Myth 2: I need to know a language other than English to study in another country.

Reality: Although some of our programs are designed for students with a foreign language capability, many programs are taught exclusively in English and in countries where English is either the native language or is widely spoken, such as Sweden, Finland, or India.

Myth 3: I won't be able to complete any of my major requirements while abroad.

Reality: While some SDSU majors are very specific about how you need to fulfill major requirements, most majors offer some flexibility and many students are able to complete one or more major courses while overseas.  What is required is advance planning and consultation with your advisor and the International Programs office.

Myth 4: Studying abroad will put me behind and I won't graduate on time.

Reality: As long as you consult with your advisor, department head, and the International Programs office, there's no reason why you shouldn't be able to graduate on time, even if you attend a full-year program abroad.

Myth 5: The credits I earn abroad won't transfer back to SDSU.

Reality: Study abroad programs offered through the Office of International Programs are all university-approved.  All credits earned while abroad transfer, as long as you go on an approved program.

Myth 6: Whether I study abroad won't matter to a future employer or to a graduate or professional school.

Reality: The job market and admission to graduate or professional schools gets more competitive every day.  Employers and graduate/professional school admissions officers are looking for something that sets you apart from the mass of applications they receive for each opening.  Study abroad is one of those qualities that sets you apart from the crowd.

Myth 7: I won't be able to use my financial aid if I study abroad.

Reality: Because our programs are approved by SDSU and the South Dakota Board of Regents, most forms of financial aid will apply.  Please visit the SDSU Office of Financial Aid for details.

Myth 8: To study abroad, I'll have to commit to a semester or year away from home.

Reality: While there is much to be gained from a longer experience, such as a semester or year, that immerses you in the culture, we do have many short-term study abroad programs available that can be as short as one or two weeks in length.  Our general philosophy is that some study abroad is better than none.

Myth 9: I'll wait until I after I graduate to go abroad—I'll have more time and money then.

Reality: You may have more money after graduation as hopefully you'll have a full-time job, but you won't have more time.  Now is when you have the most time-flexibility in your life.  Make the most of it.

Myth 10: The world's too dangerous these days to study abroad—it's safer to stay home.

Reality: The world can be a dangerous place, but statistically, you are far more likely to have an accident at home than on a study abroad experience.  If you use the same caution you would exercise when visiting a big U.S. city, you won't have any trouble.  In addition, the Office of International Programs monitors the situation in each country where we have programs and will cancel a program if the U.S. Department of State issues a Travel Warning.  Be careful, but don't be afraid to travel and study abroad.