Make an appointment with your college counselor to see what type of study abroad programs your school offers. Your counselor may be able to put you in touch with other American students where you plan to study or with students who have returned from the country you plan to study in.
Research the country you are interested in to determine if your choice of subjects are covered in a program offered there. The country you wish to study in could be where your ancestors are from or a culture you want to study.
Read through the program qualifications to determine if you meet the requirements. Select a program that fits your field of study and the length of time you wish to attend school abroad, such as an internship, summer program, semester program, year program or a full degree or graduate program.
Apply for any available scholarships and financial aid.
Enroll in the program. Ask your college counselor for assistance, if necessary.
Prepare for your journey by obtaining your passport, getting any necessary vaccinations, saving money, learning the language and studying the laws and customs of the country. Look up typical weather conditions so you know what to pack.
Register your trip to inform the local embassy of where you are so it can assist you in the event of an emergency in the foreign country or back home. Check the travel warnings at the U.S. State Department's website, and stay informed of any international emergencies.