Study Abroad

In many cases, students may obtain financial assistance to help them with the cost of a study abroad program.  However, financial assistance through federal sources may not be enough or may not be available at the time that a student needs funding for deposits.  Please see the Study Abroad Information available on our Forms page for further details.

There are three options for students who are interested in studying abroad.  Only two of these options may be funded through Radford University, unless an exception is made.  The options are:

• Radford University offers some study abroad opportunities through the university.  Students are enrolled for credit hours at RU and are considered Radford University students.  To obtain financial assistance for these study abroad programs, students should read the Financial Aid Study Abroad Information Sheet and complete the application available on our Forms page, by the deadline dates. Be certain that you have submitted all required documentation.
   
• A student may obtain permission from Radford University to participate in a study abroad program that is offered through an accredited international school.  Formal application materials must be completed through the International Programs Office, the Radford University Registrar's Office, and the Radford University Financial Aid Office.  To obtain financial assistance for this type of study abroad program, students must complete university requirements as outlined in the Radford University undergraduate catalog.  You may obtain additional information and application materials from our Forms page.
   
• There are some study abroad opportunities that are offered through other universities.  Typically, financial assistance for these programs must be obtained through the university that the student plans to attend.  If there are unusual circumstances that require a student to participate in these study abroad experiences, the student may write a letter of appeal to the Director of Financial Aid requesting a consortium agreement be set up with the host school.  However, neither Radford University nor the host school are required to make this type of agreement.  If the student's request is approved, additional forms are required before financial assistance can be received.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Summer Study Abroad:	January 15`*
Fall Study Abroad:	March 1*
Spring Study Abroad:	October 15*
*Application materials must be submitted earlier than this date if a deposit or payment is required prior to this date.

Students should contact the International Programs Office regarding study abroad experiences.  Students must be enrolled at Radford University in an International Course before financial aid can be awarded for that term.  Students may also want to review Alternative Loan information.

Costs will be determined by the International Programs Office and a cost sheet must be completed and provided to the Financial Aid Office before awards can be announced.

For information about Study Abroad at RU, contact the International Programs Office. Please contact the Study Abroad Coordinator in the Financial Aid Office at 540-831-5408 for questions regarding financial aid applications for Study Abroad.

Other sites for international education:

International Education Web Site - IEFA is the premier Internet resource for financial aid information for students wishing to study in a foreign country.

International Education Finance Corporation - IEFC offers financial assistance for the growing population of students who wish to study in foreign countries.