Study Abroad FAQs

Studying abroad isn’t just taking a trip. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the world and gain resume-building experience while earning college credits. And with programs lasting as few as two weeks and financial aid available, it is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss!

General Questions
Q: What types of study abroad programs are available at TSU?  
A: TSU offers faculty-led programs (1–6 weeks, group taught by TSU faculty), exchange/partner programs (semester/year at a partner university), and consortium/provider programs (with students from multiple universities). All options earn TSU credit and are open to qualified undergraduates and graduates.  
Q: Who is eligible for study abroad?  
A: Full-time, degree-seeking TSU students in good academic standing (minimum GPA 2.5). Some programs may have additional prerequisites or requirements.  
Q: When should I start planning?  
A: Ideally, 6–9 months before your planned departure. This ensures time for applications, funding, passport/visa, and course approvals.  
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Q: What funding is available for study abroad?  
A: TSU Study Abroad Grant ($1,500 to early applicants), financial aid (Pell, HOPE, loans), national scholarships (Gilman, Boren, FEA, Diversity Abroad), and program-specific scholarships. Multiple funding sources can be combined.  
Q: Can I use my financial aid (Pell, HOPE, loans) for study abroad?  
A: Yes, if you study in a TSU-approved program and register for credits that count toward your degree. Complete a consortium agreement with TSU’s Financial Aid Office.  
Q: How do I apply for the TSU Study Abroad Grant?  

 A: Submit the application (available October–February for summer programs), transcript, essay, and (if available) passport copy. The grant award is for $1,500 of program fees for qualified students.  
Application & Preparation
Q: What is the first step if I’m interested in studying abroad?  
A: Schedule an advising appointment with the TSU Office of International Education. Begin researching programs, funding opportunities, and application deadlines.  
Q: Do I need a passport/visa?  
A: Yes, a valid passport is required for all international programs. Some destinations require a student visa, which takes additional time and paperwork. Start this process early.  
Q: What are my housing options abroad?  
A: Housing depends on the program: options include residence halls, homestay with local families, apartments, or hotels. You’ll learn details as you apply for each program.  

Ways to Finance Your Study Abroad Experience: 

A. TSU’s Study Abroad Grant:

This grant is available to qualified full-time and degree-seeking TSU students. The grant award is $1,500 for approved individual student study abroad programs. This grant award application opens in October and closes in December of the Fall semester prior to the next calendar year’s summer execution.

For travel during the summer of 2026, grant applications will be accepted from October 1, 2025, to December 19, 2025.

B. Program-specific scholarships

The Office of Diversity and International Education (ODIA) offers various programs, many of which include their own unique scholarships to assist students with expenses abroad. The following websites provide information on potential opportunities and the application procedures.

(Click on Study Abroad, then Scholarships)

USAC:
http://usac.unr.edu/money-matters/financing/scholarships-and-discounts

C. TSU Financial Aid

It is advisable to explore all scholarship opportunities before utilizing federal loans; however, many students take out loans as a safety net in case unforeseen problems arise abroad. Students may be able to use their financial aid while studying abroad. The TSU Financial Aid Office can counsel students on the availability of funding.

D. Gilman scholarship:

This scholarship is awarded to U.S. citizens who are recipients of Pell Grants. The length of study has a minimum of four weeks; students who have never been abroad before and are traveling to non-Western European nations are the most competitive. Follow this link to access the application form and view the current deadlines.

E. Boren scholarship:

The NSEP (National Security Education Program) will award students up to $10,000 for undergraduate studies in non-traditional (non-Western European) areas. This is a competitive scholarship. Follow this link to access more information. 

F. Fulbright, and other International competitive undergraduate opportunities:
http://www.cies.org/

G. Fund for Education Abroad (FEA):

Scholarships of up to $ 5,000 are intended to support students planning to participate in a high-quality, rigorous education abroad program of four weeks or longer.
http://www.fundforeducationabroad.org/

H. Diversity Study Abroad Scholarships:

Diversity Abroad partners with dozens of study abroad organizations. Several of these organizations offer scholarships for diversity study abroad programs.
http://www.diversityabroad.com/minority-study-abroad-scholarships

I. General Search Engine for Study Abroad Funding Opportunities:

This valuable funding resource allows students to search by country or subject to find study abroad funding information. It is a comprehensive database of study abroad scholarships, fellowships, and grants that can help make any student’s dream of studying abroad a financial possibility and a profound reality.
http://www.studyabroadfunding.org/


Visit the Office of International Education, located at Avon Williams Downtown Campus, Suite A400, Fourth Floor.

Contact us at studyabroad@tnstate.edu or (615) 963-7274