Plan ahead for study abroad

If you want to earn credits abroad, start planning at least one semester in advance. You'll work closely with your academic adviser and department.

Follow the steps below to plan your semester exchange. (You don’t need to follow these steps for other learning abroad experiences such as global seminars or volunteering.)

Get started

• Think about your goals for studying abroad. Do you want to earn technical credits toward your degree, fill liberal education requirements, study another language, or earn credits toward a minor or second major? Do you have a country in mind? Review the learning abroad advising resources for your degree program.
• Create a profile and complete the University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center First Step Session.
• Attend a First Step Session to learn the basics of learning abroad.
• Make an appointment with the CSE International Programs Team to learn about options and processes.
• Tell your academic advisor you are interested in studying abroad at each registration appointment. Together, you will identify the best time to go abroad based on your four-year plan.

Choose a program

• Research programs through the University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center and CSE International Programs.
• Check the database of international course equivalencies. Some course information isn’t immediately available, so you may need to correspond with the host university.

Learn more about choosing a learning abroad program.

Apply for scholarships

Most federal and state financial aid can be applied to learn abroad programs. Scholarships are also available at the University, college, and department levels.

Learn about University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Scholarships.

Complete an Academic Plan for Study Abroad

• Download a Study Abroad Academic Planning form (PDF).
• Fill out the form, including courses you plan to take and requirements you plan to fill.
• Schedule a meeting with the director of undergraduate studies in your department if you plan to fill a technical requirement. Departments must approve technical course credit in advance.

Make the courses count

• Go abroad, study, have fun, and pass your courses.
• Ask your department to update your APAS when you get back to reflect the previously approved course credits.

Learn more about steps to take after you return to the U.S.