International Studies

A: Each academic year, over 2,500 students at Georgia Tech go abroad through over 130+ education abroad programs offered through our institute. Education abroad brings numerous research-confirmed benefits to students, including, but not limited to: academic benefits–participants are more likely to graduate, and typically graduate with higher GPAs; professional development–participants develop a global mindset and skills desired by employers, and they also grow in career readiness; and personal growth–participants increase their confidence and independence while broadening their perspectives and intercultural competency.

A: Internships are good, but studying abroad is also helpful for your future job prospects. Here’s what the research says: 25% of employers surveyed stated that international experience was a top priority for hiring (QS study, Employer Insights Report 2020), and a study of the impact of study abroad on employment showed that 73% of respondents said they discussed their study abroad in an interview and more than 50% believe their overseas experience led to a job offer (2017 IIE study, The Impact of Study Abroad on 21st Century Skills & Career Prospects in the United States).

A: Most common eligibility requirements include the following: good academic and disciplinary standing, and at least aged 18 or older. Some programs may have additional eligibility requirements which will be listed on the individual program’s webpage.

A: Students can explore Georgia Tech Education and Internship Abroad Programs on the Georgia Tech Atlas page: atlas.gatech.edu. From the Atlas Program List, students can browse programs and compare options. After choosing your program, be sure to read all the information on the program’s Atlas page (if accessing through a program homepage, select “Apply Now” to locate its Atlas Page). On the Atlas program page, choose the “Apply” tab; you will be prompted to log in with your GT credentials and to set up an GT Atlas Account for your application. For the application itself, you will: 1) complete the online general and/or program-specific questionnaire, 2) pay the program’s deposit fee through the Online Deposit Payment System, and 3) submit any supporting documentation required for your program to the Office of International Education (OIE). Please note: your application is not considered complete until you have completed all items AND submitted payment.

A: Each program’s application cycle and deadline will be listed on its Atlas Program page. Applications for summer programs will open on the first day of classes of the preceding Fall semester. Most programs accept applications on a rolling basis— i.e. they are first come first served for qualified application–so it is best to apply as soon as possible. CoC summer program application deadlines are usually December 1.

A: Study Abroad programs help students fulfill their degree requirements for graduation. With a little bit of planning, students can study abroad AND finish by their anticipated graduation semester. We recommend students speak with their academic or study abroad advisor early to make a plan for the best timing and also consider saving the following courses for their study abroad terms: all electives along with humanities, social science, and ethics requirements. CoC summer programs specifically and consistently offer CS courses as well.

A: The cost varies by program, and you can expect to pay tuition plus the program’s fee, in addition to airfare and spending money. Click on the Costs/Scholarships tab of each program’s Atlas page to learn more. Most financial aid and scholarships, including HOPE, Zell Miller, Stamps, and Pell Grants, are applicable to GT study abroad tuition, and some are applicable to the program fee (ex. federal loans).

A: The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff when traveling abroad is our top priority. Upon acceptance to a program, education abroad participants must complete a mandatory pre-departure orientation. Each education abroad program will have additional meetings prior to program departure which cover important information regarding safe travel practices, insurance and health matters, and what to do in cases of emergency. Education Abroad programs organized and managed by Georgia Tech require participants to be enrolled in supplemental insurance contracted through the University System of Georgia (visit ea.oie.gatech.edu/health-safety to learn more). Students with U.S. passports are encouraged to register with the Department of State’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://step.state.gov/step to receive updates about health, safety, and security for their study abroad destination.

A: Yes, and maybe! You will need a valid, non-expired or non-expiring passport (good for at least several months past program end). It’s a good idea to get the application and renewal process started if you’re considering applying to a program. Each program will talk with you more about needed visas after you apply.

A: Contact Cynthia Tatis, Program Coordinator, College of Computing International Programs (cynthia.tatis@cc.gatech.edu).