The Official IFSA Blog
IFSA Guide to Study Abroad


Stay in the Know
Look to the IFSA Guide for all the information you need to choose ideal study abroad experience and make the most of your journey.
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Do You Need to Speak the Language to Study Abroad? Here’s What You Should Know
Learn more: Do You Need to Speak the Language to Study Abroad? Here’s What You Should KnowIn this guide, we’ll explore the language requirements for study abroad, how different programs support language learners, and how you can get the most out of your experience.
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Can You Study Abroad in Winter? Why a Short-term January Program Might Be Right for You
Learn more: Can You Study Abroad in Winter? Why a Short-term January Program Might Be Right for YouIf you’re wondering what to do over winter break, a short-term study abroad program might be the perfect answer. While most students picture a semester or summer abroad, there’s another option growing in popularity: January study abroad programs, also known as J-Term or Winter programs.
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What Travel Documents Do I Need to Study Abroad? The Pre-Arrival Checklist
Learn more: What Travel Documents Do I Need to Study Abroad? The Pre-Arrival ChecklistThis guide walks you through the study abroad travel documents you need, how to get them, how long it will take for them to be processed, and other important pre-arrival details you need for your study abroad adventure!
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What to Pack for Study Abroad
Learn more: What to Pack for Study AbroadStudying abroad is an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experience, but thinking about what to pack for study abroad can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to bring and shares best practices to help make your experience less stressful and more organized.
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Is Study Abroad Too Expensive? Understanding the Cost and How to Budget
Learn more: Is Study Abroad Too Expensive? Understanding the Cost and How to BudgetMany students assume studying abroad is out of financial reach before they consider it. The reality is that you’re already spending money on rent, food, and activities in the US. Studying abroad doesn’t necessarily mean spending more—it just means spending differently. With the right planning and resources, studying abroad is within financial reach.
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Can All Majors Study Abroad? Absolutely—Here’s How
Learn more: Can All Majors Study Abroad? Absolutely—Here’s HowNo 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.