Study Abroad

Planning ahead is crucial when considering studying abroad, especially when it comes to managing your finances. WCU provides financial aid options and scholarships that can be applied to study-abroad programs, making a trip more affordable for students. 

Here are some key points to consider when preparing for study abroad and managing your finances:

1. Start Early: Begin the planning process well in advance, ideally around 6 months to a year before your intended study-abroad program. This will give you enough time to research financial aid options, complete applications, and gather any necessary documentation. Starting early also allows you to save money and explore additional sources of funding, if needed.

2. Seek Scholarships: Look for scholarships that are specifically designed for study-abroad experiences. Explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by organizations, foundations, or government entities, that support students studying abroad.

3. Communicate with Offices: Throughout the process, it's important to stay in touch with various offices at WCU that handle financial aid and study-abroad programs. This includes the Financial Aid Office, WCU Global Engagement, and any other relevant departments. They can provide guidance, answer your questions, and ensure that you're on track to receive the necessary funding for your study-abroad program.

4. Budget and Save: Your financial aid study abroad budget will generally include tuition, fees, room, meals, adminstrative costs, insurance, passport, visa, airfare, and some miscellaneous in-country expenses. 

5. Attend Workshops and Information Sessions: WCU may offer workshops or information sessions related to financial aid and study-abroad programs. Take advantage of these resources to learn more about the financial aspects of studying abroad, including managing expenses, budgeting, and applying for scholarships or grants.

6. Complete Confirmation of Enrollment: Once your study abroad program begins, you must submit this form to report your attendance to WCU.
7. After your trip: Successful completion of the study abroad program will affect your financial aid status in the same way that it would if you had studied on campus.  However, because you will receive transfer credit for your study abroad program, your grades received overseas will not be reflected in your WCU GPA.  It is your responsibility to ensure that your transfer credits are evaluated and posted to your WCU transcript promptly upon your return.

Remember, securing financial aid for study abroad requires proactive involvement. By planning ahead, researching your options, and working closely with the Financial Aid Office and WCU Global Engagement, you can navigate the process and make your study-abroad experience more affordable.

If you are considering a study abroad program, you should contact WCU Global Engagement.