Study Abroad
At SIU, studying abroad is possible for students of all majors! You can spend a few weeks during the summer or a full semester or academic year in another country, earning credit for your degree while gaining real world experience and learning skills to get you career ready.
Study Abroad Fair
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Student Center - 1st floor -
Art Gallery-South Escalators
Getting Started: What You Need to Know
Review the sections below to learn about how you can study abroad. Once you have done that, click on the Advising Application link under How to Apply to set up an individual consultation.
Browse Programs
Search Without Logging In
Just want to look around? You can search all available programs without logging in — no pressure, no account needed. You should review the Types of Programs first.
Explore your Options: Program Types
- Go with your favorite professor and fellow Salukis!
- Shorter, experiential programs
- SIU Faculty – earn SIU credit
- 1 to 8 weeks, Summer, Winter or Spring Break
- Learn more about Faculty Directed programs
- Explore Faculty-Directed Programs
- Trade places, pay SIU tuition.
- Semester or Academic Year
- Very cost-effective
- Competitive — apply early
- SIU credit
- Learn more about Exchanges
- Browse Exchange Opportunities
- Extra on-site support
- Study, Internships, Research, and More!
- Programs worldwide, any term
- Some cost less than SIU
- Transfer credit
- Learn more about Direct Enroll & Providers
- Find Partner Programs
Beyond Study Abroad
How to Apply: The Salukis Abroad Portal
Salukis Abroad is SIU's online portal where you can browse global programs, save your favorites, and start your application — all in one place. Whether you're just exploring or ready to go, this is where the journey begins. You can also access the Salukis Abroad Portal through SalukiNet
For most faculty led programs, you will complete one application through the Salukis Abroad Portal. For most other programs (exchange, direct enroll, partner, and some faculty led), you will need to complete an application through the Salukis Abroad Portal AND a second, external application. Reach out to our office with questions when you are ready!
First Time Applying? Here’s How It Works
If you're applying to any program other than a faculty-led Global Seminar, you’ll start with a quick advising application. Here’s what to expect:
- Log in using your SIU Network ID
- Create your profile in the Salukis Abroad Portal
- Complete the advising application
- Book a meeting with a Study Abroad Advisor
Make sure to finish your advising app at least 24 hours before your appointment so we have time to review it!
Application Phases: What to Expect
Once you start an application, you’ll move through a few phases depending on where you are in the process. Here’s a quick breakdown:
This is your prep phase. You’ll upload required documents and fill out questionnaires. Everything must be submitted by the deadline to be considered.
After the review date, you'll get an email to check your status. When you log in, you'll see one of the following:
- Accepted
- Approved by SIU (you may still need to be approved by the exchange university, partner or provider organization)
- Waitlisted
- Not Approved
If you're approved, you'll need to officially accept your spot by clicking "Commit." This step locks you into the program and allows us to move forward with your financial aid and registration. You won't be able to withdraw unless you speak with your program coordinator.
You'll also have a few more tasks to complete before you leave — including final forms and questionnaires.
Important Deadlines
- October 1st - Winter & Spring Programs
- March 1st - Summer & Fall Programs
While You're Abroad
Even while you're traveling, you can log in to MyStudyAbroad for updates or important info about your program. Think of it as your digital connection back to campus.
When You Return
Once you're back, you'll have a chance to evaluate your program and reflect on the experience. You may also get resources to help with reverse culture shock and learn about returnee events happening on campus.
How Can I Fund Study Abroad
Money shouldn’t stop you from going global.
You've got options — and we're here to help you find them.
Most students pay for study abroad using a mix of financial aid, scholarships, personal savings, and creativity. With a little planning, you can make it work — and we're with you every step of the way. Many options have costs similar to SIU.
What You Need to Know Up Front
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Most financial aid applies. Federal, state, and SIU aid can often be used abroad.
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You must have a FAFSA on file for the right term — even if you don't think you'll use aid. It is always better to have it filed so that you have the option of applying!
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You must be registered for a study abroad course to receive aid.
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You'll get a budget letter from SIU or your provider to submit to Financial Aid once you're accepted into a program.
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Planning a summer program? Ask for a preliminary aid estimate early — before the summer aid app opens.
TIP: Don’t indicate “study abroad” on your FAFSA — just list SIU Carbondale as your school. Financial Aid will adjust your budget if needed based on the program cost.
How to Choose a Program for You: What to Consider
This is your journey-make it yours.
Academics: How will courses apply toward your degree?
Goals: Career boost? Culture dive? Language skills? Adventure?
Location: Big city or small town? Coastal or mountains? Climate?
Group or Solo: SIU crew or go it alone and meet new people?
Budget: What is included? Does your aid apply? Any scholarships?
Housing: Residence Hall, apartment or host family?
Length: Summer, semester, or more?
Timing: How does it fit into your summer or graduation plans?
Eligibility, Credits & Academic Requirements
Who Can Go & What You Need to Know
Studying abroad isn't just for world travelers or language majors — it's for any Saluki ready to take learning to the next level. But before you hop on a plane, here's what you'll need to be eligible and earn credit for your experience.
Am I Eligible?
Chances are, yes — if you're already a student here, you're halfway there. To be eligible for most SIU study abroad programs, you'll need to:
- Be currently enrolled at SIU Carbondale
- Be in good academic and disciplinary standing
- Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 if you're an undergrad, or 3.0 if you're a grad student
Got a lower GPA but still feel ready? Don't count yourself out — exceptions can sometimes be made with support from our team and your faculty. We'll help you make your case if you're serious about going abroad.
How Credit Works
Going abroad doesn't mean pausing your degree — it means leveling it up. You'll continue to earn academic credit while gaining real-world experience in another country.
Here's how it breaks down:
- Faculty-led programs are built into your SIU coursework, so you’ll earn direct SIU credit.
- For semester or year-long programs, you’ll need to register for at least 12 credit hours per semester to stay on track. Exchanges count as SIU credits; direct-enroll or provider programs will be transfer credit.
- Every study abroad student must also enroll in our 1-credit Study Abroad Orientation course — this sets you up for success before you leave.
And if you're taking classes abroad?
You'll work with your academic advisor ahead of time to get those courses approved. As long as you pass with a C or better, your credits will transfer back to SIU.
Bottom line: If you're a Saluki in good standing and ready for something more, the world is open to you — and we’ll help you make it count.
What are the Benefits of Studying Abroad
Academic, Professional, and Personal Benefits
Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity that gives you the experience of traveling to another part of the world, learning about another culture, history, society, and people, while fulfilling academic requirements and achieving professional goals.
Click to read more about the benefits of studying abroad!
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