Fall Study Abroad

Whether or not you should study abroad in the fall depends on several factors, including your course schedule, weather in your program location, cultural activities and holidays, and more. When deciding when you should study abroad, you should:  

• Consider your academic schedule  
• Think about the location you want to be in  
• Ensure your desired program and academic topics are covered in your program (e.g. when are specialty programs offered?)  
• Consider what season and weather you prefer 

The items you pack for study abroad depend on several factors, including where you’re studying, when you’re studying, and what items are essential to you. In general, we recommend that you pack the following essentials:  

• Passport and Requisite Visa  
• Power Adapters  
• Currency  
• Medications  
• Comfortable shoes  

For a more detailed packing list, check out our article: The Ultimate Guide to Your Study Abroad Packing List (10 Essential Items!) 

At CIEE, the fall 2023 study abroad application deadline varies based on the specific program you choose. Fall ‘23 deadlines are as follows:  

• MARCH 1 
• MARCH 15 
• APRIL 1 
• MAY 1 

Check out CIEE’s Fall Semester Program Deadlines. 

Yes, there are fall study abroad scholarships available to you through CIEE. Scholarship and grant options for fall study abroad programs include but aren't limited to:  

• Need-based semester scholarships (Gilman Go Global Grant, GAIN Travel Grant, Minority Serving Institution [MSI] Grant)  
• Merit-based semester scholarships (Frederick Douglass Scholars, Ping Scholarship for Academic Excellence, Ritzmann Tropical and Marine Ecology Scholarship, and more)  
• Other scholarships (Go Abroad Again Grant and Refer-a-Friend Rewards)  

Explore all CIEE Scholarship and Grants options. 

There are equal pros and cons for fall study abroad and spring study abroad. Truly, neither time of year is better than the other. All that matters is selecting the best term for YOU. Be sure to consider what to expect from both seasons to make the best decision for your personal preferences, academic and professional goals, and more.  

Consider these key details to make your decision:  

• Review your institution’s schedule. Is your school on a semester calendar or part of the quarter system? Are there specific courses you can only take during certain semesters/quarters back home? This information can help you plan the right season to go abroad.  
• Check your graduation requirements. Depending on your major and projected graduation date, it might suit you to study in the fall versus the spring (or vice versa). Review any/all requirements to confirm.  
• Consider your campus life back home. If you go abroad in the spring, will you miss out on special school events? How about during the fall? Answering this will help you determine the right time of year to go abroad.  
• Take stock of your personal seasonal preferences. Things like holidays, weather/climate, what time of year is your favorite back home, etc. can all help you determine the right fit for you.