Getting Started

Getting Started

Before making a decision in which program you should participate, it is important to consider what type of program would fit you best. Each type of program has certain facets that make it different from other programs.

Below are some of the things that most students look for when choosing a program:

Location and language requirements

  • Where do you want to go? Do you want to take classes in English or the local language? 

Dates and Duration of the Program

  • Fall, Spring, Spring Break, Summer A/B/C 
  • Check for conflicts with internships, research, family commitment, athletic commitment, scholarship requirements

Types of programs

UF Exchange Programs
UF Sponsored Programs
Non-UF Programs

Enroll through UF

Semester program or full academic year; Some in summer. Language of instruction may or may not be English

Pays tuition directly to UF for all courses

Receives UF credits and calculated into GPA

A UF exchange student is often the only UF student participating in that exchange for that semester. Full immersion experience

Students make own living arrangements

Developed and taught by UF faculty, courses taught in English

Short-term programs – summer A/B/C, or spring break

In a group of other UF students

All living arrangements and activities are planned

Program fees billed by UFIC – covers tuition, insurance, housing, meals, excursions

Direct enroll with foreign institution

Affiliated Programs – Credits approved by your academic advisor will transfer upon receipt of your transcript. Check with your advisor whether the credits will go toward your degree.

Counts as transfer credits

There are many providers and programs out there. Always check with a study abroad advisor if the credits will transfer. 

Education Aspects

  • Major classes, minor classes, technical electives, general education classes, language classes

Independent vs. Group Setting

  • A UF exchange student is often the only UF student participating in that exchange for that semester and provides a full immersion experience
  • A UF Sponsored Program in the summer is led by a UF Faculty and provides an all-inclusive experience for a group of UF students
  • Non-UF programs can be independent or group programs 

Cost

  • It is important to know what your program fee includes prior to making a decision on your program as most programs will vary in price based on length, the number of courses, housing, insurance, etc.

Housing, Excursions, Meals, etc.

  • Some programs will include many other things beyond your course fees.  Make sure to examine the cost breakdown to see what all is included in your program fee and know what you may have to arrange on your own

Next Steps

You can now use the Study Abroad Planning worksheet to plan your study abroad!

 

Make An Appointment