Opportunities Abroad
Boston College students enjoy a long tradition of going abroad, whether it's to study, conduct research, intern, or participate in service learning. These experiences allow students to acquire critical skills such as a greater sense of independence, intercultural competence, adaptability, and language acquisition. The abroad experience inspires personal and intellectual growth, and it leads students to gain a competitive edge for graduate school and the job market.
Common Questions
What's in it?
In order to gain the most out of the education abroad experience, we encourage students to be intentional in considering program options that are a good fit academically.
Am I eligible?
Semester and academic year programs are open to rising juniors and seniors in good academic and disciplinary standing with a 3.0 cumulative at the time of application, and good progress toward core and major requirements. A&S students must have completed one year of the language proficiency requirement. Some programs have additional requirements.
Can I afford it?
With careful planning, students going abroad can spend the same amount as--or sometimes even less than--they would in Chestnut Hill. We offer advising and support for students applying for need-based and prestigious awards, and a variety of fellowships, scholarships, and grants.
Will I graduate on time?
Study abroad is an integrated part of the BC undergraduate experience. Students fulfill academic requirements and earn credit toward graduation. With BC programs grades factor into the BC GPA and appear on the BC transcript. Courses can count toward major, minor, core requirements.
Will I fit in?
We strongly believe that education abroad should not be reserved for a select few. Every BC student has the option of going abroad - regardless of race/ethnicity, gender, finances, on-campus commitment or area of study. This commitment is rooted in the belief that all students' experiences overseas are enhanced through a diversity of perspectives and backgrounds.
Is it safe?
The safety and welfare of our students abroad is our first and foremost priority. Country-specific information about health and safety is provided to students throughout the advising process and at pre-departure orientation. Protocols and coverage are in place to ensure the health and safety of students abroad.
By the Numbers
200+
programs, on six continents and for all majors
2019-20
50%
of BC undergraduates go abroad
2019-20
90%
of returning students said time abroad was a significant source of personal growth
2019-20
22%
of students who studied abroad identify as a student of color
2019-20
I learned to love
“I learned to love what I couldn't understand. Even though I really couldn’t understand the conversations around me on the streets or in restaurants, I was still able to love where I was. ”