Family & Friends
The Towson University Study Abroad & Away Office encourages parents, friends and family to take an active role in supporting their student's interest in study abroad/away. Your encouragement and support can make all the difference in the success of their study abroad/away experience.
“ Living in South Africa for a semester was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I gained a new perspective on my major, was exposed to a completely new culture, made lifelong friends, and grew as an individual. I have become more open-minded, self-aware, and willing to do things out of my comfort zone. ”
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of studying abroad/away?
Studies have shown that study abroad has a long-term positive impact on a student's personal, professional, and academic life and can directly influence their career path, world-view, and self-confidence. Study Abroad/Away participants gain not only a global outlook but also a new perspective on the U.S. They learn to be more adaptable, acquire cross-cultural skills, gain insight into how their academic field is studied and practiced elsewhere, and significantly improve their professional and financial potential.
How can I get involved?
As your student navigates the study abroad/away program selection process and prepares for their time overseas, you may have a number of questions of your own. We have provided the following resources in response to the most commonly asked questions from family and friends and we hope you will find it useful.
What kind of study abroad/away program will my student participate in?
There are several types of study abroad/away programs available to students. These include TU Exchanges, TU Programs, TU Faculty-led Programs and Non-TU Programs. For a full description of programs and to utilize our search feature, please visit the Find a Program page.
How does my student choose a program? How can I help?
All students are encouraged to view our Study Abroad/Away 101 video to learn about the basics of study abroad. Our Study Abroad & Away group advising session is mandatory for all students (except those participating in a TU faculty-led program) and covers logistics including the application process, financial aid and scholarships, course, grade, and credit transfers, and other study abroad/away procedures. Once students have attended a group advising session, they can schedule a one on one meeting with a Study Abroad/Away Adviser - a member of our full time staff who is dedicated to advising on a specific region of the world. The adviser will help your student review program options and provide advice on how to choose a program that suits their specific needs. Take a look at the “What Type of Study Abroad Experience Do You Want” (PDF) worksheet that we share with our students.
What is the first step for my student?
The first step for students is to view the Study Abroad/Away 101 video. Another great opportunity for students to learn more about study abroad/away is to attend the Study Abroad & Away Fair, held twice a year in September and February. Please check the Study Abroad & Away Fair page for this year’s dates.
What will study abroad cost?
The cost of study abroad/away varies significantly depending on the program, destination, and length of stay. It is important that you discuss your budget with your student to help them choose the right program. Feel free to take a look at our Policies page for information on billing. In our group advising session students receive a Study Abroad/Away Budget Planning Tool (PDF) that you may also find helpful.
Do financial aid and scholarships apply toward the cost of the program?
Yes. TU financial aid can be applied toward TU exchanges and programs, and approved Non-TU programs but there may be some restrictions depending on the type of aid they receive. Students can request additional loan funds to help cover study abroad costs by submitting a Study Abroad/Away Budget to the TU Financial Aid Office. It is also a good idea to schedule an appointment with a Financial Aid Adviser to discuss borrowing options for the term abroad/away.
For answers to more of your questions, please visit the Supporting your student page.