Get Started

Take the first steps…

  1. You’re already here…have a look around! Most current info about programs, the process, resources, and everything you need to know about studying abroad is available on our website.
  2. Attend Study Abroad 101. In this short session, get in-depth info about studying abroad, plus perspectives from a past study abroad student! These are offered periodically throughout each semester. Follow @ummabroad on Instagram to have access to our updates.
  3. Talk with Peer advisors, students in the ACE office. Most have studied abroad—some multiple times! They’re a wealth of knowledge and can guide you in the decision-making process. They can answer most questions and will walk you through details in the study abroad guidebook.
  4. Stop by Drop-in Advising, available Mon–Fri from 8am–4pm. This is your chance to talk with our study abroad advisor–no appointment needed! Contact Stephanie Ferrian at sferrian@morris.umn.edu.
  5. Complete the Study Abroad Guidebook (a hard-copy is available at our front desk.) Use this to keep track of the required steps to study abroad. It’s helpful if you fill this out before meetings with advisors and even before Study Abroad 101. This will help you think through items such as choosing a location as well as larger questions regarding your goals. It’ll also help you prepare meaningful info to share with your professional/ academic advisor and study abroad coordinators in our office during your meetings.
  6. Begin financial planning. When researching programs, check out this budgeting tool to estimate and compare program costs. Look into scholarships, financial aid options and start saving money. You’re going to want it for your upcoming adventure!
  7. Research program locations. Do you want to live in a big city? Warm or cold climate? Near the ocean or mountains? Make sure you find a country that is a good fit for you academically, financially, and personally. When picking a program, you should also consider your current and future goals, as well as student identity. It’s important to keep in mind cultural differences and your personal views when choosing a location.
  8. Meet with your Professional or Faculty Advisor to discuss your degree requirements using your grad planner or your APAS (Academic Progress Audit System) report. Your advisor can guide you regarding which major/minor requirements are ideal to take at UMM and which may be okay to take abroad. This may also help you narrow down a particular university. If you already have a place in mind, it may help you select courses to keep you on track for graduation.
  9. What courses do you want to take abroad? Work with your professional or faculty advisor and use the Academic Planning Form to get other courses reviewed and approved before to ensure they will count towards your degree once you return.
  10. Make an appointment with a Study Abroad Coordinator at the Study Abroad office. This appointment will ensure you are aware of important details and on track with logistics. Bring your completed Study Abroad Guidebook to this meeting.
  11. Get a passport. Processing can take 3 or more months, so plan ahead as you won’t be able to enter the country (or even apply to some programs) without one in hand! If you’re serious about studying abroad, you’re going to need one of these little books—regardless of when you want to go.

Apply

Once you are ready to commit, apply to the program (use links on the respective program web page.) Make sure you’re aware of all fees and pay attention to deadlines. Let us know if you have further questions and we’ll guide you in the next steps moving forward. Cheers!

Cancellation Policy

Please be aware of the cancellation policy before you confirm participation in a program.