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When considering what type of study abroad program is appropriate for you, you will need to think about where you want to study and how you plan to incorporate your study abroad experience into your studies. Below is a list of questions you should think about when considering to apply for a study abroad program. If there are additional questions or concerns you have, do not hesitate to contact the UW-Stout Office of International Education.

Academic

• What is your major or areas of emphasis (concentration, minor)?
• Do you have an emphasis or minor subject area that you want to focus on while abroad?
• How much time do you want to spend abroad?
• Would a short-term program be a better fit for you?
• How does study abroad fit into your degree requirements?
• Does the program which you plan to participate in have language requirements? If so, do you meet the requirements?
• Are you interested in a program taught entirely in another language?
• Are you interested in a program that focuses on a specific academic discipline?
• Is obtaining academic credit important or do you want to go mainly for the experience?
• Do you want to study abroad more than once?

Geographic Interests

• Where would you like to study?
• What countries, cultures, languages interest you?
• How immersed in the culture do you want to be?
• Is there something happening in the world that piques your interest that you would like to learn more about?

Financial and Personal Issues

• How much can you afford to spend?
• Do you need financial aid to help finance your program?
• Do you want to explore family roots?
• Are there historical or current factors in places around the world that may impact your experience there?

Career Path

• Do you want to participate in an internship or service learning opportunity while studying abroad?
• What will help your résumé and/or graduate school applications stand out?