Understanding costs, financial aid, and funding resources before you go abroad.
Studying abroad is an investment in your academic, personal, and professional growth. While costs vary by program, many students combine financial aid, scholarships, personal savings, family support, and other resources to make an education abroad experience possible.
Students are encouraged to begin planning early. Funding opportunities, scholarship applications, and financial aid requirements often have deadlines that occur months before a program begins. Starting early gives students the greatest opportunity to build a financial plan that works for them.
Understanding Program Costs
The total cost of an education abroad experience depends on the program type, location, duration, and personal travel choices. Program costs may include:
- Tuition and academic fees
- Housing and meals
- Airfare and transportation
- Passport and visa expenses
- Health insurance
- Personal spending and independent travel
Students should carefully review the budget information provided on each program page and discuss anticipated expenses with Education Abroad before committing to a program.
Financial Aid and Study Abroad
Many students are able to apply existing financial aid toward approved education abroad programs. Depending on the program type, students may be eligible to use federal grants, loans, state aid, institutional scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance while abroad. Eligibility and funding availability can vary by program.
Students should contact the WVU Hub early in the planning process to discuss how financial aid may apply to their selected program.Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
WVU students have access to a variety of education abroad scholarships administered through Global Affairs, academic colleges, national scholarship programs, and external organizations. Many students receive funding from multiple sources to support their experience abroad.
Visit the Scholarships page to learn more about:
- Global Affairs Scholarship Program
- Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship
- Critical Language Scholarship
- Boren Awards
- College-specific scholarships
- Additional national and external funding opportunities
Funding Planning Tips
Students who successfully fund their education abroad experience often:
- Start researching funding options early.
- Submit scholarship applications before program deadlines.
- Complete the FAFSA annually.
- Meet with Education Abroad and the WVU Hub to discuss funding options.
- Create a personal budget for expenses abroad.
- Apply for multiple funding opportunities whenever possible.
Questions?
The Education Abroad team is happy to discuss program costs, funding considerations, and available resources as you explore your options.
Education Abroad
educationabroad@mail.wvu.edu