Each study abroad program should provide detailed information about its costs, specifying which expenses are covered by the program fee and which ones you'll need to pay directly. If you can't find cost details for a specific program, meet with a UMass Abroad Peer Advisor for assistance.
Different programs include different expenses in their program fees; be sure to account for all associated expenses when planning your international experience. You will need to plan for these expenses:
- UMass Education Abroad fee
- Program fee, including application fee and confirmation deposit
- Round-trip airfare
- Housing, if not included in the program fee
- Meals, if not included in the program fee
- Books and study materials
- In-country transportation
- International cell phone plan or SIM card
- Personal travel
- Visa or other immigration requirements (varies for each country)
- Passport if you need to apply or renew
- Immunizations (depending on destination)
In most countries, it is not legal to work while on a student visa so you should not plan on earning any money while studying abroad.
All students participating in semester, academic year, calendar year, summer and winter program are charged the Education Abroad Fee. This fee is nonrefundable and cannot be waived.
For Academic Year 2024-2025, the fee is:
- $410 for summer or winter
- $980 for one semester
- $1410 for academic year or calendar year
- Students participating in two different semester-length programs will pay $980 for each semester
What does the fee cover?
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Comprehensive, professional advising based on your academic, personal, and financial needs through pre-departure until your return to UMass.
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Maintaining UMass enrollment while abroad
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Study abroad transcript processing, including credit evaluation and transfer to UMass
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24/7 emergency support while abroad, including monitoring world events for health and safety conditions around the world
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Curation and management of study abroad program options approved for UMass students reflecting diverse locations and academic offerings. Each program is vetted for safety, academic rigor, affordability, and overall student success.
If you are particularly cost-conscious, consider the following:
- Check out Affordable Adventures, a curated list of hidden gems around the world at or lower than the cost of a semester at UMass.
- See Deals and Discounts from partner program organizations.
- Use the Cost of Living Comparison Tool for research and compare cost of living in different parts of the world.
More questions?
Education Abroad staff and Peer Advisors can help you research a program that fits your budget.
Student Account Manager
Kate Smith can answer questions about finances, payment, and other money topics. Schedule an appointment or email her.