Global Engagement > Student Resources > Study Abroad > For Students > Identity-Based Resources

Identity-Based Resources

Studying abroad is frequently cited as a milestone in a student’s personal development. Having the opportunity to explore different cultures not only teaches you about them, but also your own. Explore the resources below for identity-based student populations to learn more.

Be the First!

First generation students are the first in their family to attend college or university. It takes courage and determination to be first! DePaul Study Abroad is here to help first generation students navigate and locate helpful resources to pursue an international study experience during their academic career.

We understand that first generation students may face a distinct set of challenges when it comes to studying abroad, but our aim is to inspire you to enhance your academic experience as you pursue your degree.

Did you and your family know…

  • According to a study by the Institute for International Education, less than 10% of American college graduates have studied abroad. You could become a member of this elite group!
  • Students who study abroad tend to have higher GPA’s and GRADUATE ON TIME.
  • Students who study abroad are typically hired by employers within six months of graduating.
  • Students who study abroad tend to earn a higher annual salary than their non-study abroad peers.
  • Study Abroad is an investment. There is evidence of direct economic benefit to study abroad students post-graduation.

Share these facts with your family and friends. You can help them better understand the benefits of study abroad and why you are considering an international learning experience. It is helpful for family and friends to understand how important studying abroad is so they can provide support and encouragement to you in pursuing these goals.

Selecting a Program

We recommend choosing a DePaul sponsored study abroad program because all current financial aid and scholarships you receive will remain in place. DePaul-sponsored scholarships are available for students studying abroad, with specific scholarship funding available for first generation students. Apply for scholarships at the same time that you apply for a study abroad program.

If you are interested in a Non-DePaul study abroad program, you can still receive federal financial aid, but will need to apply to external scholarships.

Cost

Study Abroad does not have to be expensive! The cost of study abroad at DePaul is tuition plus a program fee. Tuition is billed at your regular DePaul tuition rate based on the number of credits enrolled. Program fees vary across short-term and term-long programs. Be sure to search for affordable programs or cost-effective programs, where you get the most “bang for your buck”!

Location

Location! Location! Location! The destination matters! 

You may want to choose a city or country overseas that has a lower cost of living than here in Chicago. It can be cheaper to live in certain places around the world than in the U.S. Keep in mind different currencies used and currency conversion rates. Also, try to find a program where it may be possible to work abroad in a part-time job in an effort to continue earning money while on a study abroad program.

Academic Fit

Explore which types of courses are offered on study abroad programs. Certain programs may be better tailored to students with certain majors and minors. A study abroad advisor can help you find a program that offers courses to fulfill your academic degree requirements. This way, you can study abroad and still graduate on time. Leave electives open and liberal studies domain courses open, in an effort to take these types of courses abroad.

Financing a Program

Apply for DePaul Sponsored Scholarships

DePaul Study Abroad sponsors the Students of Color Scholarship, First-Generation Scholarship, Term-long Scholarship, Short-Term Scholarship, First Year Abroad Scholarship, and Halstead Scholarship. Remember to apply for the DePaul sponsored scholarship at the same time that you apply for your study abroad program. The deadlines to apply for the program and the scholarship are the same. Scholarship application deadlines will not be extended.

Apply for External Scholarships

It is important to hunt for funds that may be available in scholarships nationwide. Use study abroad scholarship databases in which you can search for funding based on a variety of criteria. There are destination-based scholarships, heritage-based scholarships, language-based scholarships, area studies scholarships and even corporate scholarships that may help to fund your study abroad program.

Start Crowdfunding

More students are finding ways to collect funds to help them study abroad, including the use of online crowdfunding. Students have started fundraising campaigns on websites (like gofundme.org) in which they reach out to social, familial, religious and other communities to which they belong. Students are able to galvanize family, friends and community members in an effort to support their academic goals. When you give others a chance to help you reach your dreams, you might be surprised at how much the people who care about you want to see you succeed. 

Consider Personal / Private Loans

We understand that most first generation students work part-time or even full- time jobs – and often need to cover the cost of a study abroad program with financial assistance from private loans. We know that this is often the last resort to finance an international study program, but in the case that a private loan can help, it is important to seek out a family member to serve as a co-signer on a personal loan. The benefit of taking out a private loan, is that you can build your personal credit history by paying off these loans over time – thereby demonstrating that you are a good financial borrower.

Use a Budget worksheet

Use the Study Abroad Budget Worksheet to help you plan your budget and compare total costs across programs. Look carefully to see what is included in the study abroad program fee and ask your Study Abroad Advisor if you have questions.

