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.

Is an independent program right for you?

Independent programs open up a wealth of opportunities and make travel to virtually any country around the globe an option. If any of the below options fit you, an independent program may be right for you if:

• You are comfortable planning your study abroad experience yourself
• You would like to travel on your own (as opposed to traveling only with other Aggies)
• You would like to immerse yourself in a foreign language and/or culture
• You would like to explore an internship/service learning opportunity coupled with a study abroad experience
• You would like to choose your housing options (host family, dorm, apartment)
• You would like academic credit, but cannot find a program through Texas A&M that meets your needs

 

How do you prepare for independent study or other non-TAMU experience abroad?

• Check out our search engine and browse other search engines listed below.
• Come by our library in the Study Abroad Office, 1st floor Bizzell Hall West (open M-F, 8am-5pm).
There are extensive web-based and paper resources available to assist in your search, which a Peer Counselor or Study Abroad Advisor can provide.
• Plan to meet with a Study Abroad Advisor or Peer Counselor
who can help you in finding and preparing for an overseas study, teaching, volunteer, or work experience. To schedule an appointment, drop by our office or call us: our office
• Academic transfer credit is possible with all of the programs listed, but to ensure academic credit will transfer, students must complete an Independent Study for Credit form available on the application portal.
• Please see the Independent Study checklist here:
  http://studyabroad.tamu.edu/checklist_independentstudy.asp

 

Independent Program Search Engines

To search for specific programs by courses, city, and other criteria, please check one of the following links:

• IIE Passport - Quick and easy way to find practically any program and any need imaginable. Research programs, apply for a passport, find programs using data about yourself.
• GoAbroad.com - Extensive online resource for study abroad and international students. The site contains information on most study abroad programs (including Int'l Studies Abroad (ISA), Denmark Int'l Studies (DIS), and Lexia), language schools, international volunteer positions, as well as embassy directories, visas and health information, and currency conversion.
• Studyabroad.com - Extensive online resource of study abroad programs around the globe: travel information, maps, and many different search parameters.
• Hobsons StudyUK - Guide to studying in the United Kingdom.
• Transitions Abroad - Country-by-country listings of programs for study, work, internships, volunteering, language study, living abroad and more, along with articles from a first-hand perspective.
• International Study & Center - University of Minnesota - Offers a database of over 1,500 study abroad programs.
• StudyOverseas.com - Provides free university and college advice for students worldwide who are considering studying abroad to destinations such as Australia, Europe, New Zealand, and Canada.
• Study Abroad Directory - Search through thousands of international academic programs, university study abroad programs, overseas universities, and language schools around the world.
• British Council USA - Provides comprehensive information for prospective study abroad students to the United Kingdom. Free services available include a study abroad program database, funding, student life and visa information, as well as a guide to working and interning in the UK. Register on their website to receive the most up to date information on education and life in the United Kingdom by email!