FAQ's 
Course equivalencies are arranged with Ball State academic department faculty and advisors after you commit to your program. As a part of the post-decision process, we’ll help you seek approval for the classes you plan to take. If you’re taking courses in multiple departments, getting each course approved by the corresponding Ball State approver can take time. All course approvals will be decided before your program begins.  

Housing will vary depending on which program you choose. For some programs, you will stay in hotels, while others may provide hostels or homestays. Longer programs, like exchanges, could place you in an apartment or a residence hall. Please keep in mind that accommodations in your host country may not be as luxurious as you are accustomed to at home, so keep an open mind. For example, electricity, heat, and water usage are often limited or more expensive than in the U.S., so conservation is important. You may also find different styles of toilets, different mattresses, etc.

If you’re leaning toward traveling abroad, you will need a passport. You must apply in person for first-time passports at an official acceptance facility. Appointments at our local acceptance facility in Muncie can be made online. We’ll take your passport pictures in the Study Abroad Office and can assist in ensuring your application is filled out correctly with all the documents you need. The current cost of a U.S. Passport is $165 for routine service. Please contact our office about potential grants to cover this cost.

We understand that safety is a top priority for you and your family. Rest assured, at Ball State, your well-being is our utmost concern. We take proactive steps to ensure your safety throughout your study abroad journey. Our programs are carefully selected in collaboration with trusted partners and institutions that maintain high safety standards. Before you depart, we provide comprehensive pre-departure orientations that cover safety protocols, cultural awareness, and local customs. We can guide you through any concerns you may have before, during, and after your time abroad. In addition, most of our programs offer on-site support teams to assist you in your host country. Your safety is our commitment, and we’re here to ensure that your study abroad journey is as enriching as it is secure.

There is almost always a way to balance your major with studying abroad. Discuss any concerns with your academic advisor to identify the best timing and program options. Short-term, relevant programs can align with your major’s demands. If studying abroad is a priority for you, let’s find a way to make it work without delaying graduation.

It’s always possible to apply with a friend. If not, going with a group could be a great option. Ball State has several group programs. We have faculty-led programs, which are groups of Ball State students with Ball State faculty, and provider programs, which are groups of students from many different universities around the U.S. that meet up in locations abroad. Even if you choose a program like an exchange or direct enroll— without a designated study abroad group—you almost certainly wouldn’t be the only international student on campus. You might find that your new campus abroad has the fastest friends you’ve ever made.

Student must provide written notice of intent to withdraw to the Rinker Center for Global Affairs (email studyabroad@bsu.edu).

Program Withdrawal prior to commitment deadline

Participants will not incur any direct costs for withdrawal from BSU. If the BSU deadline is later than your program provider’s deadline, provider procedures and policies supersede those of BSU.

Program withdrawal after Application Deadline

Participant will forfeit study abroad fee and assume responsibility for any non-recoverable expenses incurred or committed by BSU and its affiliates on participant’s behalf at the time of withdrawal, up to the entire program cost.

Study Abroad Office Travel Policy

This policy supplements the University’s International Travel Policy. The Study Abroad Office reserves the right to amend, suspend or cancel a program or other travel (prior to departure or in progress) if facts and circumstances are such that the Study Abroad Office concludes that the traveler’s health, safety and well-being may be jeopardized or would be inconsistent with applicable U.S. government sanctions or export control laws. Key indicators for evaluation include Department of State Travel Advisory level, CDC guidance, entry or re-entry restrictions, and restrictions on traveler mobility (e.g., quarantine, lockdown, flight restrictions, among others).

Financial loss resulting from such cancellation is primarily the responsibility of the program participants, but the Study Abroad office will make every effort to make decisions about amendment, suspension or cancellation in a time frame that minimizes financial loss for participants.

Myths
There are all different kinds of programs, and many are much more affordable than you might think. Some of our programs cost the same or less than a semester at Ball State. Keep in mind that there are ways to fund study abroad—scholarships are available, and you may even be able to use your existing financial aid.  
By planning ahead, you can study abroad while staying on track to graduate. Our programs have a wide variety of courses that allow you to satisfy core, major, and minor credit courses. We will help you find a program and term that works toward your on-time degree completion.  
Most of our programs offer coursework in English, regardless of location. With some programs, there is even a built-in course to learn the basics of the local language. Some programs have a language requirement because you’ll be taking classes in that language. Studying abroad is an excellent step to improve your language proficiency.  
You can study abroad at any time. Some programs require at least a sophomore standing, but not all. Studying abroad early may be the way to go, depending on how jam-packed your four-year plan is. We can find a program that offers courses that apply to your core curriculum requirements or a program that focuses on introductory courses in your major. If it works for you, you can also study abroad during your senior year, but we recommend meeting with us to talk about it.  
We offer a variety of programs that have different lengths. You could study for as long as an academic year or as short as a Spring or Winter break. These condensed experiences still provide valuable insights into new cultures, perspectives, and personal growth. You can choose a program that aligns with your comfort level and academic goals, making studying abroad a feasible and enriching opportunity, regardless of duration.