Contact a Financial Aid Counselor

If you need assistance calculating the cost of your study abroad, please contact a Financial Aid Counselor. Also, the financial office aid may offer foreign travel grants to students with a valid FAFSA on file.

Resources

On-campus:
Please reach out to the Study Abroad office to discuss any questions or concerns you may have regarding studying abroad. We may also be able to connect you with previous study abroad participants to discuss the specifics of the program you are interested in.

Additional:

  • AllAbroad.us is a great resource for funding advice, outreach materials and study abroad advice specifically written with first-generation students in mind.
  • Diversity Abroad provides tips for first-generation students on how to best prepare for studying abroad; this includes advice, scholarship information, student testimonials and more.
  • First Generation Student is a great website for first-generation students in general, but they also feature student testimonials from study abroad programs.
  • Global Scholars offers online modules for study abroad courses—pre-departure, while abroad and return.

Contact Us

For next steps, email DePaul Study Abroad at abroad@depaul.edu or call us at 312-362-6962.

Whether you already identify as a lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer or asexual student or are still exploring your own sexual and gender identities, Study Abroad seeks to provide the most beneficial programs and resources for you. 

In collaboration with LGBTQA Student Services, Study Abroad has compiled information regarding the selection of programs, questions to ask yourself, and additional resources including on-campus, off-campus and financial resources.

Selecting a Program

Research your host country and any other countries you may visit! The belief systems and values held there may differ heavily from your own or they may be more closely aligned than you previously thought. As a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning individual, there are social, political, legal, medical and personal considerations you must make while planning your future study abroad endeavor.
 
Consider your own identity. Establish what is important and necessary for you and determine how you would navigate new situations.
  • Am I currently out or open about my sexuality or gender identity in my home country?
  • How open am I going to be with my sexuality or gender identity with my peers, roommates, homestay family, professors, etc. while abroad?
  • If I am not out or open about my sexuality or gender identity in my home country but plan on coming out while abroad, will there be resources or support I can access?
  • Some countries are more progressive in their beliefs regarding sexuality and gender identity than others (even my home country), is my host country like this?
  • In general, are there safety considerations that I should be aware of?
  • How important is it for me to find other LGBTQ identified individuals?
  • Will I need access to certain medications or services while abroad?  If so, will I need to provide further documentation to ensure I receive them?
  • Are there any LGBTQ resources nearby? How can I find and access them?
 
Consider the host country’s social and political climate regarding sexual and gender identity.
  • What are the cultural and local attitudes in my host country towards people of my nationality, tourists, sexual orientation and gender identity? What is the attitude of local residents toward LGBTQ individuals?
  • What is the social perception of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning people in my host country? How are LGBTQ individuals socially defined? What roles do LGBTQ people play in the host culture?
  • What are gender relations in the host culture? What is considered typical male and female social behavior in the host culture? Does the host country operate within a strict binary?
  • Is the country I am staying in more progressive than my home country regarding issues of sexuality and gender?
  • What is the current government’s view on LGBTQ rights? What about the past governments?
  • Are there any conflicts going on within the host country that LGBTQ citizens and visitors should be especially aware of? If so, what is the government/police’s role in the conflict?
Consider the host country’s access to certain medications and services.
  • Will I have access to the medications and supplies I currently take or use in my host country?
  • Do I need additional documentation to ensure I can receive the medication, supplies and services I require?
  • Are there any physicians I can see while abroad? How will I find them?
Consider the host country’s laws regarding sexual and gender expression.
  • What is the police attitude towards LGBTQ individuals (both local residents and visitors)?
  • Are there “public decency” laws? Or sodomy laws? Are they different depending on gender?
  • Are there any gender-specific laws?
  • What is the age of consent? Does it differ for heterosexual versus same-sex couples?
  • Does the law require having “proper documentation” at all times?
 

Financing a Program

If you are intending on enrolling in a DePaul-sponsored program, all of the financial aid and scholarships you currently receive will remain in place. Additionally, there are DePaul-sponsored scholarships. If you decide to go on a program through an outside service provider or university, you can still receive federal aid but would need to apply to external scholarships.

Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) offers a Rainbow scholarship for LGBTQIA students participating in study abroad programs.

Advisors

If you are interested in studying abroad for a quarter or longer, contact the advisor in your geographic region of interest. For short-term programs over breaks, visit the website for the program you are interested in for their contact information.

Regardless of the program, any advisor will be happy to meet with you to discuss any uncertainties or answer any questions you may have.

