Are you considering studying abroad during your time at The University of Texas at Austin but feel overwhelmed by the application process? Well, look no further! From obtaining a reference letter to preparing essays, this guide will help you to arrange all the materials you will need to submit your final application.
As a reminder: Texas Global’s scholarship deadlines align with an individual program’s application deadline. Check the Funding Resources page and LASSO to find scholarships that can help fund your study abroad adventure.
Step 1: Research UT Programs
Before you begin your application, consider your goals, priorities and plan for studying abroad using our Explore Worksheet. We recommend you do the following before starting your application:
Find the Right Program
UT Austin offers many programs in many parts of the world. Visit our website and search for a program that best suits your interests and goals. You can find programs by major, program type or term abroad.
Meet with Your Academic Advisor
Education Abroad recommends that students meet with their academic advisors to plan out which credits they still need and may be able to earn abroad. Education Abroad staff cannot advise on degree requirements, but our Study Abroad Credit page contains resources that you and your advisor should use to help create a plan.
Step 2: Ensure Your Good Standing
Students must be in good disciplinary and academic standing (with a minimum 2.0 GPA) to participate in international education opportunities.
Verify Your Eligibility
Some programs may carry additional eligibility requirements, such as GPA, course prerequisites, language requirements, etc.
Note: If you are a graduating student, we recommend that you work closely with your academic advisor to ensure that you meet the requirements and follow all procedures for a successful graduation. Please visit our Graduating Students page for more information.
Step 3: Self-Authorize Your Application
Once you’ve narrowed down your program choices, the next step is to self-authorize access to the application. You cannot start your application until you have self-authorized, so don’t miss this important step!
To self-authorize, you must enter the year you will go abroad, the semester, and the application code. The application code, or the program code, is a 6-digit code on the program page. After you self-authorize, you will then have access to the MyAbroad Portal.
Note: If you encounter any issues with self-authorization, we recommend clearing cookies, using a different browser (Firefox usually works well!) or upgrading your EID.
Step 3: Fill Out Your Application
Once you’ve selected your top one or two programs and determined which credits you plan to earn abroad, you are ready to proceed with your application. Follow this final set of steps to apply for your study abroad program:
Select a Program
Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance in a particular Education Abroad program, but Texas Global will help students find an alternative program if their first choice is unavailable.
On your application, you can pick a first- and second-choice program. Proceed with your application with your first choice in mind, but choose a second-choice program of the same type (exchange, affiliated or faculty-led).
If you do not have a second-choice program, enter the first-choice application code again.
Applications vary by program type. If you are deciding between an exchange program and an affiliated program, the exchange must be listed as your first choice to ensure that you complete the longer required application.
Below is some basic information on applying to the various types of study abroad programs:
Applying to Affiliated Programs
If you are applying to go abroad with an affiliate provider, pick a first- and second-choice program from the same affiliate provider. If your preferred affiliate provider does not offer two options, indicate a program from another affiliated provider (not exchange or faculty-led).
Note: You must apply through the affiliate provider’s website as well as through UT Austin’s application!
Applying to Exchange or Faculty-Led Programs
If you are applying to an exchange or faculty-led program, you must submit two short essays and a letter of reference from a professor submitted via an online reference link.
Draft Your Essay
Most programs heavily weigh essay statements. Take ample time to reflect on your essay. Be sure to check for spelling and grammatical errors in the essay.
For writing tips, check out the Essay Tips section on our Apply to a May Term or Summer Faculty-Led Program page.
I also highly recommend consulting the Undergraduate Writing Center for additional help!
Line Up References
You will need the faculty member’s email address to initiate the letter-of-reference segment of the process.
The reference questionnaire consists of 6 questions and a comment box. It should take the faculty member less than 10 minutes to complete.
Note: It’s important to request the professor’s assistance well before deadlines! Professors are busy and will appreciate the courtesy of at least two weeks’ notice.
Non-UT Programs
If you are applying to a non-UT program, please refer to the Non-UT Programs section at the bottom of the Semester Programs page.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have completed all the steps in your MyAbroad Portal, it’s time to make it official. Congratulations!
You will be charged a $75 application fee when you submit your application. This fee is non-reversible, non-transferable and non-refundable, even in the case of withdrawal or program cancellation. (Remember, we will always try to help you find an alternative program.)
Step 5: Be Aware of Next Steps — and Costs
Overseas Insurance: All programs require you to purchase a $19-per-week expense for overseas insurance, which is due 10 days before the program start date. Additionally, all programs require students to have a physical examination and submit a health clearance before going abroad.
Registration Fees: All programs have applicable registration fees, but they may be deferred to financial aid.
Affiliate Programs: A $600 affiliated studies registration fee is paid directly to UT Austin to maintain enrollment and ensure credit processing.
Exchange Programs: There is a $500 exchange program registration fee that helps cover costs associated with program administration and credit processing. Please check your My Tuition Bill page and What I Owe for tuition due dates and estimated fees.
Applying for a study abroad program can be a long process, but it is attainable. Don’t wait to apply!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office at educationabroad@austin.utexas.edu or make an appointment with one of our Peer Advisors.
UT Austin offers many opportunities to learn beyond the Forty Acres. Take this chance and explore what’s out there!
Alondra Chavez is an Education Abroad Peer Mentor providing support to students interested in studying abroad. Learn about this position and its services on the Peer Mentors Program webpage.
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