Worried About How to Afford an Education Abroad?

• Many education abroad programs cost the same as a semester at UMaine! (Sometimes you might even save some money.)
• Remember that some countries are more affordable than others.
  • Each country is a unique travel experience. 
  • Cost of living and travel expenses are lower in different countries. Costa Rica, Bulgaria, and Thailand are each amazing countries to travel to at a lower cost. 
• Check out the scholarship page to find even more resources to help pay for your time abroad.
• Saving is part of planning for your semester abroad. Monitor your spending leading up to your departure.
• Your family can be a great resource to help you with an education abroad savings account.
• * For External Scholarships: Be sure to contact the donor/provider and discuss your education abroad plans

Financial Aid

UMaine funds can be used for any approved programs. When completing your FAFSA, be sure base it on your usual UMaine costs.

• The Office of Financial Aid can increase your loan eligibility to accommodate higher semester costs if needed. 
• You may be eligible to apply for alternative loans. 
• The Office of International Programs will help provide you with an official budget that includes travel costs to your Financial Aid Advisor.

Other Tips and Reminders

• You must be enrolled as a full time student before and during your time abroad. 
• You cannot use federal work-study funds while abroad.
• Financial Aid funds are released a week before classes start at UMaine. Funds will not be disbursed based on when your program starts. 
• All your pre-departure forms must be completed before your financial aid will be released. 
• Airfare, visas, and housing deposits (usually) must be paid before UMaine Financial Aid is distributed.

Applicable Financial Aid