Non-Traditional Student Status
Non-traditional students are generally considered those 25 years of age or older. They naturally face different concerns when considering a study-abroad program. Non-traditional students are often balancing their academic lives with major responsibilities at home, such as having a part-time or full-time job and/or taking care of children. No matter the situation, the Office of International Education is here to help find the best study abroad program for them!*
Here are a few things to consider and questions to ask when choosing a program:
- Is it possible to take a minor child or a partner along with me when I study abroad?
- Can I request not to have a roommate, or to be placed with a host family that shares my interests and age?
- If I am not able to be away for very long due to family obligations, how do I get the most out of a short-term experience abroad?
- Will there be other non-traditional students in my program?
- What skills do I want to gain or improve while I am abroad?
Be sure to research what people in the host country like to do and where they live. For example, do they work? Do they live with extended family or on their own?
Sometimes non-traditional students might feel that they do not fit in with other students on their program, but they should remember to get to know them and vice versa!
*This page was prepared in consultation with the Advisement Center. The Study Abroad Team wishes to express its gratitude for the collaboration, input, and support.