FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about Study Abroad
At the University of Indianapolis, every student has the chance to actively engage with the world and foster a global mindset - no matter your major, budget, or past experience. Studying abroad can be one of the most exciting and transformative parts of your college journey, helping you gain new perspectives, confidence, and skills that will stay with you long after graduation.
This page answers some of the most common questions to help you feel prepared as you begin exploring what’s possible.
As cliche as it sounds, study abroad is a profoundly transformative opportunity that goes far beyond the classroom. By immersing yourself in a new culture, you’ll engage in experiential learning that challenges you to see the world - and yourself - in new ways. You’ll develop valuable skills, gain a truly global perspective, and create memories that will stay with you forever. Plus, it’s fun! There’s no better time than college to take this leap: with built-in support, financial aid, academic guidance, and a community of peers alongside you, studying abroad can shape your future in ways you never imagined.
For sure! No matter your major, studying abroad is possible. With programs offered during the semester, summer, and even short breaks, there’s a flexible option to fit any major. Many students take courses abroad that count as electives or fulfill general education requirements, and in some cases, you may even find classes that count directly toward your major.
While it can be trickier for student-athletes, studying abroad is absolutely possible. The key is to start planning early, and to keep your coach and academic advisor in the loop so they can help you find the right time and program. Short-term faculty-led programs and summer programs are usually good options because of the shorter duration and their off-season timing. Many student-athletes successfully study abroad with the right preparation and support.
Studying abroad doesn’t have to delay your graduation - in fact, it can be a great way to get ahead on credit hours! With careful planning and guidance from your academic advisor, you can choose programs and courses that fit into your degree plan. Early preparation and short-term programs during breaks or summer offer even more flexibility and help ensure you stay on track while making the most of your international experience.
You don’t need to know another language to study abroad. Many programs are taught entirely in English, whether in English-speaking countries or non-English-speaking ones. If you’d like, you can also choose programs that provide language immersion to build your skills and deepen your experience - but it’s not a requirement to get started.
Yes, you’ll need a valid passport to study abroad, and some programs may also require a visa depending on the country and the duration. Other documents, like health insurance, participant agreement forms, or program-specific paperwork, may also be needed. Don’t worry - the Study Abroad Advisor will guide you through all the necessary steps so you have everything in order before you go.
You’ve got options! Study abroad programs can last anywhere from a few weeks to a full semester. You might join a faculty-led program for 1-3 weeks, participate in a summer program for 4-8 weeks, or spend a full semester abroad. The right length for you depends on the type of experience you want, your budget, your academic plan, and any other commitments you have.
The best time to study abroad depends on your academic plan, personal schedule, and program availability. Many students go during their sophomore or junior year for a full semester, but short-term faculty-led programs and summer options make it possible to study abroad without disrupting your schedule. Early planning with your academic advisor helps ensure your program fits smoothly into your degree and other commitments.
It’s important to begin planning your study abroad experience about a year in advance to allow enough time for academic advising, financial planning, scholarship applications, scheduling, and securing necessary travel documents. While application deadlines are typically the semester before you plan to depart, starting early ensures you’re fully prepared. Be sure to check the specific deadline for the program you’re interested in.
The cost of studying abroad can vary depending on your program and destination. Common additional expenses include airfare, housing, meals, local transportation, health insurance, visas or passports, and personal spending like recreational travel and activities, shopping, or souvenirs.
Some financial aid, such as portions of federal or state aid, may be applied toward study abroad. While institutional aid typically does not, UIndy offers grants and scholarships you can apply for to help offset costs. It’s very important to meet with a member of the Financial Aid team to review your specific situation and learn about your options. Visit our Finances & Financial Aid resources page for budgeting tools, tips, and additional external funding opportunities.
While abroad, you can take courses, participate in an internship, engage in research, volunteer, or take part in service projects. You’ll also have opportunities for cultural immersion and, if you choose, language immersion. Most students organically combine at least two of these elements, creating a rich and rewarding international experience.
Where you live while abroad depends on your program. Short-term faculty-led programs usually place students in shared hotel or hostel rooms. Longer-term programs, like summer or semester-long options, often offer dorms or apartments on or near campus. Some programs also provide homestays, giving you a chance to live with a local family for a more immersive cultural experience.