Planning for Study Abroad
It’s never too early to begin thinking about study abroad! About 50% of Georgetown students study abroad.
Although most students study abroad in their junior year (for a semester or the entire year), some find that summer study abroad is a better fit. Your dean is happy to discuss study abroad options with you and help you plan your first and second year curriculum to that you are prepared to study in your preferred location.
Some study abroad programs require that certain courses be completed before departure, and it’s always a good idea to have most of your core requirements complete prior to studying abroad so you have more freedom to take advantage of unique courses offered at foreign institutions.
If you aren’t sure where or when you’d like to study abroad, you can attend an Open House or Study Abroad 101 session in the Office of Global Education. Once you have a better sense of where in the world you’d like to study or the type of program that interests you (direct matriculation, area studies, language institute, etc) you can schedule a meeting with an advisor in the Office of Global Education to discuss application procedures and deadlines.
In general, applications are due early on in the semester prior to departure (i.e.: February of your sophomore year for study abroad in the fall of your junior year or October of your junior year for study abroad in the spring of your junior year). Summer applications are typically due in early December. The Office of Global Education has a suggested timeline on their website, which can be helpful in planning ahead. Visit the study abroad website at any time for FAQs, program information, and contact information for the study abroad advising staff!
Study Abroad Highlights
More Stories
News Story
Check out the testimonies of STEM study abroad students in years past. C‘20 graduates Lilia Darrow and Sean Melville, who studied Biology and Mathematics & Economics respectively, can both attest to not only the possibility of studying abroad as STEM students but also the advantages of doing so.
October 20, 2024

News Story
Unlocking the World through SIT Study Abroad Programs
Isabel Powell (C’24) studied abroad on the SIT India Public Health, Gender, and Community Action program in Spring 2023. Empowered by her experience, she conducted research relevant to her interests and future career goals.
May 20, 2024
News Story
Returning from Abroad Part Three: Featuring Ryley Zapien’s Journey Home from Australia
Ryley Zapien (C’21) from Bellingham, Washington only had a short time to adjust to her new life on the other side of the world in Sydney, Australia where she was studying abroad before she was sent home due to COVID-19. Though the junior had only been in the country for a month and a half, she is greatly appreciative for the time she had there and is already looking forward to returning.
April 20, 2020