Before You Go

Once you decide on where you are studying abroad, you should submit a WWU application in the EdAbroad Portal. Note, the application process has four different phases. Instructions will be emailed to you once you begin your application. Please log-in to the EdAbroad Portal as needed to complete various requirements throughout the application process.

In addition, please make sure you follow the application instructions and apply to your chosen program. EVERY program except faculty-led Global Learning requires two applications - one submitted to WWU and another to your program. If you are participating in WWU Exchange, please follow the instructions provided during the application process.

With over 750 global programs, the world is your classroom! From internships and fieldwork to academic study and more, we offer opportunities across Europe, South America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, and North America—including the U.S. and Canada. Search for programs in the EdAbroad Portal or use our resources to start your study abroad journey. 

The duration of your experience is really up to you! There are programs running for as little as 2 weeks up to a full academic year. You are also able to go abroad multiple times! 

To apply, you must be a full-time WWU student prior to departure and in good academic standing with a minimum 2.5 GPA.

For example, if you plan to study abroad in the fall, you need to have completed the prior spring quarter full-time. Some programs may have higher GPA requirements (up to 3.3) or require sophomore status at the start of the program. Exceptions to WWU’s requirements are considered on a case-by-case basis during the application process. 

No, if you are fluent there are opportunities to study abroad in that language but very few programs require fluency. If you are interested in studying a language while abroad, many of our programs do offer opportunities to take classes to learn the local language.

Nope, you shouldn’t fall behind if you plan ahead! While abroad, you’ll be enrolled in a full credit load, and as long as your courses are pre-approved, they will count toward your degree. To receive credit for major, minor, or GUR courses, you’ll need to get them approved before you leave, usually by submitting a Departmental Academic Advising Form and sharing course syllabi with your department.

If you choose not to use the Departmental Academic Advising Form, we recommend documenting everything you discuss with your advisor and saving all related correspondence. These conversations may continue over time, and while the form isn’t required to study abroad, it can be a helpful tool depending on your goals and how much clarity you want up front.

For non-major/minor or elective credits, you have much more flexibility and generally won’t need departmental approval. Studying abroad is a great opportunity to take classes you might not encounter at Western such as local art, language, or cooking courses so feel free to explore something new!

Pro tip: If you're in a tracked major, plan carefully, as timing matters. And yes—Western allows students to study abroad during their final quarter before graduation!

For most study abroad programs, you'll earn semester credits. To convert these to Western’s quarter system, simply multiply the number of semester credits by 1.5.

1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits

For more information on credit conversion and transfer, refer to the Course Credit and Academic Advising form in the EdAbroad Application.

EdAbroad works with students and the Registrar’s Office on a case-by-case basis to determine if taking additional coursework is approved. In general, students are permitted to take one additional online or distance learning course while studying abroad. Students should consider the following factors when contemplating registering for additional coursework:

• Is the additional course work term-based or self-paced? Term-based online courses require internet access and weekly interaction amongst instructors and students. Self-paced Independent Learning courses are available online through Canvas but do not require online interaction. Sometimes students need to arrange for exam proctors while abroad which could result in additional fees for the student. There may be additional tuition costs of registering for a main campus or online course.
• Can you verify that the host destination has the appropriate infrastructure to support the student taking additional coursework, i.e. consistent online access, Wi-Fi, time differences?
• Be realistic about the necessary time-commitment of additional coursework in the context of study abroad. Will you be able to get the most out of your study abroad experience if you have committed to additional coursework requirements?

If you wish to obtain GUR credit while abroad, you must provide the WWU Degree Evaluators in the Registrar’s Office with up to five courses with the following information: Course Title, Course Description, and which GUR you believe the course meets competencies for. Please email this information to: degreeeval@wwu.edu.

The cost of studying abroad can vary depending on the program, location, and duration but there are many affordable options! Exchange programs are one of the most cost-effective ways to go abroad, since you pay a fee pegged to Western's in-state tuition (even if you are an out-of-state student). Some programs are comparable to, or even cheaper than, what you’d normally spend at Western when you factor in tuition, housing, and meals. There are programs for every budget!

