Your identities are something that you take with you wherever you go. Traveling internationally gives you the opportunity to experience your identities in a new context which is different than what you are used to. This can be an opportunity to reflect on your identities and grow in your understanding of yourself. Navigating identities abroad can also bring challenges. Below you will find some questions to ask yourself as you select and prepare for your study abroad program, as well as some external resources which you may find helpful in your research.
Do you know of a resource that you think should be shared on this page? Do you have other ideas for this page? Please contact the International Programs Office at [email protected] to let us know.
Did you know that there are many study abroad scholarships specifically for students from historically underrepresented groups? Check out our Study Abroad Scholarships Page to learn more!
Race and Ethnicity
Study abroad offers students the unique and exciting opportunity to learn about and interact with people of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. Your own racial and ethnic identity is a part of you, and in turn, will travel with you abroad. What will inevitably be different is the way you experience your race/ethnicity overseas – and how your racial/ethnic identity intersects with other identity categories to which you identify (religious, sexual orientation, gender, etc.), and what this means in your host country This process of discovery is one of the primary benefits of a study abroad experience, but one that you can and should prepare for as your internal journey of self-discovery will take place alongside your engagement with your host community. In most cases, your interaction with host nationals will be among the most rewarding aspects of your experience abroad. It is important to keep in mind though that just like in your home country, there are complex histories and relations of power connected to race and ethnicity in your host country, which are likely different than those in your home country. This will impact how you are perceived and how you experience your race/ethnicity in this new context.
Some students travel abroad as heritage-seekers: travelers who have a goal of connecting or reconnecting with their heritage. Study abroad can be an opportunity to live in and experience a culture that forms part of your identity and background.
In some situations, your race or ethnicity may be read or interpreted differently than students are accustomed to in the United States or their home nations. Students may also encounter different cultural norms related to race and majority/minority status, where racism and other forms of discrimination are performed, viewed, and addressed in ways that are different from which students are accustomed. Understanding how cultural differences can impact perceptions of race, ethnicity, and identity in an international context is an important component of your preparation to study abroad. Some questions to consider as you begin your research into the perceptions of race and ethnicity in a possible host country are suggested below.
Questions to Consider
- What are some common perceptions and stereotypes about your race or ethnicity in your host country?
- What is the racial history of your host country? Which racial groups are privileged over others?
- Does your own race/ethnicity align with dominant or subordinate racial groups in your host country?
- Does your host country have a history of prejudice/discrimination or acceptance/inclusion with your ethnic group?
- Might you expect to be treated the same way in your host country as you are in the U.S. or your home nation? Will you be in the minority/majority for the first time?
- Is there a history of racial or ethnic tension in your host country? Is the issue of immigration a source of racial or ethnic tension currently?
- What is the relationship between your host country and the United States? How might you be perceived as an American in your host country?
- How will you react if you encounter racism or other discriminatory behavior? What resources are available to support you should this occur?
- How might your personal racial or ethnic identity shape your experience abroad?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in our office. You can contact the International Programs Office at [email protected] or visit our office in Old Main, Room 219.
Resources to Consider
Country-Specific Identity Resources
Meaningful Travel Tips & Tales: African American Perspectives (eBook)
Meaningful Travel Tips & Tales: Latinx Traveler Perspectives (eBook)
Articles
Traveling While Black: 9 Truths for Black Students Traveling Abroad
6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Studying Abroad as an African American
Studying Abroad as a Latina First-Generation College Student
What it’s like living and working as a Native American in Mongolia
The Joy and Pain of Traveling while Non-White
LGBTQ+ Students
While selecting a study abroad program, it is important to know that views on gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression vary from country to country, region to region, and from person to person. It is important to consider how these aspects of the host country culture might influence your experience, your cultural adjustment, how you chose to express your identity, and in some cases, your wellness and safety. Some countries may be more open and accepting than what you have experienced in your life, while other countries may hold more conservative views.
