Study Abroad Steps to Success

Programs

Winter Break
Spring and Summer
Intensive Language
Semester/Year Exchange

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CHOOSING A STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

• Check the APA Website for program information
• Visit the Office of Academic Programs Abroad and speak to an advisor
• Obtain a program flyer from APA, adviser, or faculty
• Attend a Study Abroad Fair (October and January)
• Attend information sessions held throughout semester
• Meet with faculty director, APA coordinator, and/or academic adviser to discuss your plans, including courses of interest and possible equivalencies
• Apply for your passport if you do not already have one that is valid for six months after program conclusion/return home

APPLYING TO A PROGRAM

• Obtain an APA application packet. It's on the Web
• Submit completed and signed application forms by application deadlines for consideration
• If you receive Financial Aid, make sure you have submitted a current FAFSA (your study abroad costs and financial aid request will automatically be given to the EMU Office of Financial Aid). Plan a budget to obtain sufficient funds to cover expenses while abroad
• Apply for study abroad scholarships
• Wait for E-mail notice regarding the acceptance status of your application

PRE-DEPARTURE PREPARATION
Once you have received official notice of your acceptance from APA :

• Sign and return the accepted student documents to the Office of Academic Programs Abroad. (Students who do not complete required paperwork cannot be registered)
• Once you receive your E-mail from APA regarding flight information be prepared to book and pay airline bill
• Research APA resources for health and safety and foreign destination information
• Visit Snow Health Center, Midwest Traveler's Health Clinic or your physician if your study abroad program requires a health certificate or immunizations, or if you have not had a recent physical examination
• Attend your country/program-specific orientation
• Attend the APA general Orientation Session (mandatory)
• Prepare to receive and pay a bill for your program, tuition and fees
• Purchase any textbooks or materials needed before departure
• Plan a budget and obtain sufficient funds to cover expenses while abroad
• Inform your family or friends of where and how you can be reached while abroad

PROGRAM PARTICIPATION

• Have a great experience!
• Maximize your experience with your cross-cultural learning skills
• Remember that the APA Study Abroad Student Conduct Code applies to all EMU study abroad program participants

RETURNEES

• Submit a program evaluation online when you receive an E-mail from APA with the link
• Attend our World Scholars Reunion in October and receive your World Scholar certificate
• Submit a "World Scholar Story "
• Serve as a World Scholar reference for your study abroad program. Just contact APA and we'll put you on our lists
• Contact APA and volunteer as a peer advisor for your program at our Study Abroad Fairs
• Consider all the ways to continue your international experience (work with International students, learn a foreign language, write articles, volunteer at APA...)

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