To find affordable options during the academic year, check out our guide to Pay In-State or Less to Study Abroad. If you can only go abroad during the summer, take a look at our Cost-Effective Summer Programs.

Most financial aid can be applied to approved study abroad programs, including federal and state grants, federal and private loans, and many external scholarships. Some programs also allow the use of GET/WA529 funds, VA benefits, or even Work Study (if approved by your employer) but requirements differ.

However, Western merit scholarships, Western grants, and tuition waivers generally cannot be used for study abroad.

Because your study abroad enrollment counts as enrollment at Western for federal aid purposes, you’ll continue receiving eligible aid as long as your program is approved for credit.

For a full list of what can and cannot be applied, see the detailed financial aid page.

There are lots of scholarships out there and the #1 reason students miss out is simply not applying. Check out our scholarship page to get started!

If you use the Pell Grant, you are eligible to apply for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Gilman Scholarships of up to $5,000 will be awarded during the academic year for U.S. citizen undergraduates to study or intern abroad. Award amounts will vary depending on the length of study and student need.

For most programs, you’ll pay an application fee and a concurrent enrollment fee based on the length of your program. There is a $50 late application fee charged to students who submit their EdAbroad application after the deadline. While you’re abroad, the EdAbroad office registers you at WWU to maintain your full-time status so you don’t need to reapply when you return. The concurrent enrollment fee covers this registration and will be billed to your student account at the time of enrollment. The exact amount depends on the duration of your program. More information on Study Abroad Fees is available on the EdAbroad website.

You’ll work with an EdAbroad advisor to draft a budget once you’ve chosen your program. This budget will help you understand your overall costs.

Remember, studying abroad can sometimes be less expensive than studying at Western, so if you’ve already budgeted for a quarter at Western, you may already be well-prepared to budget for study abroad. Come talk to us, and we’ll help you find a program that fits your financial needs.

Be sure to explore our Financial Aid page to learn more about scholarships, financial aid, and how they can be applied to study abroad. You can also download our Budget Spreadsheet to customize and track your expenses.

To get your first passport you will need to apply in person. This means visiting a passport acceptance facility such as a post office, library, or local government office. For full details and step-by-step instructions, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: Get a Passport.

WWU's Testing Center is an approved Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility. It's a great resource if you would like help filling out your passport application or need a passport photo. Check out their website to get started and schedule an appointment.

You can renew your passport by mail, online, or in person—depending on your specific situation. If your previous passport was issued when you were under 16 years old, you'll need to renew it in person. For full details and step-by-step instructions, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website: Renew or Replace a Passport.

Need help? Contact WWU's Testing Center. It is an approved Department of State Passport Acceptance Facility.

If your passport is expired and you're leaving soon, act quickly. In urgent situations, you may be able to get an expedited passport through a passport agency. Appointments can be limited, so check availability right away. You’ll need proof of immediate travel (like a flight itinerary), your expired passport, a new passport photo, and completed application forms. For more information, visit the U.S Department of State’s website: How to Get my U.S. Passport Fast.

A visa is an official document, usually a sticker or stamp in your passport, that allows you to enter, stay in, or leave a country for a specific purpose, like studying. Whether you need a visa depends on where you’re going and how long you’ll be there. For most study abroad programs lasting more than 90 days, you’ll likely need a student visa. Each country has its own rules and application process, so it’s important to check the official government or embassy website of your destination to get the most accurate info. Planning ahead is key, visa applications can take time, so start early!

If you're heading to Italy or Greece, you’ll need to apply for a student visa in person at an Italian/Greek consulate. The closest one to Bellingham (and the one you will attend as a WA resident) is in San Francisco, and appointments can be limited and book up quickly so plan ahead! In-person appointments are required for all student visa applications. For Spain, if you don’t submit your visa materials with the group batch organized by your study abroad provider, you’ll also need to travel to the Spanish consulate in San Francisco to apply on your own. In both cases, visa processing takes time, and spots fill fast so factor this into your decision when choosing a program location.

If you attend a program under 90 days in any of these locations, you will not be required to obtain a visa.

