Nice, France walking

Unlock a Pipeline of College-Ready Students

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Reach your enrollment goals with CIEE College First Year Abroad 

CIEE College First Year Abroad (CFYA) is a world-class start to a student’s college experience. This unique college pathway allows students to launch their undergraduate studies overseas in one of 11 cities, earn 12-14 credits from an accredited institution, then transfer back to a college of their choice.  

Research shows:

  • Traditional colleges promise preparation, but fewer than 1 in 10 employers, students, and parents believe graduates are equipped with the real-world experiences they need
  • Students with study abroad backgrounds develop invaluable skills that help them succeed in college and beyond
  • By starting their higher education journey abroad, students gain the confidence, global perspective, and critical-thinking schools needed in today’s world

When they return, students bring their newly developed worldview, independence, and maturity directly into your classrooms.  

Benefits of Partnering with CIEE for College First Year Abroad 

High school summer group excursion in Madrid

Boost Enrollment with Globally Prepared Candidates

College First Year Abroad creates a seamless pathway for students to transfer into your institution. By referring students in your admissions pipeline, you can keep them engaged while increasing the likelihood they will enroll with you upon return – with no additional recruitment cost. 

Student in Kyoto on a hike during the fall season

Strengthen Your Admissions Pipeline and Reduce Costs

College First Year Abroad students arrive prepared for higher education with proven academic performance, confidence, and independence gained from their time abroad. This means your admissions team can enroll stronger, more committed students who are more likely to persist.  

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Improve Persistence with College-Ready Students

CIEE offers hundreds of the most popular first year courses, so students arrive on your campus on track and ready to persist. Official transcripts with 12-14 credits come from Tulane University, CIEE’s School of Record, or our partner for online education, Arizona State University.  

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Your Gateway to Students from Top U.S. High Schools

CIEE attracts students from diverse backgrounds and top high schools nationwide. These students – already distinguished by global experience – become your strongest college applicants. 

College First Year Abroad Programs

london bridge sunset

Enjoy access to eight royal parks in the heart of the city and more green space than any comparable location in the world.

Madrid

Madrid, where tapas are a highlight of local café tables, soccer cheers echo from Santiago Bernabéu, and lively plazas hum with music and conversation.

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  • Prague, Czech Republic

Visit cobblestone streets, historic bridges, and a castle overlooking dozens of churches, squares, and green spaces.

sunny day roman ruins

Explore the world’s most breathtaking cultural destinations like the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and Saint Peter’s Basilica.

Seoul

Combine your dreams of travel and university by spending your first year in Seoul, South Korea’s dynamic capital.

Pick Your Partnership Options

Referral Partner

Refer waitlisted or prospective students to CIEE College First Year Abroad to keep them engaged, reduce recruitment costs, and ensure a high-quality first-year experience that seamlessly transitions to transfer admission at your institution.

Transfer Partner

Recruit globally minded students after their CIEE College First Year Abroad experience by sharing your transfer admissions terms – we’ll guide them to apply and transfer credits toward their degree at your institution.

Custom Partner

Address capacity challenges by creating a custom First Year program abroad through CIEE College First Year Abroad – leveraging our global network of 45 locations, faculty, and courses to deliver your curriculum in a tailored, cost-effective way.

As a CIEE College Partner, join College First Year Abroad Admissions Access – an exclusive opportunity to showcase your institution to more than 8,000 CIEE high school alumni.

Request Information

Paris

CIEE has expanded its College First Year Abroad programs to support recent high school graduates interested in beginning their college careers internationally. 

College First Year Abroad programs also provide solutions for college admissions offices managing enrollment challenges, including recruiting a first-year class, managing limited student housing, and competing with peer colleges offering first year international programs. Fill out the form below to learn more.