Studying away can seem like a daunting process, but it doesn't have to be difficult. Follow these steps and you should not have a problem!

1. Talk to your advisor. Do this early on in your college career. He or she will be able to help give you an idea of the best time to go and what classes you will have to take at Missouri State. They also might know of specific schools that you should look into. You should do this about a year before you want to study abroad.

2. Start saving money and get a passport. If you think you want to study abroad, it is NEVER too early to start saving money! You will also want to get a passport. It can take up to 12 weeks to receive your passport after applying.

3. Do some research. Get on our website and start looking at programs that we have available. We also provide links to search engines so you can find the programs that best apply to you. It is always a good idea to at least have an idea of where you would like to go before you come talk to us. This makes it easier for us to help you out. Of course, if you haven't narrowed things down, don't let that stop you from asking us questions. Do this 6-8 months before you want to study away. Our Study Away Handbook discusses some of the pros and cons associated with studying away as well as things to consider when making final decisions about a program.

4. Come to a first step meeting. First Step Meetings are a great way to ask questions about studying abroad in a group environment. Dates are listed here. If you prefer to just e-mail, call, or come by our office with questions, that is just fine! We want you to be comfortable while preparing to study abroad.

5. Talk to the Study Away Office director. Hopefully by now you will have decided on a program, talked with your parents, and decided for sure if you want to go or not. No matter what program you go on, our director will have to approve your program and make sure you are eligible to study away. You can make an appointment with her by calling our office at 836-6368. Do this VERY EARLY in the semester before you plan on studying away.

6. Send us your official transcript. The Study Away Office needs OFFICIAL transcripts from any schools at which you have received college credit.

7. Fill out an application. Once you have been approved to study away, you can apply for your program. Some applications require essays and reccommendations from professors, while others just require a basic information sheet. Most all programs require a deposit with your application. The Study Away Handbook has some application tips. Application deadlines for spring usually come before October while fall semester deadlines are generally in February. You need to keep this in mind when looking at programs and make sure you turn in your application early

8. Fill out paperwork. There are several documents that our office requires you to complete and sign before you go on your study away trip.

9. Sort out financial aid and scholarships. There is a lot of money out there, you just have to look for it! Hopefully you will have some money saved up for your personal expenses, but keep in mind that you can use financial aid and scholarships toward your study away trip as well. Visit our Financial Aid and Scholarships page for information on this.

10. Book your airline ticket. Watch prices and use some of the tips from The Study Away Handbook to find the best airline prices.

11. Attend the Study Away Orientation. Orientation is required of all students who are studying abroad, and it usually takes place at the beginning of May for summer and fall students and the beginning of December for spring students. Here, you and your parents will be able to ask questions and learn important information about your semester abroad. You will also be able to talk to study away alumni who have gone to the same places you will be going.

12. Get ready! Use The Study Away Handbook for tips on packing, getting necessary items, buying insurance, and tons of other helpful information that has been gathered by our office staff.