Before Studying Abroad

With over 200 programs running all year round, there are sure to be a few that catch your eye. Search through our robust database to get a general idea of your numerous study abroad options. Keep in mind that each program has its own requirements such as GPA, language proficiency, major, and class standing.

How to be Prepared for Your Advising Appointment

Before you move on to Step 2, here are a few tips:

• Make a short list of your favorite programs.
• Browse through our Education Abroad FAQs.
• Review program cost estimates and funding tips so you can make a budget.
• Make note of important dates and deadlines.

Video Info Session

For a general overview of how to get started or what to think about when choosing your study abroad program, watch our helpful video.

Meeting with your academic advisor will help you determine the best time for you to go abroad according to your degree plan. They can also recommend which classes to take abroad, and how those classes might transfer back to count towards your degree program.

If a course needs to be evaluated for transfer, you are responsible for working with your education abroad advisor to obtain the syllabus and have it reviewed by KSU faculty. This should be done before you go abroad - not after!

Tip: Keep all your syllabi, papers, and tests taken abroad. Your academic department at Kent State might ask to see these documents when you return.

Transferring Credits

If you enroll in courses at a partner (host) institution, you will need to transfer the credits you earn abroad back to Kent State University.

Upon successful completion of your study abroad program, the host institution will issue you an official transcript, which will be needed for the credit transfer process.

You must earn passing grades on the courses you take abroad for the credits to transfer.

Prior to departure, when you meet with your academic advisor, you will complete a Transfer Course Planning (TCP) Form, which will outline the courses you plan to take while abroad and how the courses will transfer to Kent State University.

Some courses have already been pre-approved for transfer to Kent State and can be viewed on the Transfer Credit Guide. Please note that this is only a guide and is NOT a comprehensive list of courses available at each partner institution. 

Meeting with an education abroad advisor will offer more insight regarding program details, including how to find class listings. They can also advise you on the application process, and provide support with the logistics of studying abroad.

There is a financial aid counselor specifically for education abroad. You can schedule an appointment with them on KSU Advising (Group Name: Education Abroad) or email finaideducationabroad@kent.edu.

It is possible to use your federal financial aid to go on Kent State University-approved education abroad programs. You can learn more on the Student Financial Aid Website.

It is also possible to use most Kent State scholarships for education abroad costs. You can find Education Abroad scholarships on ScholarshipUniverse.

Acquiring or renewing your passport is a simple and easy way to begin your preparations for studying abroad, especially if you haven’t decided on a destination or program yet.

You will need a passport to travel abroad. You should apply for your passport or review the expiration date of your current passport. Make sure you allow enough time for this step since official government paperwork can sometimes cause delays.

There may be specific passport, visa, or vaccination requirements for traveling to your host country(ies). It is strongly recommended that you carefully review the appropriate consulate or embassy website for the nation(s) you plan to visit in order to determine current entry/exit visa requirements. American citizens may find out more about entry and exit visas by visiting the U.S. Bureau for Consular Affairs website.