To understand potential differences, we recommend that you research laws and customs related to LGBTQ+ communities in your destination country/city. Laws in some countries, for example, can offer fewer protections to LGBTQ+ community members and may, in fact, increase legal risks. Even where LGBTQ+ expression and identities are legal, local norms and customs may inhibit displaying gender identity, discussing sexual orientation, or some sexual behaviors. Also, be aware that, just like in the United States, there may be cities or parts of a particular country that may be more accepting than others. Students can, and do, choose to study in countries that might be considered less accepting, and have excellent experiences. It is up to you to determine your own boundaries and what feels comfortable and safe for you.
You may also want to do some research on LGBTQ+ history and culture in your host country. For example, many cultures have historically recognized third genders or gender and sexual fluidity. This can be an opportunity to reflect on your identity in a new context and to consider how you form part of a worldwide community that exists in every country.
Transgender and non-binary students might face challenges if officials perceive differences between your gender presentation and how your name or gender is recorded on your legal documents or plane ticket. Be sure that the name and gender on your passport and plane ticket match. Regarding X gender markers on passports: the US Department of State is no longer issuing passports with an X gender marker. If you already have a passport with an X, it remains valid until its expiration date. Some countries will not accept passports with an X marker, so be sure to research your intended destination to check that you can enter the country with your passport.
By learning as much as possible about the local host community’s context related to LGBTQ+ communities, you can narrow down your study abroad options to ones that will meet your needs, interests, and desired comfort level. As you begin your study abroad search, below are some questions to consider, along with links to further resources.
Questions to Consider
- What is the history of sexual orientation and gender identity in your host country?
- What are the laws regarding sexual orientation and gender identity in your host country?
- To what extent do your host country’s laws, religious or cultural values, norms, or traditions support or inhibit LGBTQ+ rights or expression?
- Are there safety considerations to be aware of? Is it safe for you to express your sexuality and/or gender in the way that you want to?
- If you have legally changed your name do you need to obtain a new passport?
- What are the cultural norms for dating and friendship amongst people of the same or different genders in your host country?
- Is there a visible LGBTQ+ community in your host country/city? How might that community be different from that in your own community?
- Does your study abroad program offer LGBTQ+-friendly housing such as gender-inclusive housing? If there is a homestay, will the host family be accepting of your identity?
- Will you need access to any medications, supplies, or services to care properly for your medical needs, including those related to physical transition (if applicable), such as hormones? If so, are they available in your host country? If not, will you need any additional documentation to travel with any medications or supplies? Will it be possible to travel legally and safely with these supplies? Will you be able to bring enough of your medication to last your entire stay?
- What LGBTQ+ resources are available to you in the host country and your home campus? What support is available to you if you experience discrimination?
- How might your experience abroad be an opportunity to explore your identities in a new way?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in the International Programs Office, or contacting Dr. Erin Morris, Assistant Professor of Sports Management, SOGIE committee co-chair, and study abroad advocate for LGBTQ+ students. You can contact the International Programs Office at: [email protected] and Dr. Erin Morris at: [email protected].
As you narrow down, or identify where you are interested in studying abroad, the International Programs Office may be able to put you in touch with a person in your destination country who can provide some local context to support your online research.
LGBTQ+ Travel Resources
U.S. Department of State Gay and Lesbian Traveler Information
Country Specific Identity Resources
International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association
Local Laws and Special Circumstances: Search by country for a list of information about the country based on identity
UCLA Social Acceptance of LGBT People in 174 Countries Report
Articles
Go Overseas: How to Pick Where to Study Abroad as an LGBTQIA+ Student
GlobalGayz.com: Travel and Culture Website focused on LGBT-Gay life worldwide.
