General Questions:
Q: Do I need to be a business major to study abroad through business school?
A: Some of our programs are open only to business majors, however, Gies Global Programs manages some programs open to non-business majors or minors. A full list of specific programs is available under the explore tab on the semester programs page. Short-term programs vary and specifics can be found in the program guide for the trip.
Q: How much does it cost to study abroad?
A: Many of our programs are quite comparable to the costs of studying at the University of Illinois. Semester programs offered through Gies Global are usually the least expensive study abroad programs offered through the university, as they are "exchange" programs in which our partner universities exchange students with Illinois for the semester. For these programs, you will not need to pay the tuition of the host university. You only need to pay study abroad tuition at the University of Illinois which is a reduced rate compared to regular tuition. With study abroad fees and costs of traveling, the total can still be comparable or less than a typical semester at Illinois. Additionally, most financial aid and scholarships are applicable to study abroad programs..
Q: How safe is studying abroad?
A: Our student's safety is our top priority for all programs offered. Please refer to the International Health and Safety website for more information.
Q: How is housing determined for abroad?
A: The housing application process differs for each program offered. A majority of our programs have the options for students to reside in university provided housing or off-campus housing.
Q: Do I need to speak the language of the country I am studying abroad in?
A: No, students are not required to speak the language of the country they are studying abroad in. For all of the programs offered at host institutions, there are courses offered in English.
Q: Questions regarding having current financial aid with tuition / scholarships available:
A: Please refer to both the websites below for more information on scholarships and financial aid abroad.
Q: How will the courses I take abroad fit into my schedule?
A: Consult with your academic advisor to determine how studying abroad will fit into your schedule and confirm your ability to study abroad. Once you have been accepted into your program, set up a meeting with one of our study abroad advisors to discuss your classes abroad. Students are required to take the equivalent of 12 Illinois credit hours at their host institution. In addition to these 12 credit hours, students can take one online Illinois course.
Timeline Questions:
Q: Can I study abroad my Senior year?
A: It is possible to study abroad your senior year, however studying abroad in your last semester would delay graduation. Please contact your academic advisor to determine your eligibility.
Q: Where can I find the dates for my program?
A: Dates for each program vary. Please refer to the individual program guide for specific dates. Dates are usually found under the 'About' tab.
Q: When is the best time to study abroad?
A: We offer semester programs in both the fall and spring, in addition to short term programs all year round. Consider how study abroad will fit best into your schedule when thinking about internship plans, courses, planned graduation, and other various commitments. If location is your top priority, we recommend studying abroad in the fall.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: For summer and fall semester programs, the application deadline is February 1st. For our spring semester programs, the early action application deadline (Round 1) is February 1st, Round 2 is May 1st, and and the final application deadline is September 1st.
For our short-term programs, please refer to the individual program. Typically, the deadline for our winter programs is October 1st and the deadline for our summer programs is February 15th.
Advising Questions:
Q: I am interested in study abroad opportunities, where do I start?
A: Attend a general study abroad information session to learn more about what opportunities you are eligible for. You can view and register for upcoming sessions on Gies Groups. If you are interested in participating in a semester abroad program, set up a meeting with your academic advisor to determine how that program will fit into your academic track.
Q: Do you offer walk-in advising?
A: Study Abroad Express Advising is available Monday from 10am-noon, Tuesday from 1-3pm. Express advising should be used for short inquiries (less than 15 minutes). Check in at Success Lab - BIF 1041.
Q: How can I make an advising appointment?
A: 30 minute online or in person appointments are available by going to: https://giesgroups.illinois.edu/gsa/advising/. In person appointments will be held in 1055 BIF. You will check in at the front desk of 1055 BIF (Office of Undergraduate Programs) before your meeting.
Application Questions:
Q: How do I apply?
A: There is one application for students applying to a Gies Global semester study abroad program. List your top 10 location preferences on your application. You can access the application here
Q: Do you need a letter of recommendation?
A: If your first choice program is a Gies-managed program, you do not need a recommendation letter. You might need to have a recommendation letter if your first choice program is not a Gies-managed program.
Q: How competitive is the application process? What happens if I don't get my first choice?
A: The competitiveness of each program varies depending on the number of applicants. It is essential to complete your application to the best of your abilities.
Q: Am I guaranteed a spot in one of my top three location choices?
A: No applicant is guaranteed a spot prior to decisions being released.