Western Washington University considers the health and safety of students participating in education abroad programs as one of its top priorities. Our comprehensive, mandatory orientations address health and safety issues relevant to the country of study, and on-site program resident staff are careful to keep students aware of locations and situations that can present danger. Additionally, the information we provide to students, both before departure and while abroad, includes extensive details on staying healthy and safe.

While some parents and students focus their concerns about studying abroad on the cataclysmic--acts of terrorism, violent crime, or natural disasters--the truth is that, just as in the United States, much of a student's safety abroad depends on them exercising mature and responsible behavior, and on making good decisions. Traveling with companions rather than alone, especially late at night; using caution in interactions with strangers; staying away from dangerous areas or activities; not drinking to excess, avoiding the use of illegal drugs; following the laws; and knowing and respecting the customs of the country--these are the best ways students can maximize their safety abroad, just as at home. 

Yes! Be sure to check out our Health and Safety Page on insurance for more details on what insurance you need.

STEP stands for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service provided by the U.S. Department of State. It lets the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate know about your travel plans, so they can contact you in case of an emergency, natural disaster, or political unrest. Enrolling helps keep you informed and safe while you're abroad.

An embassy is your home country's official diplomatic office located in a foreign country. It serves as a hub for government representation and offers support to its citizens abroad, including assistance with passports, legal issues, emergencies, and more. While you may not need to visit your embassy during your study abroad experience, it's important to know where it is and how to contact it in case of emergencies, such as lost documents, legal trouble, or natural disasters. Consult the U.S Department of State’s website to find your closest embassy while abroad: Official list of embassies from the U.S. Department of State. 

If your passport is lost or stolen, the first step is to report it to the local police. Then, contact your country’s embassy or consulate as soon as possible. They can help you get a replacement passport or issue an emergency travel document. Be sure to keep digital and physical copies of your passport stored safely in case you need them to prove your identity. For more information, visit the U.S travel resource guide: Lost or Stolen Passports Abroad.

Depending on your study abroad program, you will either be in an apartment, dorm, homestay, hotel/hostel, or camping in the backcountry! Typically, your program or university website will be your best source of information on your housing options. Here are a few short descriptions of the possible options:

• Homestay:
  • Homestays are for students looking to be fully immersed in the culture and help with language proficiency. Homestays generally offer up to 1-3 meals a day and are a great chance to live like a local. Your homestay may be shared with another study abroad student or you may be sharing only with the host family. This option is not like living with your parents - you will still be independent when abroad. We encourage all students to consider homestay when studying abroad, and to meet with one of our Peer Advisors if you have questions.
• Apartments
  • Apartments are another form of housing that can be provided by schools or programs. They can be offered with single occupancy or with multiple students. Apartments will be fitted with kitchen and bathrooms.
• Student dorms
  • Student dorms are managed by the university you are attending. Most of them will offer single occupancy rooms and shared kitchen and bathrooms. Dorms are a great way to meet fellow students both studying abroad, and not!  
• Independent housing
  • In some cases, you will have the option to find your own housing. This requires being responsible for finding a place of residence, paying, and ensuring that it will not be difficult to get to your program/university. Most universities/programs will give tips on how to find separate housing but ultimately it is your responsibility.

It’s totally normal to feel stressed about housing in Bellingham before or after your study abroad program, but don’t worry, you’ve got options! Whether you’re planning to live on-campus or off-campus, there are plenty of resources to help you figure out what works best for your situation. You might consider subletting your place while you're abroad or arranging housing in advance for your return. 

To learn more about on-campus housing options, explore Western's On-Campus Housing site. You can also check out Off Campus Living or look into non-Western-affiliated resources such as the Bellingham Student Housing Facebook group. If you’re unsure where to start, Western’s Off Campus Living team can help you navigate listings, leases, and renters’ rights.

Book your flight as soon as you're accepted and know your program dates. Prices usually go up the closer you get to departure, so don’t wait too long. Start by confirming your travel dates and destination, then you can use a flight search engine like Google Flights to compare options. Once you find a good fare, we advise that you book directly through the airline. Booking directly with the airline provides easier customer service and more control over your flight reservation. If a disruption occurs, you can work directly with the airline to make changes or resolve issues, rather than dealing with a third-party intermediary. This can save you time and additional fees. Once you have booked your flight, save your flight confirmation, it’ll be helpful for visa paperwork and travel day!