Resources

On-campus: Additional:

Students of color and students from underrepresented ethnic and religious groups successfully study abroad every quarter here at DePaul.  In terms of the issue of race, some students feel that they are effected different while they are abroad than they are here in America, while some feel that the experience is quite similar to their lives here in America.

In collaboration with the Office of Multicultural Student Success (OMSS), Study Abroad has compiled information regarding the selection of programs, questions to ask yourself and additional resources including on-campus, off-campus and financial resources.  Contact our office if you would like to talk to a student of color who has participated in study abroad.

Selecting a Program

Research your host country and any other countries you may visit! The belief systems and values held there may differ heavily from your own or they may be more closely aligned than you previously thought. As a student of color, there are social, political and personal considerations you must make while planning your future study abroad endeavor.

Consider your own race and cultural background. Establish what is important and necessary for you and determine how you would navigate new situations.
  • What is the racial make-up of my host country/city/university?
  • What expectations do I have of the experience?
  • Is there any local community that shares my heritage—and what are my feelings about having or not having such a community available to me?
  • Some countries are more progressive in their beliefs regarding race than others (even my home country), is my host country like this?
  • In some countries, discrimination may be more overt than it would be in other places, is my host country like this? Are there local stereotypes or discrimination regarding individuals of my background that might be similar to or different from what I’ve experienced in the U.S.?
  • How will I deal with discrimination abroad? Are their resources within the host city/university that I can access? If so, how do I find them?
  • Are there safety considerations that I should be aware of?
Consider the host country’s social and political climate regarding race and ethnicity.
  • What are the cultural and local attitudes towards people of my nationality, race and ethnicity in my host country? What is the attitude of local residents toward people of color?
  • What is the social perception of people of color in my host country? How are people of color socially defined?
  • What roles do people of color have in my host country?
  • What are the racial relations in the host culture?
  • Is the country I am staying in more progressive than my home country regarding issues of race?
  • Are there any conflicts going on within the host country that citizens and visitors of color should be especially aware of? If so, what is the government/police’s role in the conflict?

Financing a Program

If you are intending on enrolling in a DePaul sponsored program, all of the financial aid and scholarships you currently receive will remain in place. Additionally, there are DePaul-sponsored scholarships for students studying abroad, with specific scholarship funding available for students of color.  If you decide to go on a study abroad program through an outside service provider or university, you can still receive federal aid but will need to apply to external scholarships. 

Additionally, Michigan State University has compiled an impressive list of external scholarships.

Advisors

If you are interested in studying abroad for a quarter or longer, contact the advisor in your geographic region of interest. For short-term programs over breaks, visit the website for the program you are interested in for their contact information.

Regardless of the program, any advisor will be happy to meet with you to discuss any uncertainties or answer any questions you may have.

Resources

On-campus: Additional:
  • AllAbroad.us advocates for increased participation and diversity in study abroad. There are sections for students, parents and faculty/staff. It also includes a "Mentor" section with video clips of mentors who have answered questions about studying abroad as well as an extensive listing of scholarship opportunities.
  • DiversityAbroad includes advice, scholarship information, student testimonials and more.
  • PLATO: Project for Learning Abroad, Training & Outreach addresses some of the issues and challenges ethnicity may play in the study abroad experience for underrepresented students and links to additional information, resources and scholarships. This site also includes the top 10 reasons for students from African-American, Hispanic-American, Native American and Asian/Pacific Islander backgrounds to study abroad.
  • Michigan State University provides information for students of color interested in studying abroad as well as a comprehensive list of scholarships available to students of color considering study abroad.
  • Global Scholars offers online modules for study abroad courses—pre-departure, while abroad and return.
Study Abroad aims to provide equal access for students interested in an international education and information on accessibility. In collaboration with the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD), Study Abroad has compiled information regarding the selection of programs, questions to ask yourself, and additional resources including on-campus, off-campus and financial. 
If you are considering study abroad, please let Study Abroad and the Center for Students with Disabilities know so that we can help you select and plan for a program that meets your needs.
 

Selecting a Program

Research your host country and any other countries you may visit! Just as cultures differ, so do the perceptions and disability accommodations from country to country and city to city. The key for any study abroad participant is flexibility while still receiving the support you require. The more you know, the better prepared you will be for the interaction between your disability and the new environment.
 
