Step 1: Identify your reasons for wanting to study abroad.
Think seriously about why you want to participate and consider the types of programs best suited for your particular course of study. You might ask yourself:
What do you want to take from the experience and where the best place to accomplish your goals might be?
Do you want to spend 2 weeks, 6 weeks, a semester, or a year abroad?
Do you want to take classes in English in England; or do you want to go to Sweden, South Korea, or the Netherlands and take classes in English there?
Do you want to live in a dorm or with a family?
Do you want to join a group or are you happiest on your own?
Do you want to earn credits toward your major or electives?
Do you want to focus on a particular subject?
These are some of the things to think about and discuss with study abroad advisors at International Affairs and keep in mind as you browse through the program descriptions.
Step 2: Gather information about the programs in which you are interested by browsing through the program descriptions on our web site.
Visit the International Affairs office (110 Love Library South) or talk to Brianne Wolf (bwolf4@unl.edu | 402-858-8113) or Kaitlyn Waller (kwaller4@unl.edu | 202 Ag Hall). Speak with a study abroad advisor and/or research the programs in which you are interested by making use of the extensive library of college catalogs and reference materials in 110 Love Library South.
Step 3: Talk with your academic advisor. Ask for guidelines regarding recommended courses that will fit into your degree.
Ask for recommendations about special academic strengths of study abroad sites. With proper planning and documentation, you will be able to earn credit for your academic learning experiences abroad. Once you are selected for the program, you will receive information regarding pre-departure course approvals maintaining your UNL student status while you are abroad.
Step 4: Plan your finances.
As you apply for a program, be sure that you have planned your finances realistically.
If you are counting on financial aid, do you know how much aid you will have?
If you plan to use financial aid for studying abroad, you must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) form available online or at the Office of Scholarships and Financial
Aid in Canfield Administration building. Most regular financial aid through the University of Nebraska can be applied to approved study abroad programs. It is essential to plan well in advance if you wish to apply financial aid towards study abroad.
Step 5: After you have selected a program, make an appointment with a study abroad advisor at the International Affairs Office and apply.
Most applications consist of the basic application form, a statement of purpose, one or two academic references and a transcript. Applications are submitted to International Affairs and an interview may be required for some programs. Apply well before program deadlines for the best chance for selection.
Step 6: Prepare for departure.
You will receive notification of acceptance into the program and a pre-departure packet with further instructions with personal and logistical tips, and language learning tips. There will be at least two required orientation meetings. The first will cover the “nuts and bolts” of preparation including making travel arrangements, getting your passport and visas, packing tips and more. The second will prepare you for your intercultural experience (how to deal with culture shock for example).