Frequently Asked Questions
- Why study abroad?
- Study Abroad or Student Exchange? What's the difference?
- Who can Study Abroad?
- When Can I Study Abroad?
- Where Can I Study Abroad?
- What About Language Requirements?
- What about Travel Costs and Financial Aid?
- What should I do, if a class that I intended to take is not being offered when I register at the host university?
- Where will I live while abroad?
- Do I need health insurance while abroad?
- What else would be useful to have while abroad?
Why study abroad?
See the world with different eyes! In today's world we cannot focus on our small environment any longer. "Our university must be a place where people learn to become world citizens. We earn the title of world citizen by experiencing it firsthand, not just by reading about it in books," Dr. Agnese wrote some time ago. Whatever your aspirations are for the future and for a career, you need to think at a global level. To compete in world markets, we must be able to work successfully with other cultures. This means that we need a global education; mangers, researchers, and producers; plus sales, advertising, and communications personnel must be sensitive to other cultures and to developments throughout the world.Having spent time abroad not only looks good on your resume; it will also change your life! Study abroad is not only an option for a few; it is an essential ingredient for future success and your college years offer the best opportunity to make such an experience. Why not see the world now? There are literally thousands of programs available and the costs of studying in another country are comparable to what you pay in the U.S. 
Study Abroad or Student Exchange? What's the difference?
An exchange program involves an actual exchange of students between two universities which are bound by an "Exchange Agreement". Students pay tuition to their home school and enroll directly into courses offered by the host university. Study abroad programs do not involve an "exchange" of students. Rather, fees are paid to the study abroad organization sponsoring the program or directly to the institution abroad.
Any UIW student can choose to study abroad at any point in their academic career. However the ease with which your courses will transfer and flexibility of your options of places where you can study will vary depending on what your major is and how far along you are in your studies.
You can study abroad at anytime; except the semester you intend to graduate. The best time to study abroad is during your sophomore or junior year. Remember, you can study for the summer, a semester, or a full year.Your choice should depend on your course of studies and academic progress.
There are thousands of international programs available around the globe. Numerous organizations offer programs, and the Study Abroad Office has a plethora of information in its Study Abroad Library.
UIW holds Academic Agreements with more than 90 Sister Schools in 30 countries in Latin-America, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
You are not limited to attending a Sister School, but the advantage is that your courses will more easily transfer to UIW and you will continue to pay regular tuition at UIW.
What About Language Requirements?
Foreign language proficiency is not necessarily a requirement. Some schools teach even in English; however, it is to your advantage to be familiar with the language and culture of the country of your choice. Furthermore, studying abroad is the best way to improve your language skills in a language you have already studied.
What about Travel Costs and Financial Aid?
If you currently are receiving Financial Assistance, you will be able to continue to receive it while studying abroad. Please contact your Financial Assistance counselor at the Office of Financial Assistance. You might also be eligible to receive Financial Assistanceto pay for your travel expenses to go abroad!
Financial Assistance Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do, if a class that I intended to take is not being offered when I'm registering at the host university?
If you arrvie at the host institution and find that one or more of your classes is no longer being offered, simply refer to the classes that you and your advisor have chosen as alternative courses and inform your academic advisor of the change.
Where will I live while abroad?
That, of course, depends very much on the program itself. In many countries, dormitories as we know them, don't exist. Frequently, the university will indicate the options available (dormitory, host family, apartment). Living with a host family is usually the most rewarding experience.
Do I need health insurance while abroad?
YES, definitely. Check with your health insurance to know whether or not you are covered while abroad. If not, or if the coverage is not sufficient, the Study Abroad Office may offer suggestions of different insurance companies that offer international health insurance.
What else would be useful to have while abroad?
The Study Abroad Office is authorized to issue the official International Student ID Card. The International Student Identity Cards are accepted at over 17,000 locations worldwide and offer great savings and great benefits at home and abroad (please check the ISIC card website for most recent information):
Airfare - up to 50% off
Lodging - up to 30% off
Transportation - up to 15% off
Museums & Culture - up to 50% off
Skiing - up to 50% off
Attractions - up to 10% off
Phone Calls - up to 70% off standard international rates
Basic accident and sickness travel insurance
Free web-based e-mail
Phone card service
Telesafe Fax messaging
Voice-mail
Free handbook of worldwide discounts and benefits
The cost of the card is only $22.00 for UIW stidents and $25.00 for non-UIW students and the validity is for one year. Applications must be submitted with:
- Two passport-size photos (with name printed in ink on the back)
- Payment (Cash, check, or money order)
- Proof of student status and
- Proof of age (Drivers License and/or Passport)
For more information on Study Abroad please contact us at studyabroad@uiwtx.edu
