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Is it expensive to study abroad?
That depends. Studying abroad can be as inexpensive or as expensive as you make it. Factors to consider are program type, your status as an in-state or out-of-state student and the cost of living in the place where you will study. However, the single biggest factor is usually how much independent travel you do on weekends and breaks. See our extensive section on Financial Matters for details.
Does financial aid apply?
Yes. Students participating in Purdue-affiliated study abroad continue to receive most of the same forms of federal financial aid they would receive to study in West Lafayette. If you do not currently qualify for financial aid, you may qualify while studying abroad because of additional costs associated your program.
Are scholarships available for studying abroad?
Yes. Some are specific to certain majors, or countries, or study abroad programs; others are open to a wide range of study abroad participants. You should also check with your department head and organizations in your community.
Will my classes transfer back to Purdue?
Yes. You will receive Purdue credits and grades for some classes; you will receive only Purdue credits for others. You should begin working with an academic advisor and a Study Abroad Liaison well in advance of going abroad to make this go smoothly.
If I study abroad will I still graduate on time?
You should. We work hard to make sure that taking part in one of our programs will not delay your graduation. With reasonable planning, any Purdue student can have a great international experience and still graduate on time.
When should I study abroad?
Most programs allow students to study abroad in their sophomore, junior, or senior years. Purdue summer programs allow students to study abroad the summer after their freshman year. Students can study on Purdue study tours anytime during their Purdue career, as long as they are in good academic standing.
Am I academically eligible to study abroad?
Students are considered academically eligible to study abroad if they have the GPA required for the program (as well as any program-specific prerequisite classes), favorable references, and are in good academic standing. Students on academic probation will be considered on a case-by-case basis and must abide by all relevant University policies.
Do I have to speak a foreign language to study abroad?
Not usually. Over half of our programs allow you to take courses in English, either in English-speaking countries or in specially-designed programs in other countries. However, Purdue does offer many options for students who wish to take some or all of their courses in another language.
Can I study a foreign language while abroad?
Yes! Study Abroad is a great time to learn a new language or become more fluent in one you are already studying. There are language intensive programs available for interested students.
How long can I study abroad?
With over 200 programs, Purdue has options as short as a week or as long as a year. We have many programs that last for six or eight weeks in the summer and many semester programs, too. Note that a very high percentage of study abroad participants report that they wish they had gone for a longer term!
Can I go abroad after I graduate?
Yes! You can study abroad the summer or semester after you graduate from Purdue. You will be required to complete the coursework and be registered full-time. All credits and grades will be reflected on your transcript as post-baccalaureate. However, you may not be eligible for federal financial aid if you have completed a degree and received a diploma; check with the Purdue Division of Financial Aid.
Where will I live?
Housing options vary by program. Typically students choose between dormitories, shared apartments or home stays with local families.
Can I work while I'm abroad?
This depends on the flexibility of your visa. Check with the consulate of your host country to be sure.
Which Colleges and Schools offer international minors?
Internationally-oriented minors are available through several of Purdue's Colleges and Schools:
- CFS (HTM only)
- Engineering (Global Engineering Studies)
Check with each College or School to see how study abroad fits into its particular requirements.