How to Plan for a Study Abroad Experience
Most students study abroad in their Sophomore or Junior year. Because many majors have strict requirements, it is recommended that you begin planning at least a year in advance. Speak with the Study Abroad Manager and your Academic Advisor sooner than later. If you are unsure what your next steps should be, please reach out to our office at studyabroad@farmingdale.edu
Get started in your Freshman Year!
- Discover the opportunities: visit our Study Abroad web pages, attend a Study Abroad information session in the Campus Center, attend a Study Abroad Fair in September or February
- Submit a Study Abroad Interest Form
- Contact and meet with the Study Abroad Manager
- Make your Academic Advisor aware of your interest in studying abroad
- Ensure your passport is valid.
Next steps:
- Meet the Study Abroad Manager to determine which program you will attend
- Apply for the Program using Axiom and pay the program deposit
- Meet your Academic Advisor to discuss the program and verify course equivalency
- Reach out to the Academic Chair of the course you are enrolling in and ask them to approve your Course Approval form
- Make sure your passport is valid and you have applied for a Visa (if applicable). To renew your US passport, follow this link:
- Review country’s information on the US Department of State website and enroll in STEP
- Sign up for a pre-departure orientation organized by FSC or the host SUNY
- Book your flight!
- Make copies of all important documents (passport, visa, course planning etc)
- Research your new country and university !
While you are Abroad:
- Email the Study Abroad Manager once you arrive and confirm classes match your course approval form identically
- Ensure any changes made to courses are approved by your Academic Advisor
- Continue to review the country’s information on the US Department of State website
- Start a blog or travel journal to share with friends and family
- Stay on top of deadlines like housing and registration for the following semester
- Request transcript prior to the end of the semester
After Returning to FSC:
- Ensure grades from your study abroad program have been posted to your Degreeworks
- Submit a program evaluation
- Attend a Welcome Back reception
- Visit the Nexus Center to learn how to add your study abroad experience to your resume
- Become a Global Student Ambassador and continue to be involved in internationalization efforts