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Planning for Study Abroad

Participating in a Sinclair-sponsored study abroad program can provide students with a life-changing and rewarding experience, but it takes a lot of planning. Below is a list of things to consider while you explore the possibility of studying abroad. If you have any questions during the process, please feel free to visit the Office of International Education (Building 10, Room 303).

Benefits

Studying abroad is one of the best ways Sinclair students gain the international experience necessary to be successful in today’s global workforce. Among other things, students who study abroad learn:

  • Cross-cultural communication
  • Flexibility
  • Adaptability to new situations
  • Leadership skills
  • Listening skills
  • The ability to work effectively in an international setting

Find a program & research

  • See what short-term, faculty led programs are being offered by Sinclair by visiting this link – www.sinclair.edu/studyabroad.
  • Research the cities and countries for the program in which you are interested.
  • Find out the required coursework associated with the program.

Discuss plans with an academic advisor

  • Meet with an academic advisor to see how the coursework will fit into your degree plan.
  • When the time comes (after acceptance), you will need to register for the proper course associated with the program.

Financial considerations

  • To apply you must submit a non-refundable deposit for the program (the amount can vary by program) – Do not apply if you are not confident that you will be able to commit to participating in the program and to making payments by the deadlines.
  • The estimated costs of the short-term, faculty-led programs usually include airfare, lodging, some meals, and in-country excursions.
  • The estimated costs do NOT include the following: tuition for the course, some meals, souvenirs, personal expenses, and fees associated with obtaining a passport.
  • Applying for the Study Abroad Scholarship and financial aid can help lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
  • If you receive a Pell Grant and meet other requirements, you may be eligible to apply for a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship - https://www.iie.org/programs/gilman-scholarship-program.
  • Federal financial aid awarded to students can often be used to help cover the cost of study abroad. The amount of aid available for study abroad programs varies.

Health and safety

  • Before applying for a study abroad program, students should consider their own physical and mental health needs. Students may need to receive medical clearance by a physician after being accepted to participate in a program.
  • The Office of International Education will enroll student travelers in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. You can find more information about the program here - https://step.state.gov/.
  • The Office of International Education will enroll student travelers in a traveler’s insurance policy with iNext. Please check with our office to find out more about the specific policy.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding potential health and safety risks in destinations around the world. For more information about your particular destination, you can visit www.cdc.gov..

Passport

  • To participate in a study abroad program, students need to have a passport.
  • Be aware that it can take 4-6 weeks (and possibly longer) to obtain a passport after submitting an application.
  • The Office of International Education must have a copy of your passport well in advance of the program in order to book flights, so plan accordingly.
  • You can find more information about passports and how to apply for one at www.travel.state.gov/passports.