A Study Abroad Primer for CU Parents

Why should my student consider studying abroad?

Your student will earn credit toward his or her degree, learn and build skills for a future career, be able to put an impressive experience on a resume, learn a new language or continue studying one, experience a new way of living and learning, step out of a comfort zone, and learn skills they would not otherwise learn. Studying abroad is a transformational experience for students.

Is it common to study abroad?

At the CU-Boulder, approximately 25 percent of students who enter the university as first-year students and graduate attend a study abroad program.

Does a studying abroad set student back from graduating in four years?

A recent study of graduation rates showed that CU-Boulder students who study abroad graduated at the same speed as students who did not study abroad. Your student can earn credit toward his or her degree while studying abroad, including major, minor, certificate, core, and elective credit. Ideally, your student will start planning at least a year in advance.

What are the options available for my student?

There are nearly 400 CU-Boulder approved study abroad programs in over 73 countries, so your student definitely has a lot of options! Students are encouraged to find a program that is a great "fit" for them taking into consideration factors like courses offered, location, program type, cost, etc. Non CU programs are also an option.

What does a study abroad program cost?

The cost of studying abroad varies by program. Some programs are similar (sometimes less!) to the cost of studying in Boulder, and others are more.

How does my student get started?

Your student can attend Study Abroad 101; a 30-minute session presented five days a week. At Study Abroad 101 students learn about reasons for studying abroad, program types, housing options, financial aid and affordability, major/minor credit, College of Arts and Sciences core, credits, grades, eligibility requirements, the application process, deadlines, and graduation information.

What services do CU-Boulder study abroad programs provide to my student?

Study Abroad Programs provides a variety of services before, during, and after a student's study abroad experience including:
• Advising and resources to select the most suitable program
• Selection and campus approval of a portfolio of high quality programs that match the needs of CU-Boulder students
• Assistance through the application process
• Connection with a program manager who is an expert on your student's program
• Resource direction on how to obtain a passport and/or visa
• Assistance in working with various CU-Boulder administrative offices
• Advising regarding opportunities and pathways for financing study abroad
• Working with Financial Aid to ensure the portability of federal aid award packages and other scholarships
• Need-based scholarships from Study Abroad Programs
• Contact information for study abroad alumni
• Continued registration as a full-time student at CU-Boulder
• Pre-departure orientation(s) and thorough program preparation
• Additional support during your students' time abroad
• A guarantee for the coursework your student takes abroad to appear on the CU-Boulder transcript and count toward the degree (with a few exceptions)
• Alumni services upon return from studying abroad

What about safety and study abroad?

The personal safety of your student while he or she is studying abroad is of extreme importance both to you and to the Office of International Education. We take very seriously the role of preparing students through pre-departure orientations here in Boulder, extensive resources guides, contact with program providers, and on-site staff knowledgeable in the area. While your student is abroad, he or she will have access to on-site staff for assistance as well as our 24-hour emergency telephone. Although most experiences abroad are trouble free, CU-Boulder makes sure that students are well prepared in order to remain safe and to maximize their experience abroad.

Where can I go for further information?

A good start is to visit the website at studyabroad.colorado.edu. Additionally, we'd love to speak with you!
Call 303-492-7741, or e-mail us at studyabr@colorado.edu. If you are in Boulder you are also welcome to come by during business hours to meet with a study abroad advisor in person.

By the Office of International Education, Study Abroad Programs