Getting Started With Your Study Abroad
Ready to experience a new part of the world but need a little guidance? No problem. Below, we will outline the general process of studying abroad with us – so you can take it one step at a time. We’ll talk about:
Always feel free to contact us with any questions. Let’s get started!
Meet an SRAS Advisor
We hold regular Info Sessions (group) and Advising Sessions (individual) throughout the year during which you can discuss the many options for study abroad in our region.
Choosing Your Program and Location
SRAS programs are designed with our unique destinations at their core. Each location offers language instruction and/or subject courses along with an extensive cultural program that is designed around the unique history and modern character of your host city and country. Experiential learning and site visits are integrated into a powerful, authentic learning experience.
Browse our locations with the map below, through our The SRAS Region resource, or start with our full program listing. There’s a lot there to choose from, though, so, if you’d like a little help, sign up for info or advising session and let us help match you with an option that suits your goals and learning style.
Click a Location!Geopins mark cities where SRAS offers permanent programs and resident staff. Countries marked in green but which do not have a geopin have either 1) historically hosted SRAS programs or 2) are often included as travel study experiences on certain SRAS programs. |
Are You a Current University Student?
It’s ok if you aren’t! You are still more than welcome on our programs! However, if you are currently a student, visit your home university’s Study Abroad Office (or similar) early in the process. They can advise you on credit transfer, let you know about any university deadlines for study abroad, advise you regarding your financial aid and scholarship opportunities, and so on. Some universities require that you complete an application with them for study abroad before you apply for the program itself.
Got Your Passport?
You will need your passport information to complete your application. If you do not have a passport yet, apply for that immediately. If it’s close to our program deadline, check with us to see if you might need expedited passport processing. It is important to note as well that in some cases where a visa is required, your passport may need to be valid for 18 months past your planned entry date.
Apply For Your Program
The SRAS application is pretty straight-forward (see our Program Finder and click on the program to access the application). Again, if you are currently enrolled in a university, you will also need to contact your Study Abroad Office (or similar) and will usually need to complete an application for your home university as well. Submitting your application also creates an SRAS user account, which you will use for the next steps.
Complete Your Enrollment
Once you are accepted into your program, you will need to check your SRAS user account periodically. Over time, you will have some new enrollment tasks there to complete (e-signing contracts, purchasing flights, etc.). Make sure to check your email from us and stay in touch with your home university (if you currently have one) as well to make sure you are all set for credit transfer and, if applicable, financial aid transfer.
Get Ready to Depart
Now you have all the paperwork out of the way and are ready for your adventure. Our Student Services Manager will be in touch to make sure you feel prepared for your experience abroad. You will receive detailed information on packing for your destination, what to expect when you arrive at the airport, your fellow SRAS students, strategies for dealing with culture shock and adapting to your new environment, how to bring guests over, and much more.
We’ll also be available throughout your experience abroad to answer questions, resolve any issues that arise, and help you achieve your goals. We can’t wait to meet you abroad!