At TLU, each student is challenged to open their mind and broaden their perspective. One of the best ways to do that is through the adventure of studying abroad.
Travel The World
Experiencing and interacting with different cultures, languages, people, and places prepares students to delve into their next life adventure after graduation. TLU’s study abroad program is designed to enrich lessons in and outside of the classroom and produce more understanding, worldly individuals.
The International Education (IE) office offers many programs for students who call the U.S. home and also hosts international students from various countries.
The IE staff advises and guides students through the study abroad application process from start to finish. We help students choose a program and country, answer questions about the application procedure, and provide a pre-departure orientation and post-return re-orientation classes.
For incoming international students, the IE staff provides an orientation to life in the United States, university procedures, and information about regulations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office. We are also here as general support and counsel as international students get assimilated to life at TLU.
Mission Statement
The mission of the IE Office is to enhance the value of a TLU education through international experiences and global education.
Our goals are to:
- Increase student global awareness.
- Stimulate interest in international perspectives.
- Help students realize their potential.
- Prepare students for lives in our increasingly interconnected world.
Student learning outcomes are to:
- Articulate the impact of the study abroad experience on one’s perception of the people or culture of the host country.
- Articulate the impact of the study abroad experience on one’s perception of self, either academically, professionally, or personally.
- Describe the academic or personal skills acquired as a result of the study abroad experience.
In order to apply for a TLU study abroad program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Have completed at least two semesters of study at TLU before traveling abroad. (Students may apply during their second semester.)
- Have earned a minimum cumulative TLU GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 (depending on the program of choice).
- Have maintained a good campus discipline record.
- Note: Students may not study abroad on affiliated programs during their final semester at TLU. However, graduating seniors may participate in a faculty-led program during their final semester.
Studying abroad can be an amazing and life-changing experience. But just like life in general, students may encounter some discrimination on their travels. For some, studying abroad will be the first time they will be in the position of being a minority.
As an American, keep in mind that you will be a minority in your host country. You may receive additional attention, which may or may not be discriminatory, depending upon your background and ethnicity. There is the possibility that people will judge you based on your ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Unfortunately, there is nowhere in the world that is 100 percent free of ignorant people. Whatever happens, don’t let the possibility of discrimination prevent you from experiencing the life-changing benefits of living abroad.
Recent findings from the Institute for the International Education Of Students indicate that studying abroad makes a difference—a long-lasting difference—in the lives of its participants, and results demonstrate the far-reaching effects the experience has on participants, not only academically but professionally and personally as well.
Academic Achievement
- 87% claimed that studying abroad influenced subsequent educational experiences
- 86% said that it reinforced commitment to foreign language study
- 80% reported an enhanced interest in academic study
- 52% attained graduate degrees; of those, 15% received a PhD, EdD, JD, or medical degree
Cultural Development
- 98% reported the study abroad experience helped them to better understand their own cultural values and biases
- 94% stated that the experience continues to influence their interactions with people from different cultures
- 90% said studying abroad influenced them to seek out a greater diversity of friends
Career Impact
- 76% reported they acquired skill sets while studying abroad that influenced their career path
- 62% said studying abroad ignited an interest in a career direction pursued after the experience
- 48% stated that they have worked internationally or participated in volunteer activities since studying abroad
Personal Growth
- 97% reported that studying abroad served as a catalyst for increased maturity
- 96% indicated that it increased self-confidence
- 95% stated that it has had a lasting impact on their worldview
- 89% said studying abroad enabled them to better tolerate ambiguity
There is a study abroad program for every student looking to explore new cultures and broaden their worldview. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about opportunities offered at TLU.
Q: Why should I study abroad?
A: Many students apply to study abroad for the purpose of gaining different perspectives in their field of study and in their personal/professional outlook. These factors can make a student more attractive to future employers and graduate programs—many of which look for study abroad experience when making selection decisions.
Q: Who can study abroad?
A: To apply for a TLU study abroad program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Have completed at least two semesters of study at TLU before traveling abroad. (But keep in mind that students may apply to study abroad during their second semester.) Students may not study abroad during their final semester at TLU.
- Have earned a minimum cumulative TLU GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 (depending on the program chosen).
- Have maintained good campus discipline record.
