Can All Majors Study Abroad? Absolutely—Here’s How

Maybe you’ve heard:

“STEM courses won’t transfer.”

“Pre-med students can’t afford to miss a semester.”

“Business networking happens at home, not overseas.”

The good news? No matter what your major, you can study abroad with the right planning. While it is widely known that some programs, such as language studies naturally align with international experiences, it is less known that other fields, such as engineering, business, and health sciences also have tailored study-abroad opportunities.

How to find study abroad programs for your major

Consider the following steps:

• Ask IFSA: IFSA’s search tool can match you with an opportunity that aligns with you major, career goals, and preferred locations. You can also talk to an IFSA Enrollment Counselor for personalized recommendations.
• Check with your study abroad office: The advisors at your home university can guide you toward pre-approved programs that fit your major. They can also help with credit transfers and financial aid options.
• Talk to your academic advisor: Not sure which courses you can take abroad? Your academic advisor knows exactly what requirements you need to fulfill and can help you integrate study abroad into your degree plan without delaying graduation.
• Consider alternative formats: If a semester abroad isn’t an option, January term or summer programs might be. IFSA offers flexible programs that allow students to gain international experience without disrupting their degree progression. Learn more from our guide on short-term study abroad programs.

Get the facts about common study abroad myths 

• Will studying abroad delay my graduation?
  • Not if you plan ahead! Many programs offer courses that fulfill major requirements, and alternative formats (like summer or faculty-led programs) allow you to study abroad without missing required coursework.
• Do I need to speak another language?
  • Nope! Many study abroad programs—even in non-English-speaking countries—offer classes entirely in English. That means you can choose from multiple locations without fluency in the local language.
• Can I afford to study abroad?
  • Many programs cost the same as (or even less than) a semester at your institution. Plus, scholarships, grants and financial aid can help cover expenses.

Study abroad by major: finding the right fit

Many students believe their major makes studying abroad difficult or even impossible. Whether it’s concerns about course availability, credit transfers, or
hands-on experience, these misconceptions often prevent students from exploring global opportunities. The truth? Every major can benefit from studying abroad—it just requires the right approach.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)

• Common misconception: “STEM courses are too specialized to take abroad, and you’ll fall behind.”
• Reality: Many universities offer equivalent STEM courses, and some programs even provide cutting-edge lab research opportunities. 
• Pro tip: Look for universities with direct course equivalency agreements to ensure smooth credit transfers. Many programs offer lab research opportunities abroad, giving STEM students hands-on experience.
• Where to go: Choose from the Physics Summer Program to the Study at the University of Sussex or Computer Science in London England, where IFSA has STEM programs available. Ignite your career in technology with IFSA’s Tech Career Accelerator in Prague, a dynamic program that blends rigorous academics, professional skill-building, and real-world industry exposure. As a hub for innovation, Prague offers access to leading tech companies, hands-on learning, and a vibrant cultural experience—all while keeping you on track with your academic goals. 

For Yiran Y., a Computer Science student at the University of Michigan, this experience, offered direct exposure to Prague’s thriving tech scene:

“I loved our computer science courses because they took us beyond the classroom. We visited companies specializing in AI, machine learning, and networking, including Simpli, Phrase, and Telenet. These visits weren’t just about the companies themselves; they gave us insights into Prague’s growing tech industry and work culture. It broadened my understanding of where a tech career could take me.” Read more about Yiran’s experience.

Business and finance

• Common misconception:  “You need to be near U.S. companies to network and find a job.”
• Reality: Studying in a global financial hub like London expands your understanding of international markets and enhances your resume. Many programs offer internship placements with multinational companies.
• Pro tip: Look for programs that offer built-in internships for a resume-building experience.
• Where to go: Study business or economics in either London, England or Buenos Aries, Argentina. Explore IFSA’s Luiss University Partnership and study in Rome, Italy. Launch your international business career with a semester in Barcelona, a global hub for finance, startups, and innovation. IFSA’s International Business Career Accelerator blends hands-on learning—through internships, company visits, and real-world projects—with quality academics, helping you develop skills employers value. Outside the classroom, immerse yourself in Barcelona’s rich culture, from iconic architecture to tapas nights, and explore Spain with curated excursions.

