I want to study abroad. How do I start the process?
Step 1: Study Abroad 101
Come to a Study Abroad 101 information session, the first step to study abroad at UMBC. These sessions will be offered virtually on a weekly basis for the entire fall semester at the following times:
- Tuesdays at 2pm
- Wednesdays at 12pm
- Thursdays at 2pm
Check out our myUMBC page for session details! If you cannot attend these sessions, please email educationabroad@umbc.edu to set up a session.
Step 2: Research Programs (Optional)
Research different Study Abroad Program options with the information you received at Study Abroad 101 and on our website. When you find a program of interest that you think may count for credit back here at UMBC (for your major, minor, electives or general education) make a list of that program’s course title(s), corresponding course description(s) and syllabus (if available) before meeting with your academic advisor to discuss your created list.
Step 3: Meet for Advising
If you are unsure of what program you want to apply to, not sure what to do next or plan to study abroad just for the Winter or Summer term(s) you can meet with a Peer Advisor for advising!
If you plan to apply to ISEP, an Exchange, or a semester-long program you will need to meet with an Education Abroad Advisor.
You may also schedule with an Education Abroad advisor after you have met with a Peer Advisor if you have additional questions, concerns about your time abroad or need additional help narrowing down program options!
Step 4: Apply
Complete the UMBC Study Abroad Application by the deadline (see below). You may have an additional application for your specific program. In most cases, students need to complete a UMBC-specific application and a program application. Program deadlines may vary.
Application Deadlines
| *ISEP Exchange | **UMBC Exchange | UMBC Direct/Affiliate | UMBC Faculty-Led | |
| Fall and Academic Year | February 1 | February 1/ March 10 | March 10 | n/a |
| Spring and Calendar Year | September 1 | August 15th/ October 10 | October 10 | n/a |
| Summer | n/a | n/a | March 10 | February 15 |
| Winter | n/a | n/a | October 10 | October 10 |
*The ISEP website may have a deadline other than what is stated here. This earlier deadline is established so that students are able to complete the multi-step application process required to participate in this program. Please ask a study abroad advisor if you have questions or are interested in applying to ISEP.
** Our exchange with Seoul National University and Nanzan University have an earlier application due date of either February 1st or August 15th depending on the term.