Study Abroad

 

Explore the world, immerse yourself in new cultures, and earn academic credit - all while ticking off that “international experience” employers love to see on resumes.

Whether you are drawn to interning in a bustling foreign city, joining a FVSU faculty-led summer program, or embarking on a semester exchange at a partner university, there’s a study abroad program perfectly tailored for you.

 

Global Partners 

The Office of Global Studies and Engagement has been working tirelessly to represent FVSU abroad visiting institutions of excellence to lay the groundwork for future inter-institutional collaboration. We are engaging with the following institutions to bring study-abroad, service-learning, and collaborative research opportunities to FVSU students.

By establishing international partnership agreements with foreign universities and organizations abroad, FVSU expands the impact of our institution across the globe.
 

 

 

Don't know where to begin? Get a copy of the Step-by-step Guide to Study Abroad

 

Study Abroad Programs

 

This is the most accessible and direct path to study abroad.

If you are interested in going abroad during the Summer of 2024, please, contact our Office and we will walk you through the array of options and opportunities available to you this academic year. 

Stay tuned for the announcement of the upcoming Summer 2025 programs.

FVSU undergraduate students also have access to the Study Abroad catalog offered by the University System of Georgia. These summer programs, typically 2-5 weeks long, are led by faculty from USG institutions across Georgia. Students from all USG institutions can participate in these programs, and you register for the courses directly through FVSU so the credit you earn transfers automatically to your regular academic record.  

If you are interested in scrolling through their program brochures, visit USG Goes Global Programs

Fort Valley State University students may apply as a transient student for short-term, academic credit bearing study abroad programs at other USG or higher education institutions. This is a more complex process as you need to enroll at a different institution as a transient student; but a great alternative for those students that want access to a wider selection of study abroad programs.

You can visit the USG Study Abroad Directory to search and filter through the programs offered by other USG institutions: Albany State University, Savannah State University, Clayton State University, and more.
Looking for something a little different for your study abroad experience? No problem!

While Fort Valley State University and the University System of Georgia offer robust study abroad programs, there may be instances where your dream destination falls outside their current partnerships.

In such cases, reliable study abroad third-party providers can bridge that gap, connecting you to a larger network of study-abroad programs across the world, expanding your options in terms of cost, duration, and location. Because third-party provider programs are organized and managed outside of FVSU, course credit offered abroad must be pre-approved by FVSU academic departments in order for students to receive these credits as transferred credits.

Please note that this list is non-exhaustive, and that FVSU does not have any affiliation with the providers listed below.

 

 

 

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Funding your Study Abroad Experience

To most students, studying abroad sounds costly, hard to afford, or even out of reach. However, we are happy to tell you that studying abroad is not a luxury reserved for the privileged few.

We are committed to making study abroad an accessible and affordable opportunity available to all FVSU students.

We are here to support you in your journey to studying abroad, and the first step is financial planning, our recommendation is that the sooner you start, the better. Typically, the cost of a program will depend on many factors such as the length of the program or the destination, but whether you choose to take on a short-term program or an entire semester abroad we can help you create a plan tailored to your needs. We offer guidance on the vast multitude of study-abroad scholarships available to you.

Below, you’ll find some of the most common ways students can fund their study-abroad programs:

  

The Office of Financial Aid can provide you with information about Federal Student Aid, student loans and grants, and how they can be applied towards studying abroad.

You can earn money working part-time jobs, mostly on campus, while you are enrolled in FVSU. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website and fill out this Interest Form.

Reach out to family and members of your community (your congregation, former high-school, neighbors or small businesses in your town) and get creative with these 40 fundraising ideas for Study Abroad. 

Keep local, regional and national groups in mind! It always helps if your study abroad program aligns with the outcomes of your long-term goals and the strategic plans of those organizations. You should always be able to offer something in return; perhaps writing an article, create a video / blog, contribute to promoting their work, etc.

  • Heritage Groups that have interests in specific regions
  • Civic Organizations
  • Charitable, ethnic, religious or campus organizations
  • Sororities/fraternities (local or national chapter)
  • Media Companies (newspapers, radio, etc)

Start a campaign on this travel-specific crowdfunding platform or other online fundraisers like GoFundMe. 

The increasing availability of scholarships and grants specifically designed to support students from various income brackets in studying abroad has contributed to studying abroad becoming accessible to a diverse poll of students and backgroundssifying the sociodemographic composition of study abroad participants, and more.

We invite you to get in contact with our office to get a better understanding of all the resources available to you and remove the financial barriers to obtaining international experience that will enrich your global education, enhance your resume, and create memories for life.

Below, you will find some of the Scholarships that we have help students apply to.

 

 

 

U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program:

 

The Gilman Program broadens the student population that studies and interns abroad by supporting undergraduates who might not otherwise participate due to financial constraints. The program aims to encourage students to study and intern in a diverse array of countries or areas and world regions.

By supporting undergraduate students who have high financial need, the program has been successful in supporting students who have been historically underrepresented in education abroad, including but not limited to first-generation college students, ethnic minority students, students with disabilities, students attending HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) or other minority-serving institutions, students attending community colleges, rural students, and students coming from U.S. states with less study abroad participation. 