Transgender Travel Information
Know Your Rights: Airport Security
Other Resources to Consider
SUNY Plattsburgh Diversity and Identity Resources
Northwestern Global Learning Office
University of Wisconsin-Madison Study Abroad Identity Resources
Gender
When planning to study abroad, it is important to research cultural attitudes toward gender in your destination country. The gender norms and expectations of a country may be quite different from what you are used to experiencing at home. Most cultures have gender-based expectations regarding dress and behavior. It is important to understand these expectations so you can make educated decisions to be both culturally sensitive and safe. If your personal values about gender identity and expression differ from that of your host country, you must consider your comfort level with inhabiting that space. If possible, talk to others who share your gender identity who have studied abroad in the particular country to learn about their experiences and what to expect.
Once you’re abroad, your best resource for learning the local cultural norms regarding gender is the local populace. Take your cues from local people in terms of dress and behavior. What may be considered appropriate gender-based behavior in an American context, may not be in your host country and may draw unwanted attention to you. Harassment happens everywhere in the world but knowing the types of behavior that may elicit unwanted attention in the destination context, will help you make personal choices both as your plan to go abroad and when you have arrived in-country. Although harassment may be considered normal in some places, it is never acceptable and you should not be made to feel that you need to accept it. If you experience gender-based harassment, there are resources to support you.
Always be sure to prioritize your safety while studying abroad. Take the life-skills you’ve developed living in the U.S. with you when you study abroad and set realistic expectations for your time overseas. Be sure to exercise common sense; learn the safe and unsafe areas of the city you’re living in, when you go out at night, go out in a group, watch your drinks at the bar, have the local emergency number pre-programmed into your phone, and exercise culturally appropriate behavior. When in doubt, trust your instincts. If a situation is making you uncomfortable, find a way to leave it.
Studying abroad is often the highlight of a student’s college experience. The better prepared you are, the better the experience you will have. Below are some questions and resources regarding gender to help you in the preparation process.
Questions to Consider
- What are the gender norms in the country in which you want to study?
- Are there gendered expectations regarding dress, behavior, or engagement with people of the same or other genders?
- Are these gendered expectations highly politicized or related to religion? How may that impact your experience?
- Is there a culture of inclusion for people who are gender non-binary or non-conforming?
- What are the gendered cultural expectations in this country?
- What are the country’s gender roles? Traditional? Progressive? How similar or different are they to the gender roles you may have grown up with?
- What are the cultural norms around friendship and dating in your country of choice?
- How does the country view friendships outside of one’s gender?
- How do your personal values about socially accepted gender roles compare to the potential host country?
- What gender-based stereotypes might people in this country have of people from the United States/your country?
- If you are considering being sexually active while abroad, have you investigated whether condoms, contraceptives, and other sexual health resources are available?
- What constitutes sexual harassment under local law or understanding?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in the International Programs Office, or contacting Study Abroad Advocate for Gender and Gender Identity, Dr. Jena Curtis. You can contact the International Programs Office at: [email protected] and Dr. Curtis at [email protected].
For those who identify as trans, non-binary, or gender nonconforming, please also check out the LGBTQ+ section of our identity resource guide.
Resources to Consider
State Dept. Information for Women Travelers
Diversity Abroad-Women Going Abroad
Her Own Way-A Woman’s safe-travel guide-Canadian government
University of Wisconsin-Madison Women Travelers Resources
Harvard University - Street Harassment Abroad: Advice and Resources
Articles
Transitions Abroad: Women Studying Abroad: Preparation and Support
Students with Disabilities
Students with all types of disabilities are able and encouraged to study abroad. Like with other identities (such as race, gender, and religion) the culture of disability varies widely from country to country, with some countries being highly inclusive and accessible (perhaps even more so than your home country) and others still making progress. Not every study abroad program is a good fit for every student, but the International Programs Office is dedicated to finding the program that suits each student’s individual needs and interests. Types of accessibility accommodations available vary between our programs and students with accessibility needs should take this into consideration during the study abroad selection process. Not all the accommodations you currently receive will be available on every program, as each country and university has their own laws and policies related to disability. Be prepared to advocate for yourself, potentially more than you’re used to doing here in the U.S., while studying abroad. Your professors and classmates may need some help to understand your disability and your needs.
