When it comes to choosing a study away program, the array of options can be overwhelming. It might seem easier to follow friends’ recommendations, but study away should really focus on your own path and needs. What are you looking for? What are your academic and personal goals? It is a major investment of time, energy and funds, so you should think deeply about what you want to accomplish.

Here’s a list to get you started with evaluating your needs:

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  • Are the courses you need available to you? Are you able to find backup courses just in case you can’t get into your first choice of classes?
  • How many credits will your department(s) accept towards a major, minor, or certificate program?
  • Are there special classes at the academic center or are you enrolling in coursework at a local university?
  • If you’re enrolling directly at a university, will you be taking separate classes specially designed for visiting students or will your classmates be from the host university?
  • Where is current research or innovation happening in fields that interest you?
  • Where could you learn from industry leaders?
  • Where might you want to work or intern later?
  • Does the program offer an internship or research component?
  • Is one of your goals to improve your fluency in a foreign language?
  • Are classes conducted in English or in the language of the host country?
  • What are the language requirements for applicants to the program?
  • Is this a year-long program, semester, or summer program?
  • How long can you be away from Duke?
  • Does the academic calendar of the program impact your summer or winter break plans?
  • When are exams? Do the dates conflict with the Duke academic calendar?
  • Do you prefer a high level of support and structure from your program, or do you wish to be more independent?
  • Is there an on-site Resident Director or other staff person who works solely with program participants?
  • Do you want additional support structures offered through a provider, or do you prefer to navigate the process yourself by direct enrolling?
  • Do you have academic accommodations at Duke (e.g., extended test time or private testing space)? Can these be met by the program?
  • Will you live with a host family, in an apartment, or in a residence hall?
  • How far is the housing from the university or academic center?
  • How much privacy/personal independence does the housing offer?
  • Who arranges the housing and how do you sign up?
  • Do you need a housing accommodation? Can the program meet your needs?
  • Are meals included? Can the program accommodate students with special dietary needs (e.g., food allergies)?
  • What does the program cost include? Does it cover tuition, books, housing, meals, special excursions, airfare, etc.?
  • Are there other expenses you should take into account?
  • Are you comfortable with the cost of living in your intended location?
  • Are there scholarships available to help pay for the program?
  • Do you plan to use a 529 plan? Have you looked into whether or not the plan can cover the program?
  • If you’re on financial aid, have you spoken to your counselor about how study away works with your package?
  • Is there a minimum GPA or class standing requirement for the program?
  • Are there other prerequisites, and do you meet them?
  • How selective is the program? Will you need to apply early and/or prepare an application for a back-up program?
  • Is the group large, medium, or small? Do you feel comfortable with that?
  • Is it possible to speak with a student who has recently participated in the program?
  • Will I be accepted for who I am on the program? In the country? Use the GEO Identity and Diversity page to help in your consideration.
  • Can my academic and housing accommodations be met by the program? Find more information on academic and housing accommodations while abroad on the GEO DAAS webpage.
  • Am I ready to go abroad?