Steps to Study Abroad

This is the basic process for studying abroad for a summer, semester, or academic year through one of our approved partner programs. The order of steps is somewhat flexible. We recommend starting to plan 9–12 months in advance of your anticipated study abroad program. 

1. Watch the online Study Abroad 101 video and complete the interest form
   1. The Study Abroad 101 video (approximately 15 minutes) covers the basics of studying abroad and helps you begin exploring program options that fit your needs and interests. 
   2. The Interest Form lets us know you're interested in studying abroad so we can help guide you through the next steps and keep you updated on relevant programs and events. 
2. Meet with the Study Abroad Advisor
   1. Schedule an appointment with Katie Kuester, Study Abroad Advisor, to discuss your goals and explore programs that fit your interests, academic plans, and budget.
   2. You can schedule an appointment by using the appointment link, calling 317-788-2127, emailing studyabroad@uindy.edu, or visiting Esch 233.
3. Explore program options
   1. After your appointment, review available program types and narrow your choices down.
   2. As you explore, consider:
      • Program length (short-term, semester, or year-long)
      • Term (summer, fall, spring, or academic year)
      • Courses needed (Gen Ed Core, major, minor, or electives)
      • Location (we offer programs in more than 30 countries!)
      • Budget
4. Plan your academics
   1. Meet with your Academic Advisor (visit My UIndy and search for "Degree Works") to review your degree plan, class flexibility, and plans to study abroad.
   2. Work with your Academic Advisor and Department Chair to complete the Course Equivalency Form and obtain approval for your courses.
5. Plan your finances
   1. Once you select a program, you will receive a study abroad estimated cost sheet. You should take this document and meet with a Financial Aid Advisor (Laura Przybylinski) in the Office of Financial Aid to review your financial aid package and how it can be used for study abroad costs. 
   2. Explore study abroad scholarship opportunities. Be sure to note all deadlines.
6. Complete your study abroad applications 
   1. Once you've selected a program, you'll complete both the UIndy Study Abroad Application and the application for your selected program. 
   2. We recommend completing the UIndy application first, followed by your selected partner program's application, which has its own requirements and deadlines, so be sure to review both carefully and submit all required materials on time.
7. Complete pre-departure requirements
   1. Before your program begins, complete all required pre-departure steps, including attending the study abroad orientation and submitting the appropriate participant agreement (Independent Study Abroad Participant Agreement).
   2. Additional steps may include, but are not limited to: obtaining your passport, purchasing flights, reviewing visa requirements, securing health insurance, contacting Residence Life if you live on campus, and preparing for your time abroad. Then you’re ready to go explore the world! 

This is the basic process for studying abroad on a UIndy-led program. The order of steps is somewhat flexible. We recommend starting to plan 9–12 months before your anticipated study abroad program.

1. Watch the online Study Abroad 101 video and complete the interest form
   1. The Study Abroad 101 video (approximately 15 minutes) covers the basics of studying abroad and helps you begin exploring program options that fit your needs and interests. 
   2. The Interest Form lets us know you're interested in studying abroad so we can help guide you through the next steps and keep you updated on relevant programs and events.
2. Meet with the Study Abroad Advisor
   Meeting with the study abroad advisor is optional for students participating in UIndy-Led programs.
   1. Schedule an appointment with Katie Kuester, Study Abroad Advisor, to discuss your goals and explore programs that fit your interests, academic plans, and budget.
   2. You can schedule an appointment by using the appointment link, calling 317-788-2127, emailing studyabroad@uindy.edu, or visiting Esch 233.
3. Explore program options
   1. After your appointment, review available UIndy-Led Programs and narrow your choices down.
   2. UIndy-Led programs change each year. The upcoming spring break and summer trips are expected to be announced in September / October.
   3. New program offerings will be posted on our website once they are available. In the meantime, you may review previous programs here.
4. Plan your academics
   1. Meet with your Academic Advisor (visit My UIndy and search for "Degree Works") to review your degree plan, class flexibility, and plans to study abroad.
   2. If you are planning to earn credit, make sure the course(s) offered on your desired UIndy-led study abroad program apply to your degree requirements.
5. Choose your desired UIndy-led program
   Once programs are announced, reach out to the faculty leader for the trip you are interested in. Each program has different application requirements and deadlines, so be sure to review details directly with the faculty leader. All required steps will be explained by the faculty leader.
6. Plan your finances
   Explore study abroad scholarship opportunities. Be sure to note all deadlines.
7. Complete pre-departure requirements
   Before your program begins, complete all required pre-departure steps, including attending the study abroad orientation and submitting the appropriate participant agreement (UIndy-Led International Travel Participant Agreement).