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UIU Study Abroad FAQs

1. Why should I study abroad? Study abroad is an enriching and eye-opening adventure, where learning extends far beyond the classroom. The experience will give you to new ways of thinking, living, and viewing the world. Benefits include the opportunity to learn about another culture, learn an entirely new language or become fluent in one you have already studied; you can travel, fulfill major coursework requirements and develop new perspectives.

2. How will a study abroad experience enhance my marketability for employment after I graduate? Employers increasingly seek graduates who have international experience, and a study abroad experience will enhance your employability. International knowledge, cross-cultural communication skills, flexibility, resilience, and the ability to adapt to new circumstances are skills enhanced through study abroad that are important to employers in various fields.

3. Who can participate in study abroad? Most programs are designed for students who have already studied at least 1 year at a University. Many programs require a GPA of at least 2.75, but some of the more competitive programs require a 3.0 GPA. General qualifications for acceptance include good academic standing, letters of recommendation, and a personal study statement.

4. When should I start planning to study abroad? Early planning is the key to successful study abroad. Hundreds of study abroad opportunities exist; they differ in location, duration, curriculum, language, degree of cultural immersion, cost and many other factors. In order to find the program that is the right “fit” for your personal and academic objectives, you should begin planning your study abroad experience at least one semester before you actually depart.

6. When should I study abroad? It is advantageous to undertake study abroad in your sophomore year in order to complete general education requirements. However, it is also possible to study abroad in your junior or senior year. Major requirements for graduation can make it more difficult to study abroad for a full semester during senior year.

7. How will I choose the program that is right for me? The possibilities for study abroad are abundant. Before researching programs you will want to have made some preliminary decisions as to the type of experience you want to have. Start by realistically assessing your academic and personal preparation and your objectives.

8. Are language skills required to study abroad? No. Study Abroad programs with courses taught in English are available all over the world – not just native English speaking countries. If you participate in a program where English is not the native language, you will likely have the opportunity to take local language courses as part of your program.

9. Can I afford to study abroad? Yes, you can! Generally, financial aid awards, including loans, grants, and scholarships, are applicable to approved study abroad programs. Financial aid packages are reevaluated to consider the cost of a specific program, and aid packages may be adjusted (up to the maximum eligibility amount) according to the modified cost of the study abroad program. Students may also be able to receive additional loans (available under the Stafford Student Loan program through private lenders -- banks, savings and loan associations, or credit unions) to help finance their study abroad. Talk to your study abroad advisor for information about your specific situation.

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10. Can I study abroad if I haven’t declared my major yet? Yes. A variety of general education courses are offered within most study abroad

11. How do I apply for study abroad? Once you have either decided on a program or made some preliminary decisions about the type of program you are interested in contact the Office of International Programs which is located on the third floor of the Professional Building. The office telephone number is (563) 425-5251. The office will provide you program specific information, the necessary forms, and instructions on preparing your application.

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