Be sure to discuss the accommodations you currently receive in conjunction with your desire to study abroad with the Disability Resources Center at Cortland. Build a list of accommodations that you receive in the U.S. and either need or would like to receive while abroad. From there, we highly encourage you to disclose your needs to your study abroad advisor. Let them know what you need in order to meet your personal, professional, and academic goals while abroad. They will then work with their counterparts abroad to determine which programs provide the support and accommodations that you require. Be sure to begin these discussions with your advisor early so that they have ample time to do any extra outreach needed to determine a program’s viability for you prior to application deadlines.
Please note that disclosing a disability is optional and will not be factored into any admissions decisions. It is encouraged to help you find a program which is a good fit and will be able to meet your accessibility needs so you can be successful.
Questions to consider
- How might your accessibility considerations impact which program you choose?
- Are your accessibility needs only relevant to an academic setting, or do you need to do broader research on accessibility in the host community?
- How accessible are places in your potential host countries to your needs?
- How are people with your disability viewed in the particular country you are considering studying in?
- Which of the accommodations you receive are necessary and which are preferred (if any)?
- Do you feel comfortable disclosing my condition to my study abroad advisor? **Health conditions and/or disability considerations are not factored into application decision. Our priority is helping you find a program/location that fits both your interests and your needs and leads to a positive experience. By disclosing early in the program selection process, your study abroad advisor can provide you with the most pertinent information regarding programs.
- How might you respond if people give you unsolicited help or ask unsolicited questions?
- Are you interested to disclose your disability to others? In what situations/circumstances do you feel willing to disclose?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in our office, visit the Disability Resources Center, or contact study abroad advocates for students with disabilities, Sue Sprague, Director for Disability Resources or Jeremy Zhe-Heimerman, Assistant Director for Disability Resources. You can contact the International Programs Office at: [email protected], Sue Sprague at: [email protected], and Jeremy Zhe-Heimerman at: [email protected].
Resources to Consider
Learn About Your Destination: Search by country and look under "Local Laws and Special Circumstances" for safety information for disabled travelers
U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form
Traveling By Air With Service Animals
Diversity Abroad: Students With Disabilities Abroad
CDC Travelers with Additional Considerations: Travelers with Disabilities
Exploring the World: A Comprehensive Wheelchair Accessible Travel Guide
State Department: Pets and International Travel
While You're Abroad: Tips By and For Autistic Travelers
Prepare Students With Mental Health Issues to Study Abroad
Preparations for Travel With Mental Health Conditions
TSA Disability Notification Card
Tips for Studying and Living Abroad If You're on the Autism Spectrum
International Travel with ADHD Medications
The ADD/ADHD Person's Guide to Prepping for Study Abroad
Articles
How Students with Disabilities can Study Abroad
Mobility International USA: American's Going Abroad - View articles about going abroad based on specific disabilities
First Generation Students
Just as navigating the college selection and application process may have been challenging as a first-generation student, it can be challenging to navigate the study abroad process. You, and your family and supporters, may have unique concerns and questions about how to select a study abroad program that fits your needs and interests as well as your academic requirements and your financial situation. Don’t reject the idea of study abroad just because you don’t know where to start.
Study abroad is an invaluable experience. There are many different program options, ranging in length from ten days to a full semester or even an academic year. Some programs travel with a faculty member and other students, while some are more independent. Spend some time reflecting on your priorities and what would make you the most comfortable, especially if you have never traveled abroad before.
Think about why you want to study abroad and how study abroad fits in with your academic and career goals. It is an ideal opportunity to build academic and professional skills. Start researching. Attend a Study Abroad 101, make an appointment with a study abroad advisor, speak with a returned study abroad student, and meet with your financial aid advisor. All of these things will help you to determine if study abroad is a good fit for you and what possibilities are open to you. It’s never too early to start planning!
To get you started, consider some of the questions below.
Questions to Consider
- Since no one in your family has studied abroad, who can help you answer their questions about study abroad?
