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Study Abroad
Who Goes Abroad?
American University of Beirut students can participate in a semester or year abroad programs all around the world. Currently we have an exchange program with the Elliot School of International Affairs at the George Washington University for graduate students. However International Student Services Office provides resources and advice in finding the perfect program for you. Applicants must show evidence of maturity, self-discipline and strong academic motivation.
University Requirements for Study Abroad
Please make sure that you have read the policies and procedures for Study Abroad if you are:
 A Graduate student
An Undergraduate student
It is also required that you complete all study abroad forms that are available at the ISS office.
What Programs Are Available?
American University of Beirut students may enroll in an accredited, externally administered program or they may construct a program suited to their academic needs with their faculty advisor and the Coordinator of International Student Services. Many programs focus on specific academic disciplines, while others feature both academic and language study. It is advisable to write directly to institutions you are interested in for specific information on their policies, requirements, costs and facilities. This is especially true since admission policies vary from country to country and institution to institution. Nevertheless, the Coordinator of International Student Services can also assist you with your research.
When do students need to begin planning?
Undergraduates are encouraged to begin researching international opportunities during their freshman or sophomore year using resources in the International Student Services (ISS). Graduate students may begin the process at any time.
Initial Considerations
- Where would you like to study?
- What is your English/foreign language ability?
- How long do you want to stay--a semester, a summer, a year?
- How much does the program cost?
- Will you need financial assistance to carry out your plans?
Academic Considerations
- Does your GPA meet the requirement?
- Do you want to take classes in English or the local language?
- What do departmental advisors think of your plans?
- Do you have specific degree requirements you want to fulfill while overseas?
- How important is it to receive academic credit?
Personal Considerations
- Would you prefer to study with other students from the Middle East students of the host country, or with a combination of both?
- Do you want a study abroad program to arrange your housing, meals, curriculum and travel or would you prefer to make these arrangements yourself?
- Would you prefer to live with a family, with students from the host country, or with other international students?
No foreign study program can be a guaranteed perfect choice. Even when your needs are well matched to the program, you may suffer periods of loneliness and disorientation simply because of the unfamiliar environment. Remember that one of the most important lessons to be learned from time spent abroad is flexibility and a willingness to go on enjoying and learning even when confronting unexpected circumstances.
Study Abroad Directories
The links below are resources to aid you for further research regarding where to study when traveling abroad.
Institute of International Education www.IIEPassport.org
Graduate School Directory www.gradschools.com
Student Prospector www.StudentProspector.com
College Board www.Collegeabroad.com
Education Directories www.Edudirectories.com
Council Travel www.counciltravel.com
Council on International Education and Exchange www.ciee.org
Study Abroad in Lebanon www.lebanon.studyabroad.com
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