Most students start the process in one of two ways: talking with a college advisor about academic requirements and planning, or browsing program options (see Discover Programs). You can also attend events, like the International Fair, information sessions, and student panels, hosted by Global Learning and your college. 

If you’d like to talk with an advisor, Global Learning Education Abroad offers a drop-in hour on weekdays when classes are in session.  

On this website, you can browse Discover Programs to learn about study abroad opportunities.

Search here for all on- and off-campus opportunities: all global learning opportunities, as well as opportunities for career development, community-engaged learning and service, fellowships and funding, research, and other special interest programs.

Your college advisor is a key contact for you as you plan to study abroad. Every college has specific academic policies and requirements, and it is important that you understand what they are. For example, are you required to enroll in a certain number of credits while you are abroad? Can you earn credit toward your major or minor? Can you transfer distribution requirements? Are there specific language or area studies requirements for study abroad? You can schedule an appointment or email with your college advisor to ask these types of questions.  

Global Learning Education Abroad also has advisors. Each manages a specific portfolio of programs by region. Get advice. Education Abroad advisors cannot discuss specific academic requirements with you. They specialize in application and program information and pre-departure (logistical) preparations for study abroad. Talk with us before you apply!

If you want to spend a semester or academic year abroad, it’s best to plan to do it during your junior year, although it is not uncommon spend a semester abroad during the fall of your senior year. Studying abroad during the semester you are scheduled to graduate is generally not approved. If you wish to go on a short-term or summer program, there are opportunities during any year you are actively enrolled at Cornell. 

If you plan well, you may even be able to study abroad more than once while at Cornell!

Program costs vary greatly. Total expenses depend on program type, location, and level of support. It will be more expensive to spend a semester in Paris, for example, than in Senegal. However, in many cases a semester abroad can cost less than being on campus. We can provide students with estimated budgets for approved semester programs at the end of the semester prior to study abroad. In the meantime, you can use a price comparison calculator for personal expenses. Given the size of Ithaca, it may be best to use a larger city as a reference point.