A study abroad experience changes you.
You come back to the United States a different person challenged by what you have experienced and learned, both in and out of class. You learn about language, culture and customs of your host country and how the U.S. is viewed abroad.
Returning students say they are confident in their abilities and knowledge of the world, the U.S., and themselves. Their values and goals are clarified, their leadership skills and confidence developed to help them make changes in their communities.
There are 5 Steps to Studying Abroad…
- Explore
- Apply
- Prepare
- Go!
- Return
Learn about your host country, your country and yourself. Take the challenge!
Ready to learn more? Contact the Study Abroad Coordinator via phone 614-823-1624 or email studyabroad@otterbein.edu to get started.
Types of Study Abroad Programs
Faculty Led Travel Course
- Short term (10 days – 3 weeks), usually in May
- Otterbein faculty and students
- Receive Otterbein credit
- Many courses are open to any class level
- Most common way Otterbein students go abroad
Otterbein Exchange
- 5 partner universities
- Pay Otterbein tuition, keep all Otterbein scholarships and aid
- Student is responsible for transportation, housing, meals, and personal costs
Direct Enroll
- Attend any university in the world as an international student
- Pay all tuition and fees directly to the host university
- Usually requires more work from the student, but can often be one of the least expensive ways to study abroad
Program Providers
- Third party organizations offering pre-packaged programs and arrangements
- Typically partnered with another university to provide course credit
- Provide in-house scholarships and some offer Otterbein discounts/scholarships
Other
- Summer, internships, and non-credit bearing international experiences are also available.
- Domestic study away experiences are also available through our office. Current partnerships include The Philadelphia Center and the Washington Semester Program.
Earn a Global & Intercultural Engagement Card (5 Cards)
Students have the opportunity at Otterbein to study abroad and to participate in local and regional cultural immersion programs. Through intercultural experiences, students gain a deeper knowledge of and respect for another culture’s worldview, its values, customs, and traditions. These experiences qualify participants to earn a Global Engagement & Intercultural Experiences Card as part of our 5 Cards experiential learning program.
Study Abroad Information for Families
Family support for their student studying abroad is an important component of the study abroad experience. We encourage students to include their families throughout the exploration process. Important topics for families to consider:
- Cost – How do you anticipate paying for your program?
Utilize Student Financial Services to understand what financial aid is available to your student’s study abroad experience.
- Timing – When is the best time to go abroad? (academically and personally)
Students should work with their Academic Advisor and Student Success & Career Development to map out a plan of when to go abroad.
- Safety – Are there location specific concerns to be aware of?
Like with any other travel experience, there are inherent risks in any study abroad program. We discern and broadcast risks so students can take the necessary precautions. Our warranty of safety abroad is the same as the guarantee of safety in the United States. However, there are events that are outside our control and responsible behavior by your student lessens the risks associated with being abroad. Almost always, students who behave responsibly do not have difficulties abroad.
We invite families to call Otterbein University’s Student Success & Career Development at 614-823-1624 or email studyabroad@otterbein.edu to discuss any concerns you might have about your student’s participation in a study abroad program.
International Travel Policy & Registration
International Travel Policy
Before participating in any University-affiliated international travel, please review the International Travel Policy.
Students, faculty, and staff who are participating in University-affiliated international travel to a country with a U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory Level 3 or 4 must petition for approval to travel – approval is not guaranteed. Please contact the Study Abroad Coordinator to initiate this process.
International Travel Registration
Faculty and staff who are participating in University-affiliated international travel must register their travels.
If you are a student or a student organization, please contact the Study Abroad Coordinator for instructions on how to register your University-affiliated travel. If you are participating in a Faculty-Led Travel Course, your faculty leaders will complete your registration.
Study Abroad Handbook
This handbook has been created to help students prepare for individual study abroad experiences. While all aspects of this resource may not be relevant to every traveler, the basic travel tips and resources can serve as a guide for any faculty, staff, or alumni participating in University-affiliated international travel.