Selecting a Program

Consider these factors when choosing a program:

Academic Program 

• Are there specific courses you need to take for your major, minor, or Forester Fundamental requirements?  Make an appointment with your academic advisor(s) to explore what courses you may need to stay on track to graduate.

Identity

• The different aspects of your identity can be important when deciding on a study abroad location. Please explore these resources from some of our study abroad partners and other international education organizations. 
  • Race & Ethnicity 
    • AIFS Guide for Race, Ethnicity, & Studying Abroad
    • Meaningful Travel Tips and Tales: African American Perspectives
    • The Center for Global Education’s PLATO Project 
    • Dealing with Stereotypes While Studying Abroad
    • Tips for Heritage Seekers Traveling Abroad
  • Accessibility
    • Diversity Abroad - Students with Disabilities Abroad
    • Mobility International
    • Access Abroad
    • Connect with Lake Forest College's Accessibility Services 
  • First-Generation Students
    • University of Chicago's First-Generation Students Abroad Guide
    • AIFS Guide for First-Generation Students
  • Gender & Sexuality
    • The National Center for Transgender Equality
    • State Department's Information for LGBTQ+ Travelers
    • AIFS Guide for LGBTQ+
    • LGBTQIA Study Abroad Interactive Map
    • ILGA Sexual Orientation Laws Map
    • Flying while Trans
    • Studying Abroad as a Woman
    • State Department’s Information for Women Travelers
  • Undocumented
    
    • Travel Abroad for Undocumented Students (Berkley)
    • Meet with GEO to explore off-campus programs in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Chicago, and Washington DC.
  • Faith 
    • Religious Diversity Abroad

Language Ability 

• Do you speak another language or want to improve your language skills?  Do you want to take all of your courses in English, another language, or a mix of both?  Many programs do not require any language pre-requisite, though some will require or offer language study as part of the program.  If you are interested in taking courses in another language, programs usually require 4-6 university-level semesters of that language before participating. 

Veterans

• If you are a veteran and want to use GI Bill^® benefits, please contact the Global Engagement Office.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

GPA

• LFC requires a 2.7 GPA (lower GPAs are considered on a case-by-case basis); however, most programs require at least a 2.75 and some programs may require a 3.0 or higher. 

Experiential Learning 

• Studying abroad can count as your 'Experiential Learning' Forester Fundamental Curriculum requirement. However, many programs have additional experiential learning experiences as part of the program - such as internships, service-learning, volunteer opportunities, or research available. Some may be for-credit, others may be non-credit, but all will be great resume-building experiences.

Tolerance for Ambiguity & Independence 

• Be honest with yourself. Are you comfortable advocating for yourself on campus, and finding the resources for success on your own (with a comprehensive orientation and on-site coordinator, of course)? Are you OK with not having some amenities such as constant access to the internet or air-conditioning? Do you prefer an environment with similar amenities and services found on a US campus? Each program profile mentions in the intro section, the type of student that would be most likely to thrive in that location.

Type/Size of Institution 

• Do you want to directly enroll in a foreign institution, or do you prefer a style of learning closer to that of the U.S.? Smaller programs or small institutions could offer more personal attention; large universities may have more course options or a different kind of student life on campus. 

Housing/Meals 

• Living with a family, in a student residence, or in an apartment involves different levels of independence and integration. Some programs may offer meals with a family, a dining hall, or a stipend to purchase and cook your own meals.  Other programs may not include any meals.  What suits you?

Financials 

• While all students pay Lake Forest College tuition plus a GEO program fee, the program fees can vary based on the program.  Cost of living, and cost of airfare, can mean several thousand dollars difference. Also, when considering scholarship funding, programs outside of Western Europe and Australia/New Zealand tend to be viewed more favorably by review committees for national award funding. Some countries may have specific scholarships available, too. Check out these scholarships!

Term Dates 

• Because of the different academic calendars of some countries, you may only be able to do a semester-long program during the spring semester for certain programs.  However, you may find the best availability (and less competition for exchanges)  for programs in the fall. If you’re a winter sports athlete, we even have a tab to help you find options. Keep in touch with Athletics and Residence Life to be certain you understand the requirements for staying on campus and/or retaining eligibility for your sport.

Chances of Placement 

• Getting into your preferred program is never a guarantee.  We always recommend choosing several back-ups just in case, and we can talk you through the process.  Some sites have less space available than others. BUT - don’t choose alternates that you would not be thrilled to attend, as we cannot guarantee placement on any program.