You are responsible for paying and booking your outgoing and return flights to study abroad. 

All programs have a program start date. You must be in the country and reporting to your program on this day. Be sure to check your program’s portal to find term dates!

While abroad, public transportation is usually the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around. The types of transportation available will depend on your location, but many study abroad programs or universities provide a public transportation pass to help you get started. It's a good idea to research the best local transportation options for your city before you arrive. Apps like Google Maps and local transportation/navigation apps can help you navigate with ease. 
Pro Tip! Save an offline copy of a Google Map in your destination, in case you don’t have cell phone service upon arrival. 

Before you head off on your study abroad experience, you must participate in mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation. This is required for all students participating in study abroad programs and exchanges, as well as international internships. Held the quarter before you depart, the orientation will cover essential tips, travel advice, and guidance on how to engage in mindful and responsible travel.
If you are participating in a faculty-led global learning program, you will participate in a separate Pre-Departure Orientation with your cohort. This will be scheduled by the faculty director of your program. 

Pre-Departure Steps to Complete:

• Review all the content in the pre-departure canvas course.
• Attend both the mandatory pre-departure sessions in person:
  • Session 1: Mindful Travel: Navigating Culture & Identity Abroad
  • Session 2: Responsible Travel: Health, Safety & Security

Yes, you can! To use your phone while abroad, you'll need to either switch to an international phone plan through your current provider or purchase a local SIM card. Depending on where you’re going and how long you’ll be there, some U.S. carriers, like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T, offer international plans that might work well for short trips. If you choose the local SIM option, which is often more cost-effective, you’ll temporarily replace your current SIM card, which will give you a new phone number and allow you to make calls, send texts, and use data during your stay. Popular international e-SIM options include Airalo and Orange Holiday. Alternatively, you can purchase a SIM card locally. However, to purchase a sim card to use abroad, your phone must be unlocked. Check with your carrier if you have questions. For free or low-cost calls, you can also use apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom over Wi-Fi.

Start by checking what currency your host country uses—a quick online search will tell you. You can get local currency before you leave through your bank or credit union (just plan a couple of weeks in advance) or withdraw cash from ATMs once you arrive. Use a currency converter app like XE to keep track of exchange rates while you're abroad.

Yes, bring both if possible! Each has its benefits, and having options can make things easier while you're abroad.

• Credit cards are great for larger purchases like flights, hotels, or transportation. Some even offer perks like travel insurance or no foreign transaction fees. Many destinations may not require cash after the Global Pandemic, so making sure you have access to pay electronically abroad may be helpful.
• Debit cards are usually better for withdrawing cash from ATMs, since they often come with lower fees than credit cards for cash advances.

Before you go, contact your bank or credit card provider to let them know you are traveling, ask about any international fees, and ensure your card will work while abroad. Additionally, consider setting up travel alerts or mobile banking so you can keep an eye on your spending while you're away.

Pro-Tip - check the foreign transaction fees you will be charged for credit card purchases and cash withdraws abroad. This will help you plan how to get money when you are abroad.

We recommend students to enroll in direct payments, so they do not have to worry about missing bills while they're abroad. If you do have to login to pay a bill abroad, you may need to use a VPN to access it.

Yes! You can apply for an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) by proving your enrollment at a university. This card is internationally recognized and allows you to receive and use student discounts while abroad! Learn more here: ISIC -International Student Identity Card.

It depends on the country you're going to and the type of visa you receive. Some student visas, like those in Australia and a few other countries, allow you to work part-time, typically up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. However, if you're studying abroad for a shorter period (such as a summer program), work opportunities are usually limited or not permitted, especially for U.S. students. Be sure to check the specific visa regulations for your host country before making any plans.

For longer trips, you may rely on trains, planes, buses, or even boats to explore new areas. Look into options like rail passes or bus services such as FlixBus, which often provide affordable and convenient travel between cities. Researching your choices ahead of time can help you make the most of your time abroad.

