Skip to Navigation
Thank you RCPD for the automatic door opener at the entrance to West Fee Hall. You've done a great deed for me and others with mobility issues.
-Milton Firestone

Study Abroad FAQ

Am I eligible as a study abroad program participant?

You must be in good academic standing with a GPA of at least 2.00 (or the minimum GPA as determined for the program) at the time of application. Some programs have additional eligibility requirements, such as language proficiency. Check the program brochure or appropriate page on this site for eligibility details.

What kinds of accommodations can I expect to receive abroad?

The United States is a world leader in the area of equal access for persons with disabilities. Many other countries are becoming more aware of the needs of the disability community but may not have the same level of access within their infrastructure. An important part of your study abroad experience will include learning how the host country defines and responds to needs of persons with disabilities according to their culture. MSU cannot alter systems, architecture, transportation, or laws in other countries, nor duplicate MSU’s campus. However, MSU can work with you to find a site compatible with your interests, and identify accommodations, as well as support systems in the host country that best coincide with your educational and disability needs. Meeting with a RCPD specialist and providing documentation of your disability is the first step to receiving assistance for your accommodation needs abroad.

Remember that the most important quality for any study abroad participant is flexibility. You are going abroad to experience a different way of life, which may include a different way of dealing with your disability and a different degree of independence to which you are accustomed. Be prepared to answer questions about your disability or accommodation needs from roommates, professors, your host family, or others who may be seeking to understand and be of assistance.

Can I afford to study abroad?

Yes, you can afford to study abroad! Studying abroad involves a commitment and is an investment in your future. Like any other type of investment, it requires planning, careful management, creativity, and perseverance. The personal, academic, and professional rewards will last a lifetime!

The program fees vary by program and are listed on the brochures or the study abroad Web site. Financial assistance is available when students make appropriate arrangements with MSU’s Office of Study Abroad and Office of Financial Aid (353-5940).

Scholarships are available on a competitive basis to MSU students with a GPA of 3.00 or higher. Check out http://www.miusa.org or contact OSA for possible sources of scholarships specifically for students with disabilities. Check “You Can’t Afford NOT to Go!” for additional funding ideas.

When should I begin?

Advance planning is essential, since it takes time to communicate with staff abroad and determine the feasibility of accommodations. Begin planning at least one year before the date you wish to study abroad. Start by contacting your RCPD specialist who will arrange a meeting with you and an OSA staff member. They will ask you specific questions that will help you articulate your needs and find the program best suited to your capabilities. Don’t forget to indicate your disability-related needs on your health form.

Use these ten keys to unlock the challenge!

  1. Plan early and communicate with advisers at the RCPD and OSA; they can assist you throughout the entire process. Begin gathering information from your academic adviser as early as the Academic Orientation Program. Discuss how study abroad can fit with your academic program.
  2. Register with RCPD if you have not already. Do so before planning your study abroad experience.
  3. Research information on various study abroad programs. Consider the connections to your educational and personal goals as well as the requirements for acceptance to a study abroad program.
  4. Attend the Study Abroad Fairs in September and February to speak with faculty and previous student participants about their programs. Students have found it helpful to talk to others with similar disabilities who have studied abroad. If there is no previous MSU participant with a disability similar to yours, OSA may be able to connect you with non-MSU students who have studied at the location of your choice.
  5. Identify accommodations that would minimize barriers and enhance your participation and enjoyment while abroad. Keep in mind that due to differing environments, you may need accommodations or assistance abroad that you may not typically need in the United States.
  6. Gather information on each program relating to your individual needs, e.g., arranged and public transportation, housing, alternative test taking, course requirements, etc.
  7. Narrow your options to one or two programs of interest.
  8. Speak to the OSA Program Coordinator responsible for your selected site(s). Consider your accommodation needs as well as financial assistance, personal assistants, or assistive technology. The more extensive your needs are (for example, sign language interpreters or accessible transportation), the more advanced planning time is necessary.
  9. Develop a budget and a financial plan for accomplishing your goal.
  10. Select a study abroad program and apply!


RCPD at MSU © 2007
Web Accessibility
Level Double-A conformance icon, W3C-WAI Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 Valid XHTML 1.0 Strict Valid CSS!