How Will I Pay for Study Abroad?

Study abroad program costs vary tremendously depending on the program and location in which you choose to study.  Many programs are similar in cost to a semester at Grand Valley State and others are considerably more expensive.  Take the following cost comparison into consideration:

Comparison Chart
The information provided below will help you compare the average total cost of a semester at GVSU and a semester abroad*

Semester at GVSU: $9,719 (in-state) or $10,883 (out of state)  (use this as a baseline of a comparison of costs abroad) 

Semester in Cracow, Poland: $10,130
Semester in San Jose, Costa Rica: $10,600
Semester in Cape Coast, Ghana: $11,052
Semester in London, England: $13,590-$15,190

* These are estimates only.  Estimates provided above do not necessarily represent all programs in that particular city/country. 

Sources of Funding
First, think about the way you fund your costs here at GVSU. You will essentially depend on the same source(s) of funding during your semester abroad.  The good news is, additional sources of funding may be available:

Financial Aid

Financial assistance is available when you make appropriate arrangements with our Financial Aid Office and the Padnos International Center. When you participate in study abroad programs, you receive financial aid in the amount you would normally receive if remaining on campus.

Alternative Loans

Sometimes the aid a student will receive from GVSU will not be enough to cover their costs to attend.  In these cases a student and their parent(s) can decide to pursue alternative loans.  Alternative loans are non-federal loans used to supplement financial aid for credit worthy students and their families. Click here for more information. 

Padnos International Center Grants and Scholarships

The Padnos International Center offers several grant and scholarship opportunities to offer financial assistance to students in need of additional resources in order to study abroad.  Click here for more information.

Other Grants and Scholarships
There are several grant and scholarship opportunities availabe to help with funding your semester abroad.  Click here for more information.

Personal Funds

Consider any family contributions or personal savings you may be able to come up with to help with your study abroad costs.