Problems and Concerns


Okay, I won't lie.  It's not a piece of cake-no slice of pie.  BUT, that's what makes Study Abroad
worth all your efforts.  You know, "No pain, no gain!"  So, let's solve some of those problems.


MONEY, you say?

Well, on average, it costs about $7,000 dollars (in 2000)a semester for ISU.  The average cost of Study Abroad
is about $7,000-$9,000 (plus airfare and some personal expenses), so it is more expensive.  How do 
you get the extra money?

Start by saving EARLY.  Think ahead.  Chances are you're not going to ship that new car you want 
overseas.  Hold off.  Get a good summer's worth of work and paychecks in.  Remember that 
scholarships are available.  Do some searching and realize that the most common Study Abroad programs-
England, Australia, Spain, etc.-are going to be competitive for scholarships.  Think about going somewhere 
else.  The choices are unlimited!  Direct your questions to International Studies where they have 
experience with financial plans, recommendations, and scholarships.  What a wealth of knowledge!!!


Can you get CREDIT?

Lots of horror stories go around about credit not transferring back or GPAs that sky-bombed.  Study 
Abroad participants have cause to worry.  It can be a complicated process-IF you don't plan ahead.

First, it's NOT transfer credit.  Exchange courses are ISU credit.  Before you even sign up for a program you  
should know what classes are available at the place you want to attend and have gotten signatures from 
your department that agree, in written terms, that you will indeed EARN credit.  Work it out with a 
department chair ahead of time, and you're set for smooth sailing.  As far as the difficulty-be prepared 
to adjust your study habits!  What do you expect?  It's a foreign country!  BUT, many students find 
that they like their host countries education system better.  Many times professors evaluate on quality, 
not quantity like the U.S. and our loads of tests, homework,…you know.  If you're learning another 
language, your host country's environment can really stimulate the classroom experience.  Basically, it 
depends on YOU.


PAPERWORK?  It's all bureaucracy! 

Of course, there's forms to fill out, applications, and the like.  If you want scholarships you'll have to 
write an essay or two.  You'll also need recommendations, passport/VISA paperwork, and maybe even 
some more forms for the university you'll attend. 
 
Sound like a lot?  Trust me, you won't even remember after you've first stepped foot in your host 
country!  Besides, the International Office staff will always help, along with OISP advisors, and there's 
orientation, etc., etc.

More info?  Please, ask:  Illinois State University Office of International Studies 
                                           or oisp@ilstu.edu
                                           jmcrell@hotmail.com

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