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Tackling 5 Myths about Studying Abroad as a STEM Major

If you’re a STEM (Science, Technology, Math, and Science) major, you might’ve heard that you can’t study abroad, or that it’s only for specific majors. You might even have nerves around if it would be possible for your credits to transfer or to graduate on time.         

                

The good news? We’re proud to have a STEM Consortium, a network of STEM experts from well-respected universities in the U.S. and globally who help shape our Engineering, Math & Science Programs. We also offer multiple STEM study abroad programs that prove these common myths simply aren’t true. So, when it comes to making sure you can study abroad and study what you love—we’ve got you covered. 

 

Let’s clear up some frequently heard misconceptions that are keeping STEM majors from studying abroad. 

Two guys sitting on rocks in front of a blue sky in Cape Town.
  1.  "STEM majors can't study abroad"

This is false! Although, it’s true that STEM degrees often have more structured requirements and coursework than others, leaving less room to fit in electives. However, not only do our study abroad programs cover 12+ STEM disciplines, but we partner with our STEM Consortium, a group of STEM experts from the U.S. and internationally from well-respected universities that helped shape this programming. 

So, when enrolling in one of our Engineering, Math & Science programs, completing course requirements and staying on track for graduation is the foundation, not an afterthought. 

  1. "Study abroad won’t include the classes I need to graduate on time” 

We know you need certain courses to meet your graduation requirements, and that’s why our Academics team has worked with the Consortium on course equivalencies for major courses that many STEM majors need. With the right planning and support, study abroad can be both the adventure of a lifetime and another step towards completing your degree.  

 

  1.  "My credits won’t transfer back to my home college or university” 

We partner with many 270+ U.S. colleges and universities and evaluate their courses to increase the chances of your credits transferring back. Still, we recommend connecting with one of our College Relations Managers to find the best program for your academic program, since every college or university has its own credit transfer policies. 

Two students smiling in front of a sunset with buildings in the background.
  1.  “It’s too expensive and there are no scholarships for me as a STEM major” 

Did you know that we give nearly $7.9 million in scholarships and aid to our study abroad students, regardless of their major? Our financial aid application only takes 10 minutes to complete, and you’ll hear back within five business days about what aid you’re eligible to receive. Plus, you can apply for scholarships and aid before applying to a program, allowing you to make a more informed decision earlier in the process.  

 

To dig into more information on scholarship and aid offerings or outside funding options, visit our Scholarships & Aid webpage. 

A group of students smiling at the Floreana Island in Quito, Ecuador.
  1. “I’ll have to take another language to study abroad” 

Au contraire—it’s understandable why you might think this, but that’s not the case! We offer multiple Engineering, Math & Science programs that don’t have a language requirement. You can study STEM from the coastlines of Cape Town to the canals of Amsterdam. Without a language requirement, you’re in the driver’s seat—choosing a destination because it interests you, not because it’s your only option. 

Cultural immersion takes on many forms and another way for you to immerse yourself is through our Global Pillars initiative. While not required, the Global Pillars courses  “Designing the Sustainable City” and “Intersectional Equity” allow you to work in a small group with your peers, to study and identify solutions to issues in your host city. If you’re looking to grow a unique skillset, this is another tool in your cross-cultural communication and collaboration toolkit. 

Now that we’ve busted a few myths, it’s time find the right program for you:

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