- What destination(s) fit your major and my interests?
- What destination(s) will offer you a rich cultural experience?
- Do you want to select a destination with cultural similarities to your home culture or do you want a completely different experience?
- What language do you want your host community to speak?
- How will you answer questions from your family or others about why studying abroad is important to you?
- With which destination(s) will your family be more comfortable?
- How does study abroad contribute to your future career and goals?
- How will you involve your family in the study abroad process? Who can help answer their questions and concerns?
- How will you finance your study abroad experience?
- How can you stay in touch with your family and supporters while abroad?
If you have additional questions or concerns, (which is an inevitable part of the study abroad process), please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in our office. You can contact the International Programs Office at [email protected] or visit our office in Old Main, Room 219.
Resources to Consider
I’m First Blog (be sure to search study abroad for specific blogs on study abroad)
The Education Abroad Network: First Generation Students Abroad
Center for First-Generation Student Success
Knowledge Without Borders: Impact of Study Abroad Experiences on First Generation Students
The First Generation Student’s Study Abroad Guide (free e-book)
Articles
Diversity Abroad: First Generation Students Traveling Abroad
IES Abroad: Student Voices: Being a First-Generation Student Abroad
IFSA: Broke and Abroad (Yes, it is Possible)
Adventure is Where Belonging Began: My First-Generation Study Abroad Experience
My Study Abroad Experience as a First Gen College Student
How I Made My Study Abroad Dream Come True as a First-Generation Latina College Student
Transfer / Non-Traditional Students
As with almost every other aspect of the transfer student experience, planning ahead for study abroad is vital to success. Transfer students are able to study abroad and are highly encouraged to do so. Studying abroad looks great on a résumé, allows students to gain real-world experience, delve deeper into a particular interest area, and explore the world. Credit obtained through a study abroad program counts as SUNY Cortland credit, even if you choose to study abroad through an Other-SUNY and doesn’t count toward your transfer credit maximum. Transfer students are able to study abroad as early as their second semester at SUNY Cortland. If studying abroad in your second semester is something that interests you, be sure to contact the International Programs Office to learn about your adjusted application process.
Non-traditional or adult students may feel like study abroad is not an option for you. However, non-traditional students can, and do, study abroad! If you have other life commitments like a job, children, or you provide elder care, there may still be a study abroad option for you. We offer a variety of programs with durations ranging from 10 days abroad to a full-academic year. Programs are offered in the traditional fall and spring academic semesters, but also over winter break and the summer. This flexibility offers a wealth of opportunities for our students. The International Programs Office is here to help you select a program that makes sense for you.
Your academic program and how many credits you transferred into Cortland will help you determine which study abroad opportunities are the best fit for you. Talk to your transfer advisor, your academic advisor, and a study abroad advisor about your desire to study abroad as soon as possible. They will be able to help you plan ahead to give you the most options possible. In beginning your study abroad planning as a transfer or non-traditional student, here are some questions to ask yourself.
Questions to Consider
- What other time commitments do you have in your life (family, job, etc.) and how do they impact what type of study abroad program you can choose?
- What does your graduation plan look like?
- Which courses must you take for your major at SUNY Cortland?
- Do you have any electives left to take?
- Do you have any general education requirements left to take?
- Does your major require you to take flexible major electives?
- Do you need to complete an internship to graduate? Can it be done abroad?
- Does your major line up well with a particular partner institution or faculty-led program?
- Are you comfortable studying abroad in your last semester? Please note: if you study abroad during your last semester, you may not be able to receive your diploma until the next conferral date after your grades earned abroad are received and posted
- Which scholarships can you leverage your transfer experience or other life experiences for?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in the International Programs Office, or contacting study abroad advocate for transfer students, Lori Schlicht, Associate Director for Academic Engagement You can contact the International Programs Office at: [email protected] and Lori Schlicht at: [email protected].
Resources to Consider
How does a First-Generation, Non-Traditional Student Study Abroad?
