Getting Started

Start planning your study abroad experience.

Now That You're Here, Where Will You Go?

Nearly 1,000 College of Charleston students study abroad each year and we hope you will be one of them!

Steps for Studying Abroad

In the CIE our goal is to help students study abroad while continuing to make progress towards earning their degree! The best way to do this is to create an academic plan as early as possible, so communicate with your academic advisor that you want to prioritize studying abroad. A huge benefit of our liberal arts foundation is that study abroad becomes possible for students of any major!
  • Create an Academic Plan

    To consider when planning to study abroad:

    Academics:

    Review your DegreeWorks Audit

    • Have you discussed studying abroad with your academic advisor at CofC?
    • Do you know what courses you can/need/or want to take abroad?
    • Would you like to take courses in English or courses in a foreign language?
    • Would you like to complete research or field work while abroad?
    • Would you like to complete an internship abroad?
    • Would you like to take courses with local students, international students including other Americans, or both?
    • Would you like to take courses for CofC credit or transfer credit (which does not factor into your GPA)?

    If you decide to participate in an Exchange or Affiliate program, learn about the transfer credit course approval process.

  • Research Programs

    Explore our 3 program types and decide what type is best for you. 

    Additional things to consider when selecting a program:

    Location:

    It is important that students live and study in an environment where they are safe and happy.

    • Where do you want to study?  Where do you NOT want to study?
    • Are you open to any location as long as you can meet your other objectives (academics, cost, internship, cultural engagement, etc.)?
    • Have you researched the health and safety environment in the countries in which you are interested?
    • Do you prefer a large, cosmopolitan city with lots to explore and where you'll likely use public transportation? Or do you prefer a smaller location that is more walkable and may be easier to integrate within the community?

    Timing:

    It is important to consider when the best time for you to study abroad is. Students can study abroad for fall or spring semester, during spring break, during the summer or for a full academic year.

    A few things to consider:

    • Are there certain classes you need to take in sequence for your major/minor?
    • Are there certain classes you can only take at CofC such as a Capstone course?
    • Do you need to be on campus for student organization or commitments?
    • Do you need to work during the semester or summers?

    Choosing when to study abroad is a personal decision. We encourage you to speak with your academic advisor, family, and Center for International Education advisor to make the best decision for you. 

    Budget:

    Costs will vary based on the program you select. It is important to thoroughly review the program fee for your selected program and understand what is or is not included in the program fee.

    It is also essential that you understand what financial aid you receive. Ask yourself: 

    • Do you utilize federal or state financial aid (loans, grants, other)?
    • Are you a recipient of any particular scholarship(s)?
    • Do you plan to secure additional financial aid to finance your term abroad?
    • Am I eligible for any study abroad scholarships? 
  • Meet with an Advisor

    Meet with a Peer Advisor or CIE Staff Member to ask any questions you may have! Current students can learn more about advising opportunities on the Hub.

    Make an Appointment
  • Seek Course Approvals

    Students participating in an Affiliate or Exchange program must get their courses approved to transfer back. 

    Learn More on The Hub
  • Apply to a Program

    Students must apply to their program of choice on our application portal, ViaTRM. Pay close attention to the eligibility requirements and potential pre-requisite courses.

    Most programs evaluate applications on a rolling basis. Programs may reach capacity before the application deadline and all CofC-sponsored programs require a minimum number of participants to run.

    ViaTRM Application Portal