Start Planning
Start planning your adventure abroad today! On this page, you can read an overview of the study abroad planning process.
Ideally, you should begin to plan for your study abroad experience 6 – 9 months before you go overseas...but we work with students on a much shorter timeline every semester!
We encourage all students to attend a First Advising Session to learn about VCU's program options, how to get credit, how to pay for study abroad, and more.
Drop in for a FAS at 12:30pm Monday through Friday in the Global Education Office, located at 912 W. Grace St.
The Global Education Office hosts a fair each fall and spring to spread the word about the numerous study abroad opportunities available through VCU. Students from all disciplines are invited to come learn about study abroad options, funding, and resources.
Fall Fair
September 27, 2018, 10 AM – 2:30 PM
Commons Plaza, Monroe Park Campus
Students who visit the fall fair will have the chance to meet study abroad program providers, students who have studied abroad, Education Abroad staff, and travel agencies. The fair will also offer students the opportunity to connect with VCU offices that assist with the study abroad process.
Spring Fair
February 5, 2019, 10 AM – 2:30 PM
Rodney's Lounge in Shafer, Monroe Park Campus
The spring fair primarily features VCU's summer programs. At the fair, students are able to engage with faculty program directors, previous student participants, and Education Abroad staff.
For more information or if you would like to volunteer, please email abroad@vcu.edu.
After attending a FAS, you should have the skills to begin researching programs that you're interested in applying to. You can learn more about different types of opportunities under the programs tab.
After you've been to the FAS and done some preliminary reflection on programs that you're interested in, schedule an appointment with an advisor. We will help you finalize your program selection, and give you more in-depth information about the application process. And of course, we can also help you if you need additional support in identifying programs that work with your individual goals for study abroad!
It is your responsibility to verify that your program is recognized by VCU and that your program will issue a transcript from an accredited university.
If you are participating in a VCU faculty-led summer program, you do not need to schedule an appointment with an advisor.
Be sure to meet with your VCU academic advisor to ensure that your proposed study abroad program and coursework fit with your degree plan. It is best to discuss these things before you apply, as some programs have nonrefundable registration fees.
After you've been accepted into your program, it's time to complete VCU's registration process. Registering your program with VCU is necessary to maintain your enrollment, allow you to use financial aid, and transfer your credits when you get back. Your Education Abroad advisor can give you more information on VCU's registration requirements.
All accepted students must complete VCU's pre-departure orientation process. PDO will familiarize you with ways to have a healthy, safe, and successful time abroad. Topics include money, support services, academics, health and safety, and more. These are invaluable sessions that will give you insight into living and studying overseas.
Ideally, you should begin to plan for your study abroad experience 6 – 9 months before you go overseas...but we work with students on a much shorter timeline every semester!
Attend a First Advising Session
We encourage all students to attend a First Advising Session to learn about VCU's program options, how to get credit, how to pay for study abroad, and more.Drop in for a FAS at 12:30pm Monday through Friday in the Global Education Office, located at 912 W. Grace St.
Check out a study abroad fair
The Global Education Office hosts a fair each fall and spring to spread the word about the numerous study abroad opportunities available through VCU. Students from all disciplines are invited to come learn about study abroad options, funding, and resources.Fall Fair
September 27, 2018, 10 AM – 2:30 PM
Commons Plaza, Monroe Park Campus
Students who visit the fall fair will have the chance to meet study abroad program providers, students who have studied abroad, Education Abroad staff, and travel agencies. The fair will also offer students the opportunity to connect with VCU offices that assist with the study abroad process.
Spring Fair
February 5, 2019, 10 AM – 2:30 PM
Rodney's Lounge in Shafer, Monroe Park Campus
The spring fair primarily features VCU's summer programs. At the fair, students are able to engage with faculty program directors, previous student participants, and Education Abroad staff.
For more information or if you would like to volunteer, please email abroad@vcu.edu.
Research program options
After attending a FAS, you should have the skills to begin researching programs that you're interested in applying to. You can learn more about different types of opportunities under the programs tab.
Meet with an Education Abroad advisor
After you've been to the FAS and done some preliminary reflection on programs that you're interested in, schedule an appointment with an advisor. We will help you finalize your program selection, and give you more in-depth information about the application process. And of course, we can also help you if you need additional support in identifying programs that work with your individual goals for study abroad!It is your responsibility to verify that your program is recognized by VCU and that your program will issue a transcript from an accredited university.
If you are participating in a VCU faculty-led summer program, you do not need to schedule an appointment with an advisor.