Paying for First Year Abroad
Make First Year Abroad Work for Your Budget
Start college differently with CIEE First Year Abroad. Instead of heading straight to a U.S. campus, you’ll kick off your degree by living and learning in an incredible global destination. Earn 12-14 credits in one semester abroad or spend a full year exploring up to two exciting locations! Your campus will be the CIEE Global Quad – not a single physical space, but a network of CIEE centers and programs worldwide.
We are committed to breaking down barriers to international education. That's why we're proud to introduce scholarships that help make studying abroad possible for all students. This fall, merit-based awards of $500, as well as larger scholarships based on both merit and financial need, will become available. Need-based applications will require a short essay, academic transcript, and proof of household income (such as a 1040 tax form).
What’s Included in First Year Abroad
CIEE First Year Abroad program fees cover:
- Housing with a carefully screened host family or local residence hall
- Pre-departure assistance and online orientation (plus an in-person orientation on arrival)
- Support and supervision from experienced local staff
- CIEE-led excursions and cultural activities
- Tutoring and weekly participation in a First Year Abroad workshop
- Academic transcript for completed in-person courses from CIEE’s School of Record, Tulane University, and Arizona State University for online coursework.
- International medical and travel insurance
- 24/7 support and counseling for students and parents from CIEE headquarters staff
- Access to CIEE’s global alumni network
Is First Year Abroad more affordable than a semester of college in the U.S.?
Yes! Tuition, program, and enrollment fees for CIEE First Year Abroad start at just $9,500 – less than the average cost of in-state college. That means you could kick off college in an exciting international location for less than staying in the U.S.
Average Public 4 year - In State
$12,460*
Average Public 4 year - Out-of-State
$22,045*
Average Private 4 Year
$29,300*
CIEE First Year Abroad - Semester
$9,500-$17,500
*Based on the average cost per semester of tuition, housing, meals, and fees in the U.S. from the College Board 2024 report.
CIEE Discounts
When planning your First Year Abroad budget, keep CIEE’s discounts in mind:
- Refer-a-Friend Benefit: Do you know anyone at your school who participated in a CIEE program? Our alumni can share a $200 discount with their friends. Once you complete your application, you too will be able to refer your friends and earn a $200 cash reward when they go abroad with us!.
- Alumni Rewards: If you’ve studied abroad with CIEE before, you’ll receive a discount off your next CIEE program.
- Academic Year Discount: Receive $1,500 off your second semester when you study for a full year abroad. (This discount is automatically reflected in program pricing and your application. Talk to your Enrollment Coordinator for details. Visa and departure requirements may vary depending on your program.)
Fundraising: The Proven Way to Pay for Your Adventure Abroad
Looking for creative ways to fund your First Year Abroad? Download our Student Fundraising Toolkit for alumni-tested tips and strategies.
Bonus: Watch the video below to see how one student raised more than $5,000 for their CIEE program in just six weeks!
First Year Abroad
Register for one of our upcoming webinars to learn more about First Year Abroad. The CIEE team will answer your questions and help you get started on the next steps towards making your study abroad dreams a reality.
First Year Abroad Blogs
10 Budgeting Hacks for First Year College Students Abroad
Studying abroad has the reputation of being expensive, but it doesn't have to be! You may be surprised to learn that the fees for a CIEE First Year Abroad program... keep reading
Funding for First Year Abroad
As you prepare for a first year abroad adventure, we know that you’re starting to get organized and planning your to-do list – and that includes understanding your financial options... keep reading
6 Things Parents Should Know About Their Teen's First Year of College Abroad
As a parent or legal guardian of a teen who is considering spending their first year of college studying abroad, you'll want to know what to expect for them. How... keep reading