How to Choose a Program

Providence College recognizes over 250 study abroad programs in more than 40 countries around the world!

When it comes time to decide which abroad experience you want to participate in, the options can seem overwhelming. With that said, since your time abroad has the potential to be a life-changing experience, it deserves a great deal of thought.

Providence College strongly encourages students to participate in a study abroad program that complements and strengthens their program of study. For example, a Health Policy and Management major might study “Public Health” in Copenhagen through DIS, or “Health Practice & Policy” in London through IES Abroad. Certain locations lend themselves well to certain majors and minors, and integrating your study abroad program into your Providence College degree helps to ensure that you graduate on time.

Factors to Consider

There are many factors to take into consideration when selecting a study abroad program, such as type of program, location, and coursework (just to name a few). When reviewing the program options, ask yourself the following questions.

• Is there a geographical location that I am interested in? Pick out two countries to start.
• What do I really want to get out of this experience? (i.e. language skills, international perspective on my field of study, cross-cultural experience, adventure, new perspective on potential career, resume builder, etc). If you are interested in a language program, there are more funding opportunities for you!
• What language skills do I have? What is the language of instruction? Remember, you do not always have to know the host country language to study abroad there.
• Do I prefer a large city or small town? It is always a good idea to do your research when considering your destination.
• Do I prefer a large university or small university? Universities abroad are very different than American universities. Most do not have a “campus” and instead have buildings spread out through the city. 
• What classes do I need and are offered through the program I’m interested in? Students should first consider taking classes for their major, minor, core requirements, and then, free electives to stay on track for graduation.
• When do I graduate? Students planning to study abroad close to their planned graduation date will need to consult with the Dean of Global Education, Christian Wilwohl, before applying.
• Do I want to study with a group of Americans, or would I prefer a more independent experience? It is easy to get caught up in the “American Bubble” when studying abroad. Consider programs in non-traditional locations or language programs if you are looking to be more independent and meet more locals. 
• Do I want to live with a host family or with other Americans/international students? Do I want to live in an apartment or in a university residence system? Many programs have different housing options. There are definite highlights for each option, so keep an open mind as you do your research. 
• Am I interested in studying for a summer, semester, or academic year?**
• What is my budget? Visit the Finances and Scholarships page on our website to consider financial aid, scholarships, and even find our “Estimated Budget Worksheet” to help determine what your budget may look like for your study abroad experience. 
• Does this program align with my academic and professional interests? The program you select should have options for a number of your major, minor, and/or core requirements. We do not endorse students taking a full schedule of free electives during their time abroad.  
• Do I plan to do additional travel before or after my program? Students who wish to travel independently outside of the semester should consider studying abroad spring semester. After the spring semester program end date, students will have more time in the following summer to travel before returning to the U.S. than students studying abroad in the fall semester do. 

** The College reserves the right to restrict the numbers of students approved to study abroad in any one semester. This may be done in order to balance the number of students intending to study abroad across the academic year.

Next Steps

Now that you have considered all the questions above, the next step is to attend a Study Abroad 101 information session if you have note already done so.

After Study Abroad 101, if you have more questions about a program you are interested in or need help picking a program, schedule a meeting with a study abroad advisor. You can learn more about that process on our Book an Appointment page.

If you are ready to apply for a study abroad program, you can start your application through Horizons here.