There are many ways to choose a study abroad program. We recommend that you attend a Study Abroad 101 Workshop to learn about Loyola's programs, and then talk with your first-year advisor to discuss incorporating study abroad into your academic experience. When meeting with your advisor, be sure to discuss what term would be the most desirable for you to go abroad and what courses you might need to take while abroad. Also, keep in mind the requirements for eligibility.

The first step might be to figure out the length of time you would like to study abroad. Many programs are offered during both the Spring and the Fall Semesters or for a full academic year. Semester programs range from about four to seven months, and year programs range from about nine to 11 months. Some programs are available only in the summer. Summer programs range from two weeks to eight or more weeks.

Another way to choose a program is by geographic region. Loyola has study abroad programs on almost every continent. To find a list by continent, please refer to our Programs by Region list.

When you study abroad, you might be looking to take courses in specific disciplines. While some programs offer classes in a wide array of disciplines, others are more limited in their curricular offerings.

More and more students are completing internships or service learning projects for academic credit or are volunteering during their spare time while abroad. These are wonderful ways to enrich the study abroad experience and gain extra insight into the host culture. Many study abroad programs offer theses types of features. You can view a list of programs which have internship and service learning opportunities.

Cost is a major factor in the program selection process for many students. It is important to consider how various programs differ in cost and also what part of your financial aid package will carry over to each program. The best resource for Loyola students is the Financing Study Abroad page, which can help you decipher which type of program would be the most economically desirable for you given your financial aid package and study abroad interests.