Study Abroad Tips for Transfer Students
How to Study Abroad As a Transfer Student
Religion and Spirituality
Religion is often a large part of a country’s culture and identity. Many cultural traditions are entwined with religious ones and exploring a country’s religious background and traditions can be an enriching part of your experience abroad. It is important to do research prior to studying abroad to become aware of how religion can impact your study abroad experience in a particular country. While you may be part of the religious majority in the United States that may not be the case when you study abroad.
If you are religious yourself, it is important to think through how your experience abroad may be impacted by your faith. If you plan to worship while abroad, it’s important to learn more about the area you’ll be living in and the places of worship available to you there. Not all countries have a culture of religious plurality—some in fact have a state-sponsored religion—and may not be tolerant of you openly practicing your faith. If you follow a special diet, it is important to learn ahead of time if you’ll have access to halal or kosher grocery stores or if you’ll be living in a situation with a group kitchen. It’s also important to do research as to whether you are allowed to wear religious articles of clothing or symbols in your host country, or if in turn you’ll be expected to dress in a certain way connected to the dominant religion of the country.
Depending on your religion and the religious atmosphere of your host country, you may find that people are not friendly to your faith. Faith-based harassment and discrimination can occur anywhere and you may want to prepare for how you can react in various situations.
If you are not a member of the dominant religion in your host country, it is important to still show respect, particularly when at religiously significant ceremonies or sites. This may include abiding by dress codes (explicit or unspoken), not participating in all aspects of the ceremony, or remaining separate by gender. Although you may not share the same values or beliefs as the dominant religion, proceeding with respect, openness, and curiosity is often the best approach.
Studying abroad is an opportunity to learn more about, and grow in, all aspects of yourself, including your faith. As you continue the study abroad research process, here are some questions for you to think through regarding religion and spirituality.
Questions to Consider
- What is the dominant religion in your host country? Are all religions tolerated? To what degree?
- How is your religion similar to the primary religion of your host country? Does it share similar roots?
- How does your host country perceive atheism or agnosticism?
- Are there laws regarding religion in your host country?
- Is there a separation of government and religion?
- Will you be part of the religious majority or the religious minority?
- Is it safe for you to wear religious symbols and clothing?
- Do you plan to practice your religion while abroad? If so, are there any places of worship particular to your religion in your host city? If not, how do you plan to practice your religion?
- Do you have religious dietary restrictions? Can they be accommodated in your host city/country?
- If your program includes a homestay, can they accommodate your dietary restrictions? How open are you to living with a host family of another religion? How will you respond if your host family, or other host community member invites you to take part in a religious ceremony or ritual?
- Are there any places of worship you plan to visit as part of your study abroad program? If so, what do you need to know prior to visiting (such as dress code)?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please consider meeting with a study abroad advisor in our office. You can contact the International Programs Office at [email protected] or visit our office in Old Main, Room 219.
Resources to Consider
Annual Report to Congress on International Religious Freedom
The Pluralism Project: Harvard University
Kahal: Your Jewish Home Abroad
Halal Trip: City Guides for Muslim Travelers
Christianity Today International
*Many Christian denominations have their own specific church directories. Try searching your host country/city, and your denomination
Articles/Blogs
IES Abroad: Keeping the Faith: Religious Differences and Experiences Abroad
IES Abroad: Finding my Home in Amsterdam: A Wandering Jew Takes Europe
GoAbroad: 7 Best Resources to Share with Jewish Students Traveling Abroad
The ISA Journal: What It’s like to Fast for Ramadan in Morocco
Students with Financial Need
Studying abroad is an opportunity all students should be able to participate in. This may be more difficult and seem more challenging for students who have less access to financial resources. There are multiple opportunities for all students to study abroad, including financial opportunities such as scholarships, fund raising, and knowledge about budgeting.
