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 the College of Business 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 university they will be attending. They only need to pay Range IV tuition at the University of Illinois. This is generally less than $2000 per semester. This is a substantial tuition savings over the regular cost of tuition. With additional study abroad fees and costs of traveling, the total is still comparable or less than a typical semester at Illinois. Additionally, most financial aid and academic scholarships are applicable to study abroad programs and there are also many scholarships for studying abroad.
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 enough courses in English for students to take.
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. Studying abroad can often cost less than a semester on campus.
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 UIUC credit hours at their host institution. In addition to these 12 credit hours, students can take one online UIUC course.
Timeline Questions:
Q: Can I study abroad my Senior year?
A: It is possible to study abroad your senior year, however semester study abroad programs are not recommended as it may delay graduation for seniors. 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.
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.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: For our spring semester programs, the early action application deadline is June 15th and the final application is due September 15th. For our fall semester programs, the application deadline is February 15th. 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 now available Monday-Thursday 10-12 and 1-3. Check in at Success Lab - BIF 1041
Q: How can I make an advising appointment?
A: We recommend attending express advising for general questions.
Application Questions:
Q: How do I apply?
A: There is one application for students applying to a Gies Global semester study abroad program, with which you will be matched with a program of best fit. You are able to list your top three location preferences on your application. You can access your application here
Q: Who can write my Letter of Recommendation?
A: Your letter of recommendation should be written by someone that has assessed your work or academic performance. This could be an academic teacher, advisor, coach, or mentor.
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 as advisors will place you in a program that fits your academic needs.
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. A holistic review is completed for each applicant, and they are placed into a program advisors feel best meets their academic goals and needs based on their application.
