The journey starts here (How to Apply):
FIRST STEP - a 12 minute VIMEO will get you started!
This informational video explains how study abroad works at WU, how to navigate the program choices, how to find and use your resources, and outlines the application process.
Step 2: Complete the Advising Request Form
Request Study Abroad Advising Form (opens mid-Sept)
This form gives us information about what you are seeking in a study abroad program. You will be connected to our advising appointment calendar at the end of the form. This form is not part of a study abroad application.
Step 3: Explore Programs and join email group
Prepare while you wait for your advising meeting.
- Explore programs! Learn where you can go and what classes you can take abroad. Explore our programs, note deadlines and other information.
- Join the Go Abroad 2027-2028 email group. This is used in fall semester for updates about upcoming events, important notices and tips for completing an on-time application!
Step 4: Meet with Advisors - we have things to talk about!
OIE study abroad advisor: In the fall semester, we will begin individual advising. This is a great time to ask questions you have, discuss program details, review eligibility and policies. Our goal is to help you in find the right program and submit a strong application. Not sure what question you have? That's okay, we have questions that can help guide you!
Academic advisor: Meet with your academic advisor to discuss what kind of courses you may need or want to take abroad. Talk about how studying abroad will fit into your overall degree plan. We require this meeting as part of the application process. Foreign language program? Meet with the WU language department to discuss how the courses would come back to WU.
Step 5: Start an application
When the application window begins, you will see an Apply Now button on each program brochure (see the Application Process tab). Apply to the program that is your top preference. You will be able to list alternate program preferences within the application, in the event you cannot be placed in your top choice program.
How many applications?
- Interested in 1 semester: You will have 1 application by the deadline.
- If you want summer and a semester, you will have 2 separate applications.
- 2 semesters? Consult with OIE for advice.
Step 6: Consider how you will pay for study abroad
Start planning now for how you will pay for study abroad! Review program information including cost information for an estimate of potential costs.
Willamette financial aid: For all Willamette-sponsored programs, you are billed regular WU tuition and use your usual financial aid. How will your financial aid work or how can you add aid? Contact a WU financial aid advisor.
Study abroad scholarships: Research scholarships EARLY (even as you apply to study abroad!) to avoid missing deadlines.
- Some scholarship deadlines will come before you receive the official approval of your study abroad application. Don't wait!
- Check eligibility requirements of each scholarship.
- Start as early as you can!
Step 7: Check your Passport
You DO NOT need to have a passport in order to apply for study abroad. You do need to complete the item in the application that asks you about passports.
Get a Passport or Renew your passport as soon as you can! Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the end date of your program. Do this NOW - even as you apply for study abroad. There are long wait times for passport processing. You'll need your passport details to enroll with the program host/provider, to obtain a visa prior to departure and for other processes.
You must hold a valid passport (good for 1 year after the end date of your program) not later than:
March 1 for summer/fall programs
August 1 for spring programs
What Happens Next?
The Committee reviews applications over the winter. All aspects of your application will be considered in making approval decisions.
Decision Notification will be in mid/late February. All applicants are notified of decisions at the same time.
If you are approved/accepted by the Off-Campus Study Committee for WU sponsored study abroad:
- A program and term are assigned to you in the decision notification.
- You will Commit or Decline the offer. You will have about 10 days to do so. Be ready to move forward in the process if you want to commit.
- About four months before the program's start, you will complete a separate process to register for your assigned program.
Materials in the application describe withdraw and refund policies.
Questions?
Check the OIE website, view First Step, use your OIE advising session. Still have questions? Email us at oieadvising@willamette.edu. Our office remains open year round, including throughout the summer.
