Plan Your Education Abroad

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At South Dakota Mines, we believe in the power of exchange and strive to develop cross-cultural connections. International experience through education abroad is a great way to gain a broader worldview and global working experience.

For any Education Abroad experience, students must:

Watch this video on getting started

Your Journey Starts Here: The Exploration Phase

Ready to see the world while you study? The first step is exploring your incredible options. This is your chance to find a program that perfectly fits your academic goals and personal dreams. Let's turn your curiosity into a plan.

Step 1: Get Inspired & Informed

Your adventure begins on campus! We're here to help you every step of the way.

  • Attend an Info Session or Fair: Come to our events to get a broad overview of your opportunities, hear from past students, and get your questions answered in person. It's the perfect way to start.

  • Sign Up for the Education Abroad Newsletter: Never miss an update! Get deadlines, new program alerts, scholarship opportunities, and event invites delivered straight to your inbox. This is your digital command center, packed with checklists, resources, and step-by-step guides to keep your application on track.

Step 2: Consult Your Advisor & Start the Process

Now that you're inspired, it's time to connect with the key people who will help turn your plans into a reality.

  • Discuss with Your Academic Advisor: Bring your ideas and excitement to your major advisor. They will provide crucial guidance on how different programs might fit your degree requirements and help you understand what courses you need to take while abroad.

  • Submit Your Interest Form: Let us know you're ready to explore! Fill out the Education Abroad General Interest Form. This tells our team you're serious, and we'll contact you to schedule a one-on-one advising appointment to discuss your options and start your application.
Step 3: Build Your Program Wish List

The best way to start is to simply begin building a list of programs that interest you! As you explore, keep track of them so you can compare later.

  • Find Program Options: Explore the trusted program providers and partner universities we work with. Here are some options.

  • Use Our Education Abroad Options Matrix: Staying organized is key. Download the Worksheet to evaluate and keep track of different programs all in one place. This will make your decision much easier.

Step 4: Plan Your Investment

Studying abroad is an investment in your future. Smart financial planning makes it possible.

Step 5: Navigate Logistics & Requirements

Once you have a few top choices, it's time to dig into the essential details. Start these processes early!

  • Passport: If you don't have a valid passport, apply for one immediately. If you have one, check its expiration date (many countries require it to be valid for 6 months after your return).

  • Vaccinations: Check for health advisories and vaccination requirements for your destination country.

  • Insurance: All students traveling abroad are required to have the SDBOR-specific international insurance. We will help you enroll.

  • Visa Requirements: Most countries require a student visa. Check the specific requirements on your destination country’s embassy website well in advance, as the process can take months.

Top Questions Students Ask

Go as early as your freshman year, or if you are a transfer student, in your second semester. It depends on what you want to do, how long you want to be gone, and where you want to go. Many students have had multiple education abroad experiences during their time at South Dakota Mines.

No, not at all! There are so many options, from short-term to summer, week, etc. It all depends on your goals and preferences.

We work with you and your department before you leave to make sure the classes you are taking will transfer to South Dakota Mines. Students may choose courses that won't count toward their degree simply because they are interested in those courses. Courses like that may transfer to South Dakota Mines as a general elective.

Only sometimes! A variety of programs are taught in English; however, learning the language can help you more fully adjust to the country's culture and area. The benefits of a foreign language can help in future career opportunities by enhancing your worldview and improving your personal skills in areas such as critical thinking (adapting to new circumstances), multitasking, and non-verbal communication.

Cost will vary based on what you are doing and your destination. It will also depend on if you will do an exchange, direct enroll, third party provider, or other type of education abroad experience. Each option has different benefits. 

  • Attend an education abroad session (We have one each semester.)
  • Talk to the Ivanhoe International Center staff
  • Sign up for the announcements email list - we send information about different opportunities and programs that may be of interest to you. This is for current students only.