Study Abroad

1. What is Study Abroad?
Education Abroad (EA) at Penn State currently offers more than 160 semester, summer, and short-term education abroad programs in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand. These programs are available to currently-enrolled Penn State undergraduate students from all colleges and campuses. When you are in a Penn State sponsored EA program, you pay your Penn State tuition and are considered to be enrolled as a Penn State student. Click here to Hear and see more.

2. What programs are there in EMS disciplines?
a. Materials Science and Engineering study abroad—research internships in France, Germany, others.
b. There are programs all over the world that have courses in EMS disciplines. For example, universities in Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Africa have strong programs in atmospheric science, geography and geosciences. Use the PSU Study Abroad Search Page to choose a location, then discover all of the universities there with Penn State exchange programs, and the courses available.

3. When should I start thinking about a semester or summer abroad?
The earlier, the better. It is ideal for a student to start researching study abroad programs in the freshman year, to plan for a semester abroad during their sophomore year. However, smart planning can make a semester abroad possible during the junior or senior years, as well.

4. Why would I want to study abroad?
Building self-confidence, having a wonderful time, taking advantage of an exciting opportunity, really learning a second language. . .
Hear Thomas, Shumona, Justin and Devina answer that question.
Hear Lauren, Danielle, Devina, Andy and Thomas' answers.

5. How would it impact my life?
International experiences can lead to exciting job opportunites. Hear Irene's experience!

6. How can I afford to study abroad?
Your regular aid applies to study abroad, plus there are scholarships, grants. . .
Ashley, Kiera, and Justin tell how it's done.

7. Will the credits I take all transfer to my degree in EMS?
All credits taken in EA programs will transfer as either gen ed or for your major; ask your advisor. . .
Hear the word from Devina, Andy, Shumona and Lauren.

8. What do I do first, if I want to find out more about study abroad?
Check out the Information and Guidelines for Applicants, it’s all here!

9. Whom may I see in EMS about my interest in study abroad?
The College of EMS has a new International Studies Committee, with a representative from each department. Please feel free to contact the committee member in your department to discuss possible study abroad opportunities in your area of interest. Be sure to include a meeting with your academic advisor, to discuss how your EA courses will fit into your degree program.

10. Do I have to pursue one of the EA programs? What happens if I just want to take a leave of absence and find my own program?
This is a possible choice, but remember: there is no guarantee that the courses will transfer, plus, your financial aid will not transfer. Therefore, we advise you do very careful research before making your decision! Read the rules here!

11. Global Competency: Why is it so important?
- As the workforce continues to diversify, will you be ready to embrace a range of social and cultural settings?
- As the world becomes more inter-connected, your life will be impacted in where you live, how you spend your money, how you vote. . .
- A deeper knowledge and appreciation of other cultures and their history will benefit you as you navigate the current state of world affairs
- No matter what EMS discipline you study, the issues of primary concern are all global! So take advantage of a global education. You’ll need it!

12. O.K., so other than study abroad, how can I increase my global awareness and competency?
International Cultures Courses satisfy the IL requirement in your general education
CAUSE— Focused international experiences for juniors and seniors