Whether you’re set on a particular study abroad location, need to take classes in a particular area of study, or just learning what is study abroad, attending your school’s study abroad fair is a great way to figure out what your options are. The perfect study abroad program is out there, you just have to do some simple research to find it.
Follow our guide on how to make the most of the fair before, during, and after to help turn your study abroad dreams into reality.
The people at each study abroad table are there specifically to answer your questions, so ask away! Sometimes there will even be other students, like an IES Abroad Ambassador, who have returned from study abroad and are ready to share their experience with you. Now is also a good time to think about finances; your school's financial aid office might also have a table at the fair, so you can talk to them as well.
Now is your chance to ask about programs that will match your goals. Questions like “Do you have any Engineering programs in Europe?” or “I need to take two business electives and participate in an internship abroad. What program would be best?” are great ways to start a conversation. Also, tune in to some of the questions other students are asking that you may not have thought of yourself like “What is the visa process like?” “Is there a language requirement?” and “Is housing included and guaranteed?”
As you're figuring out which programs sound interesting, let your study abroad goals be your guide. However, at the fair, there may be programs, countries, or industries that you didn’t initially consider. For example, maybe you had only considered studying Spanish in Spain, but then you discovered the perfect program for you is actually in Argentina.
Our table is typically filled with reference materials for you to skim at the fair, and delve deep into later. Pick up catalogs, brochures, and flyers about the programs you’re interested in to look into deeper later or to show to family and friends who may be helping you make this decision.
We want to connect! By leaving your contact information, you can stay informed on upcoming application, aid, and scholarship deadlines, and other crucial parts of the study abroad process. This may be the first time you're navigating study abroad, but we've got 70+ years of experience sending students on international programs. Let us be your guide.
Now is the best time to start planning your study abroad experience! Students have found it helpful to actually give yourself more time than you think you’ll need to accomplish each step. Specifically, processes for passports and visas can take longer than expected. You may consider setting reminders on your phone or write notes in your planner to keep on top of deadlines.
With all the program options, application steps, and predeparture preparation involved in studing abroad, it's expected that questions will come up along the way. Even if you ask a bunch of questions at a study abroad fair, there will still be more to come. That's what we're here for! Let us help you navigate the process. Whether you already spoke to a representative your study abroad fair, or you're brand new to the process, Contact your Representative with any questions you may have.
Study abroad can be the opportunity of a lifetime, but it takes planning. Even choosing which program you want to go on is a feat. Celebrate every step of the way! If you already know which program you want to go on, you're ready to open your application.
IES Abroad regularly publishes news stories, articles, student stories, and other helpful study abroad content. Stay up to date on the latest from IES Abroad by reading our recent posts.
