At Iowa State, there are many different types of study abroad programs. Students can search for a program based on duration such as semester, summer, or Winter Session. Students can also look at programs geographically. For students looking to get work experience abroad, we recommend checking out the international internship programs. Take a look below at the different types of program for additional information.
Study Abroad Program Types
Students are able to study abroad for a semester by essentially just replacing one of their semesters at ISU with a semester abroad. Semester abroad programs offer students the chance to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and see and do a lot! Study abroad students often comment that they wish they would have had more time abroad, so considering a semester program makes a lot of sense. Semester programs are typically 3-5 months in length, and enable students to participate in regular academic year offerings at their host institution, such as clubs and student organizations.
Semester programs typically offer a wide array of courses to choose from, which makes it easy for students to stay on track with their degree requirements and graduate on time. In addition, semester programs are more affordable than most students think! There are programs in at least 28 countries where the tuition costs are the same or less than studying in Ames. Tuition for study abroad programs starts at just $2500, that's about half of what an in-state student pays for a semester, and much less than what an out-of-state students pays.
For many students, a summer study abroad program is a great option. Summer study abroad can be a good option for students who have concerns about studying abroad for an extended period of time or for students who have a rigid course plan they need to follow every semester. Summer programs offer students a taste of what the local culture is like, and may entice a student to seek out additional international opportunities later on. The duration of a summer program could be anywhere from 2-12 weeks, with the majority of programs running for 3, 4, or 6 weeks. The cost of a summer program varies based on location, duration, and program inclusions.
Summer programs typically have a smaller course list compared to a semester program, but also, students often only enroll in 1-2 courses (3-6 credits) during a summer study abroad program. Participating in a summer study abroad program can help a student stay on track with their graduation or possibly graduate early. A student could also use this time to explore a passion or interest that they aren't able to at ISU. A classic example is marine biology. In landlocked Iowa, the hands-on study of marine biology could be confined to lakes and rivers. If a student were able to study marine biology in Australia or Costa Rica, they would have a wider exposure to the topic.
Like summer programs, winter session programs can be a great option for students who may have reservations about studying abroad for a few months. Winter session is the period between our fall and spring semesters, and these programs typically run for 3 weeks and award students with 3 credits. The classes, like summer program courses, are taught in an intensive nature, where the student is generally in class for a few hours each day.
A winter session program can offer you a new prospective on your major, provide a fun setting for completing a general education requirement, or just be a nice break from the Iowa winter while still earning credit.
Build your resume while having an international experience! Participating in an international internship is sure to catch the eye of future employers.
Participating in an internship abroad can be a great option for students who have an internship requirement in their major, students who are having a hard time securing a domestic internship, or students who want to have an international experience that can have a stronger impact on their future career. ISU offers both full-time (40 hours per week) internship placements and part-time internships. On programs with part-time internships, it is common that students will also take a class (in the case of a summer program) or several courses (if on a semester program). International internships can be credit bearing or not, there are a variety of options available. It is important to note that in most cases these international internships are unpaid.
Does traveling with a group and Iowa State professor appeal to you? Then look no further than faculty led programs! Faculty led programs are typically shorter durations of a few weeks and run during semester breaks such as summer, spring break, and winter session. On these programs each day is planned with academic and cultural components. Many would say that faculty led programs are a great option for students who are concerned about being away for a semester. You'll likely love it and be ready to sign up for a semester abroad as your next adventure.
Check out these links to see what faculty led programs are available: