What is an Independent Study Abroad Program?
Independent international programs encompass many possible opportunities, such as applying directly to an international university, applying through a sponsoring university, institute, or organization within the U.S., or conducting research abroad. Other opportunities include work, internship, teaching, and volunteer opportunities.
Extensive web-based and paper resources are available to assist in this search at http://studyabroad.tamu.edu, or come by 1st floor, Bizzell Hall West and speak with a Peer Counselor or the Independent Programs Advisor.
What academic coursework is available on Independent Study Abroad Programs?
Students may take a variety of courses that apply directly to their major or elective courses that are not regularly taught at Texas A&M University. Some students choose to take courses that give them exposure to an area of study that relates to their future career path.
Please refer to a program provider, American university, and/or foreign institution’s website for more information. The Study Abroad Search Engine (add link here) also contains information about available coursework on Independent Study Abroad Programs.
And don’t forget to consult with an Academic Advisor for details on how a study abroad program fits into a specific degree program.
Where can I study on an Independent Study Abroad Program?
Students are allowed to study anywhere in the world but the Study Abroad Programs Office cautions students to consider world events and political issues when choosing a study abroad program.
If a student would like academic credit, the student CANNOT go to a country with a TRAVEL WARNING. Check the State Department's Website for current Travel Warning countries. If a student travels to a country with a TRAVEL WARNING, the student cannot receive academic credit AND/OR financial aid. Refer to Travel Rules for more information.
Is there a language requirement for Independent Study Abroad Programs?
Language requirements depend on the Independent Study Abroad Program. If the program is a language based program, many programs accept beginning level to advanced level students.
Now, many Independent Study Abroad Programs are offered in English or contain English speaking components. Please refer to the program provider, internship host or foreign university for more details about language requirements.
How much does an Independent Study Abroad Program Cost?
Students studying abroad independently pay the Study Abroad Programs Office an Independent Program Fee (currently $50, $100 as of September 1, 2007) once application forms are completed and returned the Study Abroad Programs Office. Texas A&M University doesn’t bill students for program cost except in certain cases.
Other costs for Independent Study Abroad Programs paid to a program provider or foreign institution include the following but are not limited to:
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Tuition
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Room & Board
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Transportation
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Books
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Health Insurance
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Additional Expenses
Refer to the program provider, American University and/or foreign institution’s website for more details on program cost. Remember that students may use financial aid, Texas Guaranteed Tuition, and/or ROTC scholarships for affiliated foreign universities/ program providers and other American Universities’ study abroad programs.