Because transportation systems vary from country to country, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with local transit apps or services before you go. Make sure you know how you’ll get from the airport or station to your accommodations so you can arrive safely and with less stress

• Trains and Rail Passes -Rick Steves
• Eurail (for non-European residents)
• Rail Europe
• Japan Rail Pass

Accommodation costs can vary depending on your destination, but there are plenty of affordable options available. Hotels may be reasonably priced, especially in certain areas, but consider alternatives like Hostels, Airbnb, Couchsurfing, and Vrbo for more budget-friendly choices. These platforms offer a range of options, from private rooms to shared spaces, often at lower prices than traditional hotels.

Hostels are a great budget-friendly accommodation option for travelers, offering shared or private rooms depending on your preference. They’re a fun way to meet fellow travelers, with many hosting daily activities like city tours, game nights, or movie evenings. When booking, it’s important to research both the hostel and its location—some may cater to party-goers while others are more relaxed or family-friendly, and not all are conveniently located near city centers or public transport.

To stay safe in hostels, choose ones in well-lit, secure neighborhoods and always read reviews to gauge safety and cleanliness. Bring a lock for securing your valuables, and share your travel details—including the hostel’s name and contact info—with someone back home. A little planning and awareness can go a long way in making your hostel stay both enjoyable and safe.

One of the most trusted and favorite booking sites for hostels is HostelWorld but you can also book directly with the hostel.

While language barriers can be challenging, traveling in major cities or tourist areas is usually easier, as many signs and services include English translations. In many countries, particularly in tourist destinations, English is commonly understood, although the level of fluency can vary. You may also want to download Google Translate or an alternative on your phone prior to travel. Depending on the language, you may be able to save an offline version of the dictionary. It can help you read menus or signs or communicate something in a pinch. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is always helpful and appreciated!

Being responsible and sustainable while studying abroad starts with small, everyday actions. Reduce waste by avoiding single-use plastics and recycling whenever possible. In some destinations, this may include planning ahead to limit your need for bottled water. If you’re traveling to a place without safe drinking water, bring two methods for filtering or treating it. Only certain devices remove viruses, such as a SteriPen, iodine tablets, or a Grayl water filter. Other filters may work in some locations but are not as comprehensive.

Additionally, try to use public transportation or walk, when possible, to reduce your carbon footprint. Support local businesses and choose locally produced food to help sustain the community. Finally, respect local cultures, customs, and the environment by being mindful of your behavior and using natural resources responsibly. More on this will be covered during Pre-Departure Orientation.

Culture shock is a normal part of studying abroad. It’s natural to feel out of place at first, as everything from daily routines to social norms will be different. Embrace these changes and give yourself time to adjust. Things like local customs or different schedules such as long lunch breaks or late dinners might seem odd at first, but they’re part of the experience. Remember, homesickness is normal, but you’re growing and discovering new things every day. Be patient with yourself and know that the peaks of the experience will always outweigh the lows. It’s all about adapting and making the most of this incredible opportunity! We will talk more about how to manage culture shock abroad at Pre-Departure Orientation.

There are plenty of ways to meet new people while abroad! You can use apps like Bumble BFF to connect with others looking for friends. Join activity groups through your school or local social media pages, or sign up for workout classes and run clubs. Staying at hostels is another great option, as they often organize group activities for guests. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone—this is your chance to try something new! Strike up a conversation with a stranger, compliment someone's outfit, or simply join in on local events. You never know where it might lead!

Staying connected to Western while you’re abroad is easy and important! Be sure to check your school email regularly so you don’t miss important updates about class registration, housing deadlines, or university announcements. You can also stay involved by contributing to the Education Abroad travel blog or submitting your photos and videos to be featured by the Education Abroad office. It’s a great way to share your experience and stay connected to the Western community while exploring the world!

It depends on your phone plan abroad, but one of the easiest and most popular ways to stay in touch is through WhatsApp. It’s a free app that works globally and uses your phone number to let you call, text, and video chat over Wi-Fi. Just make sure your friends and family download it before you leave and then you’ll be all set to stay connected no matter where you are!

