OFFICE OF EDUCATION ABROAD
Where can you take your ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ education?
At ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ University, we prepare our students to become intellectually inspired, morally grounded global citizens. Many expand their horizons through study abroad experiences that allow them to view their studies and the world through a new lens. Numerous international programs are available with options for every major.
WHY STUDY ABROAD?
Study abroad is an extension of—not a break from—your ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ education. International learning experiences offer you different ways to learn and develop as an individual and as a global citizen.
At ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥, we ask students to evaluate and select an international experience with the following five goals in mind that we refer to as the OEA Framework
Study abroad students have the opportunity to broaden their academic pursuits, learning in a new environment and studying topics from a different perspective. You can take a class not offered at ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥, explore an area of interest outside your major or examine your chosen discipline from a different point of view. Language students can also work on their fluency and take classes in the host language alongside native speakers.
Many ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ns describe their study abroad experience as ‘life changing.’ But how can you make your experience transformative?
Be open to new ideas, perspectives and approaches. Entering your study abroad experience with an open mind and enthusiasm can help you develop a broader world view.
Immerse yourself in and engage with local communities. Be open to challenges, ask questions and explore life beyond the classroom.
Reflect upon your experiences. Personal and guided reflections aid your individual growth and allow time to process what you have learned.
As ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ns, we are called upon to answer global questions and to solve international problems. A study abroad experience can prepare you for this challenge.
Students learn to work in culturally diverse situations and relate to and accept different cultural viewpoints, better positioning them for success in today’s global society.
Study abroad experiences can help students develop the critical skills—problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork, collaboration and leadership—most valued by employers in today’s global economy.
Those who study abroad are encouraged to identify and explore areas that will support their career during their summer or semester abroad. International internships are one of many ways students can develop career readiness and important work-related skills.
¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ students acknowledge the broader impact of studying abroad on local communities and use their international experiences to reflect on the common good of the global society. By learning about different points of view, respecting local peoples and cultures, and integrating new ideas upon return, ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ns strive to be forces of positive change in the world.
WHERE CAN I STUDY ABROAD?
Offered as semester, summer, yearlong and two-week intensive experiences, students can choose from programs led by ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ faculty or those offered through an affiliate partner program.
Programs are available for every major, though some majors are limited to certain semesters or years.
THINGS TO KNOW
Students can study abroad as early as spring semester first-year, depending on their major.
Early planning is key, especially for Science, Engineering and Nursing students.
Some majors are limited to certain semesters or years, depending on academic requirements.
Most students begin planning for study abroad at least nine months prior to departure.
THE STUDY ABROAD EXPERIENCE
Learn more from our Global Key Ambassadors, current ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ns who serve as resources for students considering a study abroad experience.
DEADLINES
Program application and approval deadlines are intended to help students considering studying abroad to remain on schedule. Please note: Some programs at ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ may have earlier application deadlines and all Partner Programs application deadlines are independent of ¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ deadlines.
| Term | Attend a Mandatory First Step Info Session |
Complete Application and Approval Process |
|---|---|---|
| Fall | by April 1 | by April 15 |
| Academic Year | by April 1 | by April 15 |
| Spring | by October 1 | by October 15 |
| Summer (VU Faculty-Led) | As part of Application | by April 1 |
| Summer (non-VU Affiliated) | by April 1 | by April 15 |
CONTACT US
Office of Education Abroad
¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥ University
Top Floor, Garey Hall
800 Lancaster Avenue
¸ÌéÙÖ±²¥, PA 19085
Phone: 610-519-6412
Fax: 610-519-7649
Email
For emergencies after business hours (M-F, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.), please call the Office of Public Safety: 610-519-4444.