Choosing a Program

1. You may begin by looking over the list of approved programs; consult the web pages of programs that interest you, or stop by the Office of International and Off-Campus Education (210 Ramer Hall) to look through printed brochures. Please note that Lafayette students are permitted to study abroad on approved programs only – there are no exceptions to this rule.

2. Take into consideration the following factors when choosing a program:
   
   
   • Location: we have affiliated and/or faculty-led programs in Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia / the Pacific and throughout the Americas. For more information, consult the program list or any available destination guides.
     
     
   • Duration: your options include a semester, a full academic year, a summer, or an interim term in January or May
     
     
   • Language of instruction: just because you don't speak another language does not mean that you have to study in an English-speaking country, since some programs offer classes taught in English even though it is not the language of the host country. See the "Language of instruction" column on the program list.
     
     
   • Academic focus: do you want to study tropical ecology? European history? Human rights movements and social justice? There are programs to accommodate all interests.
     
     NOTE TO BS ENGINEERING STUDENTS: The engineering division and the Registrar have put together a guide for BS engineering students who want to study abroad.
     
     
   • Cost:  The tuition of the program itself should not be a major factor, because Lafayette College charges its own tuition (for more on this, see the Cost of Studying Abroad).  However, incidental and personal expenses while abroad will vary greatly depending on the location of the program, the strength of the dollar relative to local currency, and your own spending habits.
     
     
3. Get the opinions and feedback of other students who have studied on the program (or in the area) that interests you – you may use the Student Experiences link, or contact the Office of International and Off-Campus Education for a list of students who have agreed to serve as contacts for specific programs.

4. Discuss your options with your parents.

5. Once you have an idea of a program or various programs that interest you (or if you need help narrowing down your options), please continue on to the Application Process.