Think about what programs you're interested in and how much the budget is for the program. Pay attention to what is included in the program charge vs what you will need to pay out of pocket. For example, some program charges include expenses such as housing, meals, and even excursions, whereas with other programs you will need to budget separately for those. Always look at the full cost estimate for the program, not just the program charge, to get a better understanding of the overall cost of the program. Consider also the length of program that will best fit your budget and other needs (for example, if you are working, how much time can you take off work?). Some semester long programs are similar in cost to a semester here on campus!
Study abroad scholarships are available, through the International Programs Office as well as nationally recognized scholarships. When researching scholarships be sure to make careful note of requirements and due dates so you don’t miss any deadlines. Apply for as many scholarships as possible, as they can add up to higher support for you.
Having a solid understanding of your current financial situation can better prepare you for financing study abroad. Start by attending a Study Abroad 101 session and make an appointment with your financial aid advisor through the Financial Aid Office. These resources can help you determine what financial assistance you may need and what program is best for you and your budget. To get you started, consider some of the questions below.
Questions to Consider
- What is your current financial situation?
- What kind of financial resources will you need to make a study abroad trip possible?
- What destination(s) fit your budget?
- What length of program will work best with your budget and other needs?
- What costs are included in the program cost and what will you need to budget for on a monthly or weekly basis?
- What resources do you already have available (ie. family, job, scholarships)?
- What is the cost of living in your destination? How is the exchange rate with the US dollar?
- How can you save money while at your destination?
- What could you do now to start saving money for your study abroad program?
- What kinds of outside resources can you utilize to help fund study abroad?
- What scholarships are you eligible for that you can apply for?
Resources to Consider
A Low Income Student's Guide to Studying Away
How to Budget for Study Abroad
Go Abroad: I Want to Go Abroad But Can't Afford It
Veterans
For many students, studying abroad is an opportunity to see a new country for the first time. For veterans, studying abroad can provide different opportunities and multiple benefits. An increasing number of veterans are taking advantage of the educational benefits provided to them after the military, and these students come with diverse experiences and backgrounds. Student veterans can face unique challenges to study abroad, but there are multiple ways to make this opportunity a reality.
Studying abroad will be a very different experience than travelling with the military. Consider your prior international experiences and what you learned from them. Some students may experience challenges adapting to the new environment when studying abroad. Others may find that their prior travel and life experience has equipped them to adapt to the new and changeable situations students encounter when studying abroad.
Think about your current situation and what programs you might be interested in. Even if you have other life commitments such as children or a job, there may still be a study abroad option for you. We offer a variety of programs with durations ranging from 10 days abroad to a full academic year. Programs are offered in the traditional fall and spring academic semesters, but also over winter break and the summer. This flexibility offers a wealth of opportunities for our students. The International Programs Office is here to help you select a program that makes sense for you. Here are some questions to consider when thinking about studying abroad.
Questions to Consider
- How much time do you have left in your degree program?
- What kinds of study abroad programs can the GI Bill cover?
- What other financial resources will you need?
- What kind of time commitment can you make for a study abroad program?
- What programs/destination(s) interest you?
- How will this experience differ from your time abroad in the military?
- How is the military viewed in your host country? How might that affect your experience as you learn more about the people and the culture of the host country?
- What unique perspectives and previous global experience can you contribute to your study abroad experiences?
- Will there be a visa issue if you have served in certain countries?
- How might other parts of your identity in addition to your military affiliation affect your experience abroad?
Resources to Consider
Using GI Benefits to Study Abroad
VA Benefits for Education Abroad
AIFS Student Veterans and Studying Abroad
A Guide to Veteran and ROTC Study Abroad Opportunities (e-book)
Students with Special Medical Needs
Studying abroad is an opportunity all students should be able to participate in. For students with special medical needs, studying abroad can present challenges you might not typically anticipate. These needs may present challenges or questions that need to be navigated in order for you to successfully study abroad. Studying abroad with special medical needs may require extra research, supplies, and organization to ensure your study abroad is successful and safe for you. You may want to begin the planning process early so that you can involve your entire care team and other supporters throughout the process.
