Financial Planning for Study Abroad
The cost information for each study abroad program is located on the Costs & Scholarships section of each program brochure accessible in Broncos Abroad.
Frequently asked questions about funding
Study Abroad Program Costs
Program Costs include:
- Program fee (billable)—amount charged to the student's account for the Western Michigan University semester of study abroad enrollment. A description of what's included in the program fee is published in each program budget sheet.
- Out-of-pocket costs (non-billable)—estimates of other costs directly related to participating in the academic program; some of these costs may vary according to individual preferences and needs. See additional expenditures below.
Disbursement of financial aid may not coincide with the start date of the program abroad; plan ahead! Some out-of-pocket costs occur prior to financial aid and scholarship distribution for the semester, such as passport fees or airfare, among other things. See the program's cost information for details or contact Study Abroad if you have questions.
It is the students' responsibility to meet with a financial aid advisor in WMU's Student Financial Aid and Scholarships office to determine if they will be awarded sufficient financial aid to support their participation in the study abroad program selected. While some financial aid may apply to the study abroad experience, additional funds might be needed to cover costs that exceed tuition and program fees.
Additional expenditures
Program cost information does not include activities that are not part of the academic program, such as personal travel, entertainment, shopping, etc. Students should plan to bring additional funds for their own personal activities.
Budget and funding for programs offered by University-approved providers
Students planning to enroll in a program offered by a University-approved provider are required to:
- Obtain the program cost estimate from the study abroad provider organization, program dates, and an estimate of round-trip travel to the destination.
- Schedule a meeting with a study abroad specialist to create an official financial aid budget; this budget must be prepared prior to the student's meeting with a financial aid advisor.
- Meet with a financial aid advisor to discuss available financial aid and other funding.
Frequently asked questions about funding
- How much will it cost to study abroad?
- Does financial aid apply to study abroad?
- Can I get scholarships to study abroad?
- How does the MET or the Kalamazoo Promise apply to study abroad?
- Where can I get more information?
How much will it cost to study abroad?
Costs vary greatly between study abroad programs. Many programs, however, can cost the same as WMU or less. Other study abroad program cost more than a typical semester at WMU. In most cases, any financial aid, grants, or scholarships you are already receiving can be applied to study abroad costs. Additionally, there are many scholarship opportunities to help offset the costs of studying abroad. Each study abroad program brochure includes detailed cost information designed to give you a realistic idea of the costs associated with study abroad. You can find the cost information on the costs & scholarships section of study abroad program brochures.
Does Financial Aid apply to study abroad?
Yes! WMU Financial Aid, such as scholarships, grants, and loans offered by Western Michigan University can be applied to study abroad programs. It is important to remember to schedule an appointment with the financial aid office in Faunce Student Services to see how your financial aid will be applied to your study abroad program.
Can I get scholarships to study abroad?
Of course! There are many scholarships available through WMU, the community, and national organizations. For more information, be sure to visit our scholarships page. The key to receiving study abroad scholarships is to start the process as early as possible and to work closely with WMU Study Abroad and department advisors.
*Special funding can be found for students of color, veterans, LGBTQ students, first generation college students and students with disabilities. Funding opportunities can also be found for designated majors, country-specific studies, class standings, and other eligibility requirements. Remember that funding opportunities are not only limited to study abroad-specific scholarships
How does the MET or the Kalamazoo Promise apply to study abroad?
MET or Kalamazoo Promise funding can be applied to study abroad programs approved by the WMU Study Abroad. MET and Kalamazoo Promise funding questions should be directed to the WMU Student Financial Aid or Accounts Receivable. Study abroad staff members do not have authority to make any funding determinations for MET or for the Kalamazoo Promise.
Where can I get more information?
Contact the Study Abroad office at (269) 387-5890 or @email.