Why Should You Study Abroad?
Studying abroad can increase your earning potential and make your résumé stand out.
Above: First-year CofC students explore a museum in Denmark during spring break study abroad. (Photo by Mike Ledford)
International study does pay off. Literally.
Studying abroad can increase your earning potential and make your résumé stand out. Graduates with international experience often earn higher early-career salaries and enter top-paying fields.
When you study abroad, you build skills employers want. Students gain communication, adaptability and global awareness. It helps you navigate new challenges and work across cultures. Studying abroad strengthens critical thinking and prepares you for competitive, long-term careers.
Visit the Center for International Education to learn more about study abroad at the College.
Why Study Abroad at the College of Charleston?
College of Charleston students can take part in nationally ranked study abroad programs*. Whether on a spring break trip or yearlong exchange, students gain skills that make them more competitive in the job market.
The highly touted Open Doors 2025 Report on International Educational Exchange ranked study abroad programs at the College:
- No. 1 for short-term programs
- No. 2 for overall participation
- No. 5 for mid-length programs
*The Open Doors Report is published annually by the Institute of International Education (IIE). The nonprofit organization is the world leader in international education and exchange. IIE received funding from the U.S. Department of State. The College’s rankings are in the master’s level institution category.
What Are Your Study Abroad Options?
The study abroad programs at the College of Charleston are flexible. Students can fit international experience into almost any academic plan. In fact, they can study abroad as early as freshman year.
Multiple study abroad programs are offered at the College of Charleston. Consider academic priorities, finances and levels of independence when choosing a program. From faculty-led experiences to exchange partnerships, students can find a format that matches their goals.
College of Charleston-Sponsored
Most of these programs are led by College of Charleston faculty. They can be as long as a semester, as short as a week during spring break or a few weeks long during Maymester and summer. Students receive grades and credits that go on their College of Charleston transcript.
Exchange
This is the most immersive study abroad experience. Students live and learn alongside local peers. International students also attend the College as part of these programs.
Students often pick an exchange program because they met someone from that university at the College. Exchange programs offer course credit that transfers to the College.
Additional Study Abroad Options
Students can also explore Affiliate, Direct Enroll and Non-Affiliate programs. Each pathway allows students to earn degree credit while gaining valuable international experience.
Study Abroad FAQs
Yes. Students who study abroad often earn higher early-career salaries and enter top-paying fields. It also builds skills like cross-cultural communication, adaptability and global awareness, which employers highly value. Students also foster close connections with faculty members. This offers mentorship opportunities, future references and more.
Studying abroad strengthens problem-solving skills, cross-cultural communication, independence and professional confidence.
According to national data, students who study abroad are more likely to secure competitive jobs and see stronger long-term career growth. Employers value international experience because it demonstrates adaptability and global competency.
The College of Charleston is nationally recognized for study abroad participation. According to the Open Doors 2025 Report, the College ranks:
– No. 1 for short-term programs
– No. 2 for overall participation
– No. 5 for mid-length programs
Students benefit from various program options that fit different academic and financial needs.
Yes. The College of Charleston is ranked No. 1 nationally for short-term study abroad programs. Spring break and summer programs give students international experience without committing to a full semester. Some spring break offerings are available as early as freshman year.
Cost varies by program. Beginning fall 2025 semester, students participating in university-sponsored or exchange programs pay in-state tuition. This does not apply to affiliate programs. Financial aid options are also available.
In many cases, yes. Federal and state financial aid may be applied to approved study abroad programs. The College of Charleston also offers scholarships through the Center for International Education and the Cougar Scholarship Award System. Some affiliate and external scholarships may also be available.
Costs vary by program type. Students should meet with financial aid and study abroad advisors to review eligibility.
