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      How to Choose a Program
    Click above to receive advice on how to choose a study-abroad program 


Seven Easy Steps To Get You On Your Way to Studying Abroad

STEP ONE
Attend a study-abroad information session

Information sessions are offered at the beginning of each semester.  These sessions will provide you with up-to-date information on how to find a study-abroad program that is right for you, how to pay for that program, and what steps you need to take to make studying abroad a reality.

STEP TWO
Make an appointment with a study-abroad adviser

To make an appointment with a study-abroad adviser, call the Office of International Education at 240.895.4202.  This meeting will assess both your eligibility to participate in a study-abroad program and your international education objectives.  This meeting will also provide you with the opportunity to ask specific questions about your study-abroad plans.

STEP THREE
Research a program that is right for you

St. Mary's College of Maryland offers international study programs in several countries -- Belize, China, Costa Rica, Hong Kong, England, France, The Gambia, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Thailand -- and the list continues to grow.  Learn more about these programs on the IE Web site, in IE publications, and from the IE Office and faculty advisers.

Research various programs available for your destination or field of study by searching such study-abroad search engines as studyabroad.com or goabroad.com; by visiting the International Education Library; by reviewing "Where Have SMCM Students Studied Abroad?"; or by talking with faculty members, your academic adviser, study-abroad adviser, classmates, or family.  For more information on how to choose a program, click here. 

STEP FOUR
Assess safety

Before applying to a study-abroad program, it is important for you to assess the current safety environment of the destination you are considering.  Discuss potential risks with your parents, guardians, or significant others so that you can make informed decisions about safety and the level of risk associated with your potential study-abroad destinations.

The following resources may be helpful in researching regional safety issues.  Please consult the International Education Handbook for additional resources.

  • The Department of State -- DOS issues travel advisories and consular information pages on every country.

  • Overseas Security Advisory Council -- OSAC fosters the exchange of security-related information between the U.S. government and the American private sector through a variety of reports available on the Web.

  • The Federal Aviation Administration -- The FAA provides information regarding airport safety, airline safety, and traveling overseas.

  • The Association for Safe International Road Travel -- ASIRT asserts that motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of serious injury and deaths for all travelers.  ASIRT also provides international travel reports. 

  • International SOS -- International SOS offers global emergency assistance and global medical services for travelers. 

  • The New York Times, Washington Post, and Christian Science Monitor offer coverage of international affairs.  Foreign local newspapers also provide important access to information.  Many countries offer English-language daily or weekly newspapers.  Print media resources can often be accessed on the Web.

STEP FIVE
Arrange the financing

Meet with Tim Wolfe in the Financial Aid Office (x3000) to discuss financial aid opportunities and how your current aid will transfer.  Research scholarship, fellowship, or grant opportunities on the IE and Financial Aid Web sites and apply accordingly.   You may also discuss financing with the study-abroad adviser at your initial assessment meeting.

STEP SIX
Complete application forms

Complete all application forms for St. Mary's College of Maryland AND your chosen study-abroad program.  Submit SMCM study-abroad application forms (4) and SMCM international exchange program applications to Peggy Carlton in the International Education Office, Anne Arundel 100.  Send non-SMCM program applications directly to the outside program provider.  Follow the application instructions carefully.  Submit all applications by appropriate deadlines.

STEP SEVEN
Attend a pre-departure meeting

Pre-departure meetings are offered every semester.  Students who wish to study abroad are required to attend the pre-departure meeting during the semester prior to studying abroad.  Dates for meetings are available from the Office of International Education.