Western Kentucky University WKU

Programs Students Parents Faculty Advisors Contributors OIP Home Scholar Development
Requires Flash Player. See ADA Link at bottom.
WKU Study Abroad
WKU > Study Abroad & Global Learning > Advisors

 

 

 

 

WKU Home

FAQ for Advisors

  1. Why should a student study abroad?
  2. Are the academics sound?
  3. How is the credit awarded?
  4. Will students need to be re-admitted upon their return?
  5. What are the procedures a student needs to follow?
  6. What about Financial Aid?
  7. Where do I find out about programs?
  1. Why should a student study abroad?

    Well this may be the easiest question of all. Reasons for studying abroad include personal growth, cultural understanding, academic advancement, tolerance, maturity, once-in-a-lifetime experience, enhanced career opportunities, and many more.

    TOP

  2. Are the academics sound?

    Yes. Each opportunity carries the same academic integrity as a regular course. The delivery system is much different and is often enhanced by the location. The location becomes the classroom. While students may not spend 36 hours sitting at a desk, they may spend many more actual contact hours in learning situations. Quality contact hours are not linear to the amount of time in a classroom in regards to study abroad.

    TOP

  3. How is the credit awarded?

    It depends on the program. With some of the opportunities, such as WKU faculty-led and CCSA, the course will actually be generated at WKU and appear on TopNet. Most exchange and KIIS opportunities will be treated as transfer courses. The study abroad approval form required by students prior to departure will allow departments to evaluate and articulate the return of credits.

    TOP

  4. Will students need to be re-admitted upon their return?

    No. Even if a student has participated in a year long program, the university will be aware and his/her return will be administratively seamless.

    TOP

  5. What are the procedures a student needs to follow?
    1. Apply to the program of choice (all programs will have an acceptance requirement)
    2. Complete all required WKU paperwork (study abroad approval form, insurance statement, and waiver of liability)
    3. Participate in all required preparation sessions (varies from program to program)
    4. Other requirements as designated by program director.

    TOP

  6. What about Financial Aid?

    There are three main sources of financing for Study Abroad opportunities.

    1. The World Topper Scholarship. Every year a significant amount of money is set aside to assist students in studying abroad. Several criteria are taken into account when the World Topper Scholarship committee awards these scholarships. As many students as possible who have complete and accurate applications are given assistance.
    2. A student's individual financial aid profile. Each student should check with WKU's financial aid office to inquire about the use of existing awards or the ability to receive aid through state or federal programs. As of now there are no specific state or federal programs for study abroad, but many existing awards will apply
    3. A student's ingenuity, industriousness, and creativity. Do not underestimate a students' ability to find creative ways to fund their study abroad experience. Students are often their own best friends when it comes to raising funds and finding answers to the financial questions. Please see the FAQ page of the student section for ideas.

    TOP

  7. Where do I find out about programs?

    Check out the Programs page for information on available programs. If you would like more information about any of the opportunities, please feel free to contact the program director or the Study Abroad Office.

    TOP