Studying abroad requires advance planning, some flexibility, and good communication with the study abroad office.
While most students study away their junior year, it is possible as early as second semester in your sophomore year or as late as your senior year. You may also choose a semester, year-long, May term* or summer program. Whatever you choose, it takes careful planning and it’s never too early to start.
Step 1: Attend Study Abroad 101
Recommended to do in your first year or fall of sophomore year.
- This is a required first step for all students and will give you a basic overview of the process and what options are available and next steps.
- Study Abroad 101 sessions are held monthly throughout the academic year. Check Engage for all dates and times.
Step 2: Research and Come to Drop-in Hours
- Plan a budget and research scholarships. How will you pay for your experience?
- Read about how to choose a program. It is really important that you know what to expect in terms of classes, housing, support on site and budgeting.
- Browse our program lists on the Terra Dotta portal.
Step 3: Fill out an Interest Form
- Intent forms are due in December of the academic year prior to the desired study abroad period. Check out this FAQ about why filling out an Interest Form is so important!
- We can remind you of important deadlines, events and scholarships and other general reminders.
- Submitting an interest form does not commit you to studying abroad. BUT, students who do not submit one may be ineligible when it comes time to apply.
Step 4: Apply!
- After you have narrowed down your program choice, research courses and obtain approval from your faculty advisor for any major or minor requirements you wish to fulfill abroad.
- You will also need a faculty reference, so be sure you are thinking about a faculty member with whom you’ve taken a class that you might be able to ask.
- Students should apply through Clark’s international application portal, Terra Dotta.
- Students should be applying both to their program of choice and to Clark, both by the Clark deadlines.
BONUS STEPS:
Once you are accepted, there is lots more to do – applying for housing, visa (if necessary), finalizing course enrollment and making travel plans! We cannot stress how important it is to plan early.
