Step 1: Fill Out an Advising Questionnaire
- Have a 2.0 GPA and 12 college credit hours
- Discuss your study abroad plans with your academic advisor
- Fill out an advising questionnaire
- Research the study abroad options
- Determine which option fits your academic plans
- Consider other factors that may be affected by your decision (i.e. course sequencing, etc.)
Step 2: Make an Appointment
- Contact your study abroad coordinator at 210-485-0084 or
- Email the study abroad office
- Be sure to make an appointment before visiting the study abroad office
- If you need to cancel or change your appointment, call the study abroad coordinator
All appointments are held at the Alamo Colleges district office:
Office of International Programs
201 W. Sheridan, Bldg. C, Room C7
San Antonio TX 78204
Appointment hours:
Monday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Tuesday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wednesday: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Thursday: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Step 3: Select a Program
Study abroad programs are either faculty-led, exchange, or third party provider programs. The descriptions provided will help you decide which program option is best for you. The 2013 programs list is available on our Programs web page.
Faculty-led Programs
Faculty-led programs are short term group-based opportunities and are directed by faculty members from the Alamo Colleges. Students who participate in faculty-led program receive academic credit which may be used toward their degree and transferred to a four-year university.
Exchange Programs
The Alamo Colleges have exchange agreements with 41 foreign universities. These partnerships give Alamo Colleges students an opportunity to study at international institutions for a semester or an entire year while allowing students from partner universities to experience learning at the Alamo Colleges. Students studying abroad continue to pay Alamo Colleges tuition and fees and may stay at host institution dorms. Students with loans or scholarships may use their funds toward the cost of the exchange program. Program participants receive credit toward their degree while abroad.
Third Party Provider Programs
Third party provider programs are run by organizations that collaborate with the Alamo Colleges. These programs offer students academic credit for the classes they take at affiliate universities. Programs range from short term, long term, and internship options.
Step 4: Apply
All students interested in the Alamo Colleges study abroad programs must be eligible to apply to the specific program. Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and 12 college credit hours. Review the application process for study abroad for more information.
Step 5: Funding
Costs for programs vary. Most programs include fees for the course(s), program fees, air fare, housing, insurance, in-country travel, and some meals. Other expenses may also be included. You may be eligible for financial aid or study abroad scholarships. Review our resources page for more information.
Step 6: Travel Documents
Passports are required for students traveling abroad. If you do not have a passport, you may apply for one with the United States Department of State. If you already have a passport, be sure to verify that it will be valid for at least six months after your program ends. Participants who need a student visa should consult the study abroad coordinator. Copies of your passport and visa must be sent to the international programs office no later than one month prior to your departure date.
Step 7: Mandatory Orientation
Students participating in any study abroad program must first attend a mandatory orientation. All students must attend the session prior to departing for their program. Failure to attend the orientation may result in program cancellation. Study abroad orientation is scheduled as follows:
April 10, 2013
3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location TBD
Step 8: Student Handbook
The study abroad student handbook is each student’s helpful companion as they prepare for their learning experience in another country. Program participants are encouraged to review their handbooks for important information including pre-departure requirements, tips for packing, and academic and safety guidelines.