Getting Started > Where to Begin
Where do you begin when you know you are interested in studying off-campus, whether you plan to go overseas or choose a program in the United States? Here are some ideas to help you get started:
1. The first step in your search for an appropriate study abroad program is to attend a General Information Session. The information session will give you a general overview of how to search for a program and receive Brandeis credit for coursework sucessfully competed off-campus. You must attend one of these sessions before setting up an appointment with an advisor.
You can also sign up for the study abroad listserv. Information is sent out periodically about program representatives on campus, deadlines, etc...
2. Read the Guide to Study Abroad thoroughly. (.pdf file) This publication is also available in printed form in Usdan 127.
3. Set goals and expectations for time off-campus. A successful experience requires careful research to identify a program compatible with your academic needs and personal cultural interests. Fill out the Study Abroad Goals Worksheet (.pdf file) to help you articulate your thoughts about study abroad.
4. Research study abroad programs. You can learn more about the different types of programs by reading the Choosing a Program section.
The Office of Study Abroad maintains a resource library of materials on study abroad opportunities containing university catalogues, program brochures, student evaluations and scholarship information to assist you in researching an appropriate study abroad program. The library is located in Usdan 127 and is open from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
You should also read study abroad program websites. Often, this is the best option for finding information about the program, including course offerings, and many have online applications. Some programs also post enrollment statistics so that you are informed on how quickly they are reaching capacity.
5. Schedule a meeting with a study abroad staff member to discuss your academic and personal goals for studying abroad. When you come to this meeting, please make sure you have have reviewed the information in the Guide to Study Abroad thoroughly and completed the Study Abroad Goals Worksheet.
We strongly recommend that you meet with a member of the study abroad staff before you go abroad to ensure a smooth application process and to ensure full credit will be awarded for your proposed plan of study. Please call 781-736-3483 to set up an appointment.
6. Consult with the Study Abroad Liaison in your area of study and your major or minor advisor(s). Whether you wish to receive credit for work done overseas in your major or minor or not, faculty members are great resources to learn more about academic opportunities abroad. A conversation with your faculty advisor or the Study Abroad Liaison also helps to ensure that your proposed plan of study will allow you to finish your major/ minor requirements on time.
Please note: You will need the Study Abroad Liaison to sign your Brandeis Study Abroad Application for each of your fields of study. If you are studying abroad next semester, you should bring this application with you when you meet with him or her. Please see the Application Process section for more information on the Brandeis study abroad application.
7. Browse through the program evaluations in the Resource Library in Usdan 127. Reading your peers' evaluations will be an essential component of the research process as you decide which off-campus program will best meet your needs.
8. Talk to returnees. Our student volunteers are all Brandeis students who have studied abroad in the past. They are available and eager to speak with you about their experience off-campus. Our returnee student workers are also available to answer your questions. If there are no recent Brandeis returnees for your proposed program, we encourage you to contact that program for a list of recent participants.
York Cathedral, England