All students who study abroad are required to enroll in a SUNY study abroad health insurance plan. This insurance will cover medical costs while you are abroad. They can also assist with travel pre-planning, including locating medical providers or prescribers and pre-paying for medical appointments. The insurance also includes free teletherapy through the Better Help platform. If you are managing any mental health conditions, it is strongly recommended that you set up teletherapy upon arrival, but you can sign up for it at any time during your program.
Planning for your study abroad experience should involve your care team and medical providers to help determine what your needs are and how those can be met while studying abroad. You may need to do some research on available medications in your host country, particularly if you are not able to bring enough of your medication with you to last your entire program. Be aware that some medications prescribed in the US are not legal in all countries. Particularly if you take any controlled substances, be sure to research if you can travel with your medication.
Think about what programs you're interested in and keep in mind your medical need. Start by attending a Study Abroad 101 and if needed, make an appointment with the Disability Resources Office. These resources can help you determine what financial assistance you may need and what program is best for you. To get you started, consider some of the questions below.
Questions to Consider
- What programs/destination(s) interest you?
- What medical needs do you have? How do they impact your day-to-day life?
- What medical providers might you want to consult with about your study abroad plans to ensure continuity of care?
- What kinds of mobility aids, medication, or other tools do you use to manage your medical needs?
- Will you require easy/consistent access to medical care in your host country?
- Are your medications available/legal in your host country?
- What might you do if you experience a flare-up of symptoms while you are abroad?
- What kinds of support would you need to study abroad, both from your home university and your host university?
Resources to Consider
Traveling Abroad with Medicine
Tips for Traveling with Mobility Aids
7 Tips for Studying Abroad with Disabilities and Chronic Conditions
The Most Accessible Cities in Europe for 2024
The Wins and Realities of Most Disability-Friendly Countries
Students Who Are First-Time Travelers
Many students who choose to study abroad do so because it will be their first time abroad. While your first time abroad is exciting and destined to create wonderful memories, there are also a lot of unknowns that come with traveling for the first time. Many students are not sure how traveling works, or what questions they should ask before studying abroad. This lack of experience may make studying abroad seem challenging, but there are many resources to guide you through your first travel experience.
If you have never flown before, the experience can be daunting. Consult with someone who has traveled before (such as your study abroad advisor) so you know what to expect when going through check-in and security. This prior knowledge can help you feel more confident when navigating airports. Airplane anxiety is common, even amongst seasoned travelers. If you are feeling anxious about the flight, or think you may experience some anxiety while flying, plan ahead for this. Keep in mind some breathing exercises you can do, or bring something to distract yourself on the flight. If this is a strong concern for you, you may want to consider meeting with a counselor prior to travel to discuss your worries and form a plan.
Think about what programs you're interested in and write down any questions you have about studying abroad and traveling. There are many types of programs, some where you travel with a Cortland professor and other students, and some which are more independent. Think about what style of program might be best for your first time abroad. Start by attending a Study Abroad 101 and make an appointment with our office to talk about your program interests and what your program’s travel entails. These resources can help you learn about the basics of traveling and answer several potential questions that you may have. To get you started, consider some of the questions below.
Questions to Consider
- Do you have a passport? Note: If not, be aware that it takes several weeks for an application to be processed so it’s best to apply early.
- Have you ever flown before?
- Do you know anyone who has traveled before who you can ask for advice?
- What programs/destination(s) interest you?
- Which airport(s) will you be transiting through? How can you familiarize yourself with them prior to travel?
- What programs are you looking at, and what kind of travel do they require? How many flights will you take to your destination, and how long are they?
- What type of support and services are you looking for from your study abroad program?
- Is it important to you to study alongside Cortland or other SUNY students?
- Does your program allow you to travel with other students, or will you be traveling on your own?
- Have you spoken to your family about your interest in studying abroad? What kind of support might they be able to give you?
Resources to Consider
Your New Study Abroad Checklist
The Ultimate Guide for Students Traveling Abroad for the First Time