Study abroad applications for spring semester programs due Oct. 15

At the University of Maine Study Abroad Fair Sept. 20, students took advantage of the opportunity to talk with program provider representatives, and peers returned from studying abroad and those currently on direct exchange from UMaine’s partner universities across the globe.

In 2017–18, UMaine sent about 135 students to study abroad in programs of varying length and emphasis. Some students are interested in intensive language study, while others prefer to take courses that will satisfy general education requirements in their UMaine curricula. Still others find courses that will apply directly to their major. No matter the emphasis, few return home unchanged by the cultural experience of spending weeks to months in an area of the world previously unfamiliar to them, and having gained lifelong friends from all around the world.

With most financial aid applicable to a semester or year abroad, and often to summer sessions as well, and many program-specific and country-specific scholarships offered, a student usually can find a program to suit not only his or her interests and academic requirements, but also the financial resources available.

UMaine students interested in exploring options can visit the Office of International Programs any weekday from noon-4 p.m. when classes are in session to talk with a peer adviser.  

Application deadlines for January and spring semester programs with direct exchange placement (still open for many locations) will be accepted until Oct. 15; applications to UMaine for approval to study abroad with a third-party provider also are due by Oct. 15, but students must remember that they will have to meet the provider’s deadline as well.