Office of Study Abroad

You may want to study subjects similar to what you're studying at Brandeis, or hope to fulfill major/minor requirements. Study abroad can also be a good time to take elective courses and pursue academic interests outside your major/minor. Think about what you expect from your study abroad program and research whether programs offer courses in subjects you need or want to take. To learn more about how your program/department considers study abroad, visit the Majors/Minors section of our website.

Brandeis University has specific eligibility requirements for semester/year study abroad and different eligibility requirements for summer study abroad. You must meet these requirements as well as the eligibility requirements listed on your program's website. Please review both to ensure that you'll be accepted by Brandeis as well as your program.

Determining when to study abroad can change your program options. Different programs exist for summer study abroad then in the semester. Some factors to help you determine when to go are: course availability, involvement on campus, athletics, and weather abroad (read here why fall can be great to consider!). Remember, even seniors can study abroad the fall semester before graduating that spring!

Each program will list their housing/board costs on their website. They will also list an estimated budget. Keep these numbers in mind when you're selecting programs. Sometimes the more popular locations cost more or the cost of living is higher. If you receive financial aid, working with your SFS advisor can also help give you a sense of how your aid will work while abroad.

There is no better way to learn or advance in a language than by being fully immersed in that language. Students who study abroad in a non-English speaking location make leaps and bounds in their language skills by the time they return to Brandeis. In this more globally-connected world, language skills are more sought after by employers than ever.

Study abroad can be an opportunity to explore your family's heritage. Many students consider locations where their family may have originated from as a location to consider. This can allow for a great connection to family and for an opportunity to research family lineage first-hand.

Please review the Types of Programs page, as it gives you a general idea of the academic setup of particular programs. Keep in mind your learning style and what you expect from a classroom experience abroad.

One of the main purposes for study abroad is to immerse yourself in a new culture. Try to think outside the box and explore some locations you know nothing about. You might be surprised what you find and your level of interest in locations you haven't thought about before.

Whether you're enrolling directly in a university or participating in a study center program, each will offer varying level of services. Review the programs' websites to find out what kinds of resources, excursions and cultural connections exist. Is there an orientation? Are there group trips? Do they have tutors? Can you connect with local culture? Programs can range from low support meaning you can have a really independent experience to high support where you are with staff and faculty often.

Considering factors like academic accommodations, physical accommodations, religious observances, or identities could play a role in where you choose to study abroad as this may look similar or different to your life at Brandeis. If you have concerns about how a program may meet any needs while abroad, please work with the Office of Study Abroad.

Each study abroad program and location is different and not a perfect fit for everyone. It's best to look for a program that works for you, not someone else.

Similar to the previous statement, programs change every year and your reasons and goals for studying abroad are likely not exactly the same as someone who went there previously.

Study abroad is an academic pursuit. Your grades do matter and will affect your academic and professional goals. You'll have fun no matter where you go, but picking a program based on that will likely lead to disappointment.

Internship sites are never guaranteed, so you shouldn't select a specific program based on a specific site. But you should select a program based on the types of internships they offer in a field that is interesting to you.

Knowing another language is an important skill and gives you an important lens into the culture of your new host country. We recommend having as much language study as possible prior to studying abroad, especially if you are taking courses in the local language. There are also many locations where you don't need prior experience in the language but all students studying in a non-English speaking country are required to take a language course.

While traveling in Europe can be a great experience, there are many unique locations outside of Europe that offer a lot to explore. Try not to think in terms of how many countries you can cross of your list. Think instead about how many unique experiences you can have in any place.

While there are many prestigious institutions in the United Kingdom and other locations, graduate schools and employers are often looking for individuals with unique or diverse experiences. They are also interested in knowing that you can operate in a new culture and can handle transitions well. The best way to prove that is to go somewhere off the beaten path.

There are a range of program options in non-English speaking countries where you can take your courses in English (except for the required language course!). Examples include Bhutan, China, the Czech Republic, Sweden, and more.