Transfers Can Study Abroad (Affordably), Too!

Studying abroad has been a long-term goal of mine. While I was still at a California Community College, study abroad was one of the key factors in deciding which university to transfer to. The pandemic put my dream on pause, and I was unsure if I would ever get the opportunity. In the past 5 months I have had two of my programs canceled, but thanks to the hard work of our Study Abroad Office I was able to switch programs and countries so I can still go abroad before I graduate. Instead of finding myself in Japan, I will now be traveling to Germany for the Spring 2022 quarter. It isn’t happening as I planned, but I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my perspective by studying in another country.

But getting accepted into a program is only half the battle. Financing my study abroad dream is another thing. I didn’t apply to go to university straight out of high school largely because of the price, so how can I afford to go abroad? It is possible to afford study abroad, to share some of the options I used and other options available to students I talked to our former Study Abroad Financial Aid Advisor, Tina Brilli.

Here are some tips from a former UCSD Study Abroad Financial Aid Advisor:

Financial aid depends on the program provider you choose, for example:

UCEAP: All UCSD, state, and federal financial aid can be used. However, out-of-state and international students may have to pay non-resident fees.

UCSD Global Seminars: UCSD summer grant (subject to eligibility), any unused federal and state aid from the previous academic year, and non-resident fees do not apply.

OAP: State and federal aid can be used, and non-resident fees do not apply.

Financial aid may also depend on the time of year you choose to go.

Within UCEAP specifically: For fall programs, if you receive UC Grant, you may receive additional UC Grant Funds if your abroad program budget exceeds the UCSD Off-Campus budget for the quarter. Abroad programs during spring semesters (overlapping our Winter and Spring quarters) can be a great time to take advantage of more expensive programs. You may receive additional UC Grant Funds (subject to eligibility). Non-residents may also save money because the tuition is billed as one semester instead of two quarters.  Yearlong programs are typically similar in cost to the UCSD Off-Campus budget. There tend to be additional scholarship opportunities for students spending a year abroad so check those out! Finally, summer programs may have the most limited funding. If you are seriously considering a summer program, consult one of our Study Abroad Advisors.

Scholarships are available!

Over $950,000 in study abroad scholarships were awarded in the 2018-2019 academic year to UCSD students. Choosing a program that fits with your academic, career and personal goals will increase chances of getting a scholarship. Make sure to articulate how your program aligns with your goals specifically. Check out the Study Abroad Scholarship page for a current list of offerings for the upcoming cycle: https://studyabroad.ucsd.edu/students/funding/scholarships.html

 Start working on your applications early! Each scholarship has different requirements including various essay topics. Work with the Study Abroad Office and Writing Hub on your essays.

Tip: Transfer students are considered an underrepresented, or minority, group within study abroad, so talk about your experience and challenges in studying abroad as a transfer student.

Loans are also available!

Taking out a loan is a personal decision but consider your options carefully and whether loans are an appropriate option for you.

 There are many different types of loans available, and it is important to understand the differences before you decide to take out a loan. I recommend checking out the Federal Student Aid website guide here. Make sure to click the hyperlinks for even more information about the implications of each type of loan!

Taking extra time to study abroad the summer after Commencement?

Students can walk in Commencement and then study abroad during summer or the following fall, in most cases. Talk to your College in advance of finishing your degree to see if this is an option for you. Students will generally need to have at least one course left to complete. Financial Aid may be available depending on each individuals’ aid package. 

Once you talk to a Study Abroad Advisor and have a specific program in mind, reach out to the Study Abroad Financial Aid Advisors at FAO-EAP@AD.UCSD.EDU.

There are many ways to finance your study abroad dreams. Some take more effort than others, but trust me it is worth it! 

Trying to study abroad comes with lots of planning and research, and occasionally some unexpected twists and turns. In my case, it was having two of my programs canceled and suddenly having to decide whether to give up my dream of studying abroad or whether to be flexible in my program location. Additionally, over the last 5 months I have had to balance my schoolwork, jobs, and all of the tasks associated with trying to study abroad. In the Winter quarter of 2022, I have likely spent over 20 hours on scholarship applications. But, to me, the extra work I have put into this, is more than worth the life changing experience I am about to embark on.