Consider the host country and university’s access to services/support:
  • What are the physical environments like in my host country? Are there cobblestone streets and sidewalks?
  • What is the general attitude in my host country towards disabilities and people with disabilities? What kinds of resources are available in my host country?
  • Are there any language differences I should be aware of regarding my disability or necessary accommodations?
  • Are there elevators at the university? Are there elevators at residence halls?
  • How are the classes taught? Is it mainly through lecture, readings, independent research, etc.?
  • Is there an office at the university abroad I can reach out to for accommodations to be made regarding exams, class materials, etc.?
  • How are the assignments and grading scales different?
  • What housing options exist?
  • Is transportation available and accessible?
Consider your own needs and what services/support you may require while abroad:
  • Is the program staff, both at home and abroad, aware of my disability so appropriate arrangements can be made in advance?
  • Does the university provide physical and academic accommodations? If so, how do you request or access these?
  • Is there an office or department that I can utilize at the university abroad? If so, how to I contact them?
  • Will I have access to the medications and supplies I currently take or use in my host country?
  • Do I need additional documentation to ensure I can receive the medication, supplies, and services I require?
  • Are there any physicians I could see while abroad? How would I find them?
  • Am I required to provide my own meals and groceries? Is there a cafeteria that I can access?
 

Financing a Program

If you are intending to enroll in a DePaul-sponsored program, all of the financial aid and scholarships you currently receive will remain in place. Additionally, there are DePaul-sponsored scholarships. If you decide to go on a program through an outside service provider or university, you can still receive federal aid but would need to apply to external scholarships.

In addition, check out Mobility International USA’s list of Disability-Related Scholarships!

Advisors

If you are interested in studying abroad for a quarter or longer, contact the advisor in your geographic region of interest. For short-term programs over breaks, visit the website for the program you are interested in for their contact information.

Regardless of the program, any advisor will be happy to meet with you to discuss any uncertainties or answer any questions you may have.

Resources

On-campus: Additional:
  • U.S. Department of State includes summaries of the policies of different nations toward individuals with disabilities as well as helpful travel information.
  • Center for Disease Control (CDC) provides tips and resources for students who travel abroad including recent health notices.
  • Mobility International USA (MIUSA) aspires to empower people with disabilities through international exchange, information, technical assistance and training to ensure the inclusion of people with disabilities in international exchange and development programs.
  • Access Abroad is a collaborative effort at the University of Minnesota and provides country-specific information on disability-related attitudes and legislation, as well as details on accessibility at selected study abroad sites.
  • Global Scholars offers online modules for study abroad courses—pre-departure, while abroad and return.

DePaul DREAM Statement

At DePaul University we affirm the dignity of the individual. We value diversity and culture because these are part of our core values and traditions as a Catholic, Vincentian, and urban university. DePaul University has decided to take a strong and public stand for supporting undocumented students, and DREAM Act legislation. Read DePaul’s full DREAM statement here.

Study Abroad & DACAmented Students

This page should serve as a guide for support and resources that DACA students interested in studying abroad can find at DePaul and external resources for continued support and success. The DePaul Study Abroad office continues to hope for new avenues for DACA recipients and similar cohorts to study abroad through new legislation. The information below is not intended to constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.

Virtual International & Domestic Opportunities

The DePaul Study Abroad office encourages DACA students to consider any of the various virtual and domestic programs offered by DePaul as an alternative to a traditional study abroad program. Students can participate in virtual international opportunities from the comfort of their home, or in domestic opportunities and travel in the U.S. with a driver’s license, state identification card, passport, or other document accepted by the mode of transportation.

Advance Parole

Students who are DACA recipients may be permitted to temporarily leave and return to the U.S. to participate in a study abroad program by obtaining Advance Parole from the Federal government. Advance Parole does not guarantee readmission into the United States. U.S. students in DACA status with Advance Parole are still subject to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection process at the port of entry. DePaul Study Abroad cannot guarantee any student re-entry back into the United States, including those participating in an approved university study abroad program. Only undocumented students with DACA status are eligible to apply for Advance Parole. Students with pending initial DACA applications are not eligible. Applying for Advance Parole requires submitting a form and paying a fee to US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Processing times for advance parole requests may vary anywhere from 8 to 18 months. Please review the USCIS website for the most up-to-date requirements, processing times, and costs.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Risks

There are significant risks involved in participating in a study abroad program while in DACA status. Dacamented students may be refused reentry into the U.S., even with advance parole. Being denied reentry may impact future visa applications or changes in status. It is important for students to consider the potential impacts that international travel may have on their specific situation, both legal and personal. DACAmented students are strongly encouraged to consult with an immigration attorney prior to deciding whether to apply to a study abroad program.

