Education Abroad
A Division of the International Studies Office

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Student International Travel Considerations

  • U.S. Department of State: Revised Worldwide Caution.
  • Student University Related Travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza is restricted until further notice. 
  • For questions about international travel and risk of exposure to Mpox, read the guidance on Mpox from UVA Student Health and Wellness and consult with your medical provider as appropriate.

Entry Requirement for Travel To and Transit Through the United Kingdom: Travelers from the U.S. and many other countries are required to have a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter or transit through the UK. The ETA costs £10 and is valid for two years or until the passport used to obtain the ETA expires. Apply for the ETA online or through the UK ETA app. While approvals are predicted to be within three days or faster, students are advised to apply at least three weeks in advance of planned travel in case of processing delays. To learn more, visit the links above or watch videos on what an ETA is and how to apply for a UK ETA. 

Choose a Program

Choose a Program

Ask Yourself...

Selecting from the wide array of program options can be daunting; the questions below are designed to help you narrow down your goals and interests as you consider your options. You are encouraged to make an appointment with an Education Abroad Advisor after completing the online Education Abroad Workshop to review your thoughts and begin identifying appropriate program matches.

Academic Questions
  • Am I interested in a program that is related to my major/minor, or do I want to explore elective areas?
  • Do I need to fulfill any specific requirements for my major or minor? Can I fulfill these abroad?
  • Do I have the flexibility to take electives? How many?
  • What kind of academic setting do I prefer (lecture vs. experiential, large institution vs. small)?
  • What is the language of instruction? Do I have the requisite language skills (if the language of instruction is not English)?
  • Will the credit type (direct vs. transfer) impact my graduation?
  • Do I want to enroll as a visiting student at a university abroad or attend a program designed specifically for International/American students overseas?
Personal Questions
  • Why do I want to go abroad?
  • What do I really want to get out of this experience (i.e. language skills, new perspective on major/career, resume builder, cross-cultural experience, etc.)?
  • How will I challenge myself through this experience?
  • When do I plan to graduate?
  • How long would I like to study abroad?
  • What is my budget?
  • Consider needs related to your identity abroad
Location Questions
Lifestyle Questions
  • At what level of immersion am I interested?
  • Do I want to live with a host family, in an apartment or house with other Americans/international students, or in a university residence system?
  • What services does the program provide (housing, accommodation for special needs, social gatherings, excursions, etc.)?
  • How much support/independence do I need?
  • How can I integrate sustainability into my study abroad experience? 

Special Considerations

If you think you can't study abroad because you are an athlete, or in ROTC, or any number of other affiliations - think again! If your area of concern isn't addressed below, reach out to an Education Abroad Advisor to learn more about potential options for you.

Athletes

Student athletes are encouraged to study abroad! Meet with your Athletics Academic Coordinator or Academic Advising Dean to discuss your options and the best time to incorporate study abroad into your academic career.

International Students

International students at UVA must meet the eligibility requirements just like all other UVA students. Research the visa regulations for the host country in which you hope to study as these may be different for you. Due to stricter immigration regulations and visa delays, you must also be fully aware of the implications for travel outside of the U.S. and possible delays in returning; meet with an International Student Advisor before registering for a study abroad program and before any fees are paid so that you are fully informed first.

As of October 2024, new policy changes from the US immigration agency state that F-1 visa holders can only participate in study abroad programs shorter than five months in order to maintain their student status in the country. Carefully consider the length of any program (particularly semester) of interest.  

ROTC

It is possible to study abroad as an ROTC student! Plan early to make sure that your study abroad experience can fit in with your ROTC obligations. Students participating in credit-bearing Project GO programs must complete an Education Abroad application.

  • Air Force Cadets: Meet with your cadre or instructor.
  • Army ROTC Cadets: Meet with your year group advisor.
  • Navy Midshipmen: Meet with your year group advisor.
Veterans

Some, but not all, study abroad programs are eligible for VA Benefits. The VA will never pay fees in excess of the standard UVA fees. Contact Student Financial Services (434-924-4122) or email the Veterans' Affairs Coordinator with which program you hope to attend to determine if it is an approved program.