How to Choose a Program Abroad

If you are just starting to think about going abroad, the International Education Center has many resources available to help you learn about your options:

1. Think about your personal, academic, and practical reasons for going abroad.  
2. Look at a list of Web links for programs in the most popular countries.
3. Our office and library are open Monday - Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm., and are always staffed with our professional staff and trained student interns, all of whom have studied overseas themselves. If you have questions that aren't answered by this site, please call or come see us in person.
   

OAP Application Process

The following is a general outline of the OAP application process. 
OAP application dealine dates are below.
Contact the International Education Center with questions:

International Education Center
Statistics Computer Bldg, Rm 1669
(951) 827-4113
Office hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 - 5:00

To apply for an OAP program, you must complete the following steps:

1. Before applying for OAP, attend an Info Session to find out how to search for a program that meets your needs. At the Info Session you will receive information on how to research OAP and information on EAP to help you match your background to the proper program.  Go to MyUCR Abroad to get started.
   
2. Spend some time researching programs in the IEC Library, on the Web, and at information sessions. Try these websites:
   
   • http://www.studyabroad.com
   • http://www.goabroad.com
   • http://www.iiepassport.org
3. Once you have found one or more programs that you are interested in, you are ready to make schedule an OAP Application Workshop.
   
4. Before proceeding please check the State Department website on countries with travel warnings. If your desired destination is on the list of travel warnings please read our policy on Policy Restrictions on Student Participation In Countries with U.S. State Department Travel Warnings.
   
5. Schedule an OAP Application Workshop to discuss the program and review the procedures necessary to transfer credit and use UCR financial aid. Use MyUCR Abroad to schedule your workshop.
   
6. You can apply to the OAP program before or after your workshop. You should send the application directly to the program sponsor or overseas university. Your application may ask for signatures from your OAP advisor. If so, let us know at the workshop. You can usually pick up the signed form within 24 hours.
   
7. Research Scholarships. Most programs offer their own scholarships. You can find some information here, as well.

OAP Campus Application Deadlines for 2009-2010
Give yourself at least 6 weeks to complete the application process!