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Learn who you are.

There’s no better way for students to immerse themselves in a country’s language, lifestyle and culture than to study abroad. API’s programs place students in prestigious universities across four continents, where they complete courses in language, humanities, STEM and more. By studying alongside local and international classmates, API students receive an education that is as much cultural as it is academic, offering them the chance to sharpen their social skills, build confidence, and engender a global literacy and curiosity that will serve them well beyond program’s end.

Overview of the Different Locations

Asia

More than half the world’s population lives in Asia, making the continent an ideal place to begin a global education. Students experience life in some of the world’s largest cities, with futuristic architecture and fascinating culture.

Europe

The epicenter of Western culture, Europe boasts historic works of art and architecture at nearly every turn. With more than 20 languages spoken on the continent, Europe’s educational opportunities are hard to beat, whether students study in Italy or Iceland.

Latin America

Life in Latin America is vibrant, from the passion of politics to the adventure of volcanoes and glaciers. Study abroad programs in Cuba, Argentina and Costa Rica, to name a few, offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in Romance languages and a culture that’s ever evolving.

South Pacific

On the other side of the world, Australia and New Zealand boast wildlife and landscapes most Americans will never see firsthand. With a reputation as one of the top regions for higher education in the world, the South Pacific offers world-class education in a scenic paradise.

Why Study Abroad?

With the globalization of economics, technology and communication, now more than ever, it is important to become a citizen of the world. API’s study abroad programs provide opportunities to develop global awareness and citizenship by building students’ confidence and comfort in their host culture through language learning opportunities and tutorials, cultural events and outings, community volunteer activities, and integrated classrooms alongside host country students, as well as other international students.

Study abroad participants often report a stronger sense of self-confidence, independence, and new cultural interests and understanding as the greatest personal benefits from going overseas. The integrated classroom experience with professors and students provides the opportunity for robust dialogue and exposure to diverse thought as students see the world through new perspectives. In addition, program participants are empowered to become independent in their host city but also have the support of caring, trained Resident Directors and Resident Coordinators to assist with cultural adjustment and provide guidance navigating through bureaucratic procedures in the host country.

Upon their return to the U.S., the API Alumni Program offers an opportunity for students to further process those reflections and apply them to their lives and home campuses.

Language skills and cultural literacy are essential components of API’s core values. Therefore, all students participating in study abroad programs where English is not the native language have the opportunity to study the host country’s language. In many programs, language courses are required; in others, they are offered as electives. API Resident Directors and Coordinators also offer informal language tutoring each week, and many program sites are happy to pair participants with local students to develop friendships and practice their language skills.

Some of the most important skills aspiring professionals need as they begin their careers aren’t learned in a classroom. When students study abroad, their education extends beyond their coursework, as they absorb the culture and traditions of their host countries and their people. In students’ time abroad, they learn patience, problem-solving, etiquette, empathy, cultural sensitivity and conflict resolution — all skills that give professionals an edge in the current job market.

Soon you will be competing against millions of other grads for jobs in a global economy. More and more employers and graduate schools are saying that international experience is a desired qualification when considering candidates for a position or program. Studying abroad can help you:

  • Enhance your resume with a unique experience
  • Form professional connections
  • Connect and apply your academic interests in a new context
  • Improve “soft skills” 
(adaptability, communication skills, conflict management, creativity, critical thinking, empathy, independence, leadership, organization, patience, persistence, problem-solving, taking initiative, time management, etc.)
  • Expand your global understanding, demonstrate cultural understanding and sensitivity, and help you bring unique perspectives to workplace

There’s no better way to get to know oneself than to experience life in another land, away from the comforts and crutches of home. A study abroad program builds independence and autonomy as students learn to make their way among unfamiliar people, places and norms. Students quickly learn which life skills come naturally to them, and they begin to build those that don’t, with the help of experienced teachers and new friends.

You're interested in studying abroad. Now what?

The first step to discovering the world is finding the program that's perfect for you. That's where our program finder can help. Explore our programs today.

How Do I Apply?

It’s easy! To apply to an API study abroad program there are a few simple steps:

1. Set up an online profile with API

2. Fill out an online application form

3. Pay your application deposit

4. Submit a transcript and a letter of recommendation (some programs require additional steps)

We'll help you every step of the way! It can take as little as 10 business days to receive notification of acceptance.

Looking for more information? Check out our Application Process page to see more in-depth information and FAQs!

Academic Information

Choosing the right study abroad program for you is more than simply finding a fantastic location or a school with the courses you need.

You (and your parents or advisors) may have questions, such as:

  • How much credit can I earn, and how will it be transferred back to my home institution?
  • Which academic institutions does API partner with abroad?
  • What is the quality of the academics at the institutions I'm considering?
  • What American universities does API partner with?

If you’re asking these kinds of questions, you’re on the right track! You can find more about transfer credit, our overseas university partners, and program accreditations by following the links included.

Financial Information

Financing your API program is one of the most important parts of study abroad, and API is committed to helping students navigate it successfully.

Start planning EARLY! Below is a list of the most frequently asked financial FAQs.

Study Abroad "Plus" Options

In addition to our dedicated Global Internship programs, API also offers students optional volunteer, service-learning and teaching opportunities while participating in a semester, academic year, or summer study abroad program. In many cases, students can earn academic credit, though some opportunities are offered without credit. Most of these opportunities are included in the cost of the program, though a few are offered for an additional fee.