You can vote in U.S elections while abroad, the process just differs state to state. To cast your vote from another country, you will need to request an absentee ballot from your state office. For up-to-date information, visit the U.S Department of State’s website: Absentee Voting Information for U.S Citizens Abroad and Overseas Voting Information.

Understandably, safety is one of the concerns we discuss most often with parents. Our comprehensive, mandatory orientations address health and safety issues relevant to the country of study and on-site staff and program resident staff are careful to keep students aware of locations and situations that can present danger. In addition, the information we provide to students, both before departure and while abroad, contain extensive information about staying healthy and safe. While some parents and students focus their concerns about study abroad on the cataclysmic--acts of terrorism, violent crime, or natural disasters--the truth is that, just as in the United States, much of a student's safety abroad depends on his or her exercising mature and responsible behavior and on making good decisions. Traveling with companions rather than alone, especially late at night; using caution in interactions with strangers; staying away from dangerous areas or activities; not drinking to excess and avoiding the use of illegal drugs; following the laws and knowing and respecting the customs of the country--these are the best ways your student can maximize their safety abroad, just as at home.

Sheck out our resource on health and safety for more information.

Your student is welcome to contact the EdAbroad office anytime. For non-emergencies, we ask students to contact us during business hours, and someone will get back to them ASAP. They can call our office at (360) 650-3298 or via email at EdAbroad@wwu.edu. Alternatively, they are welcome to reach out to their EdAbroad advisor. For emergencies, students should contact local authorities and WWU University Police Dispatch at (360) 676-6911. They will enact our emergency protocols. 

In addition, your student should take advantage of local resources on their study abroad program. This may be their resident director or the international office at their host university. The staff in these offices are familiar with the academic and social challenges of study abroad in that country and provide guidance on what to do in an emergency at orientation. They are trained to help students solve problems and are always happy to lend guidance or a sympathetic ear. 

Staying in touch while your student is abroad is easier than ever, thanks to the variety of digital communication tools available. Most families use a combination of texting, email, video calls, and messaging apps like WhatsApp or iMessage to stay connected. We recommend students continue using their WWU email, as it remains accessible from any location worldwide and helps ensure they don’t miss important academic communications. Students can also keep using their U.S. smartphones if their provider supports international use or if their phone is unlocked for international SIM cards. For affordable and reliable communication, many students rely on Wi-Fi-based apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom for regular calls and video chats. It’s also helpful to remember that time zones and cultural adjustment can affect communication, and you may not hear from your student as frequently. Being flexible and understanding goes a long way in supporting a student’s independence while staying emotionally connected. We recommend that you make a plan with your student about communication prior to departure.

In an effort to support your student, you may be tempted to take on a great deal of responsibility for their study abroad process. It is important to remember that your student is an adult and should be responsible for facilitating their international experience. You should also be aware of Western's FERPA Policy and how it relates to information access regarding your student. Stepping back is one of the best ways to set your student up for success. We encourage students to include family members in the process of researching program options and discussing plans and goals, but please resist the temptation to do all the work for them or to allow your own ideas about what an "ideal" study abroad experience would be to influence their individual decision-making process. Your confidence in them and their abilities will surely help to fuel them on their way! Our advisors offer family advising for parents and students to learn about these processes together.

Yes and no. When a student pays WWU for a study abroad experience, such as through traditional exchange programs or study abroad programs led by Western faculty, WWU is allowed to generate a 1098-T form for qualifying education expenses. However, many students study abroad through excellent, third-party providers and pay tuition and fees directly to those organizations and, in some instances, even directly to host universities abroad. In such cases, WWU is not permitted to include such expenses on a 1098-T because those payments were not made to WWU. Students and parents are encouraged to check in with provider program contacts they may be using for study abroad to see if they are a Title IV organization that is allowed to generate 1098-T forms. Some are not and may be willing to generate a list of qualifying expenses that you can present to your tax preparer. 

If this is important to your students' decision, we suggest they talk with an EdAbroad advisor to learn what programs can provide a 1098-T.