How to Pay for Study Abroad: A Guide for College of Charleston Students

Studying abroad opens doors to global experiences, career-boosting skills and lifelong memories. But you might wonder about the cost.  

College of Charleston programs are designed to be more financially accessible than you might think. 

With strategic planning, scholarships, financial aid and in-state tuition options, you can turn study abroad into a realistic and rewarding part of your education. You can even study abroad as early as your freshman year. 

Is Study Abroad Worth the Cost? 

For many students, the decision ultimately comes down to two questions: Is studying abroad worth the investment? And will it make a difference after graduation? 

Based on current research, the answers are yes and yes! 

• 97% find employment within a year, which is nearly double the rate of their peers.  
• 44% of hiring managers were significantly more inclined to hire graduates who studied abroad. 
• Study abroad alumni often earn higher starting salaries. 

Study abroad students gain: 

• Global perspective 
• Adaptability and independence 
• Real-world problem-solving skills 

In general, most study abroad alumni feel the experience strengthened their adaptability and communication skills. They also report that they are more independent and able to navigate unfamiliar environments comfortably. These are qualities employers consistently rank as essential in today’s workforce. 

Studying abroad at the College of Charleston provides extra value because of its nationally recognized study abroad programs* through the Open Doors Report. 

*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. 

Can I Afford to Study Abroad? 

We can all agree that studying abroad is a valuable experience. But we understand that cost is a concern. Our professional staff is here to help you make study abroad a reality. 

• For CofC-sponsored and exchange programs, residents can use your current financial aid, including FAFSA-based grants and loans.
• Non-resident students can use grants and loans, but will need to check with Financial Aid about using any institutional aid.
• You can apply scholarships directly to your program. 
• You’ll pay in-state tuition for CofC-sponsored programs. 

The cost of a study abroad program varies based on the type and length of the program. Some program options available at the College of Charleston are: 

• Year-long exchange 
• Semester 
• Summer and Maymester 
• Spring break 

How Much Does Study Abroad Cost? 

Total cost depends on the type of program. Students participating in College of Charleston-sponsored or exchange summer or semester programs pay in-state tuition. 

College of Charleston-Sponsored Programs  

• All students pay in-state tuition and fees. 
• These programs are created by College of Charleston faculty. In most cases, a faculty member or two will travel with students to teach their course(s). 
• The price includes program fees covering housing, excursions, insurance and more. 

Exchange Programs 

• All students pay in-state tuition and fees, including study abroad fee and study abroad insurance. 
• Students study at a partner university abroad. 
• This option offers a more independent, immersive experience at a lower cost. 

Other Study Abroad Options 

• You can participate in an affiliated partner program. 
• A comprehensive program fee is paid directly to this host organization. 
• Students do not pay tuition to the College of Charleston. They only pay the study abroad fee to CofC. 

Can You Use Financial Aid to Study Abroad? 

Yes. Many forms of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other financial aid can be applied to study abroad, including: 

• Federal loans 
• Federal grants, including Pell Grants 
• State grants 
• LIFE Scholarships 
• Palmetto Fellows Scholarships 
• Select institutional scholarships 

For College of Charleston-sponsored and exchange programs, students can often apply their existing financial aid and scholarships. That flexibility can make these options more cost-effective than affiliate programs. 

Tip: Summer programs require a separate financial aid application. Aid from fall or spring does not automatically carry over to summer programs. 

How to Find Study Abroad Scholarships 

If you’re considering going abroad, look for study abroad scholarships. Students at the College have multiple options, including:  

• College of Charleston scholarships 
• Center for International Education (CIE) scholarships 
• Departmental awards 
• Foundation scholarships 

Students can find and apply for privately funded and departmental scholarships through the Cougar Scholarship Award System (CSAS). 

Scholarship deadlines vary by department but generally are: 

• Summer programs: February 
• Fall/Academic year: Early April 
• Spring programs: Early October 

External Scholarships are also available from national organizations and program-specific awards, such as the federally funded Gilman for Pell Grant-eligible students and the Boren scholarship. Applying to multiple smaller scholarships can add up quickly, covering a significant portion of expenses. 

What Does Study Abroad Include? 

When evaluating the price of studying abroad, consider the different costs. 

Students in College of Charleston-sponsored and exchange programs will pay in-state tuition rates, which can be found on the Treasurer’s website. 

Each CofC-sponsored program has an associated program fee, which usually includes: 

• $150 study abroad fee 
• Housing accommodations 
• Some meals 
• International health insurance 
• Excursions and group expenses 
• On-site orientation and pre-departure advising 
• For spring break programs, round trip airfare to/from Charleston 

Budgeting for Your Study Abroad Experience 

Beyond tuition and program fees, students should plan for additional costs: 

• Book and supplies 
• Flights and baggage fees 
• Passport and visa expenses 
• Meals and daily living 
• Phone plans 
• Personal travel and spending 
• In-country transportation 

Costs vary by location and personal habits, so it’s important to build a detailed, realistic budget.  

Programs like College of Charleston-sponsored and exchange programs bundle many expenses, making costs more predictable. However, it’s important to account for extra expenses. 

Summer Study Abroad: What’s Different? 

For some students, shorter term summer study abroad programs make more sense for their schedule.  

You may be able to use financial aid for summer study abroad as well. But you must apply for financial aid separately. Aid from fall and spring semesters does not automatically apply to summer programs.  

Students need to submit a summer financial aid application to determine eligibility. 

How to Make Study Abroad More Affordable 

Students who successfully finance study abroad usually take a planned, strategic approach. 

Here are some tips for how to make studying abroad cheaper: 

• Meet with a financial aid advisor early. Confirm which aid, scholarships and grants apply to your specific program. 
• Apply for multiple scholarships. Consider awards available through the College, CIE, departments and external organizations. Smaller scholarships can add up quickly. 
• Start planning early. Begin six to 12 months before your program to ensure you meet important deadlines. 
• Choose College of Charleston-sponsored or exchange programs when possible. These options often allow more financial aid to be applied, making them more cost-effective. 
• Choose a smaller city. Lille, France, is more affordable than Paris. Stirling, Scotland, is more affordable than London.  

• Build a realistic budget. Factor in program fees, tuition, airfare, housing, meals and personal expenses. 

Taking these steps early can make your study abroad experience more affordable and reduce financial stress while you’re abroad. 

Make Study Abroad Part of Your Plan 

Financing study abroad doesn’t have to be overwhelming.  

With in-state tuition, financial aid, scholarships and early planning, it’s a realistic next step. At the College of Charleston, studying abroad is more affordable than most students expect. And students come back with real-world experience that sets them apart. 

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