Study Abroad Steps

1) Attend a Study Abroad Information Session or Set-Up an Advising Appointment

Our information sessions give you the best view of what study abroad, exchange and study away programs look like at Georgia Southern. Check our Events section on our home page to see when our information sessions are.

After attending an information session, students may meet with a study abroad adviser to answer more specific questions they have when researching for a program. 

2) Search Available Programs

Please look online through the Global Portal database for a list of currently available study abroad programs. Use the search parameters to start narrowing down your options!

If you have a specific location or program type in mind and don't see one that interests you, you may work with an external 3rd party provider to find your perfect program. Just know that Georgia Southern requires documentation of all study abroad programs, including external 3rd party providers. 

3) Ensure your Eligibility

Each program has a list of their eligibility requirements on their program page. Make sure you meet the requirements before applying!

4) Research Costs and Funding

Estimated costs for each program are listed on our individual program pages in the Global Portal. Costs vary by program and location, so do your research! Costs also depend on your lifestyle and how much extra spending you intend to do. While researching costs, you should also ensure that you understand how each type of program is billed to you, and how your financial aid will apply to your selected program. The Office of Financial Aid is a great resource when researching this information. 

In addition, there are many study abroad scholarships available to help offset your costs. Take a look at our scholarships page to see what opportunities match with you.

5) Talk to Your Advisors

It is essential to make sure that your study abroad program fits within your program of study. Talk to your academic advisor and a study abroad advisor to ensure that your preferred programs work with your curriculum and graduatation schedule.

6) Apply for a Passport and/or Visa

You will definitely need a passport to study abroad! Thus, if you don't have one, you should get started on your application process early.

Passports should be valid at least 6 months past your travel dates, and renew your passport early if it is not.

Some countries also require a visa to enter (especially if you are looking into longer exchange programs). Look up the visa requirements for your chosen country and begin the process once you have confirmed acceptance in your program.

7) Complete your Global Portal Application

Each Global Portal application will detail the exact materials needed to complete the application for your program. The process will vary between program types. Ensure you follow the instructions listed on your application page.

Note: Some programs may require additional external applications. Examples are 3rd party providers like ISEP, or consortium programs. 

8) Wait for Acceptance and Confirm your Commitment

Once you have been accepted to a program, you will be sent an email notifying you about your acceptance. Check your email often to make sure you don't miss it!

After receiving acceptance to a program, confirm your commitment to the program on the Global Portal Application. Congratulations--you've been accepted to study abroad (or study away)!