Application deadlines are typically the semester before the student wishes to study abroad. Approval is required from the student’s academic department and the International Education Office prior to application and departure.
Q: Where can I study abroad?
A: The easier question to ask might be, where can I NOT study abroad? TLU has programs in nearly 50 countries and in hundreds of international cities. There are programs in Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceana. Some of our programs require college-level language experience as a prerequisite, but others do not. Many countries also offer courses in English, so don’t let your language knowledge limit study abroad options.
The only restriction is that students cannot study in a country for which the State Department and/or the Centers for Disease Control have issued a Travel Warning.
Q: When can I study abroad?
A: Our programs offer study abroad options throughout the whole year. You can choose from year-long, semester, and summer programs.
See Affiliated Programs above.
Q: How do I choose a study abroad program?
A: Before you start looking at all the program opportunities available through TLU, you should realistically assess your academic goals, language skills, and personal plans.
Once you have looked closely at your skills, needs, and goals, you will have a better sense of what to look for in the available programs. Your next steps are to begin reviewing program options and make an appointment with the TLU International Education director to help you choose a program.
Q: How much will studying abroad cost?
We know that cost is a significant factor in choosing a study abroad program, or choosing to study abroad at all. Costs vary, but many study abroad opportunities cost no more (excluding airfare, insurance, and other expenses related to living abroad) than a term on campus. In order to gauge additional expenses (aside from tuition and program cost), you’ll need to consider these possible expenses:
- Round-trip transportation to and from your program destination
- Ground transportation on site
- Passport and visa fees
- Insurance
- Books and supplies
- Meals not covered by the program
- Personal expenses
Most of our affiliate programs provide a list of “estimated costs” to help you calculate the overall cost of your study abroad experience.
Q: Can I use financial aid for my study abroad program?
A: Students can use their academic scholarships, federal aid, and external funding toward a TLU-affiliated program during the long semesters. Performance scholarships are excluded during the time the student is abroad.
As you are considering the costs of studying abroad, also know that there is financial aid available specifically for study abroad. TLU offers scholarships to study abroad for a semester or summer. Many of the program providers offer both need- and merit-based scholarships that students may apply for. In addition, there are other scholarship sources for students studying in particular regions, pursuing certain types of coursework, or with financial need (students receiving a PELL Grant). Summer program funding is more limited.
Q: How do I get credit for my study abroad coursework?
A: Virtually any coursework taken abroad through TLU programs can be transferred as credit at TLU. The process is similar to that of transferring work completed at another college or university. Through consultation with the student’s academic advisor, courses are chosen for the major, supporting work, general curriculum, and/or electives.
Students must earn the TLU equivalent of a “C” or higher in order to earn academic credit. The grades are not calculated into the TLU GPA; however, they are documented on the TLU transcript.
Q: How do I get my study abroad transcript?
A: As a part of the agreements that TLU has with its study abroad partners, you do not need to do anything to get your transcript—your program will send your transcript when they have processed your grades. However, your study abroad program will not issue a transcript if you have any outstanding charges with them, and TLU will not grant credit without the formal transcript. If you have outstanding fees with TLU, you will not be able to register for courses until those fees are paid.
Transcripts typically arrive one to two months after the program ends. The transferring courses will be added to the TLU transcript during the semester following the student’s return.
Q: What language will I be taught in? (I want to study abroad in a foreign language, but I’m not sure I’m ready to take classes in that language.)
A: Many programs offer courses in English. Students still have the option to take a language course in the local language and take the other courses in English. Language immersion is one of the best ways to learn or improve upon a second language. TLU offers programs in which courses are taught in a variety of languages. Students can take courses at the level that fits their proficiency, from beginner to advanced.
Q: I only speak English, but I don’t want to study abroad in England. What other options do I have?
A: You do not need to speak another language in addition to English to study abroad. Many of our programs offer courses taught in English.
Q: I know where I want to go. Now what do I do?
A: We are excited that you have decided to study abroad! Now it’s time to begin the application process. Application deadlines are the semester before a student wishes to study abroad, with the exception of the Harlaxton Program which is one year prior. Approval is required from the student’s academic department and the International Education Office prior to application and departure.
Q: Will studying abroad affect the timing of my graduation?
