CHOOSE YOUR PROGRAM
Once you have considered what you want from your education abroad experience, see what is available to you by using the program search or the Program Match Quiz in Via-TRM (AKA UMass Abroad).
You can change your answers to the quiz to refine your matches as your interests change. You must choose a program approved by UMass IPO! Approved programs have been vetted for academic rigor, risk management, in-country support, and value.
You must choose a program approved by UMass IPO (aka listed on the UMass Abroad portal). Approved programs have been vetted for academic rigor, risk management, in-country support, and value.
Take your time researching and favorite your top choices! *You only need to apply to one program* unless your Education Abroad Advisor tells you otherwise. You will be accepted if you are eligible and meet the deadlines. Things to explore include academics, housing, extracurricular activities, costs, and scholarship opportunities. Note program eligibility requirements and application deadlines, as program eligibility and deadlines may be different from UMass.
Consider the program costs carefully because they can be very different. Review these tips about academics in education abroad. You will not pay UMass tuition and fees during the semester you’re abroad. You will pay for the cost of your study abroad program and you will be charged the UMass Education Abroad fee. Know the program cost, what it includes, and what it doesn’t. If you can’t find this information, please ask for help. Read more about how the money works and how to use UMass Financial Aid to pay your program fee.
Check out DICE (Database of International Course Equivalencies) to see where courses in sciences, engineering and math have been approved in the past. Want to take Gen Eds abroad? Check the GenEd database to see what has already been approved, or where you can take a particular GenEd course.
Peer Advisors are here to help you search course catalogs, find and compare program costs and inclusions, and much more, so you can choose the best program for you!
When it comes time to apply, apply to only one program, unless otherwise advised by your Ed Abroad Advisor. In most cases, as long as you meet eligibility requirements and application deadlines, you’ll be accepted by your program of choice!
What’s the difference between a partner program and an exchange? Read here to find out, or ask a UMass Abroad Peer Advisor!
Stuck? Can’t decide? Want to talk through the options? Meet with a UMass Abroad Peer Advisor!
