Study Abroad Financial Information
One of the most frequently asked questions about study abroad is ‘how much will it cost to study abroad’? First, study abroad program fees are always published on our program brochures. It is important to understand that the cost of a study abroad program varies greatly, program to program. Costs are impacted by a variety of factors like program location, cost of living in the country abroad, length of program, study abroad program structure, and the number of credits being earned. Students are encouraged to begin planning for study abroad participation 12 months in advance to ensure enough time to determine appropriate funding for study abroad. Financial Aid is available to students to fund their study abroad expenses, if they are otherwise eligible to receive Financial Aid. Students are encouraged to discuss their plans to study abroad with their Financial Aid Advisor. A variety of scholarships are available to support study abroad costs.
Study Abroad Health & Safety Information
Ensuring students’ health and safety is a top priority for WMU. The WMU Study Abroad Office implements a variety of practices, procedures and resources to prepare students to be healthy, safe and successful while studying abroad. This begins by preparing students for their study abroad program with mandatory pre-departure orientation (LINK TO PDO page). Prior to departure, students are strongly advised to speak with a healthcare professional to discuss their individual health questions. Students can visit with their primary care provider, or they can visit the Sindecuse Travel Clinic on the WMU campus.
When WMU students participate in a study abroad program, they are automatically covered by WMU Study Abroad’s health & safety and insurance program. Coverage and enrollment in the program is automatic when students commit to participating in a study abroad program. The international health insurance covers students while they are outside of the United States, and during their program dates (LINK to insurance page). In addition, WMU Study Abroad partners with an organization called International SOS, which is health and security service provider which coordinates health and safety responses for our study abroad programs, among other services. By calling the 24/7 phone number, or utilizing the ISOS app, students can request a wide variety of assistance related to health or safety situations.