A: If time abroad is planned well in advance, a study abroad experience should not cost the student any extra time toward graduation. Students should consult with their academic advisor to ensure that course timelines and requirements are met before going abroad.
Q: Is there information for parents and family members?
A: Are your parents worried about you traveling to a foreign country? Don’t worry, that is only natural. We know that you, as well as your parents, have concerns and questions. We are here to put you at ease as much as possible. Your concerns and questions are important to the TLU International Education office. That is why we have dedicated a whole section of our page to parents and family members.
View Our Parent & Family Resources Guide
Q: Have more questions?
A: If you have general questions and would like to talk with someone in the International Education office, please contact Charla Bailey to help you choose a program and begin the process.
Affiliated Programs
TLU offers programs in affiliation with more than 200 universities in 51 countries on six continents.
Unique Experiences
TLU has study abroad programs that come in many shapes and sizes. Each type of program offers students a unique experience on a global level. You may might find that you are more comfortable with one type than with another. Take a look at the types of programs available to help you decide which you prefer.
TLU partners with universities and organizations to provide study abroad programs in over 100 locations throughout the world, available to any major at TLU. Year-long, semester-long, and summer study options are available in addition to internship and civic engagement opportunities.
Affiliated programs are unique because each program has a resident staff on-site, tuition and program fees are similar to those of TLU (in some cases less), your fees are paid through TLU, and most TLU scholarships and all federal funding apply toward the programs.
Many of TLU’s affiliated programs offer summer study abroad opportunities. These programs vary in length from three weeks to eight or nine weeks. Some are language intensive, others focus on various course topics; some incorporate study of (and travel to) more than one country; and many provide internship opportunities.
API—Academic Programs International offers study abroad and full-time and part-time internship programs in nearly 20 countries around the world! Programs include full-time tuition and fees, housing, medical and life insurance, local social activities, overnight and day excursions, pre-departure and on-site orientations, on-site staff, language tutoring, and more.
Augsburg University’s Center for Global Education & Experience (CGEE) has programs in Mexico, Central America, and Southern Africa.
The Central America program visits Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Cuba, and the Southern Africa program visits both Namibia and South Africa.
Programs focus on peace, justice, community engagement, migration/immigration, international development/policy, health, and women’s issues. CGEE’s programs are experiential, so key learning takes place via direct contact with local people, rural and urban home-stays, community visits, and excursions.
The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has been sending students abroad since 1947. Today they offer more than 150 programs in 41 countries in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Students can choose to spend a semester, year, or summer abroad studying subjects ranging from architecture, to business, to language study, and everything in between.
Full- and part-time global internships are offered for college credit. Ten million dollars is awarded each year in need- and merit-based scholarships.
The Harlaxton College Experience through the University of Evansville in Indiana and their British living and learning center hosts students from various parts of the U.S. to study in a lovely 19th century manor house on 300 acres of gardens, parks, and woodlands.
The campus is near Grantham, England, just one hour from London by train. Local and visiting professors teach a variety of courses, including group excursions and independent travel. Many TLU faculty and staff have experienced Harlaxton College firsthand along with students who, while immersed in British culture, are also challenged academically.
Harlaxton College is a perfect destination for TLU students interested in studying outside of the U.S. who are not comfortable with the language barrier of other programs or who are simply less experienced travelers.
In addition to offering rigorous coursework, Harlaxton College allows time for students to travel to nearby historic sites that make British (and American) history come alive. This popular study abroad program has been described as one of the most impactful in the lives of those who have experienced it.
To make the course selection easier, TLU academic departments have already approved the Harlaxton course offerings and how those courses will transfer back to TLU for credit.
Since 1950, the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) has provided study abroad and internship programs to more than 190,000 students. As a nonprofit, IES Abroad is comprised of Customized Programs, IES Internships, and the Study Abroad Foundation (SAF).
In total, IES Abroad offers college students more than 400 programs worldwide, in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America, and serves more than 500 top-ranked universities.
TLU has an exchange relationship with Kansai Gaidai University, a private, nonprofit institution in Hirakata, Japan, where foreign students participate in the Asian Studies Program designed to help them gain firsthand knowledge of Japan and East Asia.
Courses taught in English include business, economics, history, and religion. Introductory courses in Japanese language and culture are offered as well.
