Global Education Office

Study Abroad-pyramids [View Image]

Keep on Studying Abroad

COVID-19 has created unprecedented circumstances for all of us. Despite the uncertainties we face, studying abroad remains a valuable part of any student's educational experience.

During this time when much is still unknown, there are steps that you can take to maintain momentum in planning your study abroad experience.

We do not know what the future will hold. But we know it will come. And when it does you’ll want your study abroad plans to still be on track.

We are #OneVCU. And we are here to help. Click here to stay up to date with COVID related study abroad decisions. 

Complete Rams Abroad 101

[View Image]

Take your first step to studying abroad. Completing the Rams Abroad 101 video series is your first step in the study abroad process. Here, you will find tips for getting started, choosing a program, finding funding, and more.
 

Connect virtually with an adviser

We’re still here to help. After you have completed Rams Abroad 101, connect with a study abroad adviser, to further discuss your options. Check out this encouraging video from our study abroad advisers.

Explore funding options

Andrew Connelly [View Image]The cost of studying abroad varies depending on the program. Work with your Education Abroad adviser to find a program that fits your financial needs and budget. There are many affordable study abroad programs and your federal financial aid, institutional scholarships and more can be applied to help you fund your experience abroad.

Right now, you can start exploring funding options, like scholarships and grants that are available for study abroad. Make note of deadlines and start developing any necessary essays. Here are some resources to get you started.

VCU's National Scholarship Office

VCU Scholarships

External Scholarships

U.S. Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants List (NAFSA)

How-to-be-a-ram-abroad [View Image]Think about timing

• It is never too early to be thinking about studying abroad for future terms. View or download the full accessible version of How to Become a Ram Abroad infographic. The time frames presented are suggestions. Students can speak with an adviser to get started anytime.
  
  
• Due to the dynamic and uncertain nature of the ongoing global pandemic, VCU does not have a definite time frame for when study abroad will resume. Decisions are being made on a semesterly basis. At this time, study abroad has been cancelled through May 2021. Decisions on the status of summer 2021 will be made by mid-March and decisions on fall 2021 will be made by mid-June. 
  
  
• Stay up to date on VCU's travel guidance at One Together.

Sservice Learning [View Image]

Get started now

When planning your study abroad, you will need to gather some information. Now is the perfect time to start exploring your options!

• Research countries and programs
• Talk with your academic adviser about the best time in your academic schedule to go abroad and what courses would be good to take
• Talk to returnees about their experience abroad. Ask an Education Abroad adviser to put you in touch with a returnee by emailing abroad@vcu.edu. 
  
  
  
  
  

Study Abroad virtual classroom opportunities [View Image]Think outside the box

Virtual internships and classes can provide you with a unique and cost effective opportunity to explore global programs from the comfort of your home. While there is no substitute for an in-country experience, virtual programs offer a way to explore another culture, get specific internship experience, take classes not offered at VCU and gain invaluable intercultural, professional and academic skills. You can add a virtual internship or course to what you're already planning to take at VCU.