Choose the Best Program For You
At Florida State, study abroad means earning FSU credit while having immersive experiences on the adventure of a lifetime.
You'll build a community of lifelong friends and create core memories as you travel together. Small classes feature unique academic experiences and opportunities to stand out from the crowd. You’ll engage with new perspectives and return home a global citizen.
Below you’ll find key considerations for choosing the best study abroad program for you. Be sure to reflect on each topic and explore the resources linked on this page before you apply to a program.
Location & Timing
FSU has three study abroad centers and an international branch campus where classes are offered every semester. In addition to these four main locations, other destinations are offered over the summer term and during spring break. When choosing where to study abroad, consider the local culture, language, cuisine, and traditions.
FSU offers a variety of study abroad program lengths to fit your schedule — from one week to a full semester abroad. Consider that you may have more flexibility and academic course options earlier in your college career.
Expectations for Life Abroad
As you choose a program, consider how your perspectives may be challenged or shaped during your study abroad experience. Reflect on your health and wellness needs and how you’ll adapt to changes in things like diet, language, environment, physical demands, and local customs. Review program excursions and activities before applying and keep in mind that most programs involve shared living arrangements.
Planning ahead will help set you up for a successful experience abroad.
Academics
Take FSU courses to satisfy your major, minor, or graduation requirements. You could also do an international internship.
Build your own class schedule as part of a broad curriculum program or take specific faculty-led courses on a focused curriculum program. Always review the courses offered on a program before you submit an application.
You can schedule an advising appointment with International Programs’ academic advisor to find which program best fits your academic goals.
Academic Resources Search Courses
Finances
When you study abroad at FSU you pay a study abroad program fee which includes the classes you will take, housing, and more. Many forms of financial aid apply toward your program fee including Florida Prepaid, Florida Bright Futures, grants, loans, and more. International Programs also offers scholarships and payment deferment options.
You can schedule an advising appointment with International Programs’ financial aid coordinator to create a personalized plan.
Health & Safety
Throughout your entire study abroad experience your safety is FSU’s top priority. From building security and accessible staff to comprehensive health insurance, we’ve got you covered.
Pre-departure and on-site orientations detail safety procedures and what life is like abroad to prepare you for your experience. You will receive international health insurance while you are abroad, included in your program fee.
Visas & Immigration
Our immigration team is here to help guide you through obtaining a visa if your program requires one.
Don’t forget you’ll need a passport! You can apply for one in the FSU International Programs office which houses a US Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility.
Start Your Study Abroad Journey
1. Do Your Research
Consider which program best aligns with your academic goals. You can meet with International Programs’ academic and financial aid advisors to start planning early.
2. Submit an Application
After choosing the perfect program for you, submit an application and pay the application fee. We recommend applying as soon as applications open if possible as are first-come, first-served. Watch a walk through video of the application.
3. Receive Application Decision
Be sure to check your application status in the IP portal. Admission decisions can take longer than usual during busy times. There is a chance you could be put on a wait list if the program is full — if this happens, we will outline all of your options.
4. Commit to the Program
Once you have been admitted and are ready to commit to the program officially, you will pay or defer the commitment fee by the due date.
5. Prepare to Go
Check your IP portal for checklist items to complete and don’t forget to pay or defer your final payment. Via the portal you’ll learn when to buy your flight, how to complete the mandatory pre-departure orientation, and all you need to know to get ready for your study abroad experience.
6. Arrive at Your Destination
You made it! When you arrive at your destination, you’ll go through an on-site orientation to make sure you have everything you need to have a safe and successful experience. Enjoy creating core memories with new friends on the adventure of a lifetime.
