office of the school you will be attending, there may be less support than in a study abroad program.

Excursions are usually not included, and you will often be one of a small number of U.S. students at the university you attend.

This gives you an excellent opportunity to meet both students from the host country and other international students and form cross-cultural friendships, but does require a more independent and adventurous spirit.