We support you every step of the way
Exploring the world through Washburn University’s study abroad programs is an exciting opportunity to enhance your academic experience and gain valuable global perspective. Whether you're just beginning to think about going abroad or are ready to apply, this page will guide you step-by-step through the process. From understanding your options to preparing for departure, we’re here to support you every step of the way.Ready to apply?
Learn how.Many students know that they want to study abroad but are not quite sure when, where, what, or how to study abroad. Below are some questions and ideas to help you define your goals and narrow down what study abroad program(s) will work best for you.
- Why do I want to study abroad?
- How long do I want to study abroad - a semester, year, summer, winter break or spring break?
- Do I want to study a language?
- What level of proficiency do I want to gain while abroad?
- What kind of course requirements do I want/need to fulfill while abroad?
- Do I want to go with a faculty member from WU or do I want to work with faculty from the host University?
- Do I want to go abroad with many other WU students or do I want to go with only a few other WU students?
- Do I want to study at a University or do I want to consider an internship opportunity abroad?
- How will study abroad help me achieve my goals at WU, in my future career, and in my life?
Minimum requirements
- Academic history is reviewed for all students applying for Study Abroad. Student must remain in good standing from time of application through departure.
- At the time the application is submitted students must:
- be currently enrolled
- be in good academic standing
- have successfully completed a minimum of 12 hours at WU
- have an average letter grade of “C” (2.0 GPA) or higher (some programs have higher GPA and/or additional eligibility requirements)
- Students on academic probation may not participate.
- Students who did not achieve satisfactory academic progress in a previous study abroad program may not participate for a probationary period of one academic year.
- Students may not be eligible to apply for a scholarship to a program that departs after graduation.
- All non-faculty led programs must be credit bearing.
- Students must work with an accredited institution.
- Students may not travel to a country with a US State Department Warning.
- Students must abide by the Study Abroad Code of Conduct during their program.
Research resources and options
2. Investigate program options and inform yourself.
Define your goals for studying abroad and identify suitable programs. Learn about the country where you wish to study abroad. Talk with exchange students and study abroad returnees about their experiences.
3. Apply for your passport!
Passport applications take approximately 4-6 weeks to process. Here is information on applying for a passport.
4. Request a Virtual Study Abroad Interest Meeting with a Study Abroad Program Coordinator.
Once you have determined what country and program you are interested in, make an appointment with the Study Abroad Coordinator to discuss your plans and the application process: studyabroad@washburn.edu
5. Meet with your Academic Advisor.
Discuss how your proposed study abroad courses will fit in with your degree requirements.
6. Find out about financing your study abroad program.
All students considering using any form of financial aid and scholarships to fund their study abroad experience should speak with a Financial Aid Advisor.
7. Complete a program application online.
Begin applying online for your program the semester before you plan to go. The deadline for most Fall, Academic Year, and Summer programs is March 1, and the deadline for most Winter Break, Spring Break, or Spring programs is October 15.
8. Complete a scholarship application online.
Students who apply to a credit-bearing study, internship, or service-learning abroad program will be able to apply to the Study Abroad (SA) or International Education Washburn Transformational Experience (IE-WTE) scholarship opportunities as part of their online program application. Submit applications by the posted deadlines, October 15 or March 1. Students must have a completed study abroad program application in order to be eligible.
9. You've been accepted!
Check your online study abroad application and complete all necessary acceptance forms. Apply for your student visa (if necessary) and make travel plans.
10. Prepare yourself.
Attend the mandatory study abroad pre-departure orientation for information and question-and-answer sessions.
Find your program
Programs are categorized as follows:
Go Together: Faculty-Led Programs
WU Faculty-led Programs are short-term study programs that generally combine a WU course with travel. Students learn and travel with a WU professor/s and students. WU Faculty and Staff develop, direct and teach these programs. Cultural activities and excursions are often included. These programs are typical introductory programs with a high level of student support from the Study Abroad Office and the Faculty Leader.
Go Long. Go Far. Pay WU Tution & Stay on Track: Exchange Programs
WU Exchange Programs are genearlly offered during the semester or academic year. Through this program type students learn and travel independently. Students pay WU tuition while attending one of our more than 25 partner universities. Students enroll in classes at the host institution and transfer credit to count towards their WU program of studies. Student support for these programs is offered through the Study Abroad Office and through the host institution.
Go with an Authorized Program Provider
Affiliate Programs are offered through program providers for various lengths of time during the year and provide a structured experience for students to learn and study independently with a variety of cultural activities and excursions. Program Providers offer a broader range of destinations and disciplines and can provide unique program components such as field work, internships, or research experiences. Students participating in this type of program remain enrolled at WU during the study abroad program. If preapproved the credit and grades received for the coursework completed abroad counts towards the WU program of studies. Student support for these programs is offered through the Study Abroad Office and through the program provider.
Explore Programs through International Studies Abroad (ISA)
Explore Programs through Academic Programs International (API)
Go Direct: Enroll as a Visiting Student
Direct Enrollment Programs are offered for various lengths of time during the year. Through this program students learn and travel independently. WU has established relationships with a few institutions abroad which enable WU students to study as ‘visiting students’ at the foreign university. Students pay the host university tuition fees for visiting students. Students participating in this type of program remain enrolled at WU during the study abroad program. If preapproved, the credit and grades received for the coursework completed abroad counts towards the WU program of studies. Like exchange programs, they offer a more independent experience. Student support for these programs is offered through the Study Abroad Office and through the host institution.
Go Your Way: Student Initiated Petition for Non-WU Approved Program (SIP)
Student–Initiated Programs (SIP) are offered for various lengths of time during the year. Through this program students learn and travel independently. When no direct relationship exists between WU and a foreign institution or program provider, students may submit a Student–Initiated Program Proposal to facilitate their program participation. Programs must be sponsored by other accredited U.S. universities, foreign institutions accredited directly by the Ministry of Education of the host country or verified third-party program providers. SIPs provide for a broader range of destinations and disciplines and unique program components such as field work, internships, or research experiences. Students participating in this type of program remain enrolled at WU during the study abroad program. If preapproved the credit and grades received for the coursework completed abroad counts towards the WU program of studies. Student support for these programs is offered through the Study Abroad Office and through the program provider / host institution.
Volunteer, Internship, or Teach Abroad Programs
Volunteer, Internship, or Teach Abroad Programs allow you to engage in other experiences for one week to one year, either for credit or not for credit.
Virtual Global Internship Programs
Virtual Global Internship Programs are unique opportunities to develop your cultural competence and career readiness though online courses or remote internships with WU affiliates. While these programs cannot completely replace an in-country experience, virtual and online programs can provide you with new global perspectives and invaluable new knowledge/skills.
More information
- WU Study Abroad Programs Overview - A list of all program options and providers.
- Study Abroad Time Line - An explanation of each step of the study abroad process.
- Study Abroad Comparison Worksheet - A worksheet to compare program costs as you are researching program options.
- Study Abroad Student Initiated Program Proposal - Complete this form to request approval for a student initiated program.
GET IN TOUCH WITH Study Abroad
Study Abroad Office
Plass Learning and Resources Center, Room 217
Phone & Email
studyabroad@washburn.edu
785.670.2088