Health sciences and premedical

• Common misconception: “You can’t take med school prerequisites abroad.”
• Reality: While core pre-med courses should be taken at your home institution, electives like global health and epidemiology can enhance your education by introducing you to new perspectives and hands-on research.
• Pro tip:  International experience and real-world coursework will set you apart on med school applications. Also, take advantage of hands-on volunteering opportunities through your IFSA program, which also stand out.
• Where to go: Choose from Psychology and Neuroscience in Buenos Aries, Argentina or the Premedical Program at the University of Oxford, St. Anne’s College, IFSA’s health science and premedical programs available. Jumpstart your career with IFSA’s Health Science Career Accelerator. This program combines rigorous academics, professional skill-building, and real-world public health challenges to help you prepare for a career in medicine, nursing, public health, or health care administration—all while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the UK.

Ginger’s experience: Studying molecular biosciences

“A neurobiology course I took at UCL was a personal highlight. It was fascinating to delve deep into the workings of the human brain, understanding its complexities and how it can malfunction in disease. The course was challenging yet rewarding, filled with cutting-edge research and novel concepts that were both enlightening and insightful.” Ginger W., a Trinity College student studying at University College London. Read more about Ginger’s experience.

Hailey’s Experience: Studying Premedical at King’s College London

Hailey R., a pre-med student at Duke University, initially questioned whether studying abroad was feasible for her rigorous academic track. Worried about missing out on research, pre-med prerequisites, and extracurricular activities, she hesitated. But after discovering IFSA’s King’s College London Premedical Program, she realized that studying abroad wasn’t just possible—it was an opportunity to expand her medical education in ways she never expected.

“As a pre-med student, I worried about missing research, pre-med prerequisites, and extracurriculars. But once I learned about the King’s College London: Premedical Program, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

One of the most influential courses I took was, a class designed for pre-med students that explored medical ethics, humanities, and clinical practices. Through museum visits, patient simulations, and doctor shadowing, I gained invaluable insight into what it means to be a good doctor.”  Learn more about Hailey’s experience.

Education and social sciences

• Common misconception: “Teaching and social work are country-specific, so studying abroad won’t apply to my future career.”
• Reality: Understanding different education and social systems can make you a stronger professional. 
• Pro tip: Some programs let education majors student-teach abroad, offering hands-on experience in international classrooms.
• Where to go: Attend the London School of Economics and study Political Science, or study Social Sciences in Shanghai to dig into sustainable urbanization, economic reform, Chinese politics, foreign policy, or public health policy.

Benjamin W., an Amherst College student who completed IFSA’s Study in Shanghai program in China, taught classes at a local elementary school while he was abroad.

“Despite adjusting to cultural differences and the language barrier, not to mention the difficulties with managing a classroom of little kids, this was some of the most fun I’ve had in my life. I welcomed the challenge and loved my time with the kids more than my own school. By sharing many small tidbits, photos, and experiences about my life, I felt I was bridging the gap between cultures far removed from each other.” Read more about his experience.

Fine arts and humanities

• Common misconception: “You can’t get the same level of arts education abroad.”
• Reality: Some of the best creative institutions are outside the U.S., offering unique artist residencies, mentorships, and cultural immersion.
• Pro tip: Some universities offer artist residencies or partnerships with local creative institutions—look for hands-on opportunities.
• Where to go: From the Burren College of Art in Ballyvaughan, Ireland, to the Glasgow School of Art in Glasgow Scotland, IFSA has programs in the fine arts and the humanities. IFSA also offers an integrated program at the University of the Arts London, in London, UK.

Tristan T., a Claremont McKenna College student who participated in the IFSA SOAS, University of London program, shares a video that highlights how her arts classes, gallery visits, and exploring European street art helped make her experience reflective and memorable. View the video. 

Final takeaway: Study abroad is possible—you just need the best-fit program for you

No matter your major, study abroad can work for you. The key is choosing the right program, ensuring credit transferability, and aligning opportunities with your career goals. 

Start your journey

Start by exploring our program directory (filter for your major), consulting with IFSA Enrollment Counselors or your home institution advisors, and considering what kind of experience will best complement your education. Don’t let misconceptions hold you back—study abroad is for everyone!