Cost is obviously a factor students need to consider when selecting a program—or deciding whether or not to study abroad. (We would argue, of course, that the benefits of studying abroad justify the expense.)
Costs vary considerably by program. We encourage students to “shop around”, selecting programs that match their pocketbooks as well as meeting their academic and personal goals.
When comparing program fees, students need to look carefully at what’s included and what’s not included. For each UI study abroad program, the Study Abroad office produces “cost sheets” which add up all anticipated expenses, including air fare and personal spending money. Students participating in non-UI programs would need to collect similar information from their program provider.
While important, cost is only one factor among many when selecting a program. Although it would cost a resident student less to participate in our exchange with the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa than to participate in our Critical Studies Program in Paris, if you are studying French you should probably go to France (or Senegal or Quebec or...).