Costs

There may be significant costs associated with studying abroad as a DACAmented student, including:

  • Filing fees associated with advanced parole application.
  • Attorney’s fees.
  • Costs associated with country-specific visas.
  • Housing or transportation costs.
  • Study abroad program fees. If the advanced parole application is denied after a student is already committed to a program, the student may be liable for the tuition and/or program in accordance with the Study Abroad Withdrawal Policy.

Legal Resources

Students are strongly encouraged to consult with an immigration attorney before making any decisions about studying abroad. The DePaul College of Law Asylum and Immigration Law Clinic can assist students and their families. They have also developed a referral list of low-cost legal service providers who provide assistance in DACA cases and have engaged DePaul College of Law alumni to provide one-on-one consultations for DACA and undocumented students. Email DePaulLegalClinic@depaul.edu for more information.

Additional Resources for Undocumented Students

Transfer students may face a distinct set of challenges when it comes to studying abroad, but you should not view those challenges as reasons to not go abroad!


 
Study Abroad has compiled information regarding the selection of programs, questions to ask yourself, and additional resources including on-campus, off-campus and financial.

Selecting a Program

As a transfer student, there are many academic and personal considerations you must make while planning your future study abroad endeavor.

When I should go abroad?
  • Plan to be on campus for at least two quarters before travel for term-long (quarter or longer) programs.
  • You may be able to study abroad on a short-term program (1-3 weeks over a break) right away. Contact the Study Abroad office for details.
  • For transfer students from two-year colleges, plan to study abroad the fall quarter of your senior year.
  • Application deadlines:
    • November 1 (for Spring Break and Spring programs)
    • February 1 (for Summer, Fall, and Academic Year programs)
    • May 1 (for December, Winter, and Winter-Spring programs)
Which courses can I take?
  • Major and minor credit
  • Liberal Studies domain courses
  • Electives
  • Note: Liberal Studies domain and elective credit is always easiest to fulfill on study abroad, so save those courses.
What about DePaul’s residency requirement?
  • Don’t worry!  In DePaul-sponsored study abroad programs, all of your courses count as DePaul credit.  It's as good as being on campus.

Financing a Program

If you are intending on enrolling in a DePaul-sponsored program, all of the financial aid and scholarships you currently receive will remain in place. Additionally, there are DePaul-sponsored scholarships. If you decide to go on a program through an outside service provider or university, you can still receive federal aid but would need to apply to external scholarships.

Advisors

If you are interested in studying abroad for a quarter or longer, contact the advisor in your geographic region of interest. For short-term programs over breaks, visit the website for the program you are interested in for their contact information.

Regardless of the program, any advisor will be happy to meet with you to discuss any uncertainties or answer any questions you may have.

Resources

  • Study Abroad 101 sessions are held every day during the academic year in either Lincoln Park or the Loop by our peer advisors. During the presentation, they will detail how to select a program that’s just right for you, the application process, how to finance your program and which advisor would be the best for you to contact.
  • Global Scholars offers online modules for study abroad courses—pre-departure, while abroad and return.

DePaul Study Abroad encourages military connected students to consider their options for studying abroad. Some of the study abroad programs offered at DePaul are approved for GI Bill® benefits so please reach out to the study abroad office or the Veterans Affairs office to determine the programs that the VA deems approved for VA Education benefits. We believe military connected students should take the opportunity to study overseas and engage in citizen diplomacy so please reach out to find out what funds are available for you to use.

Next Steps

Consult with the Office of Veteran Services at DePaul, since this office assists students in achieving their educational goals, providing support, mentorship under Veteran Liaisons, helpful information and relevant resources.

Contact them at:

Loop Campus Office
DePaul Center, 11007
Phone: 312.362.5656

Lincoln Park Office
Student Center 360
Phone: 773.325.7088

veteransaffairs@depaul.edu

Connect with Veteran Liaisons from Veterans Services at DePaul. Veteran Liaisons are DePaul students with prior military experience that can help you connect with benefits and resources. If you are unsure if you are eligible for a GI Bill to fund your education, please contact Veteran Services and research Military Veteran Benefits within DePaul University.

If you are interested in studying abroad for a quarter or longer, contact the advisor in your geographic region of interest. You can also use the DePaul Study Abroad website to search for DePaul-sponsored study abroad programs.

Regardless of the program, any advisor would be happy to meet with you to discuss any uncertainties or answer any questions you may have. Connect with a Study Abroad Advisor via email at abroad@depaul.edu or call us at 312-362-6962.

Additional Resources

  1. Institute of International Education
  2. NAFSA
  3. Go Abroad
  4. US News
 
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