How to Study Abroad

Whether you’re planning a full semester overseas or a January Term study abroad experience, there are a few important steps to complete before you pack your bags.

From meeting eligibility requirements and getting academic clearance to understanding financial aid, applications, travel documents, and pre-departure preparation, this page walks you through the practical details of making your study abroad plans official. Use the information below to understand what’s required, what happens after you’re cleared to go, and who can help you along the way.

Study Abroad Requirements

Take these steps to get started on your semester or January Term study abroad adventure:

  1. Complete one semester in residence at Taylor prior to applying for a study abroad program. 
  2. Have a 2.75 or above GPA, be in good academic and social standing, and be in good standing with Student Accounts. 
  3. Get clearance from your academic advisor
  4. Have an interview with the Director of Off-Campus Programs. 
  5. Complete application to study abroad
  6. If necessary, complete application for partner study abroad program (not required for Taylor-managed programs)

Can I Use Financial Aid for Study Abroad Trips?

Institutional financial aid applies only to the first semester of off-campus study. No financial aid (federal or institutional) will be awarded to students attending study abroad programs not offered through Taylor University. Contact the Spencer Center or the Financial Aid Office for more information. 

Group photo of Computer Science Professor Ben Messick and CS students on spring break codathon trip

Study Abroad Scholarship

If you are planning to study abroad for a semester or J-term and are a current Pell Grant recipient or anticipate being one next year, consider applying for the Gilman Scholarship.

The Gilman Scholarship application has specific term deadlines. Apply early even if your study abroad program is next year. If you have any questions, contact the Financial Aid Office at [email protected] or 765-998-5358.

Gilman Scholarship Information

After You're Cleared to Go

For a complete checklist for your trip, check with the Spencer Center and/or your academic department for specific tasks you need to do once you're approved to go. 

  • Step 1

    Attend pre-departure meetings, if applicable, with the Spencer Center and/or academic department.

  • Step 2

    Get your documents in order: passport if you don’t have one, student visa if needed, etc. The Spencer Center team will let you know what you need for your program.

  • Step 3

    Purchase flights if necessary. Most semester programs require students to arrange their own travel.

  • Step 4

    Enroll in your Brightspace course, which includes helpful information and resources.

  • Lenna (Klein) Wilson

    Class of 2019

    "Embrace the opportunities you have at Taylor to go into the world (like J-Term trips and study abroad opportunities) AND the surrounding community. The world is broken right next to us. Be the hands of feet in Jesus in whatever community you are placed."

  • Landon Hilst

    Class of 2020

    “You’ll come out of the semester in LA feeling confident in yourself for conquering one of the biggest cities in the world, armed with the first-hand experience from being one-on-one with professionals."

  • Katie (Wills) Blyberg

    Class of 2012

    "The Lithuania study abroad trip was easily the best 5 months of my life. Enough said."

Contact the Spencer Center for Global Engagement

The Spencer Center is located on the first floor of Paul and Barbara Gentile Hall. 

Phone: 765-998-5106 
Off Campus Programs (semester and academic J-Term): [email protected]
Taylor World Outreach: [email protected]
Lighthouse Service Trips: [email protected]

Follow us on social media:
@taylorstudyabroad_
@taylor_world_outreach