 To be eligible for a Gilman Scholarship, an applicant must be:

  • U.S. citizen or national;
  • Undergaduate student in good standing;
  • Receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the time of application or provide proof that they will be receiving a Pell Grant during the term of their study abroad program or internship.
  • See the full elegibility requirements.

 

 

Nearly 3,000 scholarships of up to $5,000 will be awarded this academic year for U.S. citizen undergraduates to study or intern abroad.

 

 

 

Fund for Education Abroad

 

Fund for Education Abroad provides scholarship opportunities to students who are underrepresented among the U.S. study abroad population.

Elegibility requirements:

  • U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA recipient;
  • Currently enrolled as an undergraduate;
  • Receiving credit at your home institution for the study abroad program;
  • See the full elegibility requirements.
 

 

 

Voyager Scholarship for Public Service

 

Attention all Sophomore students planning to pursue a career in public service

(government, nonprofit, and private sector: e.g. social workers, teachers, policy makers, healthcare providers, community organizers, entrepreneurs, artists, etc.)

 

The Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service is accepting applications until March 27, 2024. This Voyager Scholarship Program is a two-year leadership development and scholarship program. It gives college students financial aid to alleviate the burden of college debt and have meaningful travel experiences, including:

 

  • Up to $50,000 in financial aid
  • Summer Voyage: $10,000 stipend and free Airbnb housing to pursue a summer work-travel experience between your junior and senior year
  • After graduation, Airbnb will provide the students with a $2,000 Airbnb travel credit every year for 10 years, totaling $20,000
  • Network of leaders and mentors

Georgia Tech Student Divali Legore Selected as Inaugural Voyager Scholarship Recipient | Office of Undergraduate Education

 

 

 

Boren Awards: Language, Service, Culture

 

Boren Scholarships
Boren Fellowships

Fund study abroad by U.S. undergraduate students in world regions critical to U.S. interests.

Fund research and language study proposals by U.S. graduate students in world regions critical to U.S. interests.

Maximum awards are determined by duration abroad:

  • Up to $25,000 for 25-52 weeks (preferred)
  • Up to $12,500 for 12-24 weeks
  • Up to $8,000 for 8-11 weeks (STEM majors only)

Maximum awards are determined by duration abroad:

  • Up to $25,000 for 25-52 weeks (preferred)
  • Up to $12,500 for 12-24 weeks
  • + Up to $12,000 for domestic language study (optional)

 

 

 

 


Contact our Office for more information.

 

 International Travel Safety

Embarking on your Study Abroad Adventure is an opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures and expand your horizons. But while the fun is guaranteed, it's wise to be prepared for potential bumps on the road.

This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tips to navigate your journey with confidence and stay safe along the way. 

Before you pack your bags, consult the official International Travel website by the U.S. Department of State; and the travel advisories they issue in this interactive map.

Websites like US State Department Country Information Sheets offer a wealth of information about your host country, from cultural nuances to practical tips. You can also check the resources of FVSU Partner Universities.

Studying up on local customs and traditions before arrival will be beneficial when navigating unfamiliar territory and will help you foster a more genuine connection with the community. For information, consult the website of the United States Embassy in the country you will be visiting.

When traveling abroad to an unknown destination, do not leave anybody behind, stay in groups or pairs with friends.

Keep your flashy phone and bulging wallet tucked away, and do not leave your belongings unattended. As a rule of thumb, just do not bring anything irreplaceable.

If you’re in a crowded area or using public transportation, consider wearing your backpack on your chest, a hand on your purse, and nothing on your back pockets, pickpockets will take any chance they can get to grab something valuable without you even noticing.

As a guest in another land, it's good practice to follow some local customs and traditions. In some destinations, this might mean dressing modestly. Remember, discretion is your friend, avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Familiarize yourself with your new environment, know where to go (and where not to).

Make wise choices and socialize responsibly.

 

Sharing your plans and maintaining communication can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies, keep loved ones informed of your whereabouts when possible.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, make sure you do so before your departure.

 

 

 

By embracing these tips and remaining aware of your surroundings, you can ensure that your study abroad experience is a thrilling adventure filled with discovery, not distress.

So, pack your curiosity, your sense of adventure, and this handy guide, and get ready to embark on a journey that will enrich your life forever!

 

 

All FVSU participants in study abroad programs must register their travel with the US State Department using the:

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

 

Why join STEP?
  • Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
  • Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
  • Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.
Remember:

As you are studying abroad, you are representing Fort Valley State University. It is expected that you will conduct yourself with integrity and comply with the policies of your host institution and host country. Additionally, you are still governed by the FVSU Student Code of Conduct.

Download a copy of the International Travel Safety Guide

 

Study Abroad Alumni “Worldwide Wildcats”

 

 

 

The Worldwide Wildcats are FVSU faculty and students that have completed an education abroad program in the past. They are trusted resources and enthusiastic advocates for all things international, acting as ambassadors for the international programs at the University.

We believe that every student deserves the chance to experience the world beyond the classroom walls, and you can play a vital role in making that dream a reality. By joining this network, you will have a platform to share your experience and inspire your peers to embrace the transformative power of studying abroad.