Web offers int'l studies

"Studyabroad.com" is an online directory of study abroad programs, with chat and discussions sections that focus on study abroad and financial aid issues.

The site has search-by-country, summer program and intensive language program links. Syracuse University, the University of Pittsburgh, the School for International training, and Central College Abroad sponsor the website, http://www.studyabroad.com.

Although study abroad websites can be useful in selecting a program, students need to be sure to meet University of Arizona guidelines, in order to receive credit for the courses and remain registered as a UA student, before trekking to study abroad, said Stephanie Evic, a UA study abroad adviser.

Most programs require at least a 2.5 grade point average.

Nearly 1,000 UA students study in foreign lands each year, with about half going to one of UA's 18 host countries, Evic said.

Study abroad programs differ from exchange programs, where students pay UA tuition and swap fees with a student from a foreign country, she said.

One-month summer programs can cost as low as $1,000, while semester-long excursions range from $3,000 for Mexico to $10,000 for a program in Australia, Evic said.

"A big misconception a lot of students have about study abroad programs is that you have to know the language," Evic said.

Many programs feature classes with other foreign students and offer topics in language, history, politics and culture in English, she said.

Students who choose a program not affiliated with UA should make sure their program is UA credited, Evic said.

The advantages of choosing a UA study abroad program include remaining registered at UA, and opportunities for financial aid and scholarships, she added.

Another advantage of a UA study abroad program is that the Center for Global Student Programs offers travel grants for students with at least a 2.75 GPA, Evic said. UA study abroad programs also offer scholarships to students.

Another way students can get help with paying for a study abroad program is with financial aid. Financial aid services take study abroad costs into consideration when deciding how much aid a student should receive, Evic said.

"The most valuable thing students tell me after studying abroad is that they learned about themselves and what it means to be American," Evic said.

The Center for Global Student Programs will host a study abroad fair March 4, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. on the UA Mall.