The recent webinar focused on guiding families through the study abroad process and offering actionable tips on how to support college students before and during their international studies. The session covered key areas such as the application process, financial planning, cultural preparation, and maintaining communication while abroad.
Office of International Education Helpful Links:
- Office of International Education (OIE) website: https://internationalization.du.edu/abroad
- DU Passport program information: https://abroad.du.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.AdvancedSearch
- Housing upon return information through Housing and Residential Education: https://studentaffairs.du.edu/housing/services-and-policies/housing-after-study-abroad
Study Abroad Deadlines:
Students can only apply to one program and should they be denied, study abroad advisers will work with students to find a desired program to attend.
- Dec 2, 2024 - Early application deadline for programs with a medium to limited chance of acceptance (students encouraged to have a backup program in mind)
- Feb 3, 2025 - Standard application deadline for programs with high chance of acceptance
Application Process: The webinar began by outlining the steps involved in selecting a study abroad program, including researching destination countries, evaluating academic offerings, and understanding visa requirements. Families were encouraged to engage in open discussions with their students about their goals and preferences to ensure the chosen program aligns with their academic and personal aspirations. Students can explore programs using DU Passport.
- Visit the get started webpage for more information about the application process!
- Students learn this information through a required "First Step Session" offered Monday-Friday (scheduled sessions here) in person at the Office of International Education.
- Required course - the class, INTZ 2501, is required for all students who are studying abroad and students do not need to be registered to apply. Students must complete the course by Summer 2025 to study abroad next academic school year.
Financial Planning: Understanding the financial aspects of studying abroad was a significant focus. The Office of International Education shared specifics around scholarships, application of financial aid, and expected costs.
Administrative Work in Studying Abroad: Studying abroad requires students to engage in a multi-step process from application through acceptance. The immigration and visa processes vary depending on selected program and country. Families are encouraged to support their student while letting them complete the paperwork and schedule the required meetings to ensure student's are practicing the higher level of independence that international studies requires.
Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication was highlighted as crucial for both students and their families. Setting up regular check-ins via video calls, messaging apps, or emails can help students feel supported and connected to home without being overwhelming. Additionally, working through problem solving with the student and encouraging your student to communicate with their program when problems arise. DU is in partnership with international programs and cannot always address the unexpected troubles from Denver.
Top Asked Questions:
Can students apply to multiple programs and when will student's hear if they were accepted into their programs?
Students can only apply to one program. Students will hear typically three-weeks after the application deadline. Students can only apply to one program. They should start with exploring the programs in DU Passport, attending a First Step Session, and can schedule or attend drop-in hours with study abroad advisors. Should a student be denied from the program they apply to, the study abroad advisors will work with them to find a placement.
What is DU Passport?DU Passport is the online portal for studying abroad at the University of Denver. Students can explore the DU Partner Programs (DUPP) and will apply through this portal. This is the space for students to explore what their options are. Should they want to study at a program that is not listed in this portal, they will need approval from the Office of International Education.
How do students find housing when they return to Denver in the winter quarter?
Students can explore the HRE website for students interested in on-campus housing. They can sign a lease for off campus housing and post to try to find a sub-letter or hope to find off campus housing that starts in January. Because of the high percentage of DU students studying abroad in the fall quarter, it is not uncommon for students to pay for a lease in Denver while studying abroad.
