Study Abroad provides students the opportunity to participate in academic programs outside the United States that will increase their awareness of and sensitivity to other cultures in the context of their chosen discipline. Whether in a longer-term immersion program or short-term faculty-led course, students will enhance their understanding of themselves, their academic curriculum, their communities and the world through direct contact with the people, languages and traditions in another country or region. Study Abroad challenges students to enrich their vocational opportunities and develop the necessary skills for personal, professional and inter-cultural interaction in an interdependent world.
US State Department Study Resources
This site will help you discover study abroad opportunities offered by the U.S. government, and also help you discover programs offered by foreign governments around the world.
studyabroad.state.gov
Apply For a Passport
Passport-usa.org is a private company unaffiliated with the U.S. Government. The service offers U.S. citizens a PDF editor and customer support to simplify the process of fulfilling passport applications for a fee.
Passport-usa.orgVisa Requirements
Sometimes a journey of a thousand miles begins with a visa. Check your destination and apply online for any visa in the world.
VisaHQ.com
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
STEP Website
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility requirements to study abroad?
To study abroad at Northwest, you must:
- Have completed two semesters at Northwest or be a transfer with sophomore status
- Have a grade-point average of 2.5
- Meet with study abroad advisor in the International Involvement Center
- Remain enrolled at Northwest as a full-time student while studying abroad
How many classes do I take?
12 credits are required for fall and spring semesters, and 6 credits are required for summer semesters as this allows you to qualify for financial aid.
Will my credits transfer?
The Study Abroad office, as well as your academic advisor, will help make sure the classes you take transfer to Northwest. Please submit all necessary documents to the office so we can ensure your credits will transfer.
What kind of classes can I take?
- Major, minor or elective courses, language courses or cultural learning activities and internship.
- If a class is added or dropped while you are abroad, the same change needs to be done to the northwest enrollment. The same fees for adding/dropping a class apply as it would if you were at Northwest.
- Semester long study abroad students will have to enroll in courses for their next semester while they are abroad. It is recommended that you visit with your academic advisor prior to your departure to talk about the courses that you will take AFTER your study abroad program.
Can I travel abroad in my final semester before graduation?
Yes, you can, however, be sure to complete the necessary procedures and paperwork with the Registrar’s office BEFORE departure. Please be aware of the difference in academic calendars between institutions.
Where will I live?
Housing recommendations will be provided by host institutions. Different universities offer different options:
- On-campus dorms
- Off-campus apartments
- Homestays
Do I have to go alone?
No. You can Study with fellow Bearcats and be taught by Northwest faculty with Faculty-led Programs. Or plan to travel with other US students and international students.
How much does it cost?
Varies by program. Your financial aid and scholarships may apply depending on the program you choose and the conditions of your financial aid.
Check out our funding section for more options.
Where can I study abroad?
You decide the destination.
- 100+ programs in 50 countries
- Most programs taught in English
What do I do if I have chronic medication and am travelling for a semester?
- You will need to make arrangements for any medications you take including an adequate supply of medication or prescriptions. This can be done by emailing your doctor about your travel plans so they can write you the necessary prescriptions for the months you are abroad.
- It is also recommended that you carry a copy of your prescriptions in your backpack incase customs wants to confirm the legitimacy of any medication you are carrying.
- Always leave medication in original packaging when travelling.
How can I pay for things while I am abroad?
- Note the exchange rate between the dollar and the host country.
- It is highly recommended to have local currency in hand. You can exchange money through your bank or at the airport, but please note that there may be additional costs to exchanging money in the airport or through an ATM in the host country.
- In general, students can use their debit cards or credit cards while abroad. Please let your bank know your travel plans to avoid card cancellations.
- Study Abroad recommends getting a card through “CHIME” as this card allows you to not get charged conversion fees while abroad! You can email us to discuss this option!
Other Resources
Country Information
Money and Banking
Online Guidebooks
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