The cost of study abroad programs varies. Programs offered through the ACES and the university have budget sheets included within the Costs tab on the digital program brochure. These sheets give a strong estimate of how much the program costs. We recommend comparing this to how much you spend per semester to attend Illinois.

NOTE: The program fee for studying abroad is in place of the cost of tuition on campus, not in addition to it.

• If you filed for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), financial aid money is transferrable in most cases, including grants and loans. Some scholarships may not qualify, and you should check with the Office of Student Financial Aid to confirm.

• There are study abroad-specific scholarships that can be applied before or after being accepted into a study abroad program.
• Check with your advisor and any faculty coordinating your study abroad experience to see if there are opportunities to reduce the cost of the trip.

Studying abroad does not delay graduation for most students. During semester programs, you will likely earn as much credit as you would on campus. For winter break or summer sessions, credit can be earned for field courses and general credits. In some cases, studying abroad can save both time and money.

Most of the programs offered through ACES include courses in the English language. You can confirm whether there is a language requirement on the digital program brochures.

ACES Study Abroad and the Office of International Safety and Security take every measure to ensure the safety and well-being of all students abroad in every program. Personal safety can also be dependent on how students conduct themselves while studying abroad, and cultural orientation programs are in place to help students make safe decisions.

A passport is required for all programs outside of the United States, and some destinations may also require a visa. Most visas are received at the consulate of the country you will be studying in. Other visas, usually called “residency permits,” are received once you arrive at your destination. Students are responsible for obtaining their visas (if required), but more specific information will be provided in the pre-departure advising process.

You should apply for a passport several months before you are scheduled to travel, as the process sometimes takes as long as eight weeks to complete. You must have a passport to finalize your study abroad application. Passports need to be valid for at least six months after returning from study abroad. Information about how and where to apply for U.S. passports can be found on the U.S. Department of State website.

We also encourage your emergency contact to have an up-to-date passport so that in the unlikely event of illness or an emergency, they would be able to travel to where you are studying.

In many countries, debit cards are the most convenient and safest method of getting foreign currency at a favorable rate of exchange. Be sure to communicate with your banks and credit card companies about where you will be traveling and to understand any international fees. Large sums of cash are not recommended, but some reserve cash, and a second card is helpful in case of an emergency.

If you are bringing a smartphone, be sure you know what international plans are available through your carrier and what fees are associated with calls/texts/data. Many students bring smartphones but restrict use to when there is Wi-Fi access. It is possible to use apps such as WhatsApp and GroupMe while abroad over Wi-Fi.

Students on longer programs may also decide to get a local sim card to use abroad. If that is your plan, be sure to have your smartphone unlocked to use the sim or purchase a pay-as-you-go phone.

The McKinley Health Center provides information and options for immunization services for students looking to travel abroad. You can also request a travel consult through your primary healthcare provider or a private travel clinic near you.