16
For upperclassmen looking to earn credits toward their degree and travel the world before graduation, a study abroad program is the perfect solution. AIFS Abroad offers a wide range of programs around the world, providing opportunities to gain hands-on learning experiences in an international environment, all while you immerse yourself in a new culture. But what does it take to study abroad? Is it even possible for upperclassmen to study abroad? Below, we’ll go over everything you need to know about studying abroad as a junior or senior in college.
AIFS Abroad offers countless study abroad programs that can help junior and senior college students earn credits towards their degree. Read on to learn how and why upperclassmen should study abroad!
Can I Study Abroad as a Junior or Senior in College?
Did you know that students can study abroad during any year of college? Not only that, but sometimes you don’t have to be in college at all—recent high school graduates and college graduates may be eligible to study and intern abroad on select programs. So, yes, upperclassmen can study abroad, but whether you specifically can study abroad depends on a few circumstances.
Study Abroad Requirements
Your eligibility to study abroad as an upperclassman generally depends on three main factors:
- Your home university’s requirements
- Your academic track
- The eligibility criteria for your chosen program
AIFS Abroad offers study abroad programs across a wide range of academic disciplines in international destinations worldwide. Regardless of your area of study, we likely have a program that can help you advance your degree as an upperclassman.
Our programs are perfect for any college student who must earn credits during their time abroad. For universities that don’t direct enroll students on our programs, we issue credits through Fairfield University, our school of record in the U.S., so students can easily transfer credits to their home university.
Additionally, AIFS Abroad offers some programs designed specifically for experienced college students, such as our full curriculum Budapest programs.
Why Study Abroad as an Upperclassman?
While many college students study abroad as underclassmen, it’s even more common for upperclassmen to study overseas; in fact, junior year is one of the most popular times to study abroad for American students. While there are benefits regardless of your age or class standing, here are some of the distinct advantages to studying abroad as an upperclassman:
- Explore unique programs and courses: Gain access to courses and programs that may not be offered at your university, giving you more flexibility and the chance to explore specialized subjects or regional perspectives. Some programs offer a full curriculum (e.g., Dublin), allowing students to access all the courses available at their host institution, subject to prerequisites being met. Not only does this provide students with opportunities to take different courses abroad, but it also allows juniors and seniors to take more advanced courses for their degree.
- Apply a global perspective to your studies: A semester abroad or short-term study abroad program will provide you with new international perspectives that enrich your learning.
- Fulfill degree requirements abroad: If you have Gen Ed or major courses you must take to graduate, a study abroad program can help you get them done in time for graduation.
- Develop a global network: Make international connections that can help you land a future internship or job.
- Study in industry-specific global hubs: As a third or fourth year in college, it’s important to keep your professional future in mind. If you know what field you want to work in, you can study abroad in an international city at the center of the industry. For example, study finance in London, advance your fashion major in Milan or Paris, or build sports and wellness connections while you study abroad in Sydney.
- Decide on your future: Are you unsure about what you want to do after you graduate? Studying abroad may help. During your program you can explore your various interests; plus, being in a new environment with new people may provide the spark you need to determine a path forward.
- Study abroad with confidence: As an upperclassman, you likely are more independent and mature than you were as an underclassman, helping you to go abroad with more confidence.
Do you want to study abroad as an upperclassman but also want some professional experience for your resume? A Study + Internship program, may be the perfect fit—these unique programs allow you to study and intern abroad at the same time!
How to Study Abroad as a Junior or Senior in College
If you would like to study abroad as an upperclassman, you should:
- Speak with your college advisor: They can help you determine your eligibility to study abroad based on specific academic and university requirements. For example, if there are specific courses you need to take to earn your degree, they can help you navigate these and recommend options.
- Visit your school’s study abroad office: Many colleges have a study abroad office or a faculty member who can assist interested students and answer questions about studying abroad. Speak with the study abroad office to review program options, discuss financial assistance opportunities, and decide on a program that best fits your academic and personal needs.
- Apply: Once you know you can study abroad (like most juniors and seniors!), you should apply right away so you don’t miss any program deadlines.
If academic or athletic requirements prevent you from studying abroad during the fall or spring semesters, you may be able to do a summer, January Term, or May Term study abroad program instead. These short-term study abroad programs help you advance your degree outside of the traditional school year, offering a workaround for students who must be at their home university during the semester.
TLDR: The short answer to “How to study abroad as an upperclassman” is talk to your college advisor and then click here!
AIFS Study Abroad Benefits
Study abroad with AIFS Abroad as a junior or senior in college and receive a number of incredible benefits, including:
- On-site support: Ensures you always have help when you need it. Our on-site Program Director will meet you upon arrival and support you throughout the program.
- Trips & excursions: Program-led tours through your program destination, host country, and beyond that are designed to enrich your experience.
- Social & cultural activities: Led by local AIFS Abroad staff who teach you more about the culture of your program destination, all while you bond with other students!
- Safe & central housing: AIFS Abroad ensures housing is located near classes, so you don’t have to commute too far.
AIFS Abroad program inclusions don’t end there! Learn more about our study abroad programs.
Discover new cultures while you earn credits as an upperclassman—study abroad with AIFS Abroad!
Studying abroad allows you to advance your degree, gain unique international experiences, and travel the world as a junior or senior in college. Study abroad with AIFS Abroad and enjoy our valuable program inclusions, such as social and cultural activities, housing, trips and excursions, 24/7 emergency support, comprehensive insurance, and on-site staff, so you can focus on making the most of your experience abroad!